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Napa Ca.

I have never figured out which direction my plant will grow when i plant the seeds. Im somewhat limited in space and planting it in the right direction would be great. I have heard it is opposite the first true leaf.The plant starts out with 2 leaves,seemingly at the same time. Is it the 3 one that is the true first?

2/25/2005 12:38:16 AM

Mocksville, NC

The Direction of growth- The main vine's direction of growth will always be opposite the first true leaf the first true leaf is the 3rd leaf, if we include the two seed leafs that were already formed within the seed. As you observed the size of leaves as the plant develops, the first true leaf is rather small, at this stage, the seedling is working on mostly stored energy. The first true leaf begins the process in which the plant actually begins to manufacture its energy needs. It accelerates the growth of the plant, and provides for a second true leaf which is much larger and heavier. This extra weight causes the seedling to lean in a direction that is opposite the first true leaf! Hope this helps.

2/25/2005 1:56:56 AM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

I would never say "always". I'd say that the vine runs opposite the first true leaf about 70% of the time.

2/25/2005 8:40:27 AM

Mocksville, NC

Tremor is right, nothing is 100%I should have seen the word always!!

2/25/2005 11:04:20 AM

Edmonton, Canada

I would agree that about 70% would be right.

2/25/2005 12:00:59 PM

Napa Ca.

Thanks rogNC, 70% is better odds than what i had last year.

2/26/2005 1:19:14 AM