Phaseolus Vulgaris

We believe that when a plant is exposed to stress it will undergo morphological changes, known as thigmomorphogenesis, to conform to its environment. The purpose of this experiment is to observe the growth in Phaseolus vulgaris (common beans) with an emphasis on the structural changes induced by touch. During an 18 day observation period, the experimental group’s shoots and leaves were gently rubbed five times daily with gloved hands. After soaking in distilled water to hasten germination, the beans were planted in two separate 8 oz. cups filled with 4 oz. of topsoil. The soil was moistened with 1 oz. of distilled water and the cups were placed on a windowsill with sufficient sunlight. Each plant was watered at the base of the shoot daily