Field Methods: We propose to explore the effects of plant-microbial interactions on plasticity in flowering time and growth of populations from a broad latitudinal gradient. We will conduct experiments examining plasticity in these traits in response to temperature using Eastern Monkeyflowers (Mimulus alatus and Mimulus ringens) and their root microbial symbionts. We will collect one to two fruits per plant from up to 15 individuals per site, and we will sample from up to three sites within each of the North Carolina State Parks listed. In addition, we will collect up to six soil cores (2.5 x 30 cm) from each site. We will restrict our sampling to slopes of 15% or greater. Both Mimulus ringens and alatus are species of least concern, and our collection methods will not adversely affect these population’s survival or growth.

We will collect fruits, seeds and soil cores between July 1 and August 31, 2019. The following members of the Sheth Laboratory will participate in collection: Erin Coughlin, Rachel Wooliver and Seema Sheth. Funding for this study has been requested by Rachel Wooliver from the National Science Foundation through a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Biology grant proposal, which is currently pending approval (Proposal # 1906426).