EXERCISE 59 

 THE EARLY DEVELOPMENT OF THE OAT PLANT 



Object. To study the germination of the oat kernel and 

 the early growth and development of the plant. 



Explanation. The kernel of oats is not like the kernel of 

 wheat, though it is somewhat similar. It is inclosed within 

 a hull. The hull adheres to the oat kernel and with it com- 

 prises the oat grain. The germ of the oat kernel occupies a 

 small place at one end of the kernel, as in wheat. 



When the kernel of oats germinates, it sends out three 

 temporary roots. These three roots help supply the small 

 plant with food until the permanent root system develops. 



Equipment. 1. Plants of oats one, two, three, and four 

 weeks old, seeded one inch deep. 



2. Plants of oats two and four weeks old, seeded three 

 inches deep. 



Directions. Dig up a number of small oat plants for 

 this study. Observe the same precaution in preparing these 

 plants for study as was observed with wheat. 



Make a study of plants one week old, two weeks old, three 

 weeks old, and four weeks old, seeded one inch deep. Also 

 make a study of plants two weeks old and four weeks old, 

 seeded three inches deep. (In determining age of plant count 

 time from date of seeding.) 



222 



