66 
OF BUDS. 
Fig. 13. 
The third kind of bud, is the tunon ; 
it differs but little except in size from 
the bulb ; it appears upon roots of per- 
ennial plants, as may be seen in 
Fig. 1 3. a. 
Of the fourth kind or the proper bud, there are three sorts > 
1st. The flower bud, which is of a short round form ; it con" 
tains the rudiments of one or several flowers, without leaves, 
folded over each and surrounded with scales. It is often 
found at the extremities of small short branches ; this is 
the kind of bud which is employed in grafting or innocu- 
lating. This operation is performed by cutting into the 
bark of another tree, and placing a bud or several buds in 
the aperture. 
2nd. The leaf bud, contains the rudiments of several leaves 
without flowers ; it is usually longer and more pointed 
than the flower bud. 
3d. The bud and, Flower bud, or llie mixed bud ; containing 
both leaves and flowers. In the peach we have examples 
of the two first divisions ; the leaf and flower bud being 
distinct. In the lilac they are enclosed together in the 
same bud. 
The leaf buds, if taken from the tree and planted in the 
earth, will gi'ow and put forth roots ; but the flower buds 
in the same situation will perish. You will perceive that 
a striking analogy exists between buds and seeds. 
You have now seen the manner in which buds commence 
their existence ; and how they gradually unfold themselves 
until they become in their turn branches, covered with leaves 
and flowers. 
In considering this subject you cannot but have been impres- 
sed with a sense of tire goodness of that great Being who watch- 
es with unceasing care, over his vast creation. To watch the 
progress of life, whether in the Vegetable or animal kingdoms, 
is highly interesting to an investigating mind; but here the 
power of man can achieve nothing ; he may plant and water, 
but God alone giveth the increase. 
A bud lives, an infant lives; both are destined to grow, and 
to pass through physical changes ; but the bud although active, 
with a principle of life, knows not its own existence; while the 
infant becomes conscious of its own powers and faculties, capa- 
ble of loving those who have contributed to its well being, and 
especially of adoring the great author of its existence. 
Reflections suggested by a view of the subject — A bud compared to an 
infant. 
