56 



STRUGGLE AMONGST BRANCHES 



branches fill the space. The branches are attracted by the 

 light and air, and grow in that direction. A pruned or 



injured top always tends 

 to come lack to equi- 

 librium. 



126. A mangled or 

 broken plant tends to 

 regain its former posi- 

 tion. From fallen trees, 

 upright shoots arise. 

 In Fig. 90 observe the 

 new trunk arising from 

 the center of the arch; 

 see that the main trunk 

 is smaller beyond that 

 point. 



Tiers of 

 branches on 

 young tree. 



. Even in old trees 

 the tiers can be 

 traced. 



REVIEW. What is meant 

 by the statement that every 

 twig has a history? Upon 

 what does the shape and size of a branch depend ? Explain what 

 you mean by the struggle for existence. Why do not all buds grow? 

 If buds are arranged in mathematical order, why are not branches? 

 How may the effect of struggle for existence be expressed in 

 figures? Select some branch and explain. Define dormant buds. 

 Adventitious buds. Why are branches in tiers, or borne at intervals? 

 How do plants tend to re- 

 gain their form and posi- 

 tion, when injured ? 



NOTE. Let the pupil 

 work out the history of 

 some branch. It is better 

 to select a branch which 

 is vigorous. He should 

 first determine, if the 

 sshoot is dormant, how 

 mttch grew the previous 

 season. The last year's 

 growth bears buds on the 90. The erect bole on the fallen trunk. 



