65 



stand the effects of alternate freezing and thawing, more particularly rapid 

 thawing, is definitely associated with the protoplasmic constitution of certain 

 varieties. 



The studies of Dawson and Malsbury in our laboratories, bring out a 

 number of interesting points regarding the optimal temperature for wheat 

 varieties. Six varieties of wheat Marquis, Illinois No. 1, Red Cross, Med- 

 iterranean, Illini Chief and Turkey Red were used. At a temperature of 77F 

 Red Cross produced very vigorous seedlings while those of Turkey Red were 



FIG. V. Germination of corn harvested in the mature stage 

 and dried before testing. 



very weak. In per cent germinating Marquis, Illinois No. 1 and Red Cross 

 were in the lead. At 59P Marquis, Illinois No. 1 and Red Cross are still 

 leading, and the -seedlings are more vigorous than at 77 F. Turkey Red does 

 not do so well at this temperature. At 50F Red Cross is the only one that 

 produced seedlings comparable in vigor to those at higher temperatures. 



The agronomist and the farmer naturally are most interested in the 

 quality and quantity of the harvest. Since this is determined in no small 

 degree by the constitution of the seed genetical and physiological seed 

 studies should and do receive our first attention. 



"The thorns which I have reaped are of a tree 



I planted they have torn me and I bleed, 



I should have known what fruit would spring from such a seed." 



