Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
apical meristem remains at seed-sowing depth, while a sharp, inverted U-
shaped bend develops in the cotyledon, midway between the apical slit and the
haustorium, which stays embedded in the seed. The bend forms a sharp 'knee',
which is pushed upwards through the soil surface by the elongation of the
cotyledon on either side of it. As a result, the cotyledon emerges from the soil as
a loop, before straightening and finally pulling the tip clear of the soil (see Fig.
2.1C). The same pattern of germination and emergence occurs in the other
seed-grown vegetable alliums.
