In the first part of the book an attempt has been made to select the
most important and fundamental truths and principles underlying all
agriculture and to present them in the order of their importance,
beginning with the most important.

An endeavor has been made to present these truths to the reader and
student in a simple and interesting manner. As far as possible each
advance step is based on a previously stated fact or truth. A number
of side truths are introduced at various places.

A number of simple experiments have been introduced into the text in
the belief that they will make the work more interesting to the
general reader, and will aid the student in learning to make simple
investigations for himself.

The author recommends all who use the book to perform the experiments
and to make the observations, and so come actively in touch with the
work.

The observations begin on the farm. The author considers the plant the
central and all-important factor or agent on the farm.

The root is regarded as the most important part of the plant to
itself, and consequently to the plant grower.

The general truths or principles which state the conditions necessary
for the growth and development of plant roots are regarded as the
foundation truths or fundamental principles of all agriculture. These
truths are as follows: