GERMINATION. 155 



253. In the monocotyledons the process of germination 

 is much the same as that just described, with the 

 important difference, however, that the primary root 

 from th end of the radicle can scarcely be said to develope 

 at all, a cluster of fibrous roots bursting out almost at 

 once from its sides. Indian Corn answers very well as 

 an illustration. Here the seed, largely made up of 

 endosperm or albumen, remains in the ground. The 

 single cotyledon is wrapped round the plumule and 

 adheres by its back to the endosperm, acting thus as a 

 medium through which nourishment is absorbed, and of 

 course not being carried up to the surface. The plumule 

 is rapidly carried upward, developing alternate leaves, 

 and the numerous fibrous roots are given off from the 

 sides of the short radicle. 



257. The young student is strongly recommended to 

 investigate for himself the phenomena of germination as 

 exhibited in common seeds. For this purpose he may 

 place a few Windsor beans and grains of Indian Corn 

 between layers of moist flannel or coarse paper in a 

 shallow dish. If kept damp, germination will begin in a 

 day or two, and if sufficient specimens have been provided 

 the process may be observed at various stages. Trial 

 should also be made of the length of time during which 

 seeds will retain their vitality. Many seeds, such as 

 those of Elm and Poplar, will be found to germinate 

 only if they have been kept fresh and not permitted to 

 dry up, whilst others, such as Indian Corn and Wheat, 

 and in general those containing starch, may be kept for 

 a very long time without losing their germinating power. 



