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DIY Guide: How to Test Milkweed Plants for O.E. Using a 40X Student-Grade Microscope

Steps

Step 1: Collect Milkweed Leaves

  1. Put on your gloves.
  2. Use tweezers to collect 3-5 milkweed leaves from different plants.
  3. Place the leaves in a clean container for transport.

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace

  1. Clean the table where you’ll place the microscope.
  2. Set up the microscope according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  3. Place the slides, tape, and tweezers within easy reach.

Step 3: Prepare the Sample

  1. Take one milkweed leaf and lay it flat on the table.
  2. Cut a small piece of transparent tape, about 2 inches long.
  3. Press the sticky side of the tape gently onto the leaf surface.
  4. Carefully peel the tape off, lifting some of the leaf material with it.

Step 4: Place the Sample on the Slide

  1. Take a glass microscope slide.
  2. Stick the tape onto the slide, sticky side down.
  3. Make sure the tape is flat and free of air bubbles.

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