22 THE NURSERY-BOOK. 



tained. Seeds sown upon a moist surface and covered with a 

 glass present an interesting study. But it is well known, on the 

 other hand, that some seeds will not germinate, or will at least 



Fig. 9. Tracy Planter. 



appear unevenly, if subjected to sunlight. At least some of the 

 delphiniums, papavers and adonises germinate very imperfectly, 

 if at all, in direct light. It is always advisable to keep germin- 

 ating seeds in shade or partial darkness, especially as there is 

 nothing to be gained by exposing them. Of course the soil 

 itself is sufficent protection if the seeds are covered. 



It is a common statement that seeds can never revive if. 

 allowed to become thoroughly dry after they have begun to 

 sprout. This is an error. Wheat, oats, buckwheat, maize, 

 pea, onion, radish and other seeds have been experimented upon 

 in this direction, and they are found to re-germinate readily, 

 even if allowed to become thoroughly dry and brittle after 

 sprouting is well progressed. They will even re-germinate 

 several times. Wheat, peas and other seeds have been carried 

 through so many as seven germinations after the radicle had 

 grown a half inch or more and the seeds had been sufficiently 

 dried in each trial to render them fit for grinding. 



Damping-off is a common ailment of young seedlings and 

 cuttings. The stem becomes brown and constricted at or near 

 the surface of the soil, and it soon rots and falls over. The top 

 of the plant often remains alive and fresh for several days after 

 it has fallen. A fungus is supposed to cause damping-off. The 

 conditions which seem to particularly favor the development of 

 this fungus are a moist and close atmosphere, crowding and 

 careless watering. Plants are particularly liable to damp-off if 

 only sufficient water is applied to keep the surface moist while 



