MAKUAl, Olf NATURE STUDY. 133 



Then whicli would be best for the root? Tbe move- 

 ment of the root is so very slow that we cannot see 

 it move. We cannot see a plant grow; but we know 

 that it does grow, for we can measure it at different 

 times and prove it to be true. So, too, we may 

 measure the movement of a plant around a common 

 axis. Erect a stationary wire or wooden frame around 

 a growing plant, say a corn-stalk, being careful not 

 to let the frame touch the plant in any way. Let 

 the frame rest upon the ground and support a ring 

 two or three inches in diameter, encircling the apex 

 of the plant. Measure from time to time the dis- 

 tance of plant from the ring and it will be found to 

 vary. At one time nearer the north, then east, 

 south and west, until it comes around to the north 

 again. These measurements and records, if correct, 

 will, prove the circumnutation of growth. Try 

 other plants in same way. 



The Fern. 



Upon what sort of soil do ferns grow ? Do you 

 always plant them in the shade? Why? 



Examine the blades, or fronds, and learn to de- 

 scribe them. Draw several fronds, being particular 

 to represent all their parts. Where is the stem 

 out of which these blades grow? The stem is an 

 underground rootstock or rhizome, somewhat like 

 iris, Solomon's seal, calamous or rhubarb. Notice 



