The Vitality of Seeds

Abstract

IN a letter in your last issue (p. 414) upon the vitality of seeds, “N. E. P.” states that Prof. Judd in his address to the Geological Association (I presume he means the Geological Society) was reported to have said: “The botanist cites the germination of seeds, taken from ancient Egyptian tombs, as a striking illustration of how long life may remain dormant in the vegetable world.” This appears to be a remarkable assertion to emanate from such an eminent scientific man as Prof. Judd, for if he really did make this statement one would think he must have some good proof quite incontrovertible. I must admit I am sceptical, and do not place credence in the statements that have been made by certain people, that wheat or barley, which is frequently found in the ancient tombs of Egypt, could possibly germinate after the lapse, say, of 3000 years.