[Image credit: Stuart Miles]

While the topic of apostrophes is still fresh, it’s time to review plural possessive.  Remember, if a singular proper noun owns something, an apostrophe (with means possessive) is required before the “s” (i.e., our  lemon tree’s fruit is ripe).  Conversely, if the word is plural the apostrophe is placed after the “s.”  For example, our lemon tree is filled with more than one lemon; therefore, the lemons’ citrus scent permeates our backyard.  Similarly, if multiple communities share the same landscape plan, then the three communities’ flora and fauna are uniform.  And if I’m talking about something belonging to me, I can either write Chris’ lemon tree or Chris’s lemon tree — both ways are acceptable.  But here’s where it can get tricky: if a group or a family name does not end in “s,” you must insert an apostrophe and an “s” (i.e., the Schmidt’s lemon tree).  However, if the name already ends in “s,” add the apostrophe only (i.e., the Williams’ lemon tree).  Also, an “‘s” is added to plural forms not ending in “s” such as the children’s lemonade stand.  If you’re still stumped, check out http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/.

Can you add any other exceptions to the plural possessive rules?