The Seed-nuts 181 



kernel just under the germinating holes, whence 

 the rootlets issue (see illustration on p. 180) ; 

 and the damage resulting is apt to interfere 

 seriously with vigorous growth, if not to stop 

 it altogether. 



This germination core is the vital spot par 

 excellence in the coco-nut. Most frequently 

 it is heart-shaped, and fills the bulk of the 

 cavity left by the milk in the interior of the 

 kernel. It is buff colour, of a cellular spongy 

 consistency, and emits a pleasant, sweet odour 

 like a flower. It is considered a great delicacy 

 not only by human, but, unfortunately, by 

 a good many insect pests as well. Access 

 to it is easily obtained by boring beetles 

 through the rotten husks, and inside of this 

 through the germination holes, which are 

 provided to the number of three or four in 

 the top of the kernel-shell. These holes are 

 about the size of a threepenny bit, or rather 

 smaller, and closed with a parchment-like lid, 

 which is easily penetrated by the point of a 



Reference to p. 1 80 will show an illustration depicting the 

 absorbent organ of the coco-nut which consists entirely 

 of a spongy tissue, and by the time the coco-nut is well 

 sprouted, completely or almost fills the entire nut. In it are 

 enzymes which convert the insoluble food material in the 

 coco-nut meat into soluble material for the use of the growing 

 plant. This organ is in actual contact with the meat, at least 

 in the upper end, and thus is able to conduct the converted 

 material directly into the young shoots. (Reproduced from 

 " The History and Cause of the Coco-nut Bud-rot," by 

 John R. Johnston). We also show some split nuts in the 

 Manure section. These are copied from groups of nuts in 

 Professor Preuss's " Die Kokospalme." Our readers should 

 study the originals. 



