Ask A Scientist Botany Archive

 
name         Cody J. M.
status       student
age          11

Question -   Why and how do potatoes get eyes? What are they?
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A potato (tuber of potato plant) might begin to sprout, giving rise to
"eyes"/sprouts.
http://www.sachem.k12.ny.us/schools/north2002/ElemSci/Kindergarten/Classroom_Plants/Potato_
Potato_Eyes/potato_potato_eyes.html
http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/gen01/gen01382.htm

Anthony Brach  Ph.D.
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Potatoe "eyes" are buds that will start the growth of a new plant. If you leave a potatoe in 
your pantry for a few weeks you will see the new growth begin. You can cut the potatoe into 
sections, each with an eye, and each will grow a new potatoe plant.

J. Elliott
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