The seeds for the garden should be purchased quite early in the spring. As the planting of poor seed is often the cause of much disappointment, it is well to test the germinating power of the different varieties to be planted. The pupils of this Form should test especially those varieties which they have chosen. To do this, place about twenty-five seeds in a germinating dish, which may be made as follows: Take a deep plate, such as a soup plate, fill it about half full of moist sand, and spread over this a piece of moist cloth. Put the seeds upon this cloth and cover them with a second piece of damp cloth or moss. To prevent drying out invert over it another plate and set all in a warm dry place (about 70 to 80 degrees F.). After a few days count the number of seeds that have germinated. This will be a guide in planting as to how thick the seed should be sown. The pupils should watch the development of germinating grains, such as corn and beans, germinated in the same way as in the last exercise. The following points may be observed: 1. The first change noticed. (Swelling of the seed) 2. The appearance of a growing shoot and its direction. (Root) 3. The second shoot and its direction. (Stem) 4. The appearance of the first pair of leaves. 5. The appearance of root-hairs and rootlets. 6. What becomes of the main body of the seed. 7. How the second pair of leaves differs from the first pair. 8. Length of time required to produce the first pair of leaves. Pupils may be taught the conditions that are necessary for the germination of seeds by means of a few simple experiments which can be carried on in the school-room. 1. In February, plant a few seeds of the pea, or oat, or wheat, in a box of soil, and place the box outside the school window. 2. In April, plant a few seeds similar to those used in No. 1, in a box of perfectly dry soil, and set the box inside the school window. 3. Plant a few seeds similar to those used in No. 1, in a jar containing soil that is kept very wet, and set the jar in the school window. 4. Plant a few seeds, similar to those used in No. 1. in a box containing soil that is moist but not wet, and set the box in the school window. 5. Plant seeds as in No. 4, except that the box is kept in a dark cupboard. Compare the results of the above with reference to: 1. The number of seeds that germinate. 2. The growth and condition of the plants. Form conclusions with reference to: 1. The conditions that are required for seed germination. 2. The benefits of well-drained soil. Pupils make drawings showing the boxes and plants. PLANTS FOR INDIVIDUAL PLOTS