1898

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Iowa Seed Company, Des Moines, Iowa. 19.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a child holding a tomato, Caption-Early Minnesota.]

[Left Column.] Crimson Currant.--See Novelties. Per pkt. 10c, oz. 40c. New Italian Mixed.--See Novelties. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 35c. Honor Bright.--See Novelties. Per pkt. 10c, oz. 50c.

Dwarf Aristocrat.--Resembles 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 greenhouse or forcing under glass, and for first crop outside. Per. pkt. 5c, oz. 25c, 1/4 lb. 80c, lb. $2.00.

Picture Rock.--This has again proved 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, lb. $2.25.

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. 50c, lb. $1.50.

Crimson Cushion.--Very large, about double the size of the 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.

Strawberry.--See Ground Cherry, page 9. Pkt. 5c. Purple Husk.--See description on page 9. Pkt. 10c. 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.

[Image: Drawing/Illustration of three tomato plants along a trellis, Caption-The Post & Wire Trellis.] [Image: Drawing/Illustration of a large tomato plant, Caption-Dwarf Champion.] [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard Illustration of an individual tomato, Caption-Finest Of All Tomatoes, Matchless.]

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 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, lb. $1.50.

Golden Queen.--We have tested many yellow tomatoes, of which the Golden Queen has proved decidedly the best. Large size and smooth, round shape. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 65c, lb. $2.00.

[Right Column.] 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. Through long years of selection we have now a stock of tomato seed which is far superior to that of most other dealers. Our packets contain about 500 to 1,000 seeds.

Bond's Early Minnesota.--This handsome new variety which we now offer to our customers is, we 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 produciug 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. 20c, 1/4 lb. 65c, lb. $2.00.

Imperial.--A new early Tomato of more than ordinary merit, coming into use ahead of Dwarf Champion by a week or ten days. The fruits are perfectly smooth, resembling Dwarf Champion in color, very deep, solid, and thick meated, ripening up well around the stem. It is an immense cropper and a long keeper. As much as 1-1/2 bushels have been picked from a single vine. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 25c, 1/4 lb. 75c, lb. $2.00.

New Stone.--Quite popular in some sections for main crop, is large, of bright scarlet color; very smooth, with occasionally a specimen slightly octagon-shaped; ripening evenly to the stem without a crack, solid, firm fleshed, is an excellent shipper, quality the very best; fine for canning a good keeper, without hard core, and not subject to rot. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 60c, lb. $1.75.

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. 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. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 20c, 1/4 lb. 60c, lb. $1.60.

Lemon Blush.--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. 5c, oz. 30c.

Yellow Pear.--A favorite with all who know them and we had many inquiries for seed during the past few years, but it has been difficult to secure. We have finally grown a splendid crop. The fruit is pear shaped as shown in our illustration, of handsome deep yellow color; flesh yellow, solid and especially fine flavored. Highly esteemed as a table delicacy raw, but more used for preserving or to make "tomato figs," also excellent pickled. Very uniform in size and shape; an abundant yielder. Per pkt. 5c, oz. 30c, 1/4 lb. 75c.

Other Leading Varieties. All 5 Cents per Packet. [table] [column headings; OZ. 1/4 LB. LB.] Tropy. $ .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 (Mikako). .15. .50. 1.50. Ignotum. .15. .50. 1.50. Yellow Plum. .25. .75. 2.25. Red Cherry. .30. 1.00. 3.25. Atlantic Prize. .20. .65. 2.00.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a vine with pear tomatoes on vines, Caption-Yellow Pear Tomato.]

Last edit 7 months ago by lelfrank
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20. Iowa Seed Company, Des Moines, Iowa.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of three different kinds of turnips, Captions-Three Table Turnips, Extra Early Milan, Early Snowball, Golden Ball., artist name illegible.]

[Left Column.] 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: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of two types of ruta bagas, Captions-American Improved Ruta Baga, Monarch Swede, Rutabagas or Swedes.]

[Right Column.] Turnip. 6 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.

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 buga, 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, 3 columns} [column headings: Pk. Bu.] Beans. Henderson's Bush Lima. ... $1.50 ... $5.00. Burpee's Bush Lima. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. Stringless Green Pod. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. Early Mohawk. ... .90 ... 3.00. Refugee, or Thousand to One. ... 1.00 ... 3.50. Improved Early Valentine. ... .90 ... 3.00. Large White Marrow. ... 1.00 ... 3.25. Wardwell's Kidney Wax. ... 1.10 ... 3.75. Improved Golden Wax. ... 1.00 ... 3.25. Black Wax. ... 1.00 ... 3.50. Roger's Lima Wax. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. Yosemite Mammoth Wax. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. Currie's Rust Proof Wax. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. Red Kidney. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. California Branch, or Prolific Tree. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. White Dutch Case Knife. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. King of the Garden Lima. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. Cut Shorts. ... 2.00 ... 6.50. Lazy Wife's. ... 2.00 ... 6.50.

Sweet Corn. Early Sunrise. ... 1.00 ... 3.25. Extra Early Cory. ... .75 ... 2.00. Early Minnesota. ... .75 ... 2.00. Crosby's Early. ... .75 ... 2.00. Champion Early. ... .85 ... 2.50. Egyptian. ... .75 ... 2.25. Stowell's Improved Evergreen. ... .75 ... 2.25. Zigzag Evergreen. ... .85 ... 2.50. Mammoth Sweet. ... .85 ... 2.50. Black Mexican. ... 1.00 ... 3.00. Country Gentleman. ... .90 ... 2.75. Improved Ruby. ... 1.00 ... 3.00. Fodder Corn (sweet). ... .50 ... 1.40.

Pop-corn. (56 lb. bu.) Page's New Striped Rice. ... 1.25 ... 4.50. Monarch White Rice. ... .90 ... 3.00. Mapledale Prolific. ... 1.00 ... 3.25. Queen's Golden. ... 1.00 ... 3.25.

Peas. Iowa Challenge. ... 1.10 ... 3.50. Cleveland's Alaska. ... 1.00 ... 3.25. First and Best. ... .85 ... 2.75. Rural New Yorker. ... .90 ... 3.00. Reed's Early Prize. ... 1.25 ... 4.00. Bliss' American Wonder. ... 1.25 ... 4.50. Premium Gem. ... 1.10 ... 3.50. Stanley. ... 1.25 ... 4.00. Nott's Excelsior. ... 1.50 ... 5.00. 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. ... 1.50 ... 5.00. Telephone. ... 1.25 ... 4.25. Everbearing. ... 1.25 ... 4.00. Large White Marrow. ... .65 ... 2.25. Black Eyed Marrow. ... .65 ... 2.25.

Last edit 7 months ago by lelfrank
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Iowa Seed Company, Des Moines, Iowa. 21.

[Left Column.] 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, Washington Wakefield and Henderson's Summer. By mail, 100 75c; by express, 100 50c; 1,000 $3.50.

Cabbage Plants--Late Varieties--Ready June 1st. Surehead, 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 $1.25; 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 Minnesota, Beauty and Matchless. By mail, doz. 25c; 100 $1.00; by express, 100 75c; 1,000 $5.00. Not transplanted, 50c per 100, $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, 75 cents.

Asparagus Roots. Ask for Circular giving directions for planting, etc.

Conover's Colossal.--Strong two-year-old roots, 100 75c, 1,000 $4.50. Palmetto.--Strong two-year-old roots, 100 75c; 1,000 $5.00. Columbian Mammoth White.--Strong two year-old roots, per 100 $1.00; per 1,000 $7.00. Above prices are by express or freight. Any of the above varieties at 25c per doz., $1.25 per 100 by mail, postpaid.

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. $1.20. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of 5 garlic bulbs, stems twisted together.]

Garlic. A species of onion propagated by offsets; used for 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 onion. Garlic Sets.--Per pound 40c, postpaid. By express, per lb. 30c.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of 4 different type of onion sets drawn in a row: Container with caption-Bottom Onion Sets; Basket with caption-top Onion Sets; Blooming plant with caption-Egyptian Perennial Onion Sets; Cluster of onion sets with caption-Potato Onion Sets.]

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.

[Right Column.] Chufas, or Earth Almond. In sweetness and flavor they resemble the cocoanut or almond, and are considered very nice put on the table in a fruit dish with candies, as an after-dinner relish. Very prolific, a single one yielding from two to four hundred. The nuts grow underground, very near the surface, easily reached by pigs or poultry, and destroyed by them if they have free access. Plant in April, ten inches apart in two and one-half foot rows. Cover them lightly. If the seed is very dry, soak well before planting. Our illustration shows the manner of their growth, and they vary from the size of a large pea to that of a hazelnut. It pleases the children. Pkt. 5c, oz. 10c, 1/4 lb. 20c, lb. 50c. [Image: Drawing of Chufas plant, cutaway to show nuts growth in roots.]

Mushrooms. The ease and certainty with which a crop of mushrooms can begrown to perfection in an ordinary house cellar, wood-shed or barn, and the astonishing success of so many who have taken up this new industry both for profit and their own use, induces us to call especial attention to the subject. The great luxury of mushrooms can be enjoyed by all at a trifling expenditure of money, time and labor. In market they are always wanted and sell readily at paying prices. There seems no limit to the demand, and an oversupply is seldom known. We recommend the English mushroom spawn as generally the better both for the market gardener and private planter. Directions for culture sent on application. Price, per lb. not prepaid, 15c, 10 lbs. $1.25. If by mail, add 10 cents per lb. for postage.

Holts 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 25c, 7 for 50c, or 15 for $1.00, postpaid. [Image: Drawing of sage leave, close-up, Caption-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.

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 variation, 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.

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 or Multiplier Onion Sets.--Early cropper; matures quickly; mild and of sweet flavor. Per pt. 20c, qt. 35c, pk. $1.10, bu. $3.50.

Last edit 7 months ago by lelfrank
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22. Seed Catalogue And Garden Guide.

Selected Farm Seeds.

Our farm seeds are grown especially for seed, in the section best suited to their development and perfect maturity, are all carefully selected, thoroughly cleaned, of the best quality, and we sell at reasonable prices, which are subject to any important market changes. These 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, except on clover and grass seeds, and delivering to depot here. It costs less than 25c an acre to use our carefully selected and tested seed corn. 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 crop 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 peculiary [peculiarly] adapted to its culture, and now we can say without fear of contradiction, that for the season of 1898 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 will 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--Yields 215 Bushels Per Acre.

The most marvelous variety of corn ever offered and one which will surprise everyone who plants it. If the farmers take hold of this as they should it will revolutionize the corn growing of the country. Just think of this wonderful yield, 215 bushels per acre with ordinary culture. We don't blame some practical farmers for looking incredulous when this is mentioned; we did not believe it ourselves until we had measured the ground and proved conclusively that the report was correct. The seed corn trade is our great specialty and we claim to be corn experts, and in the spring of 1895, when we first saw this corn, we purchased the entire stock for $1,000.00 cash. An offer of $10.00 per pound would not have induced us to sell all we had of it, as we wanted to save it for our customers. 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.

Origin.--Ten years ago in selecting over some unnamed white corn, one of the best seed corn experts in America found one ear which was of ideal shape, size and color. He planted it carefully in an isolated spot, and from the crop selected only one ear for planting the next season. He continued his careful selection of only the one best ear out of crops for five year s until the type was fully fixed. It has been kept very carefully and none of it has ever been allowed to leave the originator's place until we purchased it.

Description.--Stalk grows to a height 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 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. 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 adapted to a wider range of soil and climate than any corn ever offered. From Minnesota to Florida, from Massachusetts to California, it will yield a paying crop where other varieties are grown at a loss. 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 competitions. Don't fail to try it. See testimonials on next page.

Its Prize Record. The Iowa Silver Mine corn was exhibited at one fair (Illinois) where in 1893 it took first prize as a white corn, and in 1894 ten of the largest ears took first prize, ten of the smaller ears took second prize. Afterwards the same ten large ears took sweepstakes over all other varieties both white and yellow making a total of $95.00 in prizes taken at one fair by twenty ears of the Iowa Silver Mine Corn. It captured the big prize offered by us in 1896 for the largest crop against all other kinds of any color yielding 215 bushels. It took first premium of $200.00, offered by the state of Illinois last year, for largest yield per acre (166 bushels) over all other varieties of any color, with keenest kind of competition. At Illinois State Fair in 1897, took first premium for best bushel of corn, any color or sort; first for best white corn in state, and grand sweepstakes for the best corn of any color, competition open to the world. It took our prize last year with a crop of 197 bushels per acre in ear, or 212 bushels shelled corn.

Now for 1898. 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 mortgage in one year. Get your neighbors to order with you.

Warning. If you want pure Iowa Silver Mine corn it must be purchased direct from us as we have not furnished a bushel to any other seed firm in the United States this year. Last year one seedsman sent out ordinary white corn under this name, and another seedsman purchased a crop which was grown for us, but which we had condemned as unfit for our trade. Cost of our pure seed is almost nothing (only about 25c per acre). One bushel per acre added to your crop will pay for it, and you can't afford to use doubtful seed.

Order Early--Sure To Be A Great Demand. Price, Postpaid or by Express Prepaid.--Per 2-oz. pkt. 5c, 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 pk. 50c, pk. 75c, bushel $2.00, 2 bushels or more @ $1.75, 10 bushels $15.00.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a single ear of corn with a small area that has three rows of kernels shelled away.]

Last edit 7 months ago by lelfrank
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Iowa Seed Company, Des Moines, Iowa. 23.

[Image: Drawing of the prize winner, Claus Jochimson, head and shoulders, framed with a wreath drawn of corn kernals, Caption-An average in size, depth of grain and size of cob, also picture of prize winner.]

Hurrah! Hurrah!! Hurrah!!! For The Iowa Silver Mine It Beats the World. Better Than Klondike.

Read The Wonderful Record. Produced 202 bushels in ear, equals 215 bushels shelled, per acre in Scott Co., Iowa. " 197 " " " 211 " " " " " Indiana. " 188 " " " 201 " " " " " Arkansas. " 166-1/2 " " " 178 " " " " " Illinois. " 135-1/2 " " " 145 " " " " " Nebraska. " 135 " " " 144 " " " " " Ohio. " 128 " " " 137 " " " " " Texas. Average of above is 176 bushels shelled corn per acre.

Produced Immense Crops Everywhere. Our Customers all Rejoice with us. We Print Extracts from a few Letters.

[Left Column.] Claus Jochimson, of Scott county, Iowa, beat the world's record for corn grown under ordinary conditions without commercial fertilizers. How he Grew this Crop.--A full statement of how this wonderful crop was produced, and also of the two other largest crops ever grown in the world, will be sent free to everyone ordering Iowa Silver Mine Seed Corn from us. This information may be worth $100.00 to you.

Your Iowa Silver Mine corn is all right. I have been on this farm for thirty years, but never had such a good variety before. J. Schauer, Near Minneapolis, Minn. The Iowa Silver Mine corn will do as well here as any variety. It was cut down twice by the frost this year, but still it yielded 75 bushels per acre. J. E. Olson, Nicollet Co., Minn. Season was very unfavorable here, but still the yield of your Iowa Silver Mine corn was fine, and such ears I never saw before. C. S. Little, Hennepin Co., Minn.

We find the Iowa Silver Mine to be the only really pure white corn, the deepest grain, the smallest cob and largest percentage of perfect ears of any corn I have ever tested, and I have grown about all the named varieties. You have in the Iowa Silver Mine a variety that combines more good qualities than any other, either white or yellow. Being a thoroughbred corn it has great flexibility of constitution, and thus is adapted to any soil or climate. Your customers will find it a veritable "Silver Mine" if developed with a plow and cultivator instead of a pick and shovel.--J. H. Beagley, Editor of American Corn Journal.

Your new Iowa Silver Mine corn is the earliest white corn I have ever seen. Ears of good size and in many instances producing two ears to the stalk. It is seldom one sees anything bred up to such perfection as this new corn. W. O. Ruddick, Lee Co., Iowa. The 70 acres of corn we planted with seed from your firm, is the best yield of corn in this county. It runs from two to five ears on each stalk. D. M. McKindley, St. Charles, Ill.

[Center Column] I don't think a better quality of corn can be found than the Iowa Silver Mine, and it yielded 114 bushels per acre for me this year. S. S. Troxel, Benton Co., Iowa.

The Iowa Silver Mine corn yielded 197 bushels of ear corn on one carefully measured acre. The yield was very nearly as large on my entire field of eight acres of this variety. A. A. Gher, Boone Co., Ind.

Your Iowa Silver Mine corn grew splendidly and ripened sufficiently to make seed corn 100 miles north of St. Paul. Francis Maddox, Crow Wing Co., Minn.

The Iowa Silver Mine corn was badly injured by a severe hail storm, but still it matured and yielded well. We intend to plant largely of it another year C. A. Graves, Fillmore Co., Minn. 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.

The Iowa Silver Mine is the finest corn I ever raised. It is simply grand. German Ziru, Howard, Kansas.

One of the largest seed corn growers in America writes under date of Aug. 17, 1895, the Silver Mine was planted the first day of May and was frozen down twice which sadly retarded its growth, however, it is today the finest field of corn with the largest ears I have ever seen, and I have all the leading varieties. It is a grand corn and is coming up to my most sanguine expectations. The Iowa Silver Mine was planted May 1, cut down by frost May 20, first silk July 5. On July 16 all silked, two to three to each stalk. July 26 hot winds hurt it badly. August 24 husks began turning yellow. September 3, ripe and gathered. Conditions unfavorable, but it has done extremely well. J. L. Perkins, Harrison Co., Iowa.

I ordered one peck of Iowa Silver Mine corn from you last spring and I now have the finest and best corn from it in Oregon Co., Mo., and I did not fertilize or manure the ground. It is the best yielder I ever saw. Orville Rice, Oregon Co., Mo.

Your Iowa Silver Mine corn is far ahead of all other varieties in yield. Theodore Sowers, Blue Earth Co., Minn.

[Right Column.] The Best On A 22,000 Acre Farm. On this estate, comprising about 22,000 acres, there were grown this year nearly 10,000 acres of corn, including almost all known standard sorts suited to this latitude, and we consider that of the white varieties the Silver Mine is the purest and in all respects the most satisfactory of all. W. A. Bicket, Manager, Ford Co., Ill.

My crop of Iowa Silver Mine corn was greatly injured by a storm in July, but still it yielded 108 bushels per acre and 12 ears selected from it took three first prizes at state fairs. It is a world beater. S. D. Maddock, Champagne Co., Ill.

Your white corn, (Iowa Silver Mine) did splendidly for me. It was planted May 4, and matured the fore part of August. It is better even than the Iowa Gold Mine. The ears are large and very solid. I tested four other new varieties this year, but this took the lead. S. S. Wolfe, Jewell Co., Kan.

The Iowa Silver Mine did very well for me, maturing early, medium size ears and a very good grain, altogether a good corn. R. C. Ferguson, Guthrie Co., Iowa.

[Image: Drawing, four ears of corn, with shucks knotted together, kernels broken away from one ear, Jcc F White, Des Moines, Ia.]

A Corn Fair. Florida is not a corn state, the government report shows that the average crop there is only 9 bushels per acre. On our recommendation last spring Col. Chipley, the Land Commissioner purchased a quantity of our Iowa Silver Mine Seed Corn, and distributed free to 800 farmers offering a prize of 40 acres of farm land to the one growing the best corn. People there laughed at the idea of growing good corn in Florida, but the result was marvelous. The crop was immense, and ears large and solid. A corn fair was advertised for July 28, as the corn was then ripe, and there were 345 exhibitors. It created great excitement and 6,000 to 8,000 excursionists from Florida and the surrounding states came to see it. The only variety exhibited was the Iowa Silver Mine. Just think of it, a fair with nothing exhibited except corn. Other varieties of corn have been tried in Florida from all parts of the country, but none before ever yielded a paying crop. The crop ranged from 40 to over 100 bushels per acre and as they can grow two crops of corn per year on the same ground it was very profitable. Lest some of our customers should think it is suited only to the south we call their attention to testimonial on this page from Northern Minnesota. This proves the wonderful adaptability of this corn to any climate.

Last edit 7 months ago by lelfrank
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