1885

Dorr's Iowa Seed Manual. 19.

Potter's Excelsior, or Squantum-A variety of corn in great favor with the well-known Squantum Club, of Silver Spring, R. I., and used almost exclusively by them in their famous clambakes. It is about as early as the Moore's Concord, the ears being the same. Its quality is of the best. Very sweet and wonderfully productive, producing four to five ears on a stalk. Qt. 30c; pk. 2.25.

Asylum-Medium early; large ears; fine flavor; very desirable. Qt. 30c; pk. 2.25.

Early Eight Rowed Sweet-An excellent variety. Qt. 20c; pk. $1; bush. $3.50.

New England Sugar-A popular variety; fine quality. Qt. 20c; pk. $1; bush. $3.50.

Triumph-A very valuable new variety which has already gained great popularity; second early in season; ears large, and is scarcely surpassed for sweetness, richness and delicacy of flavor. It is a superior market variety, being very productive and of vigorous growth. Qt. 20c; pk. $1; bush. $3.50.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of ear of corn, Caption-Black Mexican.] Black Mexican Sugar --The Black Sugar Corn is especially rich in saccharine, or sugar qualities, and is highly prized by those who have tried it. The grain, though black when dry, is hardly tinged when in edible condition; late, large and a vigorous grower. Qt. 25c; pk. $1.50; bush. $5.

Hickox-Very fine quality; especially useful for canning. Ear twelve rowed, straight and handsome; deep kernels. Qt. 20c; pk. $1; bush. $3.50.

Egyptian-This magnificent variety is deserving of the highest praise, which it receives from all who have tested it - in fact, another year's experience with it has thoroughly convinced us that it is the best late sweet corn in the market. It grows to a good height; is very prolific; quality the very highest; unsurpassed for sweetness, and remains a long time in the edible state. Qt. 20c; pk. $1; bush. $3.50.

Stowell's Improved Evergreen- Very large; sixteen rowed; deep kerneled and sugary, remaining a long time in a fit condition for boiling; one of the best for general purposes. Qt. 20c; pk. $1; bush. $3.50. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of two ears of corn, Caption-Imp'vd Evergreen.]

Mammoth- The largest of all varieties; late; fine quality; large yielder. Qt. 20c; pk. $1; bu. $3.50. [Image; Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of ear of corn, Caption-Mammoth.]

Ne Plus Ultra-This variety having gained such a reputation among the market gardeners of New Jersey as to attract the attention of a Philadelphia seed firm, it was by them distributed three years ago, and they say of it: "All who have grown it pronounce it the sweetest, most productive and best they have ever had. The ears are medium size, grain deep and rows very irregular; produces three to four good ears to a stalk. It is a valuable and distinct acquisition." Qt. 20c; pk. $1.50; bush. $5.

Sweet Corn for Fodder or Ensilage-This is as good as any corn so far as the growing qualities are concerned, but we do not take the pains to keep it strictly pure, like the table sorts; on this account it can be offered cheaper, but it does well for the purpose we sell it. Sweet corn should be much more extensively cultivated for stock feed. It is beyond doubt one of the best known fodder plants; can be grown as easily as field corn, and is of twice the value for feeding. Pk. 65c; bu. $2.

Pop Corn-We have a choice stock of extra fine Rice corn, both white and red; also the hard, smooth Pop corn. All are carefully grown for seed and saved with special care. Qt. 30c; pk. $2.

Field Corn-See miscellaneous list field seeds.

Cress, or Pepper Grass. Extra Curled-A well-known salad. Sow thickly and at intervals during the season; cover seed lightly. Pkt. 5c; oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 25c.

[Right column.]

True Water-One of the most delicious of small salads. Will only grow where its roots are covered with water. Sow the seed along the borders of running water and cover lightly. Pkt. 10c; oz. 25c.

CUCUMBERS. Cucumbers succeed best in a rich, loamy soil. For first early sow in hot-beds, upon pieces of sod or in small flower pots six weeks before they can be set out in open ground. A cheap substitute for flower pots when cucumbers are raised on a large scale, is to plant the seed in ordinary strawberry boxes, then set the boxes in the open ground instead of transplanting. By this method there is no danger of disturbing the young plants, and the boxes serve as protection against cutworms until they rot away, which we have found an important item. When danger of frost is over, transplant in hills four feet apart each way. For general crop plant in open ground in May, about twelve seeds in a hill. When danger of bugs is past, thin to four strong plants in a hill. For pickling, plant in June. Sprinkle vines with plaster or air-slacked lime to protect them from bugs. Fruit should be gathered when large enough, whether required for use or not, as if left to ripen on the vines it destroys their productiveness.

Per Packet, Five Cents, Except Where Noted. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of two cucumbers on vine, Caption-Early Russian.]

Early Russian- The earliest variety; fruit produced in pairs; small, hardy and very productive. A great favorite for first early.

Early White Spine-Our improved strain of this popular variety, is justly considered best for general purposes. It is not, as some suspect from its name, a white cucumber, but it is rather a bright green color; the spines or prickles only being white, and few in number. Remarkably smooth, straight and handsome; thick flesh, with few seeds; unsurpassed for pickles, holding its bright green color better than most other sorts; a great yielder. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of Cucumber & leaves, Caption-Early White Spine.]

Boston Market-Among the finest for table use aud pickling. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Early Cluster-Grows in clusters and extremely productive; following Early Russian closely in earliness; excellent for table use but not so good for pickles. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of 2 Cucumbers & leaves, Caption-Early Cluster.]

Early Frame or Short Green-One of the best. Plants are vigorous, healthy and productive; fruit straight and well-formed; flesh tender; color bright green. When young is superior for pickling. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of 2 Cucumbers & leaves, Caption-Early Frame.]

Green Prolific-One of the best pickling sorts, being uniformly straight, a little smaller at the ends, bright green and immensely productive. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Boston or Jersey Pickling-This is one of the standard sorts throughout the United States for both pickling and slicing. It is almost exclusively used by the Boston market gardeners for pickling, and we highly recommend it as among the best cucumbers for short pickles. It is of medium size, straight, smooth, of very uniform growth, hardy and immensely productive. Flesh tender,crisp and well flavored. Our stock is choice. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Perfection Pickling - New, combines many good qualities for a pickling or table sort, claimed by the introducer, from whom we secured the seed, to be the best of all. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Improved Long Green-Old standard sort, crisp, tender good flavor. Our stock of this variety has been carefully selected and cannot fail to give satisfaction. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

20. Dorr's Iowa Seed Manual.

[Left Column.] Tailby's Hybrid- A cross between the White Spine and an English variety. A handsome, large and very productive variety. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. London Long Green- One foot in length; flesh greenish white. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. Gherkin, or Burr- for pickling only; very small, oval shaped, resembling a burr somewhat; should be used when young and tender. Pkt. 10c; oz. 25c. [Image: Drawing/scratchboard illustration of three oval cucumbers on a vine, Caption-Gherkin, or Burr.] Snake- A singular and remarkable looking curiosity, growing sometimes to the length of six feet, coiled up exactly like a snake, with head protruding. Pkt. 10c; oz. 25c. Astro- A very productive and finely formed serpentine cucumber, with dark green, finely netted peel, attaining 18 to 24 inches in length with a very firm, thick, fine grained, extremely delicate and well flavored flesh; entirely free from seeds when young, and but few when ripe. It is especially suited for slicing. A novelty of decided merit. Try it. In pks. only, 25c; 5 for $1.

Egg Plant. A tender plant, requiring starting in the hot-bed; seed germinates slowly, and must be kept very warm; when the second rough leaf is formed they should be carefully transplanted to four inches apart, and still kept warm. It is important that egg plants be carefully handled and pushed along as rapidly as possible; they never fully recover from a check received when young, but with a little care any one can succeed. Those who have no hot-beds can sow a few seeds in boxes in the house. Hand-glasses are useful for covering at the time of transplanting. Set in rows three feet apart and two feet apart in the row. There are several varieties, but the largest and best of all is the Improved New York Purple. Egg Plant is usually cut in slices, partially boiled, sometimes in thin batter, and is considered by most persons a great luxury. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of an egg plant, Caption-Imp'd New York.] Early Long Purple-Hardy and productive; six to eight inches long. Pkt. 10c; oz. 30c; 1/4 lb. $1. Improved New York-Extra large; nearly round; deep purple; flesh white, tender, and of superior quality. Pkt. 10c; oz. 50c. Black Pekin- A Distinct early variety from China. Fruit large, fine grained and of delicate flavor. Pkt. 10c; oz. 50c.

Endive. Extra Curled-Sow early and thin; cover slightly. Soon as large enough, thin to one foot apart. As endive is used mostly in the fall after lettuce is gone, the main sowings should be made in June and July. When nearly full-grown close up the outer leaves, and tie near the top, this will exclude the light and air, and in two or three weeks the heart will be nicely blanched, when it makes a delicious salad; the blanching should be done in succession, and when quite dry, as it will only keep a short time after blanching. For winter use take up carefully with a ball of earth to each plant, and plant close together in a frame or dry cellar. Pkt. 5c; oz. 25c.

Garlic. See list Vegetable Plants and Roots.

Gourds. These are quite tender and should not be planted until all danger of frost is over. Cultivate same as cucumber. Dish Cloth-A native of the East Indies, and in it, nature has furnished us with a vegetable dish cloth, the seeds being enveloped in a sponge-like cloth, which is at the same time, tough, elastic and durable, answering the purpose desired admirably. The fruit is about two feet in length, and the vine a very rampant grower. Seeds should be first sprouted in a hot-bed. Pkts. 10c; oz. 25c. Sugart Trough-Very useful for baskets, dishes, buckets, etc., etc. They have hard, thick shells, lasting for years, and capable of holding from two to ten gallons each. Plant ten feet apart each way, when ground is warm and weather settled. Pkt. 10c; oz. 25c.

[Right column.] Nest Egg- Produces fruit exactly the size and shape of eggs, and so similar as to almost deceive the most experienced. Capital for nest eggs, as they do not crack and will last for years. Plant is a rapid grower, very ornamental - useful for covering screens, etc. Pkt. 10c; oz. 25c. Dipper-Can be used for dippers. Will hold about a quart on the average, and have handles at times a foot long. Pkt. 10c; oz. 25c. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of several gourds, Caption-Nest Egg.] Ornamental Varieties-See Flower Seeds.

Horse Radish. See list of Vegetable Plants and Roots.

Kale, or Borecole. A very excellent member of the cabbage family and should be more extensively cultivated. It is quite hardy and is improved by frost. Cultivate same as cabbage. For winter sow in September and treat as spinach. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a kale plant, Caption-Dwarf German.] Dwarf German Green-Best for winger greens. Pkt. 5c; oz. 10c. Tall Curled Scotch-Bright and green; beautifully curled; 18 inches. Pkt. 5c; oz. 10c.

Kohl Rabi, or Turnip-Rooted Cabbage. An excellent vegetable intermediate between the cabbage and turnip. For early crop sow in hot-bed, treat as early cabbage, for general crop in May or June, 18 inches apart, thinning to eight inches between the plants; should be used when young, as they become tough and woody when full grown. Cook as turnips. Early White Vienna-Flesh white and tender; best variety for table use. Pkt. 5c; oz. 20c. Early Purple Vienna-Differing from White only in color. Pkt. 5c; oz. 20c. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a Kohlrabi with roots, Caption-Vienna.]

Leek. The leek is very hardy and easily cultivated. Sow early in the spring, either in the seed bed, to be transplanted, or in trenches six inches deep; make bottom of the trench mellow and very rich, cover half inch deep, and when well started thin to six inches; in cultivating gradually draw the earth to the plants until the ground is level. They are a branch of the onion family, and better liked by some. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of two leeks, Caption-London Flag.] London Flag-A hardy, strong growing variety. Pkt. 5c; oz. 15c. Musselburg-Grows to an enormous size; very hardy. Leaves broad and tall, spreading out like a fan. Pkt. 5c; oz. 20c.

Lettuce. Probably no vegetable is more universally used than lettuce, and to be fully appreciated must be brought to the table fresh and unwilted. As it requires but little room and is of the easiest culture, there are few families that can not have it direct from the bed. The soil should be rich and mellow; may be sown as soon as the frost is out of the ground, or it may be grown under glass; when grown in the hot-bed, water freely and air on pleasant days. For succession, plant every three weeks during the season. Thin out as it grows, so that the plants left to head will stand twelve inches apart. The quality of lettuce depends largely on its rapid and vigorous growth. The favorite varieties among the gardeners around Des Moines are Tennis ball for forcing and Hanson for general crop. Per Packet, Five Cents, Except Where Nottd [Noted]. Early Curled Silesia-A very early variety of strong growth; leaves greenish-yellow, and much wrinkled; does not head, but is tender and crisp; much used for bunching by market-men. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50. Passion- A beautiful lettuce, grown largely by the gardeners in California, sometimes called California Lettuce. Black seeded; good for summer. Oz. 20c; 1/4 lb. 60c; lb. $2.

Dorr's Iowa Seed Manual. 21.

[Left Column.] Golden Stone-A new variety from Germany, with very compact, solid heads; very handsome and fine quality; equal to the Tennis Ball in earliness and quite as desirable for forcing. Oz. 20c; 1/4 lb. 6oc; lb. $2.

Early Curled Simpson - Very similar in habit of growth to Silesia; dark green, much wrinkled and tending to a large, loose head; very tender and crisp; a general favorite. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Newport-The finest forcing lettuce we have ever seen. The stock we have is selected from the choicest strain of lettuce grown for the Newport market by an old market gardener, who has improved it for many years. In appearance it is somewhat similar to the White Seeded Tennis Ball, but is superior in every respect, and will produce good heads of Lettuce every month in the year. Pkt. 10c; oz. 50c. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a head of lettuce, Caption-Newport.]

Perpetual-This new variety is said to be without exception the very best lettuce in cultivation for family use; entirely distinct, not heading, but forming very large, compact bunches. Leaves large, rich greenish golden color, very crisp and of high quality. Especially desirable for private gardens, as only one sowing is necessary for the whole season. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c: lb. $1.50.

Tennis Ball, or Boston Market-The favorite in this market for forcing or growing under glass, matures very quick, forming close, compact solid heads; leaves thick, crisp and tender, also one of the most desirable for early planting in the open ground. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Ice Drumhead-Remarkably large, compact, light green heads, which are crisp and tender. This is one of the best summer varieties. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Boston Curled-A variety of great beauty with large, dark green leaves, whose edges are deeply frilled, making it highly ornamental; quality first-class. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Victoria Cabbage- Hardy, and fine for early sowing; makes large, solid heads; should be thinned to one foot apart; slow to run to seed. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Philadelphia Butter-Extra fine; second early sort; holding in good condition for the table well through the summer. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Black Seeded Simpson-Much whiter and larger than the ordinary Simpson; leaves beautifully wrinkled, and when well grown forming a mass or bunch nearly compact enough to be called a head; resists the heat well. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of head of lettuce, Caption-Green Fringed.] Green Fringed-This very ornamental sort certainly surpasses all other sorts in its handsome appearance. It is of a very delicate and peculiar shade of green, the inner parts of the leaves white, with the edges beautifully cut and fringed. It not only furnishes an abundance of tender leaves fit for use nearly all the summer, but its ornamental character makes it very desirable for table decoration. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Red Fringed-Same as above except the fringe, which is a striking red, being very showy. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Improved Head, Imperial Head or Prized Head-To those who grow their own lettuce this variety is probably more valuable than any in the entire list. It remains exceeding crisp and tender throughout the entire season; of delicious flavor; very slow in running up to seed; very hardy; if given room it attains mammoth size. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of head of lettuce, Caption-Improved Head.]

Hanson-A very fine heading variety of the largest size, and stands the heat of summer better than any other sort. Heads are solid, sweet, tender and crisp throughout and entirely free from bitter taste. Specially recommended to gardeners. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

[Right column.] Curled India-Stands the heat well; very tender; of large size and reliable heading variety. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Hubbard's Market- This is one of the very best market sorts; medium sized, light green color, very slow to run to seed, solid heading sort. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Salamander-A new variety which has proved itself to be one of the best for summer use, forming good-sized, compact, light green heads that will stand heat and drought longer without injury than any other sort. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a head of lettuce, Caption-Golden Spotted.] Golden Spotted.-A distinct new variety which is said to have given the most unqualified satisfaction, whenever introduced. Particularly tender; heads large and firm; outer leaves golden yellow speckled with brown-red. Pkt. 10c; oz. 50c.

Oak-Leaved - A novelty of this season. The introduccr says of it: "The distinguishing feature of this new variety of lettuce, is in its oak-shaped leaves, the broader part set to the stem and pointed at the tip, thus giving it a very unique, handsome and attractive appearance, which is retained during all stages of its growth. The leaves are of a light green color, slightly crimpled or curled, set very close and forming a head as compact as the peculiar shape of the leaf will permit. It is free from coarse stems; has no bitterness of taste; is possessed of fine flavor and extreme tenderness. When heads are forming, the leaves inside assume a whitish color. It is slowest of any in running to seed, in fact will remain in head for a month before its shoots appear. These shoots are in turn covered with small leaves as delicate and tender as those on young plants." In packets only, 25c; five pkts. for $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a lettuce plant, Caption-Oak-Leaved.]

Paris White Cos-Tender, brittle, mild flavor very superior quality. Oz. 15c; 1/4 lb. 50c; lb. $1.50.

Martynia. A strong-growing hardy annual plant, with curious shaped seed pods, which, when young and tender, are highly prized by many for pickling. Pods should be gathered when about half grown. Plant seed in May in rich, warm soil, in hills three feet apart each way. At first hoeing leave one plant only in a hill. Pkt. 5c; oz. 25c.

Melon-Musk. Both the Musk and Water Melon should be planted the lightest soil to be had, light sandy loam being the best, an old pasture plowed deep and thoroughly harrowed is good; no crop responds more profitably to high culture than the melon. If no other method of enriching the ground has been adopted, work under the surface of the hills a liberal quantity of decomposed stable manure. Plant twelve to fifteen seeds to the hill which make six feet apart. As melons are very sensitive to cold they should not be planted till settled warm weather sets in, 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. Set the boys after the cut worms, and drive the bugs off with ashes, slackened lime or dry dust; leave but three or four plants to the hill when you are sure of a stand. To grow melons very early, pursue the same plan as recommended for cucumbers.

Per Packet, Five Cents, Except Where Noted.

Green Citron-Medium size, deeply netted; flesh green; delicious flavor. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Green Nutmeg-An old favorite which has, for many years, been considered the best flavored of any. Flesh light green, rich, melting and highly perfumed. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Jenny Lind-A small, very early melon of most delicious flavor; nearly round, flattened at the ends; distinctly ribbed and finely netted, green fleshed. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Jenny Lind.]

22. Dorr's Iowa Seed Manual.

[Left Column.] Silver Netted-A novelty of decided merit; very dark green, fine silver white netting, light lemon color; flesh very hard and firm; an extra early and beautiful melon. Pkt. 10c; oz. 25c; 1/4 lb. 75c.

Skillman's Fine Netted-Round, flattened at the ends; flesh green, very thick and of delicious flavor; very early. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

White Japan-Very early, thick flesh, sweet; skin and flesh creamy white. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Casaba- One of the largest and best musk melons in cultivation. Flesh green, very sweet, melting and delicious. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Improved Cantelope-Large size; flesh light green; most delicious flavor; superior for market or private gardens. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Surprise.] Surprise-Thin, cream-colored skin, thickly netted; flesh deep salmon color, very thick, highly flavored and surprisingly productive. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Turks Cap, or Hackensack-A remarkably productive, round melon of large size; deeply ribbed and netted; flesh green, thick and of delicious flavor. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

California Citron-Very large and showy, good quality; flesh deep orange. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Bay View-Although but of recent introduction, it occupies an enviable position in the list of luscious melons. It is by far the finest flavored melon we ever ate, deliciously rich and sweet, large size under ordinary treatment; on good ground it averages from twelve to twenty pounds. Flesh very deep, rich green color, skin russet colored; very handsome and attractive in appearance, very firm when ripe and endures shipping well. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Bay View.]

Orange Christiana-Undoubtedly the earliest and most delicious of all the musk melons. Should be eaten fresh from the vine; especially desirable for the family garden; very prolific and hardy; deeply ribbed and finely netted; color dark green with yellow flesh. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Christiana.]

Arlington Green Nutmeg-An oval, green fleshed and highly flavored sort; the favorite with Boston market gardeners; well worthy a trial, especially by parties growing for market. Our stock is from prize selections. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Netted Gem-A very early, rather small, round melon, with thick, light green flesh of luscious flavor. Very productive, of a handsome appearance and very uniform in size; keeps well after picking. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Honey Dew-Grows to a medium size weighing from three to five pounds, somewhat oblong in shape, deeply netted flesh of a greenish cast, remarkably sweet and with a most delicious, fine, musky flavor. Productive and continues to bear until killed by the frost. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Long Yellow-A large variety, long, oval shape, deeply ribbed; flesh thick, light salmon color and of a peculiar musky flavor. This variety is much used in its green state for Mangoes. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Montreal Market-A round melon of the largest size, often weighing twenty pounds and upwards. Skin green and netted; flesh very thick and of the finest flavor. On account of its large size and extremely handsome appearance, it is one of the most valuable market melons grown. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Montreal Market.]

Pine Apple-Medium size, thickly netted; flesh firm, thick, sweet and of finest flavor. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Hardy Ridge, or Prescott-Very large, round flattened at both ends; skin white, warty and deeply ribbed. Flesh is four or five inches thick, of a beautiful rich salmon color, very juicy and sugary. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Golden Gem-An exceedingly promising new sort; very distinct, being of light green; flesh showing a bright golden center when cut; not large, but very

[Right column.]

uniform in size and shape; nearly round; thickly netted; flesh deep and luscious; none earlier, and the vines continue vigorous, producing fruit longer than any other sort. Their superb quality, great productiveness and earliness must make them very popular and profitable for market. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Melon-Water. Plant in hills eight feet apart, and cultivate the same as muskmelon. Per Packet, Five Cents, Except Where Noted.

Scaly Bark-This variety first came to public notice at the Atlanta, Ga., Exhibition, in 1881, and has been rapidly growing in favor until it is now considered one of the best, if not the very best shipping melon grown. The skin is dark green, quite smooth, and has a peculiar scaly appearance, hence its name; it is very productive, and unusually large, many specimens attaining a weight of sixty to seventy-five pounds each, average weight about thirty-five pounds. The flesh is crimson, solid, very sweet and melting; rinds very thin, but remarkabley tough; it will bear rough handling better than any other sort, and will remain in choice eating condition a month if kept in a dry, cool place. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Scaly Bark.]

Vick's Early-The earliest of all. Long, rather small size; flesh bright pink; solid and sweet; very desirable. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Phinney's Early-Very early; hardy; productive and a sure cropper; flesh bright crimson, remarkably solid, very sweet, tender and brittle. A valuable variety for both private gardens and market. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Mountain Sprout-A long, large striped variety, with bright red flesh. An old favorite. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Mountain Sprout.]

Mountain Sweet-A large oval variety with striped and marble skin and scarlet flesh. Very solid, sweet and delicious. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Black Spanish- An old and well-known variety and one of the richest. Round; medium to large size; skin dark green; flesh red. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Ice Cream-Medium size, almost round; white seeded, flesh scarlet. A good variety for main crop. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Orange-One of the sweetest; form oval; flesh scarlet and tender; when fully ripe the flesh separates from rind. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Gipsey, or Rattlesnake-Very large and productive; great favorite with gardeners. Flesh bright scarlet and very sweet; form oblong; color light green, distinctly marked with creamy-white stripes; a handsome melon, and will stand shipping long distances. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Gipsey.]

Haskell's Excelsior-The very best market sort; flesh bright red, very superior quality; enormous size, frequently weighing over forty pounds. Has taken first premium at our State Fair for a number of years. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Excelsior.]

Cuban Queen-This magnificent new melon is certainly the largest variety ever introduced and is universally admired by all who have seen it. The skin is beautifully striped dark and light green, of the latter there being two shades agreeable diversified. The vines are very strong, healthy and vigorous in growth. The flesh is bright red, remarkably solid, peculiarly luscious, crisp and sugary, and in delicious flavor is unsurpassed. It is an excellent keeper, and although the rind is unusually thin, being scarcely more than half an inch [continued on next page]

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Cuban Queen.]

Dorr's Iowa Seed Manual. ... 23

[Left Column, continued from previous page] thick on a melon of enormous size, will bear transit to distant markets well. It is the great prize taker; some specimens have weighed over one hundred pounds, having the same delicious qualities as those of smaller or medium size. Do not fail to give it a trial; you will be well repaid and greatly pleased. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Peerless- One of the very best for both private and market gardeners; a vigorous grower and very hardy. Fruit good size, oval, beautifully mottled dark and light green, faintly marked in stripes; rind thin; flesh scarlet, tender and sweet. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Chinese Sculptured Seeded-Flesh cream color, very early, delicious, seeds very curiously marked. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

New Italian-Medium sized, oval, very dark green variety, with crimson flesh, excellent. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Boss-Very early and very productive. Medium size, oblong in shape, very dark green skin, thin rind. Flesh is very rich appearing, deep scarlet, sugary, crystalline and melting. One of the best for shipping, having been sent over 1,000 miles in safety. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Apple Pie-Excellent substitute for apples for making pies. Oz. 15c.

Mammoth Iron Clad-The claims of this new variety are said, by the introducer, to be, 1st, uniformly larger in size than any other variety known, the whole crop averaging fifty pounds each, while hundreds of specimens weighed from sixty to seventy pounds each; 2d, its great attractiveness, the shape being the most perfect that could be desired, being oblong and carrying its full size well towards the ends; 3d, quality, equal if not superior to any other sort, never failing to cut solid, with a dainty red color, rich, sugary flavor and a melting deliciousness that is sure to captivate; 4th, firmness, making the longest keepers and best shippers in the whole list. Pkt. 10c; oz. 30c; 1/4 lb. $1.

Pride of Georgia-This new melon originated in Georgia and the originator describes it as follows: "We consider this melon par excellence; superior to all melons of which we have any knowledge. It is a dark green mottled color, nearly oval, ridged like an orange, grows partly upon its end; is firm, will ship well, and when well cultivated in good soil, attains a large size. What we claim for this melon especially above all others is, that for crispness, sweetness and flavor, it stands among all the various types of melons as did Saul among the children of Israel-head and shoulders above them all. Pkt. 15c; oz. 50c; 1/2 lb. $1.50.

American Champion-Introduced in 1884, by the originator in the following terms. A cross between Rattlesnake and Scaly Bark melon, both renowned for their excellence. In general character it partakes somewhat of the features of each, but excels in all the most desirable qualities of a first-class melon for market as well as home use. The skin is dark green, delicately marbled with lighter shades; shape slightly oval; size large and remarkably uniform; the crop holds out well in size up to the last pickings, rind very thin, yet so remarkably firm and tenaceous [tenacious] that it bears transportation without injury; flesh tender, melting, and of unsurpassed quality in every respect, retaining its freshness and sweetness longer after picking than any known kind. The vines are of extraordinary vigor and astonishingly productive." Pkt. 10c; oz. 30c; 1/4 lb. $1.

[Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of a melon, Caption-Citron.] Citron--Grown very extensively for making preserves and sweet pickles. Fruit round, not large, smooth, dark green striped and marbled with lighter shades; seeds red; flesh white and solid. Oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 30c; lb. $1.

Mustard. A pungent salad, used sometimes with cress, also elegant for greens. Sow thickly in rows and cut when about two inches high; for use during winter, it may be sown at intervals in boxes, in the greenhouse or in a frame. For a crop of seeds sow in April, in drills a foot apart, and thin out moderately when about three inches high. Sow early in shallow drills. White English, or London-Pkt. 5c; oz. 10c; lb. 50c. Brown or Black-Pkt. 5c; oz. 10c; lb. 50c.

[Right Column.]

Large White California-Very fine. Pkt. 5c; oz. 10c; lb. 50c.

Nasturtium, or Indian Cress. The seeds, while young and succulent, are pickled and used as capers. The plants are also highly ornamental; the tall variety makes an excellent screen or covering for unsightly places in the garden. Tall-Pkt. 5c; oz. 15c. Dwarf-Pkt. 5c; oz. 25c.

Okra or Gumbo. Its long pods, when young, are used in soups, stews, etc, and are believed to be very nutritious. Sow at the usual time of all tender vegetables, in drills two inches deep, setting the plants from two to three feet apart. Dwarf White-Pkt. 5c; oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 25c. New Improved Dwarf-This is an improvement on the old okra, and promises to be quite an acquisition. It grows but fourteen inches high, has long slender pods, and is very productive. Pkt. 5c; oz. 10c; 1/4 lb. 25c. [Image: Drawing/Scratchboard illustration of two okra pods, Caption-Improved Dwarf.]

Onion, No vegetable is more extensively known and cultivated than the onion. It has been the common seasoning for soups and meats of all nations from time immemorial; and in cooking it is indispensable. It possesses valuable medicinal properties, and is used in colds and coughs as an expectorant. It contains considerable nutriment and is tolerably wholesome, especially if boiled; raw, fried or roasted they are not very digestable. Eating a few leaves of parsley will destroy, in a measure, the unpleasant smell they impart to the breath. There is no vegetable where the quality of the seed exerts a greater influence upon the crop than in onions. Here, then, if nowhere else, the greatest care should be taken to secure the best possible seed. Seed grown in the North will be pretty sure to produce better onions when sown in the Southern States than Southern grown seed.

To Make Money growing Onions, plant them year after year regardless of price. There is probably no vegetable which fluctuates so much in price as the onion. They seem to run to extremes. We have seen them sold in Iowa as low as fifteen cents, and as high as four dollars per bushel within a few years. Therefore we say plant them year after year, and the average price will pay as well as any crop we know of. Do not be discouraged and stop because of low prices you obtain for your crop. The onion thrives best on very rich, loamy soil. Unlike most vegetables, it flourishes when cultivated on the same land for many successive years. If possible, plow ground in the Fall. Sow four pounds of seed per acre as early in Spring as ground can be worked, which must be thoroughly pulverized and leveled, in drills fifteen inches apart; cover one-half inch. Commence hoeing soon as rows can be seen; skim the ground over the surface; avoid stirring deeply, and work the soil away from the bulbs. At second hoeing weed thoroughly and carefully by hand; thin plants to three inches in the row. 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. To keep the onions through Winter, a cool, dry, outside cellar (those under dwellings being usually too warm) or barn may be employed, any cool (not freezing) dry, well ventilated room will do. If in a barn, protect on all sides with two feet of good straw. Do not pile them in more than ten-inch layers between the straw. Freezing does not injure, if not allowed to thaw and freeze again. To grow sets from seed, sow early and thick in drills. When the tops die down, (about middle of July) they are ready to harvest. For the cultivation of onions, we know of no tools so useful as Comstock's Horticultural Implements and Planet, Jr., tools; see last part of manual for description of these. Our seed is grown from bulbs selected for perfect shape and small necks. Prices are as low as first class fresh seed can be sold at. We are aware of the importance of the onion crop, and pay special attention to this seed. Our customers are unanimous in their praise of our onion seed wherever grown, there- [continued next page]