Introduction
The ethnographic Plant Journal project involves students selecting a specific plant in Cottbus (or elsewhere) to observe and document throughout the semester. Students make regular entries every two or three weeks, documenting the plant's growth, changes, and both usual and unusual events. These entries capture botanical insights, seasonal changes, and observations on how the plant interacts with its human and non-human environments. Through this process, students develop a relationship with a plant in Cottbus, deepening their understanding of the plant's role in its ecosystem and the impact of environmental and human factors on its growth and health. Additionally, students observe the impact of plants on the lives of Cottbus residents, including non-human beings.
Format of “Plant Journal”
Plant Selection: Each student should choose a specific plant in Cottbus. It could be a tree on campus, a bush in a park, a dandelion growing on asphalt, or any other plant you may find intriguing.
Journal Entries: You are required to maintain a plant diary throughout the semester. You should make regular entries (e.g., every two or three weeks) describing various aspects of your chosen plant. For example:
- Observations: Record literal observations about the plant. Document its growth, changes in appearance, and any unusual occurrences.
- Environmental Interactions: Explore the plant's interactions with its environment. How does it respond to weather changes, sunlight, or nearby structures? Are there any symbiotic relationships with other organisms and plants?
- Human (and non-human) Impact on the Plant: Describe any human activities that may be affecting the plant you've chosen (this may imply negative or positive consequences).
- Negative: For instance, if the plant is located near a construction site, consider how excavation and construction activities might influence its growth and health. Additionally, look for signs of damage or stress caused by air or water pollution.
- Positive: For example, are there any human efforts to protect or conserve the plant? Perhaps the tree or plant is surrounded by a protective fence.
- Plant's Impact on Humans (and other species like dogs and squirrels):
- Negative: For example, some plants release pollen that can trigger allergies.
- Positive: Reflect on the ways in which this plant benefits humans. Does it provide shade in a park where people gather during hot summer days? Is it part of a garden that brings beauty and tranquility to a community?
- Botanical Insights: Research and explain why certain botanical phenomena occur. For example, discuss why the southern part of the tree might be larger than the northern part due to sunlight exposure, among other factors.
- Biodiversity: Investigate the potential inhabitants of the plant and their relationships with other non-human beings. Consider insects, birds, or other wildlife that interact with the plant.
- Species and Distribution: Research and provide information about the plant's species, its natural distribution, and how this specie has been perhaps "fabricated" or managed in Cottbus, Germany, and globally.
- Classification: If the plant is numbered, investigate the classification system used and what information is available in the associated files.
- Images: You should also take regular pictures of the plant to observe changes in its surroundings and characteristics.
Reflections: I invite you to reflect on your personal connection with the plant and how this experience has deepened your understanding of the inseparable relationship between “nature” and its historical, cultural, and social aspects.
At the end of the semester, you will submit a final report summarizing your observations and experiences, and we will discuss the possibility of organizing an event for you to present your plant journal.
References
Boke, C. (2019). Plant listening: How North American herbalists learn to pay attention to plants. Anthropology Today, 35(2), 23–27. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-8322.12496
Coccia, E. (2018). The Life of Plants: a metaphysics of mixture. Polity.
Gooley, T. (2023). How to Read a Tree: clues and patterns from roots to leaves. Hodder & Stoughton.
Hartigan Jr, J. (2019). Plants as Ethnographic Subjects. Anthropology Today, 35(2), 1–2. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-8322.12491








