1898

Iowa Seed Company, Des Moines, Iowa. 9.

[Left Column.] Egg Plant.--Ger. Eierpflanse. One ounce will produce about 1,000 plants.

[image] Improved N. Y. Egg Plant.

A tender plant, which should be started quite early in a hotbed or box in the house, which must be kept warm[.] Late in the spring transplant to open ground 2-1/2 ft. apart each way in warm rich soil. As soon as the weather becomes warm they thrive and are easily gown. They are a decided luxury which all should grow. Early Long Purple.--Hardy and productive; six to eight inches long. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 25c, 1/4 lb. 90c, lb. $2.50. Improved New York.--Our strain of this leading market variety we believe to be unsurpassed. Very large size, skin deep purple, flesh white and of excellent quality. Very productive. See cut. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 35c, 1/4 lb. $1.25, lb. $4.00. Pearl White.--Pure creamy white, with slight shading of light green near the stem; very fine grain, well flavored and makes one of the most palatable dishes either baked or fried. Per pkt. 10c, oz. 40c, 1/4 lb. $1.40.

Endive.--Ger. Endivien. One ounce will sow 60 square feet. One of the best and most wholesome salads for fall and winter use. Sow early and thin, cover slightly. Soon as large enough thin to nine inches apart. When leaves are eight inches long tie them together with string near the top to blanch. This must be done when quite dry. Before cold weather, take up for winter, being careful to leave a small amount of dirt around the roots. Extra Curled.--Pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c.

Artichoke.--Ger. Artischoke. Plant early in spring, in drills, two inches deep. When strong transplant to permanent beds, in rich soil, in rows three feet apart and two feet in the row. They mature the second year. Must be protected in winter.

French Green Globe.--Pkt. 5c, oz. 25c. Artichoke Roots.--See Field Seeds. Vine Peach. A splendid novelty which was introduced by us. The vine on which they are borne is somewhat similar to the musk melon vine, and requires the same cultivation. The fruit is about the size of a large peach, oval shaped, and of a bright orange-yellow color, somewhat russeted. For sweet pickles, pies or preserving they are superb. Receipts [Recipes?] for preparing them for the table will be sent with each order. In the west and northwest, where fruit is scarce, they are becoming popular, as they are easily cultivated, wonderfully prolific, and can be used in every way in which you would use a peach except that they are not usually liked raw. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard Illustration of bowl of vine peaches on a platter, Banner text-Vine Peach.]

[Center Column.] Broccoli.--Ger. Broccoli. One ounce will produce about 3,000 plants. Growth and habit like the Cauliflower, except that it is more hardy, and the heads are not as compact. Cultivate the same as Cauliflower.

Early Purple Cape.--A popular sort; heads well and is very hardy. Pkt. 5c, oz. 30c. Early Large White.--Pkt. 5c, oz. 30c.

Okra, or Gumbo. Ger. Essberra Hibiscus. One ounce will sow about 80 feet of drill. Why not try Okra this year? It is extra nice for soups, stews, etc., and also much liked when pickled. Sow at the usual time of tender vegetables, in drills two inches deep, leaving the plants from two to three feet apart.

Dwarf White Velvet.--Pods round, smooth and of an attractive white velvety appearance, very tender and of a superior flavor. Plants are dwarf and produce the pods in abundance. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 35c, lb. $1.00.

Chervil.--Ger. Gartenkeebel. One ounce will sow 100 feet of drill.

CURLED.--Leaves used in soups and salads. Cultivate like parsley. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c.

[List of Herbs inside a bordered box.] Herbs. In making up your assortment of seeds for the year don't neglect to order a few varieties of herbs. They should have a place in every vegetable garden. Sow seed in shallow drills one foot apart, and when up thin out and transplant to a few inches apart. The chief point is to harvest them properly, which should be done on a dry day when not quite in full bloom then dried quickly and packed closely, and entirely excluded from the air. All five cents per packet. [Left Column.] Anise.--Oz. 10c. Borage.--Oz. 15c. Caraway.--Oz. 10c. Coriander.--Oz. 10c. Dandelion.--Oz. 30c. Fennel.--Oz. 15c. Hyssop.--Oz. 30c. Rosemary.--Oz. 45c. Rue.--Oz. 30c. Saffron.--Oz. 15c. Tansy.--Oz. 50c. Wormwood.--Oz. 30c. Broad Leaved Thyme.--Oz. 40c. Mixed Varieties.--A mixture of all the above. Nice garden assortment. Oz. 25c. [Right Column.] Balm.--Oz. 30c. Sweet Basil.--Oz. 20c. Catnip.-Oz. 50c. Castor Oil Plant--Oz. 10c. Dill.--Cz. [Oz.] 15c. Horehound.--Oz. 30c. Lavender.--Oz. 25c. Sweet Marjoram.--Oz. 30c. Opium Poppy.--Oz. 30c. Sage.--Oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 70c, lb. $2.25. Summer Savor.--Oz. 20c.

Curious Vegetables. Ornamental Mice.--The vegetable curiosity which has attracted so much attention. It is a native of Central Africa, having a small, neat-growing vine and bears numerous oval fruits, clear green in color, two and a half to three inches long, which are always completely covered with long, light-green spines or hairs. It will be found useful for covering a sloping bank or rockery and will produce great numbers of curious fruits. Per pkt. 5c.

Caterpillars.--Prostrate creeping plants with small yellow flowers, changing into "Vegetable Caterpillars." They are grown as curiosities, and sometimes, as a harmless practical joke, are put into the salads for the purpose of startling those who are unacquainted with them. Per pkt. 5c.

Snails.--Another singular variety having most oddly twisted seed-pods resembling snails. Children are much amused with these curious vegetables. Per pkt. 5c. Chinese Tea.--We are sure that many of our customers will be glad to grow this as a curiosity, if nothing else. The plant is of a shrubby nature, with beautiful shiny foliage and fragrant blossoms, requiring the same treatment as any tender shrub. Can be kept in pots through the winter. Pkt. 10c.

Alpine Strawberries.--Have a peculiar rich flavor, superior to our native sorts. Perfectly hardy and easily grown from seed. Pkt. 10c.

Cotton.--Grown as a curiosity in the north, and, if started early in the house, plants will be loaded with cotton balls in autumn. Pkt. 5c.

Egyptian Lentils.--Largely used in Oriental countries as a principal article of diet. It was from these that the dish of pottage was made for which Esau sold his birthright to Jacob in Bible times, and many will be interested in them for that reason. Cultivate like peas. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. 74c.

[Image: Drawing of pile of ground cherries, Caption-Improved Yellow Ground Cherry.]

Ground Cherry. Improved Yellow.--Another year adds only to the popularity of this already popular little fruit which we introduced, and it is now listed in the catalogues of the leading seedsmen of the country to whom we supply seed. It is a great improvement on the wild Ground Cherry. They grow well on almost any dry soil; are easier raised than the tomato, and are prolific bearers, and oh! such luscious fruit! For sauce they are excellent, and for pies nothing can equal them for taste and flavor. They are delicious as preserves, and when dried in sugar are much better than raisins for cakes and puddings, and they will keep, in the shuck, if put in a cool place, nearly all winter. No one, after raising them once, will ever make a garden again without devoting a small portion at least to the Ground Cherry. Per pkt. 5c, 1/2 oz. 25c, oz. 40c.

Purple Husk Tomato.--This fruit is quite popular in some places. The plants produce handsome purple fruit in great abundance, which are from one to two inches in diameter and enveloped in a husk similar to the yellow Ground Cherry. Per pkt. 5c, 1/2 oz. 25c, oz. 40c.

Giant Scarlet.--Also called Chinese Lantern Plant. This is a very popular novelty and has proven quite satisfactory in some parts of this country. Per pkt. 10c. Collection.--One packet each of the three Ground Cherries for only 15c.

Leek.--Ger. Lauch. One ounce will sow 100 feet of drill. Sow early in spring, and when plants are three or four inches high, thin to eight inches apart. Hoe the earthy well up to the stalk to blanch it. Large Rouen.--Largest and most uniform of all. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 40c. Garden Lemon. Introduced by us and it has been highly praised wherever tried. It resembles the Vine Peach in manner of growth, but is distinct in that the unripe fruit is striped with very dark green, nearly black, and when ripe is not russeted like the Vine Peach. Fruit is of the shape shown in our engraving, is somewhat smaller than Vine Peach, has thinner flesh, and is decidedly more acid, thus dispensing with the sliced lemons which are so important in putting up the Vine Peach. Directions for cooking with each packet. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c. [Image: Drawing of dish of Garden Lemons, Banner text-Garden Lemon.]

10. Seed Catalogue And Garden Guide.

[Left Column] [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard Illustration of a large head of lettuce, Text-Denver Market Lettuce.]

Denver Market.--An early variety of Head Lettuce, either for forcing or open ground. It forms large, solid heads, of a good light green color, and is very slow to go to seed. The leaves are beautifully marked and blistered (like the Savoy Cabbages), and very crisp and tender and of excellent flavor. By these blistered leaves it distinguishes itself from any other kind of Lettuce now grown. The shape or the head resembles somewhat the "Hanson," but is more oblong. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c. Grand Rapids.--As many as fifty large greenhouses at Grand Rapids, Michigan, are devoted to forcing this lettuce in winter; the growers have distanced all competitors, and obtained the highest prices in the markets of all the cities to which they have shipped. Of superior quality and beautiful appearance the Grand Rapids Lettuce is a strong grower, free from rot, and keeps crisp and tender without wilting when exposed for sale, longer than any other forcing lettuce. It is also a desirable variety for sowing in the open ground. The engraving is from a photograph. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c. California Cream Butter.--A variety of Cabbage Lettuce, with round solid heads, as shown in the illustration; outside the heads are of a medium green, slightly marked with small brown spots; within, the leaves are of a very rich cream yellow color, most refreshing in appearance, and particularly rich and buttery to the taste. The heads are of good size, compact, very hard and solid. It is medium early, and one of the very best summer varieties of head lettuce we have ever seen. Pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c. Early Curled Simpson.--An improved variety of the Curled Silesia, with large, loose heads and excellent flavor. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00. Black Seeded Simpson.--Nearly double the size of the ordinary Curled Simpson; stands the summer well without becoming tough, or running to seed quickly. Is by far the most popular variety for greenhouse forcing, making large, handsome heads in a very short time. Gardeners claim that our seed is worth far more than any other. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 40, lb. $1.25. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of head of lettuce, Caption-Tomhannock.]

[Center column.] Lettuce--Ger. Lattich. One ounce will sow 120 feet of drill. Probably no vegetable is more universally used than Lettuce, and to be fully appreciated it must be brought to the table fresh and unwilted. As it requires but little room, and is of the easiest culture, there are but few families that cannot have it direct from the bed. The quality of Lettuce depends largely upon a rapid and vigorous growth. Sow in hot-bed in March and in open ground as early as it can be worked, thinly in drills one foot apart. For a succession sow every three weeks during the season. The soil should be rich and mellow. Thin out plants as they grow, so that the plants left to head will stand 10 to 12 inches apart in the rows. Prize Head.--Very tender leaves of dark reddish brown color, variegated with dark green. Heads large and of good flavor. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 35c, lb. $1.20. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a head of lettuce, Caption-Improved Hanson Lettuce.]

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a head of lettuce, Caption-California Cream Butter Lettuce, By Copyrighted 1887.] Mignonette.--See Novelties. Pkt. 10c. Oak Leaved.--Has oak-shaped leaves, the broader part set to stem and pointed at the tip, thus giving it a very unique, handsome and attractive appearance. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 45c. Dwarf White Heart Cos.--This is decidedly the best of the Cos or Celery Lettuces, the earliest and longest standing. Of attractive green color, self-blanching the inner leaves without tying up. Quality of heart much superior to any ordinary variety of lettuce. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 25c. Old Lettuce Seed.--For birds. Per lb. 40c.

[Right Column.] [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a head of lettuce, Caption-New Iceberg Lettuce, By Copyrighted 1893.]

New Iceberg.--There is no handsomer or more solid cabbage lettuce in cultivation--in fact, it is strikingly beautiful. The large, curly leaves that cover the outside of the solid heads are of a bright, light green, with a very slight reddish tinge at the edges. They are usually covered with dewdrops and have a peculiarly crystalline appearance. The center is thoroughly blanched. Whether in early spring or the hottest days in summer, the quality is simply perfect. Surpassingly fine for the home garden and equally valuable for market. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 65c. Improved Hanson.--For general use both of market gardeners and in the private garden, we are sure that no variety can surpass our improved carefully selected strains of Hanson Lettuce. It has been so judiciously improved that the heads are so solid that often they do not send up a seed stalk unless cut open with a knife. Heads are very large, green outside and nearly white within, deliciously sweet, crisp and tender, and almost absolutely free from any rank or bitter taste. Resists the summer heat exceptionally well. It cannot be praised too highly. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 40c, lb. $1.20. Tomhannock.--Forms a beautiful plant, 10 to 12 inches high by 9 to 10 inches across. The leaves grow upright, the upper part of the outer leaves turn outward gracefully, and are of a glossy, reddish bronze, quite ornamental. The leaves are almost white, very tender and crisp; it does not head. Grows quickly and remains for weeks of the finest quality; slow to run to seed. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 45c, lb. $1.50. Mixed Varieties.--Seed of about twenty early, medium and late sorts mixed together, thus giving lettuce for the table during the entire seasons and giving an opportunity to examine all the leading varieties with but little expense. Pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 45, lb. $1.30. Green Fringed.--Edges beautifully cut and fringed. A good selling variety. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 40c. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a head of lettuce, Caption-New Grand Rapids, Copyrighted 1890 by Watlee Burpee & Co.]

Iowa Seed Company, Des Moines, Iowa. 11.

[Left column.] Musk Melon. One ounce will plant about 80 hills; two pounds to the acre. The soil best adapted to the culture of melons is a warm, rich, sandy loam. Plant in hills five or six feet apart each way, ten or twelve seeds in a hill. When they begin to vine thin out, leaving only four of the most thrifty. As melons are very sensitive to the cold, they should not be planted until the settled warm weather begins--in this latitude about the middle of May. Cultivation should commence as soon as the plants appear above the ground, and be kept up once a week until the vines interfere too much. You will be pleased with our melon seeds.

Iowa Mastodon--See Novelties. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 60c, lb. $2.00. McCotters' Pride--See Novelties. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 60c, lb. $2.00.

Grand Rapids--The main characteristic of this melon is its extreme earliness. Grand Rapids is well known on account of its progressive market gardeners, and in that wide awake city the Grand Rapids melon has been on the market two weeks earlier than any other sort, and sold readily at $2.50 per dozen to hotels and fancy grocers, while melons grown in the south were practically unsalable. The flesh is pure yellow, clear to the rind; skin finely netted. To attain the best results, and to show its remarkable earliness and productiveness, we would advise our customers to pinch off the runners; while it has no tendency to run more than other varieties, at the same time by throwing the growth into fruit, it makes the fruit of larger size and earlier. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00. Perfected Delmonico.--This improved type of the Delmonico melon is almost a perfect globe in shape; the skin a peculiar grayish green until ripe, when it changes to a bright yellow. The melons average six inches in diameter, have a very small seed cavity, and are exceedingly thick and heavy for their size. The flesh is a deep, rich, orange yellow color, is of very fine grain and uniformly high quality. It is a strong, hardy grower and very prolific. We can recommend it either to the market gardener or amateur. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. 85c. Banquet.--The flesh is dark, rich salmon color, uniformly thick and of that granulated character which always indicates a good melon. Of round shape, densely netted over its entire surface; very handsome. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 65c. Montreal Market.--Uniformly of large size, averaging from 15 to 20 pounds in weight. Flesh very thick and fine flavor. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, one slice cut away, Caption-Osage Melon.

[Right Column.] [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of two melons, one cut in half with a spoon in the hollow, Caption: Perfected Delmonico Musk Melon.] [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption- I. S. Co.'s Improved Green Nutmeg.]

Iowa Seed Co.'s Improved Green Nutmeg.--Everybody is delighted with our improved strain of this most excellent old kind. For many years we have been constantly selecting and improving the old Green Nutmeg melon, until now it is one of, if not the best musk melon in existence, and it cannot be surpassed in rich, delicious flavor. Fruit of a fair size, very rich, melting, and of exquisite flavor. Outside dark emerald green, flesh light green; more productive than any variety we know of. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00. Improved Early Hackensack.--Of large size, rich flavor, and withal is a great improvement on the Turk's Cap or Hackensack in that it is fully ten days earlier. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 60c. Osage.--The skin is thin, of dark green color, and slightly netted. The flesh is salmon color, remarkably sweet and spicy in flavor, extremely thick, and delicious to the rind. The seed cavity is very small. It is seldom that one of poor quality is found. The whole crop is very even and extra heavy, owing to the thickness of the meat. All lovers of fine melons should try the Osage. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 60c.

Perfection, or Princess.--This splendid variety is nearly round, with heavily netted, dark green skin; the flesh is of a rich salmon color, and in flavor it is sweet and lucious [luscious] beyond description. They ripen early and grow to good size, often weighs 8 to 10 lbs. each. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c.

Bay View.--This variety is one of the most prolific, best melons in cultivation. It has been grown to weigh from fifteen to twenty pounds and from fifteen to eighteen inches long. It is hardy, vigorous, and continues a long time in bearing. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 60c.

Champion Market.--A superb variety. Almost a perfect globe in shape, and densely netted, making it one of the handsomest cantaloupes known. Flesh is thick, light green color, and rich, sweet flavor. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 60c.

Banana.--Attains a length of from eighteen inches to three feet three inches, and is from two to four inches thick. Flesh very thick, of a salmon color. It looks almost like an overgrown banana, and smells like one, hence the name. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c.

Winter Pineapple.--Entirely distinct from any other variety. They have thick flesh with but a small seed cavity, almost solid. When ripe the outside skin is of rich yellow, intermingled with light green color, spicy, melting and delicious. They do not ripen on the vines like other musk melons, but have to be picked before hard frost and laid away in a cool, dry cellar, where they will keep sound and sweet for months. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00. Improved Cantaloupe.--Flesh of a light yellow color and delicious in flavor. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c. Emerald Gem.--This is one of the most delicious little melons we have ever eaten. The flesh is thick of a suffused salmon color, almost red, and ripens thoroughly to the extremely thin, green rind. It is peculiarly crystaline in appearance, juicy and rich. The flavor is sweet and lucious [luscious] beyond description. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c. Mixed Musk Melons--All of the above and a few other kinds grown separately and the seed mixed together. An ounce of this will make you a nice melon patch, and produce melons throughout the season. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00.

12. Seed Catalogue And Garden Guide.

[Left column.] Watermelon. One ounce is required for forty hills; three pounds will plant an acre. A light, sandy soil, with good exposure to the sun, is the best for Watermelons. It should be prepared deep but receive shallow cultivation. Hoe often and thoroughly. Plant in hills eight to ten feet apart each way. Plant eight or ten seeds in a hill, and finally, when danger of insects is past, leave but three strong plants. Thousands of melon growers annually depend on us for their seeds and are universally pleased, claiming that nowhere have they ever obtained seeds so pure and reliable. It pays to have the best. Packets contain about 100 seeds.

Orange--See Novelties. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c, lb. $1.50. Cole's Early.--Decidedly the finest early variety for the private garden. It is very early and will mature further north than most other sorts. Of medium size, very productive continuing to bear throughout the season. Flesh of bright red color, of granulated, sparkling appearance. In flavor it is lusciously sweet and refreshing. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 65.

Peerless or Ice Cream.--(White seeded.) Of unquestionable quality, very early, medium size, thin rind, flesh bright scarlet. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 30c. Fordhook Early.--Was proved to be the largest early variety on the list. From seeds planted May 10th, ripe melons were produced the last of July. The rind is tough, making it valuable for shipping. Color a uniform medium green; flesh red and very sweet. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 60c.

White Gem.--Very productive. The melons are round, of good average size for family use, weighing 15 to 20 pounds each, and of a beautiful cream white color when ripe. The flesh is a rich bright pink, crisp, melting, juicy and sweet in flavor. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. 65c.

Gypsy, or Georgia, Rattlesnake--A favorite melon in the south for shipping to northern markets. An early variety, large, oblong, skin green mottled and striped, rind thin, flesh crimson and fine flavored. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a watermelon, Caption-Fancy Kolb's Gem]

Fancy Kolb's Gem--Grown by one of the best watermelon growers in the U. S. from carefully selected, pure stock, and this seed is taken from melons weighing not less than 40 lbs. each. Both ends of these melons are cut off and seed saved only from the middle part. Seed selected in this way always gives the best satisfaction, and one pound of it is worth more than ten pounds of unselected seed to the grower who caters to the best trade. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 35c, lb. $1.00.

Dixie--Very popular with melon growers in some sections. Is a cross between Kolb's Gem and Mountain Sweet, surpassing the former in shipping qualities and fully equaling the latter in fine eating quality and flavor. It is from 8 to 10 days earlier than either, has a remarkably thin, tough rind, and will keep and ship well. Each vine matures 7 to 8 large melons. The flesh is bright scarlet of fine quality almost down to the skin. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c.

Kolb's Gem.--This variety, on account of its excellent shipping qualities, is largely grown for shipping purposes. They grow nearly round, and the color is a dark green with narrow stripes of lighter shade. The rind, though quite thin, is very tough. Flesh bright red and of good flavor. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 15c, lb. 40c.

Pride Of Georgia.--Very popular with Des Moines growers. It is of a dark green mottled color, nearly oval, ridged like an orange; grows partly upon its end, is firm will ship well, attains a large size, and is very sweet and crisp. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c.

Oemler's Triumph.--Flesh dark red, mottled with yellow, very early; excellent flavor. Seeds very small. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 25c.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a black child, Caption-A Nabob Consumer.] [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of two melons on the vine, Caption-Sweet Heart Watermelon.]

[Right Column.] [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of two melons on a vine, one cut in half, open to view, Caption-Cole's Early.]

Wonderful Sugar.--When making a tour among our seed growers, we were greatly pleased with this variety, which we found growing in Nebraska. The gentleman on whose place they were growing is an enthuiast [enthusiast] on melons and after testing quite a number of varieties, all persons present united in pronouncing the Wonderful Sugar by far the best. It is a large melon, averaging about 35 pounds each. They are long, rather light-colored, mottled, and irregularly striped with dark green; rind rather thin and tough. Flesh a delicate red, and the most tender, juicy and luscious that can be imagined. Every one who has a place to grow melons should try this splendid new variety. Per 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 80c.

Duke Jones.--This fine melon has a dark green rind slightly striped, flesh bright red, very juicy and delicious. It matures medium early, is very prolific and much larger than the Kolb's Gem. A carload of 800 melons averaging 43 pounds each were gathered from two-thirds of an acre. A prominent grower writes that they produced ripe melons sixty-five days from planting. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 65c.

Green And Gold.--Large size, slightly oval, dark green. Flesh as yellow as gold, sweet as sugar, and of unequaled flavor. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 35c, lb. $1.00.

Nabob.--We are so much pleased with our tests of this fine new variety that we want to share the enjoyment of it with our customers. It is decidedly distinct and attractive, having a peculiarly mottled color of shell. Flesh deepest scarlet, firm and solid, but melting and juicy, and of luscious flavor. Its hardy vines are vigorous, healthy, and productive, its fruit large, and heavy (30 to 50 lbs.), resembles the Kolb Gem in shape and uniformity, but differing in color. The rind, although thin, is as firm as some of the winter squashes. The fruit keeps long in good condition and is not excelled for shipping. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c.

Sweet Heart.--An entirely distinct and new watermelon which is early, large, handsome, heavy, good shipper, long keeper, bright color, and of good quality. Carloads of Sweet Hearts were sold at fancy prices in the market when no other sorts were salable. Its vines are vigorous and productive, ripening its fruit early. The fruit is large, oval, very heavy, uniformly mottled light green and dark green. Rind thin but firm. The flesh is bright red, firm, solid but very tender, melting and sweet. Fruit remains in condition for use longer than any other sort. This variety originated as a sport in the field of a prominent melon grower and he has grown it several years and received fancy prices for his melons. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. 50c.

Mixed Watermelons.--25 Varieties of the finest watermelons, the largest, earliest, sweetest, and best in cultivation. Grown separate and carefully mixed by us. A chance to test all kinds at a low cost. Try them. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c.

Citron Melon Colorado Preserving.--It makes beutiful [beautiful], clear, transparent, preserves, of perfect flavor. Very productive. Green seed. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00. Red Seeded Citron.--The old popular sort for preserving. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00. Apple Pie--See novelties. Per pkt. 10c.

Other Standard Sorts. All Five Cents Per Packet. [table] [column headings: OZ. 1/4 LB. LB.] Phinney's Early. 10. .15. .40. Vick's Early. 10. .20. .50. True Dark Icing. 10. .20. 50. Cuban Queen. 10. .15. .40. Ice King. 10. .20. .50. Johnson's Christmas. 10. .20. .50. Mountain Sweet. 10. .15. .40.

Iowa Seed Company, Des Moines, Iowa. 13. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard Illustration of onion field in background with a closeup of large, single onions down the left side of the page, a cluster of smaller onions at the bottom next to a jar of pickled onions. Text: American Onion Seed, Yellow Globe Danvers, Large Red Wethersfield, Red Globe, White Globe, Early Barletta, Best for Pickling.

Onion. One of the most important crops grown, both in market and family gardens, and there is no other vegetable where the quality of the seed exerts a greater influence upon the crop than in onions. There is more money in onions grown from seed than almost any other crop. Good onion seed is of the utmost importance. Fully realizing this, we have for many years made a specialty of onion seed which is all grown from choice, selected bulbs, critically examined before being set out for seed. In vitality it is very strong, being carefully tested. Sowing seed to produce large onions is the cheapest, easiest, best and most satisfactory way. Large onions can easily be grown the first year from the seed by obtaining our seed, which is all American grown, and new crop. It won't pay you to use the cheap, imported, or southern grown seeds, which produce a large proportion of scullions and onions that will not keep well. Poor seed, even as a gift is the dearest the planter can use. We want you to try our seed, and have therefore put the price down to as low a rate as good, reliable seed can be sold for. In comparing our prices with others, remember that We Pay The Postage. Deduct 10c per pound if to be sent by express. Ask for prices in large lots. Packets contain 1000 seeds. Warning. There is, this year, a large quantity of cheap onion seed being offered which was grown under contract by Chinamen in California, for a seed firm which failed. It will be offered at very low prices, but we warn you to beware or it. Good first-class onion seed cannot be sold at less than our price and we don't believe our customers want to trust Chinese growers.

Culture.--One ounce will sow about 100 feet of drill; 4 pounds will sow one acre. As early as the ground can be worked in the spring, sow the seed in drills 14 inches apart, covering one-half inch in rich, sandy soil, which is as free from weeds as possible. Commence hoeing as soon as the rows can be seen; skim the ground over the surface; avoid stiring [stirring] deeply, and work the soil away from the bulbs. At second hoeing weed carefully and thoroughly by hand. When the tops die, pull and spread evenly over the ground; stir or turn until fully dried, then cut the tops one-half inch from the bulb. For pickles or sets, good ground should be prepared as above, and the seed should be sown very thickly and in broad drills, about 40 pounds to the acre for sets, and 15 to 20 pounds for pickling. For sowing onion seed and cultivating the crop, it will pay you to purchase a good drill and hand cultivator. See description elsewhere. Lang's Hand Weeder (price 30c, postpaid) is the best hand weeder made. Try it. Book on Onions, 20c.

Canary Island.--See Novelties. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 25c. Yellow Globe Danvers.--A very handsome, round or globe-shape variety of large size, with thin, yellow skin, white flesh, fine grained, mild, very firm and the best of keepers. It ripens early and sells readily at the highest prices in our markets. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c.

Large Red Wethersfield.--The standard sort throughout the west, as they are the most hardy, and immense crops can be raised when more tender varieties are not profitable. They grow to a large size, fine form; skin deep, purplish red; moderately fine grained and strong flavor. Very productive and an excellent keeper. Our seed of this variety is extra select and cannot be excelled. Our price is low, but should you want five pounds or more, ask for special rates. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 25c, lb. 75c.

Early Red Wethersfield.--For many years one of the largest onion seed growers in the United States has been carefully selecting, each session, the most perfect, even shaped onions which matured early and were of regular, uniform size. The result is an extra choice, early maturing, solid and productive sort. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00.

Extra Early Pearl.--The earliest and best of all American varieties. It is of good size, of pearly white color, the outer skin having a most showy, waxy appearance; flesh of pure snow white, and flavor so mild that it can be eaten like an apple. It grows with wonderful rapidity. We are sure all who try it will be greatly pleased. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c, lb. $1.50.

Large White Globe.--The handsomest market variety we have ever seen. Large size, oval form, very even, mild and pleasant flavor, good keeper, out-sells every other variety, and is undoubtedly the best white sort. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c, lb. $1.75.

Southport Red Globe.--This is a very handsome variety and is deserving of general cultivation. It matures quite early, (none of the perfectly globe-shaped onions are as early as the flat varieties), grows to a large size, skin deep red, flesh fine grained, mild and tender. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00.

Extra Early Barletta.--This distinct new variety is the very earliest onion in cultivation. It is fully two weeks earlier than the early White Queen, which heretofore has been the earliest variety in cultivation. At maturity the tops die down directly to the bulbs, leaving the neatest and handsomest little bulbs imaginable. They are of pure, paper white color; very mild and delicate in flavor; 1-1/2 inch in diameter, and 3/4 of an inch in thickness. For table use and pickling it is most valuable. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c, lb. $1.50.

White Portugal or Silver Skin.--Matures early, very mild flavor, medium size, and generally preferred for table use; not a good keeper. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c, lb. $1.75.

Extra Early Red.--Quite popular for early marketing. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 30c, lb. $1.00.

Mammoth Prizetaker.--Admittedly the largest of all varieties, having been grown to the enormous weight of Over Six Pounds, and is withal a handsome, fine-flavored sort. Of a clear, bright straw color, and uniform perfect globe shape. Produces enormous crops, one report being over 1,200 bushels, and they bring an extra price. Keep wonderfully well. They ripen up hard and fine and present the handsomest possible appearance in market, while the pure, white flesh is fine grained, mild, and delicate in flavor. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 45c, lb. $1.40.

Giant Vesuvius.--Grow to an immense size. They are of handsome globe shape, somewhat elongated, veritable beauties, and will attract attention anywhere. Color almost a blood red, flesh nearly white, quality most excellent. Much more tender and mild than the American sorts. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 65c, lb. $2.00.

Copper King, or Mammoth Pompeii.--Have been grown to the enormous weight of Five Pounds And Six Ounces. To obtain an idea of how large this really is, just weigh the largest onion you can obtain and compare weights, or weigh out five pounds and six ounces of common onions and imagine them all in one. Beautiful copper color; flesh pure white, fine grained and mild. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 15c, 1/4 lb. 50c, lb. $1.50.

Mammoth Silver King.--Attractive form, flattened, but thick through. Single bulbs often attain weights of from two and one-half to four pounds each. The skin and flesh are white, and of a particularly mild and pleasant flavor. Matures early and is of uniformly large size and perfect form, and will bring a large price in the market. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 65c, lb. $2.00.

Four Giants: One pkt. each of The Mammoth Prizetaker, Copper King, Giant Vesuvius and Silver King, for only 15c. Try them.