ii8 



GARDEN STEPS 



one large root, the taproot, leads down from the 

 point of the kernel, often deep into the ground. These 

 surface roots are, at some stages of growth, larger 

 than the sprout, and will at all times, under favor- 

 able conditions, be fully as long as the stalk above 



Corn Roots One Month atter Planting 



These roots run out forty-two inches from the stalk, about three inches 

 under the surface. Deep cultivation will injure them. This picture 

 shows in a remarkable way how corn roots range for their food. 



them. These delicate surface roots are hunting 

 everywhere for food, often six or seven feet away 

 from the parent stalk which they are providing with 

 nourishment. 



Knowing this about these roots, one may be sure 

 that all the food supply in the corn patch will be 



