332 LESSONS IN AGRICULTUBE 



mals, produce offspring which resemble the parents very 

 closely in many respects. If it were not for this resem- 

 blance to parents in plants, our crops would not come 

 true to seed, and we could not depend upon fixing de- 

 sired characteristics in improving the crop. On the other 

 hand, it is a good thing that no two plants are exactly 

 alike, for the variation might be an improvement over 

 the parent plant, and thus enable the plant breeder to 

 select points for improvement. 



Practical Exercises 

 1. Variations in the Corn Plant 



Select two corn plants that most nearly resemble each 

 other, and note the following points in comparison : 



1. Height of the plant. 



2. Does it branch? How many secondary stems or 

 suckers from one root? 



3. Shade or color. 



4. How many leaves? 



5. Arrangement of leaves on the stem. 



6. Measure length and breadth of six main leaves. 



7. Number and position of ears. Color of silks. 



8. Size of tassel, and number and size of its branches. 



9. Stage of maturity or ripeness of the plant. 



10. Has the plant grown symmetrically, or has it been 

 crowded by other plants, or been obliged to struggle for 

 light or room? 



11. Note all the unusual marks or features. 



12. Note the comparative vigor. 



These points may be used with any two plants with 

 slight modification. 



