EXERCISES 



19 



Apparatus for Germination. Many homemade germinators have been 

 devised, but those here described are recognized as best. 



1. Plate germinators are made by using two dinner plates or pie tins 

 (Fig. 6). Two or three layers of blotting paper or a half inch of sand 

 covered by cloth are placed in the bottom of one. Saturate the absorbent 

 well and place the seeds on top. Then invert the second plate over the first, 

 being careful that the edges fit well. 



2. Box germinators of several types have been devised, but the following 

 one has many advantages: 



FIG. 7. A box germinator. A tin box with two sawdust pads. Can be carried about. 



Have a tin box made 12 to 15 inches square, with a hinged lid which 

 can be fastened shut with hasps. The box and lid should each be about 

 one inch deep. Make two pads stuffed with sawdust. The pads should be 

 the size of the box and an inch thick, so that when put into the box and 

 lid, and the box closed, they will fill it snugly. 



For germinating seeds, first saturate the pads, then place the seeds 

 on one, close the box and fasten. The box should be opened a few minutes 

 each day to admit air. 



This box has many advantages, as it can be easily moved, placed in 

 any position, or carried to and from home or school (Fig. 7) . 



Jelly Glass Germinators. Take jelly glasses with a loose-fitting tin lid. 

 If the lid is snug, it can be easily spread by reaming with a knife handle or 

 piece of iron. Place a few pieces of wet blotting paper in the lid, scatter 



