1897

34. SEED CATALOGUE AND GARDEN GUIDE.

[image] THE EARLIEST TOMATO IN THE WORLD EARLY MINNESOTA.

TOMATO. One ounce will produce about 2,500 plants. Sow early in hotbeds or seed boxes and when plants have four leaves transplant to four or five inches apart. Give plenty of air and endeavor to secure a vigorous growth. When all danger of frost is past transplant to the open ground, four to six feet apart each way. Well manured, light sandy soil is best, but it must be remembered that a surplus of manure stimulates leaf growth to the detriment of fruit. BOND'S EARLY MINNESOTA.--This handsome new variety which we now offer to our customers is, we verily believe, the earliest in existence. It originated in Minnesota but has been thoroughly tested elsewhere for several years with surprising results. Vines vigorous with rather small leaf. When quite small begin producing fruits which are of fair size, of good shape, smooth, dark red color. They ripen evenly, remain solid a long time and never crack. Thos. H. Brinton, who grows about 100 varieties of tomatoes, has originated several of our best sorts, and who may be called the best posted man on tomatoes in the United States, writes us: "Bond's Early Minnesota is the best early tomato I have ever tried." Per pkt. 5c, oz. 25c, 1/4 lb. 75c, lb. $2.50. CRIMSON CUSHION.--Very large, about double the size of the Matchless, but rough like all other large sorts. The peculiarity about it is its unusual solidity, more so than any other sort we know of. Seeds are few and near the outside, leaving the center solid pulp, which ripens evenly throughout before the outside appears ripe. It is an elegant sort for slicing or putting up. Flavor excellent. Our seed was saved from select specimens grown on our own place. Pkt. 10c. DWARF CHAMPION.--Its habit of growth is peculiar, for not only is it dwarf and compact, but the stem being thick, stiff and short jointed, it is actually self-supporting when laden with fruit. In productiveness it is unsurpassed. It is also very esrly [early]. The fruit is of a purplish pink color, always smooth and symmetrical, and the flesh solid and of fine quality. Can almost be called a tree tomato. The best variety to grow for plants for sale as they are so stocky. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 60c.

CRIMSON CURRANT.--See Novelties. Per pkt. 10c, oz. 40c. YELLOW PEAR.--See Novelties. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 30[c], 1/4 lb. 75c. NEW ITALIAN MIXED.--See Novelties. Per pkt. 10c, oz. 35c. DWARF ARISTOCRAT.--This new dwarf variety resembles very much the Dwarf Champion in every respect except in color of the fruit, which with the Aristocrat is a beautiful rich glossy red, so much admired in some markets and preferred to the flesh or rose-colored sorts. In size, productiveness, smoothness, flavor, etc., it is fully up to our usual standard of perfection. It is especially desirable for geeenhouse [greenhouse] or forcing under glass, and for first crop outside. It requires little space, as it has been grown successfully when planted 3x3 feet apart. This feature makes it very desirable for the small family garden where every foot of ground is to be utilized. Its beautiful glossy fruit is very attractive. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 25c, 1/4 lb. 80c. MATCHLESS.--Well worthy of its name for in beauty of coloring and symmetry of form it is indeed without a peer. The vines are of strong, vigorous growth, well set with fruit. They are entirely free from core, of a very rich cardinal red color, and not liable to crack from wet weather, of largest size, and the size of the fruit is maintained throughout the season, the healthy growth of the foliage continuing until killed by frost. Had we to confine ourselves to one variety it would be the Matchless, for certainly no other tomato will produce extra large fruits so smooth, handsome and marketable as the Matchless. The skin is remarkably tough and solid, and ripe specimens picked from the vine will keep in marketable condition for two weeks. Solid, of fine quality and a long keeper. Pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 70c. LEMON BLUSH.--It was with little confidence that we gave this variety a place in our trial grounds, but we admit that we were greatly and agreeably surprised, and our farm superintendent pronounces it the nearest approach to a perfect tomato that has been produced up to this time. The skin and flesh are a bright lemon yellow, with a faint rose blush or light crimson tint diffused over part of the surface opposite the stem. The plant is a vigorous grower, ripening its fruit abundantly in mid-season. It may never become a popular market sort, but anyone desiring a choice table variety for home consumption should not fail to have it. Per pkt. 10c, oz. 40c.

[image] DWARF ARISTOCRAT

ATLANTIC PRIZE.--Very popular with some market gardeners on account of its extreme earliness. Some of our Des Moines market gardeners say this is the only variety they have ever grown which produced a good crop from the first set of blooms on plants, thereby netting them high prices. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 25c, 1/4 lb. 75c. PICTURE ROCK.--Our tests have again proved this to be one of the best varieties on the list. They are of good size, in fact rather large and run so even and perfect in form, after the first few fruits, that they have the appearance of having all been made in one mould. They are smooth, of bright scarlet color, solid and of excellent quality. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 25c, 1/4 lb. 75c. LIVINGSTON'S BEAUTY.--Originated with Mr. A. W. Livingston, of Franklin county, Ohio, and is one of the best ever introduced. Its beauty, size, shape, color, flavor, durability, and productiveness make it desirable to all classes of tomato growers, being of a very glossy crimson with a slight tinge of purple. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50[c]. STRAWBERRY.--See Ground Cherry, page 24. Pkt. 5c. PURPLE HUSK.--See description on page 24. Pkt. 10c.

Other Leading Varieties. All 5 cents per packet. [table] [column headings: OZ. 1/4 LB. LB.] Trophy. $ .15. $ .50. $1.50. Acme. .15. .50. 1.50. Perfection. .15. .50. 1.50. Favorite. .10. .35. 1.20. Ponderosa. .25. .85. 3.00. Peach. .25. .75. 2.50. Turner's Hybrid (Mikado). .15. .50. 1.50. Ignotum. .15. .50. 1.50. Golden Queen. .20. .65. 2.00. Yellow Plum. .25. .75. 2.25. Red Cherry. .30. 1.00. 3.25.

MIXED TOMATOES.--For the advantage of some of our customers who would like to try all kinds, we have prepared this mixture of varieties named above and several others. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 30c.

AN INVITATION. We want our customers in other towns to consider this a personal invitation to call at our store whenever they are in this city, and if they will make themselves known we will take pleasure in showing them around. The store is conveniently situated near the business center of the city. Our popularity with the home trade is evidenced by the fact that notwithstanding there are three other so-called seed stores in the city, we supply about four-fifths of the local customers, including the farmers and market gardeners. THINK! On our Spring Opening Day last April about 5,000 persons visited us, and our store is thronged with customers every day during the spring. There is a good reason for our popularity.

[image] LIVINGSTONS BEAUTY" TOMATO.

IOWA SEED COMPANY, DES MOINES, IOWA. 35.

[image] THREE TABLE TURNIPS EXTRA EARLY MILAN EARLY SNOWBALL GOLDEN BALL

TURNIP. e [One] ounce will sow 150 feet of drill; two lbs. will sow one acre. For early, sow in April in drills half an inch deep and 12 inches apart, thin to six inches apart in the drill. For main crop sow broadcast during July and August and just before or during a showery time if possible. The soil should be rich and mellow and kept free from weeds. SCARLET KASHMYR.--A handsome new variety which everyone should try. See description with novelties. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 40c, lb. $1.25. EXTRA EARLY PURPLE TOP MILAN.--One of the earliest sorts in cultivation. The bulb is very flat, of medium size, quite smooth, with a bright purple top; leaves few, short, and of light color, growing very compact and making an exceedingly small, strap leaved top. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 85c.

GOLDEN BALL, or ORANGE JELLY.--A very beautiful and bright yellow turnip of medium size and of universally sweet and delicious flavor. It is hardy and one of the best of keepers. Flesh extremely firm and solid. Always brings a good price in the market. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c. EARLY SNOWBALL.--A perfect globe-shaped, white-skinned turnip. It is exceedingly productive. The flesh is fine grained, firm, and of very delicate flavor. It is one of the best keeping of the white fleshed sorts. Very early, and particularly adapted for family or market use. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c. BREADSTONE.--While of the Ruta Baga type, they are of such extra fine quality they deserve to be classed with the best table turnips. The flesh is perfectly white, fine grained, and cooks in only fifteen minutes, very tender and sweet. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 60c.

[image] AMERICAN IMPROVED RUTA BAGA MONARCH SWEDE RUTA BAGAS OR SWEDES

NIMBLE DICK.--It is extra early and produces, handsome, fair sized turnips in a very few weeks from time seed is planted. Color white, flesh crisp and of excellent flavor. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c. PURPLE TOP STRAP-LEAVED.--The standard for this part of the country for late planting. Round, flat, good sized, small top with but few leaves; flavor good. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c, 5 lbs. or more, not prepaid, 35c per lb. PURPLE TOP GLOBE.--Similar to above, except shape. This is the largest yielder of any turnip on the list, and very desirable for table use or stock. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 55c, 5 lbs. or more, not prepaid, 40c per lb. EARLY WHITE EGG.--Very early and particularly desirable for the table. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c. LARGE WHITE GLOBE.--Fine for field culture and very productive. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c. YELLOW ABERDEEN.--Excellent for cattle feeding. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c. MIXED TURNIPS.--All the table varieties of turnips mixed in equal proportion. A desirable mixture for family use. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 65c.

RUTA BAGA. Sow not later than June, in drills two feet apart, and thin out to eight inches in the row. MONARCH.--This grand, new and distinct form of the ruta baga, is, we believe, by far the best of all. The bulbs are of tankard shape, with very small neck, skin dark red above ground and yellow below, flesh rich yellow, fine grained and best quality. Only variety succeeding on our prairie soil. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c. IMPROVED AMERICAN.--Very solid, fine quality, valuable for the table and for feeding stock. Very hardy and productive, excellent shape, with small neck and smooth skin, keeps well. Our strain is choice. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c. WHITE SWEET GERMAN.--Large size, oval form and very solid, flesh pure white and sweet. This is the best keeping variety. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 65c. CARTER'S IMPROVED HARDY SWEDE.--Large size, excellent quality, and an immense yielder. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c.

BEANS, CORN AND PEAS IN BULK. These low prices are for purchasers of large lots, they to pay freight or express charges. One-half bushel will be sold at bushel rates and one-half peck at peck rates. Better write for special quotations if you desire a large lot. [table] [column headings: PK. BU.] BEANS. Henderson's Bush Lima. $1.50. $5.00. Burpee's Bush Lima. 2.25. 7.50. Stringless Green Pod. 3.00. 10.00. Early Mohawk. 1.00. 3.50. Refugee, Or Thousand to One. 1.00. 3.50. Improved Early Valentine. .90. 3.00. Large White Marrow. 1.10. 3.75. Wardwell's Kidney Wax. 1.25. 4.00. Improved Golden Wax. 1.10. 3.75. Black Wax. 1.25. 4.00. White Wax. 1.25. 4.00. Yosemite Mammoth Wax. 1.75. 6.00. Currie's Rust Proof Wax. 1.10. 3.75. California Branch, or Prolific Tree. .75. 2.75. Large Lima. 1.50. 5.50. White Dutch Case Knife. 1.50. 5.50. King of the Garden Lima. 1.75. 6.00. Cut Shorts. 1.85. 6.50. Lazy Wife's. 2.00. 7.00. SWEET CORN. Early Sunrise. $1.00. $3.25. Extra Early Cory. .75. 2.00. Early Minnesota. .65. 1.75. Crosby's Early. .75. 2.00. Perry's Hybrid. .75. 2.25. Champion Early. .80. 2.50. Shoe Peg. .90. 2.75. Egyptian. .75. 2.00. Stowell's Improved Evergreen. .50. 1.50. Zigzag Evergreen. .80. 2.50. Mammoth Sweet. .80. 2.50. Black Mexican. 1.00. 3.00. Country Gentleman. .90. 2.75. Acme Evergreen. .90. 2.75. Fodder Corn (sweet). .50. 1.25. POP-CORN. (56 lb. bu.) Page's New Striped Rice. 1.25. 4.50. Monarch White Rice. .90. 3.00. PEAS. Iowa Challenge. $1.25. $4.00. Bergen Fleetwing. 1.50. 4.50. Cleveland's Alaska. 1.25. 3.75. First and Best. 1.00. 3.50. Rural New Yorker. 1.25. 4.00. Reed's Early Prize. 1.60. 5.50. Bliss' American Wonder. 1.50. 5.00. Premium Gem. 1.25. 3.80. Stanley. 2.00. 7.40. Nott's Excelsior. 2.00. 7.00. Juno. 1.50. 5.00. Improved Advancer. 1.25. 4.00. Yorkshire Hero. 1.25. 4.00. Dwarf White Marrow. .75. 2.50. Champion of England. .90. 3.00. Stratagem. 1.65. 6.00. Large White Marrow. .65. 2.25. Black Eyed Marrow. .65. 2.25. Mammoth Luscious Sugar. 1.85. 7.00.

36. SEED CATALOGUE AND GARDEN GUIDE.

VEGETABLE PLANTS. Well grown and lightly packed to carry long distances. They can be shipped fresh, well packed at the beds, on a day's notice. Plants quoted "by mail" are sent at our expense; "by express" at the purchaser's. By our system of packing they are sure to arrive in good condition when shipped to any part of the United States. No charge for either packing or boxes. Plants from hotbed or cold frame are ready during April or May; outdoor grown during June and until the middle of July. We sell 500 at the 1,000 rate. CABBAGE PLANTS.--Early Varieties--Ready April 10th. Extra Early Express, Jersey Wakefield, All Seasons and Allhead. By mail, 100, 75c; by express, 100, 50c; 1,000, $3.50. CABBAGE PLANTS.--Late Varieties.--Ready June 1st. Surehead, Chase's Excelsior, Premium Flat Dutch, and Short Stem Drumhead. By mail, 100, 75c; by express, 100, 40c; 1,000, $2.00. CAULIFLOWER PLANTS.--Ready May 1st. Snowball and Erfurt. By mail, doz. 25c; 100, $1.25; by express, 100, $1.00; 1,000, $7.00. CELERY PLANTS.--Ready May 1st. Henderson's Half Dwarf, White Plume, Golden Self-Blanching, and Pink Aromatic. By mail, doz. 20c; 100, $1.00; by express, 100, 60c; 1,000 $4.00. After June 20, $3.00 per 1,000. EGG PLANTS.--Ready May 1st. New York Improved. By mail, doz. 25c; 100, $1.25; by express, 100, $1.00. PEPPER PLANTS.--Ready May 1st.--Ruby King, Large Bell, and Red Chili. By mail, doz. 25c; 100, $1.00; by express, 100, 75c. TOMATO PLANTS.--Ready May 1st. Strong, transplanted plants, Dwarf Champion, Bond's Minnesosa [Minnesota], Beauty and Matchless. By mail, doz. 25c; 100, $1.60; by express, 100, 75c; 1,000, $5.00. Not transplanted $3.00 per 1,000. SWEET POTATO PLANTS.--Ready May 1st. Plants strong, vigorous, well rooted and hardy. We can furnish either the Yellow Nansemond, or Early Yellow Jersey. Write if you want a large lot. Prices vary. By mail, 100, 50c; by express, 100, 25c; 1,000, $2.00.

HORSE RADISH SETS. Plant at any time during spring, in rows two feet apart and about eighteen inches apart in the rows. By mail, doz. 35c; by express, 100, 75c; 1,000, $6.00.

ASPARAGUS ROOTS. Ask for circular giving directions for planting, etc. CONOVER'S COLOSSAL.--One-year old roots. 100, 50c; 1,000, $3.50; Two-year old roots, 100, 65c; 1,000, $4.50. PALMETTO.--Two years old, 100, 75c; 1,000, $5.00. COLUMBIAN MAMMOTH WHITE.--Two years old. Postpaid per doz. 25c; by freight or express, per 100, $1.00; per 1,000, $7.00. Above prices are by express. If to be mailed add 20c per 100 for one-year olds, and 40c per 100 for two-year olds.

RHUBARB ROOTS. These may be planted early in spring or fall, setting the roots three feet apart each way. It requires but little labor to plant, and when once planted in good rich soil, it will remain in bearing condition many years. By express, each, 10c; doz. 75c; 100 $4.00. By mail, each, 15c; doz. $1.00.

[image]

GARLIC. A species of onion propagated by offsets; used for flavoing [flavoring] soups, stews and other dishes. Divide a bulb into small parts, and plant them in early spring in rows one foot apart, and from two to five inches between the plants in the rows. The crop matures in August, when it is harvested like the onion. GARLIC SETS.--Per pound, 40c, postpaid. By express, per lb. 30c.

RED CROSS PEANUTS. Peanuts can be grown in Iowa, and everyone should plant a few for themselves and children. This very desirable variety is as early as the earliest, the most hardy, very prolific and of the best quality. Boys, here is a chance for you. Think of growing peanuts in your own garden and having plenty of them to eat. Plant as soon as the ground becomes warm, from two to three feet apart each way, four or five to the hill, covering two or three inches. The soil should be deep and mellow and well broken up so as to be ready for planting soon after frost is over. April is a suitable time. They produce 25 to 70 bushels per acre, and are as easily cultivated as corn. Price per large package, 10c; lb. 40c, postpaid.

[image] RED CROSS PEANUTS.

HOLT'S MAMMOTH SAGE. After having grown and thoroughly tested this valuable variety for several years, we can recommend it most highly. The illustration shows a leaf of average size. The plants are very strong growing, the first season attaining one foot in height, and so spreading that a single plant covers a circular space 3 feet in diameter. The leaves are borne well above the soil, keeping them clean; very large and of unusual substance, strong in flavor, and of superior quality. A single plant of Holt's Mammoth will yield more than a dozen of the common sort. It is perfectly hardy, and attains still greater growth the second season. It never runs to seed. The past three years we have not been able to supply the demand but this year we grew a very large number and hope to have sufficient. Price: 3 plants for 25c, 7 for 50c, or 15 for $1.00, postpaid.

[image] HOLT'S MAMMOTH SAGE.

CHIVES. Perfectly hardy little perennial members of the onion tribe, and are grown entirely for their tops, which are used wherever the flavor of onion is required. Planted in small clumps in any common garden soil, they grow readily. The tops appear very early in the spring, and can be shorn throughout the season. Roots, per bunch, 25c, postpaid.

[image] BOTTOM ONION SETS TOP ONION SETS EGYPTIAN OR PERENNIAL ONION SETS POTATO ONION SETS.

ONION SETS. Indispensable for early onions for bunching, as in a very few weeks they are ready for the table. Price by the pint and quart include prepayment of postage (deduct 15c per quart if by express.) Price by the peck and bushel is subject to market variations, and they are shipped at buyer's expense. If you want a large lot write for prices. WHITE BOTTOM SETS.--The bottom onion sets grown from seed are the most popular of all and the finest and best for early use and large onions. Per pt. 20c, qt. 35c, pk. $1.00, bu. $3.25. YELLOW BOTTOM SETS.--Like above, except the color. Per pt. 15c, qt. 30c, pk. 85c, bu. $2.75. RED BOTTOM SETS.--Per pt. 15c, qt. 30c, pk. 85c, bu. $2.50.

PERENNIAL, or WINTER.--Also called Egyptian and Tree onions. May be set out in the spring, but are usually set in the fall. Come up year after year without the slightest winter protection, and produce the earliest spring onions. Per pt. 15c, qt. 25c, pk. 60c, bu. $1.50.

RED TOP or BUTTON SETS.--These are the old-fashioned sets still largely called for in some sections. Per pt. 20c, qt. 35c, pk. $1.00, bu. $3.00. POTATO ONION SETS.--Valuable for early crop, as they mature quickly; mild and of sweet flavor. Per pt. 20c, qt. 35c, pk. $1.10, bu. $3.75.

IOWA SEED COMPANY, DES MOINES, IOWA. 37.

SELECTED FARM SEEDS.

Our seed grain is grown especially for seed, in the section best suited to its development and perfect maturity, is all carefully selected, thoroughly cleaned, of the best quality, and we sell at reasonable prices. PRICES named in this department are subject to any important market changes. The prices are net and not subject to premium or discount which is offered on garden seeds. NOTICE.--While we exercise the greatest care to have all seeds pure and reliable, we do not give any warranty expressed or implied. Samples sent for testing if desired. SHIPPING.--In this department everything that is quoted by the packet or pound is sent by mail postpaid; all large quantities, unless noted, are sent by express or freight at expense of the purchaser. Prices named include bags and delivering to depot here.

SEED CORN. It costs less than 25 cents an acre to use our carefully selected and tested seed corn. Is it wise to risk doubtful corn when good seed is so cheap? The varieties of field corn we offer are the best now in use. They were grown especially for seed purposes, and well matured, cured, carefully sorted by our seed corn experts, and shelled with great care. The value of the corn crop in Iowa alone would be increased two million dollars by an average increase of one bushel per acre, and it has been demonstrated that the crops can be fully doubled by planting some of our improved varieties. We are in the center of the best corn growing country of the world, where the soil and climate are peculiarly adapted to its culture, and now we can say without fear of contradiction, that for the season of 1897 we have the best supply of seed corn ever offered by any seed firm in the world. The necessity of planting the very best varieties is plain, and it wlll not pay you to experiment with the many sorts which we have tried and found worthless, nor to purchase from unscrupulous dealers. We claim to have supplied more farmers with seed corn last year than any other seed firm in the world ever did before. Some dealers, last year seeing the great success we had made in the seed corn trade, purchased common crib corn and sold it out untested and under fictitious names, and it made their customers a great amount of trouble. All our seed corn is very carefully tested, and none sent out that we are not certain will grow well under proper conditions. We do not warrant it, but we will mail samples for testing to prospective customers. If a large quantity is wanted, ask for prices. No extra charge for bags.

IOWA SILVER MINE--THE GREAT $1,000.00 CORN. The most wonderful yielder, 215 bushels per acre with ordinary culture. It was in the spring of 1895 that we first saw this corn. We claim to be corn experts, and we have no money to throw away, but as soon as we examined it we purchased the entire stock for $1,000.00 cash. Our judgment was correct as proven by the past seasons crops which were the most marvelous ever grown. Just think of it! The average corn crop of the United States is only 28 bushels per acre, and there was more than seven times this amount of Iowa Silver Mine grown on one acre. Would you like to grow this kind of a crop? Plant Iowa Silver Mine corn, plant your whole farm to it. Adopt our new method of culture which will be sent free to every one ordering this variety of seed corn from us. DESCRIPTION.--Stalk grows to a heighth of about seven or eight feet and sets the ears about three and one-half to four feet from the ground, just the right height for easy picking. One peculiarity we noticed in going over the field was that there were no barren stalks every one had an ear, many stalks had two good ears, and the originator says that that has been characteristic every year that he has grown it. It has not a large growth of fodder, having been bred essentially for grain, though it has plenty of blades to support the growth and it is as well rooted as any corn grown. The type is very even, so unusually so that in selecting exhibition ears for the fair in the field he could take the ears as he came to them with very few exceptions. Ears measuring from ten to twelve inches in length and weighing one and one-half pounds are not uncommon. Just think of it, 47 ears make a bushel. The ears are very uniform in size and shape, with sixteen to twenty straight rows (usually eighteen rows) of deep, pure white kernals [kernels] set on a small white cob, and the ears are well filled out over the tip. It is early, matured last year in less than ninety-five days, and has never been caught by the frost. The cob dries out rapidly so that it is ready for market earlier than any white field corn in existence, fully two weeks earlier than Champion White Pearl. We claim that it is the only strictly pure white corn now on the market. In its yield it will surpass all other varieties of any color. Seventy pounds of corn in the ear will make sixty-two pounds shelled. It is in every way a distinct type of corn, and possesses many of the characteristics which have made the Iowa Gold Mine so popular, while the ear is larger. We stake our reputation upon this corn giving excellent and entire satisfaction and that it is an entirely new origination and not an old sort under a new name. It is hardy, a great drouth resister and summing it all up The best Corn ever Introduced. The acme of perfection, unsurpassed and unsurpassable. The largest ear 100-day corn in existence. We challenge competition. Don't fail to try it. AWARD OF PRIZES. Last year we offered $500.00 in prizes for the largest yield of corn grown on one acre in any part of the United States, and the Iowa Sliver Mine surprized [surprised] everyone with the largest crop ever grown under ordinary conditions in the world. The first prize was awarded to Claus Jochimsen, of Scott county, Iowa, for a crop of 202 bushels and 50 pounds of Iowa Silver Mine corn in the ear grown on one acre of ground. When shelled this equalled 215 bushels and 20 pounds, being the most marvelous crop ever grown. Twenty-three varieties of corn competed but the Iowa Silver mine was awarded the following prizes also: 2nd prize, W. A. Johnson, Mississippi county, Arkansas... 188 bus. 3rd [prize] Jacob Sceves, Nemaha county, Nebraska... 135 [bus.] 50 lbs. 4th [prize] O. L. Smith, Ross county, Ohio... 135 [bus.] 25 [lbs.] 5th [prize] V. Green, Hunt county, Texas... 128 [bus.] 10 [lbs.] 6th [prize] Hiram H. Shaw, Medina county, Ohio... 102 [bus.] 25 [lbs.] 7th [prize] A. Cannon, Calhoun county, Michigan... 97 [bus.] 67 [lbs.] 8th [prize] Wm. Green, Will county, Illinois... 92 [bus.] 40 [lbs.] 9th [prize] Henry H. French, Genesee county, Michigan... 85 [bus.] Average, 129 bushels 52 pounds per acre in ear, or 136 bushels 14 pounds shelled.

NOW FOR 1897. We shall offer liberal prizes as listed on page 16 of this catalogue. And further--to every one who orders Iowa Silver Mine Seed corn from us we will send free--full information as to how 215 bushels of corn were grown on one acre and instructions so that you can do as well. There is money in farming if you only know how. Don't be a snail; be progressive; adopt new methods, and use good seed. Figure out what your profit would be if your crop was that large. It will pay you to plant your entire field with this variety. You could pay off your farm mortgage in one year. Get your neighbors to order with you. Seed costs only about 30c per acre. Seed must be bought direct from us if you want it strictly pure. PRICE, Postpaid or by Express Prepaid.--Per 2-oz. packet 10c, lb. 25c, 3 lbs. 60c, 7 lbs. (will plant an acre) $1.00. Specimen ears, 25c each. PRICE, by Freight or Express, Purchaser Paying Charges.--1/2 peck 50c, peck 75c, 1/2 bushel $1.25, bushel $2.00, 2 bushels or more @ $1.85, 10 bushels $17.50. ORDER EARLY--THERE IS SURE TO BE AN IMMENSE DEMAND.

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38. SEED CATALOGUE AND GARDEN GUIDE.

Iowa Gold Mine Corn THE BEST VARIETY OF YELLOW CORN IN THE WORLD! Everyone who has tried it is enthusiastic in the praise of this splendid new variety which we introduced in 1892. Iowa is not called a gold mining state, but in this grand new variety farmers of this country will find a veritable mine of wealth. It has received the most cordial endorsement as the best and most profitable variety ever grown. It is early, ripening only a few days later than Pride of the North; ears are not large, but of good size and symmetrical; color a bright golden yellow, as handsome as a twenty dollar gold coin just from the mint; grain is very deep, cob small, and therefore dries out very quickly as soon as ripe. Seventy pounds of ear corn makes sixty to sixty-two pounds of shelled corn, and in hauling to market it weighs out five bushels more to the wagon load than common varieties in the same size wagon. We have shelled selected ears of this variety which produced sixty-four pounds of shelled corn and only six pounds of cobs to the bushel. This is an unparalleled record. It cannot be equaled by any other corn in the world. Thousands of our customers say that they consider it the ne plus ultra in corn; that it would be impossible to attain any nearer perfection. It matures perfectly up to the extreme northern tier of counties in Iowa. We can most confidently recommend it as the acme of perfection and stake our reputation on its pleasing everyone who tries it. One carload lot of four hundred bushels of Iowa Gold Mine corn was carefully weighed, and after shelling it was reweighed and there was just 456 bushels. Just think at it--a gain of 14 bushels to the 100! Remember, if you want pure Iowa Gold Mine corn you must purchase it direct from us. If you purchase from your local dealer, insist on seeing that our label is in every bag, plainly marked Iowa Seed Company. It will pay you to change your seed, and don't fail to at least see a sample of Iowa Gold Mine before buying elsewhere. Notice our low prices this year. Per large package, 5c, lb. 25c, 3 lbs. 60c, postpaid. By freight, pk. 50c, bu. $1.25, 2 bu. or more at $1.00 per bu.

[image] IOWA GOLD MINE CORN. (From a photograph.)

LEGAL TENDER.--With the exception of our Iowa Gold Mine, we consider the Legal Tender the best variety of yellow dent corn for Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and the south. It is the result of about ten years' selection by a seed corn specialist in Iowa, and has taken first premium at many state and county fairs. The corn is very productive, of uniform pure yellow color, ear very large and long and a deep grain on a small cob, while the stalk does not grow too large. The introducer says: "Our ideal ear is an ear two-thirds as large around as it is long, containing sixteen to twenty rows, and small shank. The kernels are deep, the cob is small at the butt and the ear holds its bigness toward the point until near tapering off. It should be capped over and the kernels should hold their bigness toward the point and the butt run out straight and not crinkle." It matures in about 115 days, but we do not recommend it for the extreme northern portion of this state. Per peck 50c; bushel $1.25; 2 bushels or more, @ $1.00.

[image] LEGAL TENDER.

STAR LEAMING.--The Leaming corn, which originated with Mr. Leaming, of Ohio, was always a good variety, but it had some serious faults for culture in this state, and we have refrained from giving it our endorsement. A few years ago we found an extra nice lot in the hands of an enterprising Iowa farmer, who had been selecting it for many years. We were greatly pleased with it, but were not willing to offer it to our customers without still further selection. We now have a corn which is a great improvement on the Leaming, but it retains all the valuable characteristics of that variety, so that instead of giving it a new name, we call it Star Leaming to distinguish it from other strains. It will ripen in 100 days, has medium size ears, grains of good depth, and rich golden yellow color. It is very productive, and we are sure will please our customers. It can only be obtained by ordering direct from us. Peck 50c; bushel $1.25; 2 bushels or more @ $1.00.

CHAMPION WHITE PEARL.--This was undoubtedly the best variety of white corn before the introduction of Iowa Silver Mine, grows to medium height, prolific and has given splendid satisfaction to our customers. Per peck 50c; bushel $1.25; 2 bushels or more @ $1.00. EVERGREEN FODDER SWEET CORN.--This is one of the most valuable items on the list for stock farmers and one which they should devote more land to. Last year our sale for it was fully three times that of the previous season and it has everywhere proved highly satisfactory. Our corn will yield a large quantity of fodder which is rich and nutritious. Valuable for feeding hogs and milch cows. Dairy farmers will find that our Evergreen fodder corn is fully double the value of field corn for fodder purposes. It has a good stalk filled with large, succulent leaves, which are greatly relished by stock. Per pk. 50c; bu. $1.25. GIANT MEXICAN JUNE CORN.--A giant among corn, growing from 16 to 20 feet in height, with ears 10 feet from the ground. A grand variety for grain in the south, for the silo in the north, and a grand curiosity for every section. It is exceedingly leafy in is upper sections and this gives special value to it for the silo. A few stalks of this giant corn will make a grand sight in any garden. It is a white dent with a good sized ear. Pkt. 5c, 1/4 lb. 15c, lb. 50c, postpaid.

The seeds purchased from you produced the finest yields ever seen in our county. The Iowa Silver Mine corn yielded 188 bushels to the acre." W. A. JOHNSON, Mississippi Co., Ark.

"Your seeds were as good as any I ever planted. The Iowa Gold Mine corn is pronounced by everybody in this neighborhood to be the best corn ever raised here." WILLARD GREENLEE, Mason Co., W. Va.

"I grew 480 bushels of your Iowa Gold Mine corn on four acres last year. An average of 120 bushels to the acre." W. W. PRESTON, Warren Co., Iowa.

"Your Iowa Gold Mine was early, stood the drouth remarkably well and produced 500 bushels of good sound corn. My neighbors with as good, or better conditions, either failed entirely or had only soft corn. I never made a more profitable investment in my life." F. H. FURNEAUX, Arapohoe [Arapahoe] Co., Colo.

[image] EVERGREEN FODDER SWEET CORN.