THE GROWTH OF CUCUMIS MELO SEEDLINGS AT DIFFERENT TEMPERATURES

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Abstract
-Seedlings were grown in darkness under aseptic conditions in tubes containing an agar gel at 7 constant temps. between 15[degree]C and 40[degree]; daily measurements of hypocotyl height were made until growth ceased. Except for the first few days of growth, when taller seedlings were found at 35[degree] and 37.5[degree], the greatest growth occurred at 30[degree] and the apparent shift of the optimal temp. proved, upon analysis, to be due to a shorter growth period at the higher temps. Four methods of calculating mean growth rates showed the highest value at 30[degree]. Sigmoid growth curves differing in time span and in final height were observed at all temps. except 40[degree] where no hypocotyl elongation occurred.