4 A LABORATORY MANUAL OF BOTANY 
From the considerations mentioned, it should be evident 
that the laboratory and its apparatus are merely devices 
that assist us in the practical and profitable study of plants. 
The microscope enables us to see things which otherwise we 
could not examine. The protection of the laboratory allows 
us to work at all times and to grow plants under conditions 
that can be regulated. Other advantages as important, as 
these are obtained, but it must be understood clearly that 
the essential use of a laboratory is to study the development 
and behavior of plants living under natural conditions, and 
the student should be put in possession of this fact on the 
very threshold of his investigations. 
2. Adjustments.—Almost any well-lighted room may be 
made into a laboratory. It should be so situated that 
abundance of light may be admitted from the north and 
west sides, as direct sunlight is troublesome as well as in- 
jurious to the eyes. A long, narrow room, with one side 
facing the north, is the most desirable. Some south light, 
however, is better for growing certain kinds of material. 
The room should be large enough to make it convenient 
for students to pass about without disturbing others at the 
tables. 
3. Apparatus—The amount and quality of apparatus 
used must be regulated by the needs and resources of differ- 
ent schools. An expensive equipment is not absolutely es- 
sential for good work, but a complete outfit greatly facili- 
tates operations, and it should be provided whenever prac- 
ticable. Better results are often obtained from some im- 
provised apparatus constructed by the pupils and teacher 
than from more expensive apparatus. Interest is height- 
ened, and a better knowledge of the truth to be demon- 
strated often results from this method of securing appara- 
tus. Ingenuity on the part of the teacher and students 
will do much toward enlivening and illuminating the lab- 
oratory work. 
