190 FLOWERS 



Conclusion. State how the flower studied makes it pos- 

 sible for pollen to be transferred from flower to flower. 



Suggestion. Observe butterflies, humming birds, and 

 hawk moths as they fly about. See if you can discover by 

 what means they reach into a blossom. .Examine goldenrod 

 in the field and look for various kinds of beetles which usu- 

 ally infest these plants. 



How is the shape of the corolla of Jimson weed (Fig. 81) 

 fitted for insect visitors ? Is it adapted to pollination by bees ? 



168. POLLINATION ' 



Object. To learn how flowers are formed to permit 

 the winds to carry pollen- 



Apparatus. Flowers of grasses, corn, or plantain. 



Method. Study the flowers, making comparisons with 

 those in the previous lesson. Is there any conspicuous 

 color, odor, or nectar which is likely to attract insects? 

 Are the flowers open or closed? Do the stamens project, 

 or are they hidden deep in a corolla tube? Is there much 

 or little pollen, and is it sticky or dry? If the tassel at the 

 top of a cornstalk is shaken, a large amount of pollen will 

 usually be obtained. 



Conclusion. In a single sentence state how the wind- 

 pollinated plants differ from those pollinated by insects. 



Suggestion. Examine some pine pollen with a micro- 

 scope. How are the pollen grains specially fitted for flight ? 



Note. Some years ago, after a strong south wind, the streets of 

 Washington, D. C., were found covered with a yellow powder, which, 

 on examination, was found to be pine pollen. The nearest pine 

 forests from which it could have been wafted are in North Caro- 

 lina, several hundred miles distant. 



