14 INDIAN CORN OULTURE. 
which develop the root tips, which proceed to 
make a downward growth into the soil. After 
penetrating slightly below the surface a mass 
of fibrous roots is produced from this buried 
portion. These roots assist in maintaining the 
erect position of the plant, as well as in secur- 
ing nourishment and moisture. Generally the 
depth of the planting does not influence the 
depth of the rooth growth. 
The stem (or culm) of Indian corn, varies in 
height from 18 inches to 18 feet, according to 
the variety and conditions of growth. Sturte- 
vant even notes one variety in South America 
attaining a height of 24 feet. Thestem consists 
of a number of smooth sections (internodes), 
joined together by short joints (nodes). The 
mature stem has a pithy interior with a thin 
covering of harder material. 
In a study made by the writer on the rate 
of growth of the corn plant, at the New York 
experiment station it was noted that the in- 
crease ranged from three to 154 inches per week 
in gain. The most rapid development occurred 
when the plants were about five weeks old. 
Under specially favorable conditions a growth 
of five inches has been recorded in one day. 
The leaves grow from the joints, there being 
a leaf at each one. Fora greater part of the 
stem, the lower part of the leaf (sheath) is 
wrapped about the stem from one joint almost 
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