CHAPTER XX 



PKOPAGATION 



REPKODUCTION by seeds is the most common 

 mode of propagation. The transfer of pollen 

 is so easily effected by bees and other agents, 

 and the results so beneficial, that horticultur- 

 ists recognizing the advantage of cross-pollina- 

 tion or hybridization, as it is commonly called, 

 by careful selection of parent plants, have suc- 

 ceeded in obtaining plants superior to both 

 parents. The magnificent varieties of Chrys- 

 anthemums, Roses, Cannas, Tulips, Carnations, 

 and Fruits are the result of hybridization. 



Seeds as a rule produce the typical plant, 

 but by careful selection and hybridization the 

 species may be greatly improved and the seeds 

 thus obtained often produce new types which 

 are more valuable than the original. As there 

 is a tendency to revert to the original type, bet- 

 ter results are secured in propagating improved 

 varieties by cuttings instead of by seeds. 



Grapes and other improved varieties of 

 plants are propagated by cuttings from stems. 

 Out of several hundred plants from seeds there 



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