1883

34

DORR'S IOWA SEED MANUAL.

Charlotte-This is a very attractive potato, unusually large, and very sound. Pale rose colored skin, pure white flesh; a good yielder; ripens with Early Rose; vines rather dwarfish; lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk: $1.00.

Davis Seedling-An excellent late potato. Tubers good sized, but somewhat irregular; very sure to produce a large crop, resisting either drouth or bugs, remarkably well; lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. 2.00.

Dunmore-White skin and flesh fine quality, great yielder, one of the very best late sorts for profit; lb. 50c ; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

Early Ohio-Another years' experience has confirmed us in the high estimation we already held this magnificient potato, and after the most critical experiments, we are perfectly free to say: that as a first early potato it is second to none in cultivation. So far as we have been able to learn, it has given entire satisfaction wherever grown. In the fall of 1881 we made extensive inquiry of the farmers and gardeners in various parts of the country, to ascertain which was the most popular extra early potato; the aggregate reports exhibited show, conclusively, that the Early Ohio was the most popular sort, and was very closely followed by the Early Beauty of Hebron. The Early Ohio vines make the most vigorous growth of any early potato we have ever seen; they are extremely stocky and upright, and very easily cultivated. Tubers medium size, and very even, remarkably free from small ones; color nearly white, tinged with purple; oval form. Flesh pure white, unusually fine quality. Matures at least ten days in advance of the Early Rose and keeps till July, if wanted. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. $2.00.

Early Household- A very early, new seedling, raised from Mr. Pringles Hybridized Potato seed. Good yielder and remarkable fine quality. Tubers are quite round, flattened on the sides; skin and flesh both white, the former slightly tinged with russet. We have grown it but one year, but have no fault to find with It. Splendid quality. Lb. 75c; 3 lbs. $2.00.

Early Rose-The well-known standard early sort. Pure seed; lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. $2.00.

Early Snow Flake-Among the earliest, ripening with the Early Rose; it keeps equal to any of the late sorts. The tubers are white, very slightly tinged with russet; symmetrical and uniform in shape; medium size; eyes entirely flat on the base, and but slightly depressed at the seed end. Its mealiness, pure delicate flavor, and the evenness with which it cooks, have never been eclipsed; grows in very compact clusters around the base of the stalk in the hill. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. $2.00.

Extra Early Vermont-Very similar in general appearance to the Early Rose, but is more hardy and somewhat better keeper; very early, splendid quality. It was awarded a first-class certificate in 1873, by the Royal Horticultural Society of London. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. $2.00.

Granger-Sent out by the Grange four years ago; skin white; pink eyes, somewhat irregular in shape; good keeper. In some localities this variety has attained a very remarkable reputation for productiveness. Those who have grown it longest speak very highly of it. Our expenence has not been altogether satisfactory. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. $2.00.

Iowa Beauty-Very early and handsome. In some localities it produces abundantly of large well formed tubers, but with us, it is too much inclined to run to small ones. This is our only fault with it, and we think this can be overcome by a series of careful selections of seed. It was raised in 1875, by Mr. Perkins, from Hybridized seed obtained from Vermont. It is a beautIful white potato; oblong, somewhat flattened; flesh white and fine grained; superior quality. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00.

Indiana Russet-Tubers round, russetty eyes somewhat depressed; flesh extremely white and mealy; fine quality. One of our best croppers. Good keeper; somewhat resembles the Peachblow, and quite similar in favor; medium late. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. [?5]c; bu. $2.00. [?ng] Pond-Very productive; rather late, white, [?ound]; good quality; tubers not the largest, but very numerous, growing close in the hills; well worthy a trial. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. $2.00. [Late?] Rose- Ripens three weeks later than the Early Rose; much more productive, hardier, and a better keeper. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. $2.00.

Late Snowflake-A sport of Early Snowflake, and fully equal to that favorite variety in quality and appearance, ripening three weeks later; very productive. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

Manhattan-This new excellent late potato, has by some been erroneously called the Victor, although similar they differ in shape and color; the Manhattan showing more white on the skin, and the Victor is more inclined to flattish oval, whereas the Manhattan is oblong, and in quality we find it far superior and a better cropper, although both are excellent in this respect. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c.

Mammoth Peart-We have found this a remarkable yielder, and in every respect one of the most desirable potatoes we have ever grown. The Mammoth Pearl was originated in Ohio, and was selected as the best variety out of 2,500 seedlings. The aim of the originator being to produce a potato which was bug proof, combined with the best table qualities, handsome appearance and freeness of disease. The skin and flesh are white; never hollow; ripens medium early; cooks and keeps splendidly. Our magnificent crop, last season, was a surprise to all who saw it. Lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. $2.00.

PARSONS' PROLIFIC-This remarkable potato we introduced to the public last season. We sent it out as the best late potato we had ever grown, and are pleased to say, that after another years' most careful tests, by the side of the most noted and extravagantly praised potatoes in America, we find no reason to retract anything we have said in its favor, and on the other hand there is much to add. We know of no other variety which possesses the combined valuable qualities so desirable for a market potato. The Parsons' Prolific was originated in Iowa, by Mr. Geo. W. Parsons, who propagated it from the seed ball of the Prince Albert, in 1877. It was sent to us by the originator, in 1880 (the third year from seed). Mr. Parsons then said, "They exceed any potato I ever saw." Our three years careful experience, has thoroughly convinced us that the remark was undoubtedly correct. As stated, the Parsons' Prolific is a seedling of the old Prince Albert, which will be remembered as a remarkable potato in its day. This new seedling, not only perpetuates its parental good qualities, but developes [develops] new ones, not eclipsed by any late potato. In 1881, in a trial plot, with 35 of our best varities [varieties], it outstripped them all, enduring the drowth [drought] exceedingly well. The vines are vigorous and rank, with strong roots extending deep into the soil; dark green foliage; tubers medium large (the best market size, not overly large), and very uniform; skin pure white, and smooth oval form, slightly flattening on the sides; eyes very near the surface. They grow compact in the hill; have very few small ones. The yield is among the best. Flesh pure white, fine grained and splendid flavor; a first-class cooking potato. We nave never found a hollow one. Free from rot. They are very solid and heavy, and will keep a year if wanted. It is medium late, ripening about with the Late Rose. It was awarded the first premium at our State Fair in 1882, for the best new potato, in competition with the finest collection of potatoes ever exhibited in Iowa, The Hon. R. P. Spear being the judge.

Although our stock is not extra large, we have concluded to put the price within the reach of all. Price by mail - 1 lb. 75c.; 3 lbs. $2.00. By express - 1/2 peck $3.00; 1 peck $5.00. Not more than one peck will be sold to one address.

Peach Blow, Improved- Resembling the old Jersey Peach Blow in quality, but much more productive; strong grower; tubers uniformly round; splendid keeper. The greatest objection is a large number of small ones in each hill. The tubers are very numerous, with a fair proportion attaining a marketable size. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00 ; pk. 75c.; bu. $2.00.

Peach Blow, White-Late, medium size, very dry and mealy. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $ 1.00.

Peach Blow-The old standard variety. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c.; bu. $2.00.

Pride of America-Closely resembles the Snowflake in appearance and quality, ripens a few days later, is more productive and adapted to a greater variety of soils, good yielder and excellent keeper. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

DORR'S IOWA SEED MANUAL. 35

Peerless-Grows to enormous size, very prolific, but of inferior quality for table use; on clay soils the Peerless is said to produce fine quality. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs $1.00; pk. 75c.; bu. $2.00.

Perfection- As the name indicates, is certainly one of the handsomest potatoes we have ever grown. The tubers are oblong, round, very symmetrical; very smooth, shallow eyes. Rose-colored skin; flesh extremely white. Altogether it is a very fine, early variety. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

Queen of the Valley- Rightly named, and in our judgment, entitled to all the praise its name would indicate; large, white, oblong, few eyes, tolerably smooth, flesh white, quality excellent, number one cropper, medium early. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

Red Lyon-Very promising, late variety; is a rank grower, vines dark green; tubers flesh color, white flesh, quality good. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

Silver Skin-Handsome. White skin and flesh; a cross between the White Peach Blow and the Early Rose. Tubers medium to large , excellent quality, good keeper, ripens little before the Peerless. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

St. Patrick- Introduced in 1879, since when it has become quite popular. The best result of twelve years' careful experimenting by the originator, and is a direct descendant of the Garnet, Chili and Early Rose. Has smooth, white skin, few and shallow eyes, oblong in shape, white flesh, fine quality, heavy yielder, medium late. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

Startler- We have grown this but one year. It was planted May 18th, upon land which was too wet, but not withstanding this adverse circumstance, it produced a very fair crop, and with better conditions and manure, we have no doubt but the yield would have been immense. In appearance it somewhat resembles the Early Rose, but the tubers are more uniform. Vines light green, dwarfish. It is extra early, ripening with the Beauty of Hebron. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

Vermont Champion-A new seedling propagated by Mr. Rand, of Vermont. Rather large size, oval form, silvery-white skin and flesh; fine flavor and good cropper. lb. 75c.; 3 lbs., $2.00.

Victor-A seedling of the Peach Blow and Prince Albert; skin purplish red, white spots; flesh very white, fine grained, never hollow, medium late, great cropper, and a remarkably good keeper; very free from rot; lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c.; bu. $2.00.

White Elephant-As the name indicates, it is pure white; large size, tubers long and round. excellent quality, good cropper, late. lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

White Star-Our experience with this variety has been very gratifying. Its snowy white skin and delicate flesh, and superior table qualities are the highest recommends. The tubers are long and round; medium late; very good cropper. One of the best baking potatoes we ever tested. lb 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. $1.00.

Wall's Orange-This new potato originated in the season of 1879, with Mr. Lyman Wall, one of the most careful and progressive farmers of Monroe county, New York, from a seed-ball of the Whipple seedling, a potato which attained considerable local celebrity on account of its exceptional table qualities and great yielding properties, but which from its very dark blue color was not liked by shippers. In the spring of 1881, two years from the seed-ball, the stock of Wall's Orange was 25 pounds. This was purchased by Mr. Tillinghast, who paid the originator over $250 for it, although this amount at the time the agreement was made, was equal to $10 per lb. or $600 per bushel for all that were in existence. In the spring of 1882 it was first offered to the public at $4.00 per pound, and we were surprised to find that several hundred sales were made at that high figure. So far as reports have been received they are highly satisfactory, many very excellent testimonials having been received. The new seedling resembles the parent in shape. In yielding properties it greatly excels it. A potato of finer cooking qualities cannot well be desired. In color this new candidate differs greatly from any known variety in cultivation, it being of a decided orange hue, hence the name. The originator says: "For quality and productiveness I know of no variety equaling the Wall's Orange. It is about the strongest grower I ever saw, vines completely covering the ground and as nearly bug-proof as possible. Growing in my experimental field beside other varieties which were bugged several times, they took care of themselves and were the last to succumb to the drouth." lb. $1.00 ; 3 lbs. $2.50; 1/2 pk. $3.00; pk. $5.00.

COLLECTIONS OF POTATOES carefully packed and all correctly labeled, by express or freight. One good tuber of each. Your selection of any 10 of the above varieties, except Parsons Prolific and Wall's Orange, $3.00. Your selection of any 25 of the above varieties, $6.00. The entire collection of fifty varieties $10.00.

SWEET POTATOES.

Yellow Nansemond-The standard sort for this country. pk. 75c; bu. $2.00. Southern Queen- Large, white, very early variety. pk. 75c; bu. $2.00. Sweet Potato Plants-See vegetable plants.

MISCELLANEOUS FARM SEEDS, ROOTS, Etc.

We desire to call the especial attention of the farmers of Iowa and the Northwest, to our superior facilities for supplying them with Blue Grass, Timothy, Clover, &c., &c., of the best qualities. This branch of our trade has made a remarkable growth, which we attribute to our great care and close attention in the handling of farm seeds. Where we used to handle grass seed by the bag only, we now buy and sell by the car-load. With improved machinery for cleaning, and carrying as we do, the largest stock of farm seeds in Iowa, together with the shipping facilities of our city, which are unequaled by any other point in Iowa, we are confident it will be greatly to your advantage to send us your orders for what you may need, be it a large or small quantity. We cannot, and it would be unreasonable to expect us to sell a peck or a bushel of seed at as low a rate as we can afford large lots, as the expense of packing, handling and delivering to the depot is proportionately much higher, and as the prices of grains and seeds, like hogs or corn, fluctuate with the market, it is impossible for us to make close quotations for any great length of time ahead. We therefore request our friends requiring larger lots of grass seeds, &c., than the quantities quoted in this list, to send us a list of what is wanted, naming about the quantity of each, when we shall at all times take pleasure in quoting you the lowest prices possible, and will send samples if desired.

In this department everything which is quoted by the packet or pound is sent by mail, post-paid, all larger quantities, unless specially noted, are sent by express or freight, at the expense of the purchaser. No extra charge for bags or delivering at depots. The prices quoted by the bushel are subject to any important changes in the market.

Broom Corn-Black Spanish, the finest corn, brings more in the market than any other variety; pkt. 10c; lb. by mail 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; bu. by freight $3.00. Tall Evergreen-Very fine; pkt. 10c; lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; bu. $2.50. Dwarf Evergreen-Pkt. 10c; lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; bu. $3.00. Common-Pkt. 10c; lb. 40c; 3 lbs. $1.00; bu. $2.00.

Buckwheat Silver Hull-This improved variety is said to be much better than the old sort. It is in bloom longer, matures sooner and yields double the quantity per acre. the husk is thinner, the corners less prominent, and the grain of a beautiful light gray color. The flour is also said to be better and more nutritious; pkt. 10c; lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; pk. 75c; bu. $2.50.

36. DORR'S IOWA SEED MANUAL. Buckwheat, Common—Buckwheat should be sown about the 20th of June, broadcast at the rate of about three-fourths of a bushel per acre. The average yield is from 25 to 30 bushels per acre. It should be threshed as soon as dry, and on the ground or barn floor. If allowed to stand in mass it quickly gathers moisture. Pkt. 10c; lb. 40c; 3 lbs. $1.00; bu. $1.50. Beans—Navy; pkt. 10c; qt. by mail 50c; bu. market price.

CORN. Blount's White Prolific—Pkt. 10c; qt. by mail 50c; by express, pk. $1.50; bu. $5.00. The Profit—This is an entirely new corn, which we offered last season for the first time, the result of ten years's [years'] careful experiments on Iowa soil, in which it has been the purpose to fix a type of field corn for profit, superior to any in cultivation, and profit in corn raising, as we understand it, means the largest yield of shelled corn (not cobs) maturing in the shortest time, and of the best quality, and these are the points we claim for this variety; we do not claim that it produces enormous large ears, and stalks 20 feet high, for this is not the case, but we do claim that it will shell more than any other variety with which we are acquainted; has the deepest grain and the smallest cob, in proportion to the size of the ear; it is medium early, very straight rowed; the color is variegated from light sulphur to bright orange, being agreeably diversified, making it particularly striking in appearance. As stated above we introduced this variety of field corn last season, and so great was the demand that our supply was exhausted long before the close of the season. So far as we have learned "The Profit" has given splendid satisfaction. It is the corn to plant, and we want every one of our customers to give it a fair trial. By mail pkt. 10c; lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.00; by express pk. $2.00; bu. $6.00; bu. $10.00. Mammoth Surprise White—Of especial value for making meal; of extremely fine quality. In this respect it is one of the very few varieties of corn which makes meal that can be bolted like wheat. It is a vigorous grower, stalks large and strong, ears large, well filled out, 14 to 28 rowed; by mail, pkt. $1.00; bu. $3.00. Large White Field—Pkt. 10c; express, qt. 25c; pk. 75c; bu. $2.00. Chester County Mammoth—Very large fine dent corn; large well-formed ears, producing enormous crops; pkt, 10c; lb. 50c; 3 lbs $1.00; express, pk. $2.00; bu. $5.00. Sweet Corn—For fodder or ensilage; pk. 75c; bu. $2.50.

CLOVER SEEDS. The soils best adapted to Clover are tenacious or stiff loams. It is a fertilizer, as its long, powerful tap roots loosen the soil, admit air, and, when the roots decay, add largely to the black mass of earth. It helps destroy annual weeds by the luxuriant foliage, and, by shading the surface of the soil, increases its fertility. Clover seed is sown in Spring or Fall, though there is a growing sentiment that the Spring is a better season to grow it, especially in the Eastern, Middle and Western States, on account of its liability to freeze out during the Winter. It is often sown upon the late snows of March or April, and soon finds its way down to the soil, where, aided by the moisture of early Spring, it quickly germinates and rapidly shoots up its leaf stalks. Mammoth or Large Red Clover—Trifolium pratense.— This variety is the best for plowing under for manure. It grows five or six feet high, and its stalks are so coarse and large that stock will eat only the leaves. By its judicious use, lands which have been exhausted can be reclaimed, and unexhausted lands preserved. Green manuring has rarely or never failed of producing satisfactory results. Sow at the rate of about eight pounds per acre; sixty pounds per bushel. By mail, lb. 40c; 3 lbs. $1.00, by express, pk. $2.50; bu. $8.50. Medium Red, or June Clover—Trifolium pratense.— This is by far the most important of all the varieties for the practical purposes of agriculture. It is grown for hay or for pasture, and for milch cows it is better than Timothy, while it improves the lands on which it is grown. It has become an indispensible ingredient of all mixed grasses. Sow in Spring or Fall, and when no other grasses are used, at the rate of six to eight quarts per acre, more being required on old, stiff soils than on new and lighter ones. Sixty pounds per bushel. By mail, lb. 40c; 3 lbs. $1.00. By express, pk. $2.25; bu. $8.00. Alsike, or Swedish Clover—Trifolium hybrida.— This valuable variety is comparatively new, but is fast gaining great popularity. It is the most hardy of all the varieties, perennial, and absolutely refuses to Winter-kill; is alike capable of resisting the extremes of drouth and wet. The roots are fibrous and heads globular, resembling more the White than the Red Clover, with flesh-colored heads. It is very sweet and fragrant, being much liked by the Italian bees. It yields an enormous quantity of hay or pasture, and may be mowed several times in a season, on good, rich land. It is excellent for sowing on hillsides or sloping lands that are liable to wash and gully, as it has a great mass of long, strong, fibrous roots, which take firm, deep and widespread hold into the soil, and prevent washing; farmers can hardly raise a better hay or forage crop. Sow in Spring or Fall, at the rate of six pounds per acre, where used alone. Sixty pounds per bushel. By mail, lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $5. Crimson Trefoil, or Scarlet Italian Clover—Trifolium incarnatum.—This is an annual variety, in common use in Italy and the South of France for feeding green. Indeed, it may be said the stock in these countries are largely sustained during the Summer months by this and a few other sorts. The yield in fodder is immense, and after cutting, it at once commences growing again, and continues till severe cold, freezing weather. In warm climates four or five cuttings are made during the season. It grows about one foot high; the roots are nearly black; leaves long, blossoms long, pointed and of a very deep red or carmine color; makes good hay. Sow in April or May; ten pounds of seed per acre. By mail, lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $5.00. White Dutch Clover—Trifolium repens.—A small, creeping, spreading, perennial variety, with white very fragrant blossoms. Its chief value is as a pasture grass, for which purpose it is as valuable as the larger varieties for hay or soiling. It accommodates itself to a variety of soils, but prefers moist grounds. In conjunction with Blue Grass, it forms the most nutricious food for sheep or cows. Sow in Spring, at the rate of six pounds per acre, or when used with other grasses, half that amount will be sufficient. By mail, lb. 65c; 3 lbs. $1.50. By express, pk. $5.00. Lucerne, or Alfalfa Clover—Medicago sativa.—This is perhaps the most valuable variety for permeable subsoils, consisting of loam, sand or gravel, as its roots penetrate to a great depth, far below the average of other plants. It is more difficult to establish the first year, requiring a fine, mellow soil; but it will then produce a profitable crop from five to twelve years. It yields a prodigious amount of green fodder for cattle, and shoulld be cut when first commencing to bloom. It is no sooner cut than it pushes out fresh shoots, and the after growth is something wonderful. In the dryest [driest] and most sultry weather, when every blade of grass withers, Lucerne is as fresh and green as in Spring, because the roots go down to the moisture in the ground. It may be cut and used green, or cut and used like ordinary Clover hay. Although such a prodigious yielder, it does not exhaust the soil, but rather improves it. It should not be sown on compact, clay soils, even with a light subsoil. Three cuttings can easily be made in one season, after it is well established. It grows two or three feet high, and has purple blossoms. By mail, lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $5.00.

GRASS SEEDS. Timothy—Phleum pratense.—As a crop to cut for hay, this is probably unsurpassed by any Grass in cultivation. Thrives best on moist, loamy soils, of medium tenacity, and is not suited to light, sandy or gravelly soils. It should be cut just as the blossom falls. Sow either in spring or fall, at the rate of twelve pounds per acre if alone, but less if mixed with other grasses; forty-five pounds per bushel. By mail, 1 lb. 40c, 3 lbs. $1.00. By freight or express, pk. $1.00; bu. $3. Orchard Grass, or Cock's Foot—Dactylis glomerata.— One of the most valuable of pasture gasses, on account of its quick growth and luxuriant aftermath. It [continued next page]

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is ready for grazing in spring two weeks sooner than most grasses, and when fed off is again ready for grazing in a week. It is palatable and nutritious, and stock eat it greedily when green. It stands a severe drouth, keeping green when many grasses wither, and will endure considerable shade. It is less exhausting to the soil than Timothy, and will grow more in one day, in summer, than Timothy will in a week. When sown with Clover, it makes excellent hay, as it blossoms at the same time, and they should be cut together. It has a tendency to grow in tufts, which can be prevented by close cropping. For grazing, it has no equal, and should be used more than it is. When sown alone two bushels are required per acre; if sown with Clover, half that amount. It ought not to be sown alone, except for seed. It is perennial, and will last for years, but its habit of growth unfits it for lawns; fourteen pounds per bushel. By mail, 1 lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, 1 pk. $1.00; bu $3.00. Red Top-Agrotis vulgaris. - In some sections this is called Rhode Island Bent Grass. In Pennsylvania and States farther south it is known as Herd's Grass, a name applied in New England and New York to Timothy. It is a good, permanent Grass, standing our climate well, and makes a good pasture when fed close. Is valuable for low, wet meadows, producing a large return in good hay. Is often sown with Timothy and Red Clover, in which case it makes a close sward in time. When sown alone, two bushels per acre are required, sown in spring or fall; fourteen pounds per bushel. By mail, 1 lb. 40c.; 3 lbs. $1.00. By express, 1 pk. 75c.; bu. $2.50. Fowl Meadow, or False Red Top-Poa serotina. Grows tall and thick, and makes a more pliable hay than Timothy, and is more fit for pressing in bales, to ship. It yields well when sown on low moist land and will not suffer if not cut at the exact time. It can be mowed almost any time from July to October. When three feet high it falls down or lodges, and after a little time every joint puts forth new branches. The stalk is always sweet and tender, and cattle and sheep are fond of it. It thrives best when mixed with other grasses. Though resembling Red Top in some respects, it is distinct, and we think superior in every respect. Requires about the same amount of seed per acre as Red Top, sown in spring or fall; twelve pounds per bushel. By mail, 1 lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $1.00; bu. $3.25. Kentucky Blue Grass-Poa pratensis.-This is known in some sections as Green Meadow Grass, and June Grass, but should not be confounded witth Poa compressa, called by some June Grass or Wire Grass. It makes excellent pasture grass for our soil and climate, succeeding finely on our hill lands, and producing the most nourishing food for cattle, retaining its qualities till a late period in winter, and farther south affording abundant food through the winter. In conjunction with White Clover, it forms the finest and closest of lawns; for this purpose, an extra quantity of seed should be used, say two bushels of Blue Grass and six pounds of White Clover per acre. If sown by itself, two bushels will be required, sown early in the spring, or in October or November; fourteen pounds per bushel. By mail, 1 lb. 40c.; 3 lbs. $1.00. By express, pk. 75c.; bu. $2.50. English Blue Grass, or Meadow Fescue (Festuca pratensis.-This is one of the most valuable pasture grasses we are acquainted with, as its long and tender leaves are much relished by stock of all kinds. It succeeds well, even in a poor soil, and as its roots penetrate the earth twelve or fifteen inches, it is not affected except by exceedingly dry weather, and is as valuable a fertilizer as Red Clover. When cured like Timothy, it yields a very fine quality of hay. Notwithstanding its acknowledged merits, this grass has been sown only to a limited extent in this country. It is deserving of much more attention than it has hitherto received from American farmers. Sow one bushel per acre, in spring or fall. September is the best season for sowing south of the Ohio river. Twenty-four pounds per bushel. By mail, 1 lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $1.25; bu. $4.00. Perennial Rye Grass-Lolium perenne.-A very valuable variety for permanent pasture, and makes a large return in hay; very nutritious, and stock are very fond of it. Succeeds best on moderately moist land, for which it is peculiarly adapted. Large quantities are raised in England, and nearly all of Europe. It is also largely used for lawns, in conjunction with other grasses. One and a half to two

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bushels per acre in the spring; twenty pounds per bushel. By mail, 1 lb. 50c.; 3 lbs, $1.25. By express, pk. $1.25; bu. $4.00. Italian Rye Grass-Excellent for lawns or pastures; similar to last. By mail, 1 lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $1.25; bu. $4.00. Wood Meadow Grass-Poa nemoralis.-Grows from one and a half to two feet high; has a perennial creeping root, and an erect, slender, smooth stem. Its chief value is in that it will produce a good crop of hay in moist, shady situations, where it frequently grows quite tall. Cattle are fond of it; it is succulent and nutritious, and is perhaps the best variety for sowing in orchards, under trees, and shaded situations, either for hay or pasturage, and for parks and pleasure grounds; about fourteen pounds per bushel. By mail; 1 lb. 50c.; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $1.25; bu. $4.00. Sweet Vernal Grass - Anthoxanthum odoratum. - One of the earliest grasses in spring, as well as the latest in autumn, and about the only grass that is fragrant. As a pasture grass, mixed with other species, it is valuable on account of its earliness, and mixed with Blue Grass and White Clover, it is an invaluable adjunct for lawns, presenting a beautiful appearance, and exhaling a delightful fragrance when in blossom. Should form a part of the mixed grasses in every lawn and door yard; about ten pounds per bushel. By mail, 1 lb. 75c.; 3 lbs. $2.00. Common Millet - Panicum miliaceum.-Requires a dry, light, rich soil, and grows two and a half to four feet high, with a fine bulk of stalks and leaves, and is excellent foraging. Sow in drills or broadcast, from May 1st to June 20th, if for seed, or until the last of July, if for hay. For grain, sow in drills, one-quarter bushel per acre; if for hay, sow broadcast, one-half bushel per acre; forty-eight pounds per bushel. By mail, 1 lb. 30c.; 4 lbs. $1.00. By express, 1 pk. 75c.; 1 bu. $2.50. German, or Golden Millet-An improved variety, medium early, growing three to five feet high. The heads are closely condensed, though the spikes are very numerous. The seeds are contained in rough, bristly sheaths, and are round, golden yellow, and beautiful in appearance. Though this variety has been in cultivation some three or four years, we have never heard a single complaint about it. By mail, lb. 40c; 3 lbs. $1.00. By express, pk. 85c; bu. $3.00. Hungarian Grass-Panicum Germanicum. This is a species of Millet, growing less rank, with smaller stalks, often yielding two or three tons of hay per acre. It is very popular, and in the Western States is used extensively. Like the Millet, it is an annual, and requires to be sown every season, but will produce a larger return than almost any other crop. Sow and cultivate like Millet; forty-eight pounds per bushel. By mail, lb. 30c; 4 lbs. $1.00. By express, pk. 75c; bu. $2.50. Fine Mixed Lawn Grass-The essentials for a fine lawn are proper drainage, a careful preparation of the soil, thorough rolling, and a selection of the seeds of such grasses as will present a luxuriant verdure from early spring to late in autumn; and then frequent mowings with a lawn mower. However much care is bestowed on the soil and seed, no lawn will be beautiful without frequent mowing and rolling. Too much care cannot be bestowed, however, on the selection of grasses, as some varieties are the most luxuriant in spring, others in summer and others again in autumn, and a combination of the proper sorts is required for a perfect, carpet-like lawn. These we can supply ready mixed, in proper proportions of each. The quantity sown varies, according to the variety of grasses, from twenty to sixty pounds per acre, much more being required than for hay or pasturage. The seed can be sown in spring or autumn. By mail, lb. 40c; 3 lbs. $1.00. By express, pk. 75c; bu. $2.50. Central Park Mixture. By mail, lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $1.25; bu. $4.00. Flax-Linum usitatissimum. Sow late enough in the spring to avoid frost, and early enough to secure the early rains. A fair average quantity of seed to be sown on an acre is one-half bushel, when cultivated for seed; if for the fiber, a larger quantity should be sown. Cut before quite ripe, and, if the weather be dry, let it lie in the swath a few hours, when it should be raked bound and secured from the weather; thresh early in the fall and in dry weather. By mail, lb. 30c; 4 lbs. $1.00. By express, pk. 75c; bu. $2.50.

38. DORR' S IOWA SEED MANUAL.

Field Peas-Pisum sativum. The varieties of Field Peas have never been very numerous, nor are they much increasing. The kinds mostly used are the Golden Vine, Crown, Blue Prussian, Common White, Common Blue and Creeper. Field Peas, in general, may be sown broadcast or in drills, after the manner of Field Beans, about three bushels per acre. By mail, lb. 40c; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $1.00; bu. $3.50.

HEDGE SEEDS. DIRECTIONS FOR SPROUTING OSAGE. Osage Orange-Put the seed in a vessel, and cover it with water as warm as you can bear your hand in; keep the vessel near the stove, change the water once a day, and soak the seed about five days, after which turn off the water, and keep the vessel covered with a damp cloth; stir occasionally, and in about one week more, if kept warm, it will begin to start, and should then be planted in ground well prepared to receive the seed. If convenient, it is just as well, and much less trouble, to put the seed in a running stream or pond and let it soak from four to six weeks, being careful to see that all the seed is covered with water. By mail, lb. 50c; 3 lbs. $1.25. By express, pk. $2.50; bu. $8.00. Osage Hedge Plants-By express or freight, $3.00 per 1,000. Honey Locust-Gledetschia triacanthos. On account of its rapidity of growth and the value of its timber for fuel, posts, furniture, &c., we regard this as one of the most valuable of our native trees. It is not so liable to injury by the borer as the common locust, and does not sprout from the root to a greater extent than do most of our forest trees. Before planting, pour boiling water over the seed, and let it stand until cool, when a part of the seed will have swelled; pick these out and scald the rest again, and continue to do so until all have swollen. Without this preparation, the seed may lie from one to three years in the ground without sprouting. After the first season, they are perfectly hardy. By mail, lb. 50c; 10 lbs. or more by freight or express, 25c. per pound.

OATS. Russian White Oats- This new variety of oats has already been tested in nearly all portions of the country from Maine to California, and the reports from almost all the States of the Union are unanimous in its commendation as the heaviest yielder in cultivation. One hunderd and fifty-seven pounds of clean oats were harvested from a single ounce of seed. In nine-tenths of the reports the yield exceeded 500 fold increase. The Russian White Oats are prolific without parallel and with ordinary cultivation will yield 100 bushels per acre. They are extremely hardy enduring the coldest climate in our country without injury, and are absolutely rust proof. Each kernel planted will produce twenty-five to forty heads from sixteen to twenty-two inches in length. The straw is large and strong enough to support the enormous heads of this variety. The grain is heavy and the chaff light, so that a measured bushel weighs considerable more than a bushel of ordinary oats. All things considered this is the most valuable variety of oats now grown, and is destined, when known more widely, to become the standard sort. By mail, pkt. 10c; lb: 40c; 3 lb. $1.00. By express, pk. 65c; bu. $2.00.

DURRA. Sorghum Vulgare--This plant has been offered at various times under the different names of Indian or Great Millet, Guinea or Negro Guinea Corn, Chocolate Corn, Ivory Wheat and Pampas Rice. It is a valuable forage plant, growing from eight to ten feet in height and yielding an abundance of grayish green foliage greatly relished by stock. It is frequently grown for grain and yields largely. One grower inCalifornia reports having harvested as high as 200 bushels per acre. The culture is very simple; when grown for grain it is to be planted in hills and given plenty of room; the space given to common corn is not any too much. For fodder sow in drills from two to three feet apart, dropping the seed from three to four inches apart in the drills; when 6 or 8 inches high thin to eight or nine inches apart; and when it has attained a height of four or five feet it may be cut for forage, which can be continued every third or fourth week until frost. By mail, oz. 10c; lb. 65c.

SUGAR CANE. Early Minnesota Amber- Grows to a good height and stands up exceedingly well. It is much richer in saccharine matter than any variety of African or Chinese cane yet introduced. The syrup is of a beautiful clear Amber color, and exquisite flavor, being entirely free from that disagreeable odor, unpleasant taste and cloudy appearance that characterizes sorghum. It yields on an average about 200 gallons of syrup per acre, which readily granulates. It ripens very early, and is sure to mature as far north as latitude 44-30, which fact particularly recommends it to the Northern portion of our country. It is very prolific in seed, which is valuable for food for stock or poultry. Any good corn land will do for cane. A light sandy loam will produce the heaviest crop. Plow deep and prepare the ground as for corn; plant seed in shallow checks or drills, when the ground is warm and moist. Cane glows slowly at first, the weeds should be kept down, until it is large enough to plow. This early work always pays well. Any missing hills may be supplied by transplanting the young plants. Only five or six stalks should be left to mature in a hill. If thoroughly cultivated until it reaches the height of three feet it will then take care of itself until harvest. Late plowing is liable to injure the roots. Cane should be cut as soon as the seed ripens, and a few days before grinding. Strip the leaves off while standing, immediately before cutting the cane. The leaves make superior fodder for stock. Our seed is strictly pure and reliable in every respect. By mail, lb. 40c; 3 lbs. $1.00. By express or freight, 10 lbs. or more 20c per lb.

WHEAT. "Landreth White Wheat "-Under the above name we offer to Merchants and Farmers a New White Wheat, of superior excellence. Not till this year had the stock increased sufficiently to offer it for sale - the strain all being derived from one stool se­lected five years ago. We expect to distribute it widely, feeling sure that it is an acquisition of value being hardy, viorous, early, stiff in straw, very prolific, entirely free from rust, and making flour of highest quality. By mail, pkt., 10c.; lb., $1.00; 3 lbs., $2.00. By express, pk., $2.00. Clawson-A bald, white winter variety, and one of the best yielders; medium length berry, very hardy, and liberal yielder. By mail, 1 lb.; 40c.; 3 lbs.; $1.00. By express, pk. 75c.; bush., $2.50. Fultz-A superior amber variety, well known and much esteemed in Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio. Berry round and reddish-yellow, chaff white. This variety, though not yielding so abunduntly as the Clawson, is a good cropper, and is a desirable kind for milling purposes. By mail, 1 lb., 40c.; 3 lbs., $1.00. By express, pk., 75c.; bush., $2.50. White Russian- The White Russian; introduced in 1879, is a bald, white chaff wheat, of a much lighter color than most varieties of spring wheat. The straw is long, strong, healthy, and stands upright several days after ripening. The heads are long, open, well filled, the variety frequently yielding a good crop where other sorts are a complete failure. All who have tried it are more than satisfied, and it is rapidly becoming the standard spring wheat of the United States. By mail, 1 lb., 40c.; 3 lbs., $1.00. By express; pk., 75c.; bush., $2.50.

ARTICHOKES. Jerusalem (white)-Peck, 50c.; bush., $1.50. Brazilian (red)-Peck, 65c.; bush., $2.00.

ASPARAGUS ROOTS. For directions for planting, etc., etc., see Asparagus seeds. Conover's Colossal-1 year old roots, per 100, 75c.; per 1000, $5.00. 2 year old roots, per 100, $1.00; per 1000, $8.00.

ONION SETS AND TOP ONIONS. Yellow Sets-From seed. Red Sets-From seed. White or Silver Skin Sets-From seed. Top, or Button Onions. Potato Onion Sets. Each 50 cents per quart, by mail; per bushel, market price.

RHUBARB OR PIE PLANT ROOTS. Victoria, or Mammoth-Each, 25 cents; dozen, $2.50.