157 
Nitrogen is chiefly found, and the ashes of the seeds give, in addition to 
the elements named in the analysis, phosphates, sulphates, alkaline and 
earthy chlorides, besides carbonates produced by the combustion. 
[Note. —It will be seen that all the elements necessary to perfect a plant, and 
to develop seed—the end of its existence—may be found in air and water, so 
that plants may be grown that will ripen seed in a soil entirely destitute of 
humus, (or vegetable mould,) or still further, destitute even of all the mineral 
substances that usually enter into their composition. Peas may be grown in cal¬ 
cined brick-dust, or black sand, which will produce flowers and ripen seed which 
will again grow in like manner, without the least aid from vegetable or mineral 
stimulants. This curious phenomenon will be further commented on in treating 
of vegetation.] 
It will be seen at a glance by this analysis, that there is a striking 
identity between the inorganic elements of plants and animals, thus 
seeming to force upon our minds the recognition of the beautiful adapta¬ 
tion of every part of the creation to every other part—the beautiful har¬ 
mony that pervades all the works of the Great Creator. To study this 
harmony, and to develop this adaptedness is the duty of the agricul¬ 
turist. 
Vegetable Physiology , divides the plant into two great divisions, viz., 
the stem or ascending axis—the root or descending axis. The leaves, 
which are the organs of respiration and digestion, clothe the stem ; while 
the spongioles, the hair-like extremities of the roots, perform the no less 
indispensible office <3f absorption. To the spongioles seems delegated the 
selection of the inorganic elements of the plant in the proper proportion; 
and while these are perfect they will absorb nothing from the soil or ap¬ 
plied manure that is not congenial to the growth and development of the 
plant; but if the spongioles be destroyed in any manner, the power that 
the plant has of choice is also destroyed, and the absorption is indis¬ 
criminate. 
Now it is easy to conceive of the absorption of gaseous matters by a 
plant through its leaves, but whence come the inorganic substances, or 
how are they imbibed ? The residue after combustion is composed chiefly 
of salts, alkaline chlorides of potash and soda, phosphates, carbonate 
of lime and magnesia, silica, and also metalic traces. 
