| 
|
| 1 |
The embryo tree inside the
seed |
| 2
|
Complete with tiny leaves, stem,
and a point that will become a root, the tiny
embryo tree is embedded in a food supply called
"endosperm". |
| 3
|
The growing embryo splits the
shell of the seed. |
| 4 |
Responding to gravity —
whichever way the seed lies — the root
probes its way toward the ground. |
|
 |
| 5 |
As soon as the tiny root tip
penetrates the soil, the tree is not only
fixed in the ground, but is capable of absorbing
water and mineral nutrients. |
| 6 |
The leaves emerge from the shell
and create a supply of chlorophyll. Now the
tree can manufacture its own food from water
in the soil and carbon dioxide in the air. |
| 7 |
Hidden at the base of the leaves
is the "terminal bud." Within this
cluster of actively dividing cells, all upward
growth takes place. |
|
|
