104 



GERMINATION OF SEEDS: SEEDLINGS 



important functions: (1) by its elongation the plumule is assisted 

 in reaching above the soil; and (2) through it the endosperm 

 and substances absorbed by the temporary roots reach the plu- 



FIG. 98. Seedling of Wheat after the permanent root system is estab- 

 lished, g, ground line; p, permanent root system; a, temporary stem por- 

 tion; k, grain; t, temporary root system. About half natural size. 



mule. But after the permanent roots are well established, there 

 is no longer any need for this stem region, which now being with- 

 out a function makes no further development. Nevertheless 



