SUMMARY. 87 



dependent on the stability of the particular ferment or ferments 

 present. There is something more remote, possibly of a simpler but 

 probably of a more complex composition, to which we must attribute 

 the awakening of the metabolic processes. Reference is not made 

 here to the zymogenic substances which develop into the particular 

 ferment, for what has been said of the latter applies equally well to 

 the former. If the zymogens were perfectly preserved the resulting 

 ferments would be developed normally and germination would continue 

 in the usual manner. 



In conclusion, it may well be emphasized that no single element or 

 compound can be isolated as the sole source of vitality in seeds. 

 There must be a combination of factors, each of which plays an 

 important role in the preservation of vitality. The destruction of 

 any one of these factors may upset the principles governing the life 

 of a seed, and consequently cause a premature death. 



It is quite probable that the nucleus is one of the most important 

 organs governing vitality, for unless it continues to function no other 

 growth can take place. Other parts of the cell, however, may be of 

 equal importance. At all events all hope of future gain must come 

 from more critical studies of the cell contents to know their chemical 

 composition and possible reactions. A correct solution of these perplex- 

 ing questions is nothing less than a determination of the fundamental 

 principles of life. What will be the ultimate results no one is prepared 

 to say. 



SUMMARY. 



(1) A Beed is a living organism, and must be dealt with as such if 

 good results are expected when put under favorable conditions for 

 germination. 



(2) The first factors determining the vitality of a seed are maturity, 

 weather conditions at the time of harvesting,, and methods of harvest- 

 ing and curing. 



(3) Immature seeds sown soon after gathering usually germinate 

 readily, but if stored they soon lose their vitalit}'. On the other hand, 

 well-matured seeds, harvested under favorable conditions, are com- 

 paratively long lived when properly handled. 



(4:) Seed harvested in damp, rainy weather is much weaker in vital- 

 ity than seed harvested under more favorable conditions. Likewise, 

 seed once injured will never regain its full vigor. 



(5) The curing of the various seeds is of the utmost importance, and 

 great care should be taken to prevent excessive heating, otherwise the 

 vitality will be greatly lowered. 



(6) The life period of any species of seed, granting that it has been 

 thoroughly matured and properly harvested and cured, is largely 

 dependent on environment. 



