How to Grow Plants from Seeds 1907 
What is the advantage of transplanting seedlings at least once? 
What is the “dirt-band” method? How does it help in trans- 
planting ? What is meant by “ hardening” seedlings? Why is 
it necessary? What points need to be especially watched in 
transplanting seedlings tothe garden? Why do plants often need 
protection after transplanting ? When is the best time to reset 
plants? Why are some of the leaves often removed when a plant 
is reset? 
What are the advantages of an outdoor seed bed? 
Things to Do and Observe 
1. To observe the germination of seeds. Plant seeds of pea, 
bean, squash, and corn in flats, boxes, or pots. As soon as ger- 
mination is noticed, dig up seedlings of each kind and study the 
various stages of germination. How does the first root get out of 
the seed coat? How do the stem and leaves get out? What 
does the root do if it emerges from the upper side of the seed as 
planted? What becomes of the part or parts containing stored 
food? How do the stem and first leaves force their way through 
the soil to the air above? Does the position of the seed in the soil 
increase or retard germination in any way? 
2. To show the effect of too little water on germination. Fill two 
flats or pots with garden soil. In each flat or pot plant seeds of 
corn, squash, radish, cabbage, bean, and tomato. Place both in a 
warm room or in a hotbed. Keep only one watered. In which 
do the seeds germinate better? Why? 
3. To show the effect of too much water on germination. Select 
two earthen flowerpots of the same size; or if these are not avail- 
able use tin cans, preferably at least 6 inches in diameter. If pots 
are used, plug the opening in the bottom of one with a cork stop- 
per; if tin cans are used, leave one intact, but make several 
holes in the bottom of the other one. Fill with garden soil and 
plant in each an equal number of seeds of beans or corn. 
Keep both together in a warm room. Add the same amounts 
of water to each every day, so that one is kept well watered and 
well drained and the other is kept with free water standing at the 
top. In which does germination take place better? 
