CLIMBING STEMS 175 
stems grow over the ground, the nodes may produce roots from 
their lower and stems from their upper surface, and thus new 
plants are started which become independent by the death of 
the parent stem. This method of propagation is common in the 
Strawberry where the prostrate stems, known as runners, pro- 
duce roots at their tips and start new plants which soon become 
independent by the death of the runner. (Fig. 150.) Some of 
the Grasses and weeds are able to spread very rapidly by this 
method of propagation. 
This disposition of nodes to grow roots and start new plants is 
an important feature in the propagation of plants. Not only the 
NOS OO 
Fic. 150. — Prostrate stem (runner) of the Strawberry producing 
new plants at the nodes. 
nodes of prostrate stems will do this, but the nodes of most stems 
are able to produce roots as well as branches and leaves, if placed 
in proper conditions. Much use is made of this feature in prop- 
agating many of our useful plants as we shall see later. 
Climbing Stems. — Some familiar examples of climbing stems 
are those of the Pea, Grape, Hop, Woodbine, Poison Ivy, and 
Morning Glory. Climbing stems, like prostrate stems, grow long 
and slender, and are not strong enough to support themselves in 
an erect position. They raise themselves into the light by climb- 
ing a support, such as a fence, wall, or some erect plant.. Some 
kinds of Beans having climbing stems are often planted with the 
Corn, so that they may have the Corn stems for support, or when 
planted alone, each plant is provided with a stake for a support. 
Sweet Peas, Hops, and most Grapes are other familiar plants re- 
quiring supports. The Woodbine and some wild Grapes are 
quite notable climbers, often climbing to the tops of tall trees. 
