1906

IOWA SEED COMPANY, DES MOINES, IOWA. 39.

[images] BROMUS INERMIS MEADOW FESCUE. SHEEP'S FESCUE. ORCHARD GRASS.

GRASS SEEDS. We are the largest dealers in this line in Iowa and our trade has been built up by handling only the best grades of new recleaned seeds. Grass seeds are sold on a very close margin of profit and the prices named are what we are selling the seed for at the time this catalogue goes to press and are subject to changes of market. Should you desire a quantity of anything in this line, be sure you write us for special prices, naming the amount needed. At the pound rate we prepay postage. Larger quantities by freight or express at purchaser's expense. Grain bags 15c. each.

BROMUS INERMIS.--The most valuable new grass which has been introduced into this country during the past twenty-five years, and it has everywhere, from Canada to Texas, given the best of satisfaction. It will produee [produce] a wonderful crop of hay on land which is too poor for clover or timothy, and it resists intense cold, and also the most hot, dry weather. Forms a quick and dense sod and is a permanent grass. Grows 18 to 36 inches in height and can be cut two or three times per year. Should be sown early in the spring using 20 to 25 lbs. per acre if sown alone, or if with alfalfa use 12 lbs. with 8 lbs. alfalfa. Per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid. By freight; per bu. (14 lbs.) $2.00, 5 bu. or more @ $1.75 MEADOW FESCUE, or English Blue Grass.--Succeeds well in almost all soils, from high, dry land to moist, standing the summer heat excellently. It is valuable as a pasturage grass, being one of the earliest in the spring and latest in the fall. It is very nutritious. Lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid. By freight bu. (14 lbs.) $1.75, 5 bu. or more @ $1.60.

[image] KY. BLUE GRASS.

MEADOW FOXTAIL.--A fine grass for permanent pastures. Its growth resembles timothy. Sow 14 lbs. per acre. Per lb. 45c, 3 lbs. $1.25 postpaid. By freight, bu. (14 lbs.) $3.25; 5 bu. or more @ $3.00. KENTUCKY BLUE GRASS.--Very valuable and popular as a permanent pasture grass. It is productive and unusually early in spring, furnishing delicious food for all kinds of stock. Unexcelled for lawns. Our seed is all new crop, best grade "fancy cleaned." Sow 14 lbs. per acre for pasture, or 60 to 100 lbs. for lawns. Per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid. By freight, bu. (14 lbs.) $2.00, 5 bu. or more @ $1.75. TALL MEADOW-OAT GRASS.--For either hay or a permanent pasture a most valuable grass, which can be successfully grown in all parts of the country. Grows tall and therefore desirable for meadow. Does not winter kill. Per lb. 35c, 3 lbs. $1.00, postpaid. By freight, bushel (14 lbs.) $3.00; 5 bu. or more @ $2.75. SWEET VERNAL.--Valuable on account of its delicious perfume; when included in hay its aroma is imparted to other grasses, enhancing the value of the hay and making it relished by the stock. Per lb. 35c, 3 lbs. 85c. By freight, bushel (14 lbs.) $2.00; 5 bu. or more @ $1.75. CREEPING BENT GRASS.--Of special value for pasture and low ground. Starts early, deep rooted and a valued sort for holding sloping ground or terraces together. Sow 15 lbs. per acre. Lb. 35c, 3 lbs. $1.00, postpaid. By freight, bu. (14 lbs.) $2.50; 5 bu. or more @ $2.30. RED TOP.--A very hardy native perennial grass, succeeding best on moist land. It remains green for the greater part of the year. In the east it is one of their principal sorts, but it is not so highly valued here. Fancy cleaned seed. Per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid. By freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $1.50, 5 bu. or more @ $1.40. PRIME RED TOP.--(Or chaff seed.) Per bu. 90c, 5 bu. or more @ 75c. WATER, or Floating Meadow Grass.--For wet soils, marshes and lands which occasionally overflow. Per lb. 40c, 3 lbs. $1.10, postpaid. By freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $4.75; 5 bu. or more @ $4.50. RED FESCUE.--For meadows or pastures on dry, hard or sandy soils. It is very hardy, a true perennial, growing about 1 to 2½ feet high. Per lb. 35c, 3 lbs. $1.00 postpaid. By freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $2.25; 5 bu. or more @ $2.00.

SHEEP'S FESCUE.--Suited to light, sandy soil, and dry uplands or hillsides. It is deep rooted, and not affected by extreme drouth. Sheep are especially fond of it. Sow 14 lbs. per acre. Per lb. 35c, 3 lbs. $1.00 postpaid; by freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $1.50, 5 bus. or more at $1.40. ORCHARD GRASS.--A valuable grass for pasture or hay land, and on account of its earliness very valuable for permanent pastures. It furnishes the first green bite in the spring and the last in the fall, and is quick to recover from close cropping, and even thrives better the more it is cropped. It is well suited to shady places, such as orchards and groves. Sow 14 lbs. per acre. Per lb. 35c, 3 lbs. $1.00 postpaid; by freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $2.50, 5 bu. or more @ $2.25. ITALIAN RYE GRASS.--An annual variety which will give a large crop the first year. Sow 20 lbs. per acre. Per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid; by freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $1.40, 5 bus. or more @ $1.25. TIMOTHY.--Best suited to moist, rich, strong and loamy soils, where it grows to perfection, but does not succeed well on dry sandy soil. We are located in the best section of the country for growing timothy seed, and more of it is grown in Iowa than in any part of the world. Our seed is extra nice. Sow 11 lbs. per acre. Per lb. 20c, 3 lbs. 50c, postpaid; by freight, per bu. (45 lbs.) $1.65; bags 15c each extra. Ask for price in quantity.

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WATER FESCUE.--A perennial grass with long creeping roots, which is desirable for sowing on low, wet ground, in shallow ponds, besides lakes, rivers, etc. Per lb. 40c, 3 lbs. $1.10, postpaid; by freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $4.50, 5 bu. or more @ $4.25. CRESTED DOGSTAIL--For permanent pastures; especially on high land and hard, dry soils and hills. Is very hardy, and but little affected by extreme drougth [drought] or cold weather. Per lb. 50c, 3 lbs. $1.35, postpaid; by freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $3.75, 5 bus. or more @ $3.50. WOOD MEADOW GRASS.--It is invaluable for wooded pasture or shaded ground, and should be included in all mixtures for permanent pastures, es- CRESTED DOGTAIL. pecially [especially] in shady places. Sow 20 pounds per acre. Per lb. 50c, 3 lbs. $1.25, postpaid; by freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $4.50, 5 bus. or more @ $4.25. MEADOW SOFT GRASS.--Although not of high feeding value, it is very valuable for low, soft, spongy places, where other grasses don't succeed. It is very productive, a hardy perennial, 18 to 20 inches high. Per lb. 35c, 3 lbs. $1.00, postpaid; by freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $2.50, 5 bu. or more @ $2.25. BERMUDA GRASS.--The most valuable grass for the southern states, as it withstands heat and drouth wonderfully well. It is valuable for hay and pasture and unsurpassed for lawns in the south, as it runs over the ground, forming a dense turf. Sow 8 lbs. per acre. Lb. $1.25, 3 lbs. $3.00, prepaid; 5 lbs., not prepaid, @ 75c per lb. HARD FESCUE.--Is emphatically a grass for dry lands, doing well on sandy and shallow silicious soils. It is exceedingly hardy and withstands extremes of heat, cold and drought. Per lb. 35c, 3 lbs. $1.00, postpaid; by freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $1.50, 5 bu. or more @ $1.35. PERENNIAL RYE GRASS.--(Or English Rye Grass.)--A nutritious permanent grass for meadows and pasture, or for mixing with other grasses for lawn. It is also well adapted for permanent meadows and yields large quantities of very nutritious hay. Sow 20 lbs. per acre. Per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid; by freight, per bu. (14 lbs.) $1.25, 5 bus. or more @ $1.10.

BAGS FURNISHED FREE WITH ALL SEEDS AT THESE PRICES EXCEPT CLOVER, TIMOTHY AND MILLET.

40. SEED CATALOGUE AND GARDEN GUIDE.

Permanent Grasses Most of our western farmers have not yet learned that a pasture or meadow of mixed grasses is far superior to clover and timothy alone. All authorities agree that for both pasture and hay, best results are obtained from the use of grass seed in mixture. The reasons are that: First--A number of species will insure [ensure] a much denser growth than the same number of seeds of one or two species, and prove less exhausting to the soil, since they live to a large extent on different constituents. Second--Seasons that affect some grasses adversely are favorable to other sorts. So that with mixtures a failure is practically impossible, provided of course, the seed is good. We take great pains in selecting grass seed, in order to secure the highest germination, and our mixtures are based on a full appreciation of the requirements of the different soils for which they are intended. We have made a study of this subject and have grass specialists in our employ and can furnish the seed of the best varieties of grasses mixed in proper proportions for any soil or climate. Please read carefully the descriptions of the various kinds of grasses, and remarks below on sowing grass seeds, and don't be content to follow the old way your father and grandfather did, but adopt new methods, sow improved varieties and double your crop.

[image] OUR SPECIAL GRASS MIXTURE FOR HAY AND PERMANENT PASTURES. OUR MEADOW MIXTURE COMPARED WITH ORDINARY GRASS CROP.

WHEN AND HOW TO SOW GRASS SEED. The most rapid way of obtaining a grass crop is to sow the seed early in the spring by itself, without any grain, or nurse crop, as the young grass plants are in no way protected by the grain, and when this is cut the young clover and grass are very tender. The cutting of the so-called nurse crop suddenly exposes the young grass at the hottest time of the year, and there is danger of its being burned out, while when the grass is sown by itself the young plants are hardened and more able to withstand the hot and dry sun. However, some farmers will want to sow seed oats with the grass seed, and we wish to call their attention to our Early Champion Oats as being especially adapted for a nurse crop on account of its not stooling so heavily as other varieties. To obtain best results use only a moderate quantity of oats to sow with grass seeds. After the ground is carefully prepared, the seed is sown broadcast, which can be nicely and evenly done and very quickly with the little hand seeders which we advertise. As seed is small it should not be covered very deep, the natural covering which may take place after a shower of rain is sometimes sufficient. However, it is best and more certain to lightly harrow it in. The pressure of a common farm roller on clover and grass seed covers the same slightly, and is one of the best means to assure the quick and even germination of the seed.

PERMANENT MEADOW MIXTURES. Will make the best quality hay, as the mixture contains such grasses as produce a heavy growth and mature together. We send out the No. 1 mixture when not otherwise ordered, as it is adapted to medium or average soils. Sow about 20 lbs. per acre, or for a top seeding about half the amount. NO. 1. FOR MEDIUM SOILS.--Contains Meadow Fescue, Perennial Rye Grass, Italian Rye, Orchard Grass, Tall Meadow Oat, Timothy, Red Clover, Alsike, Sweet Vernal, etc. NO. 2. FOR HIGH, DRY LAND, LIGHT OR GRAVELLY SOILS.--Contains Sheep's Fescue, Alfalfa, Hard Fescue, Perennial Rye Grass, Meadow Fescue, Timothy, Kentucky Blue Grass, Sweet Vernal, etc. NO. 3. FOR HIGH, DRY LAND, HEAVY OR CLAY SOILS.--Contains much the same as above with the addition of Orchard Grass, Crested Dogstail and Bromus. NO. 4. FOR MOIST AND RICH SOIL, OR LAND SUBJECT TO OVERFLOW.--Contains Water Meadow Grass, Meadow Foxtail, Perennial Rye Grass, Meadow Fescue, Red Top, Meadow Soft Grass, Alsike Clover, etc. NO. 5. FOR TOP SEEDING SWAMPS, MARSHES ETC.--(Sow 10 lbs. per acre.) Contains much the same as above, in different proportions. PRICES Any of the above Permanent Meadow Mixtures, per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, by mail; by frt., 20 lbs. $2.50, 50 lbs. $5.25, 100 lbs. $10.

PERMANENT PASTURE MIXURES. Selected with a view to having a succession of grasses coming on constantly from earliest spring through the dry summer weather, and through the fall. It is permanent and keeps improving year after year. Sow about twenty pounds per acre, or for top seeding, half the amount. NO. 6. FOR MEDIUM SOILS.--Contains Kentucky Blue Grass, Meadow Fescue, Perennial Rye Grass, Orchard Grass, Tall Meadow Oat Grass, Hard Fescue, Alsike Clover, White Clover, Timothy, Red Clover, etc. NO. 7. FOR HIGH, DRY, GRAVELLY SOILS.--Contains Sheeps Fescue, Hard Fescue, Creeping Bent, Bromus Inermis, Crested Dogstail, Meadow Fescue, Timothy, Kentucky Blue Grass, White Clover, etc. NO. 8. FOR HIGH, DRY, HEAVY OR CLAY SOILS.--Contains much the same as above, mixed in different proportions, with the addition of Alfalfa and Orchard Grass. NO. 9. FOR MOIST AND VERY RICH SOILS.--Contains Perennial Rye Grass, Water Meadow Grass, Water Fescue, Meadow Foxtail, Orchard Grass, Meadow Soft Grass, Tall Meadow Oat Grass, Alsike, etc. NO. 10. FOR ORCHARDS, WOOD PASTURES AND SHADY PLACES.--Contains Wood Meadow Grass, Orchard Grass, Kentucky Blue Grass, English Blue Grass, Meadow Foxtail, Sweet Vernal, Red Clover, Aliske, etc. PRICES Any of above Permanent Pasture Mixtures per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, by mail. By frt. 20 lbs. $2.50, 50 lbs. $5.25, 100 lbs. $10.00.

DAIRY FARMERS' GRASS MIXTURE. Dairy farmers particularly desire to take a crop of hay off the meadow and have the aftergrowth for pasture, and where the natural grasses are carefully selected with this object in view, this can be successfully done. This mixture is composed of tall, quick-growing grasses for mowing, after which the dwarf-growing varieties will cover the ground and furnish grazing until late in the fall. Consists of the best varieties of clover and grass seeds, as Red Clover, Alsike, Orchard Grass, Rye Grass, Tall Meadow Oat, Meadow Foxtail, English Blue Grass, Kentucky Blue Grass, etc. It is a special mixture which will please everyone. Sow 20 lbs. per acre on ordinary soils. Per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c postpaid. By freight, 20 lbs. $2.50, 50 lbs. $5.25, 100 lbs. $10.00.

SHEEP PASTURE MIXTURE. Everyone who keeps sheep should sow this mixture. It will grow well on high, dry, poor soil, and also on good ground; is drouth resisting, and endures close cropping. Contains Sheep's Fescue, Hard Fescue, Red Fescue, Creeping Bent, Crested Dogstail, Bromus Inermis, Meadow Fescue, White Clover, etc. Sow 25 lbs. per acre. Per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid. By freight 25 lbs. $3.00, 50 lbs. $5.25, 100 lbs. $10.25.

QUICK RESULT PASTURE. Not permanent, but when sown early will give a full crop of hay and good pasture until late in the fall. Desirable for both cattle and hogs. Contains Italian Rye Grass, English Rye Grass, Meadow Fescue, Timothy, Crimson Clover, Mammoth Red Clover, Tall Meadow Oat Grass, etc. Sow 15 lbs. per acre. Per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid. By freight 15 lbs. $1.75, 50 lbs. $5.00, 100 lbs. $9.50.

PERMANENT HOG PASTURE. Ready to use the first year and many years thereafter. Will fatten the hogs quickly and keep them in good health. Much superior to a corn diet for them and helps to keep hog cholera and similar diseases away. Contains Perennial Rye Grass, Orchard Grass, Italian Rye Grass, Clover, Timothy, Red Top, etc. On any ordinary soil sow 15 lbs. per acre. Per lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid. By freight 15 lbs. $1.85, 50 lbs. $5.50, 100 lbs. $10.50. LARGE ORDERS If you desire to purchase a large lot of seed of any kind be sure to send list and let us quote special prices. Our orders range from 5 cents upwards, but we are not afraid of big orders. Our largest retail order was for $1,370.00 worth of seeds. Another customer's purchases amounted to $1,487.33 during the season, but it was divided up into several orders. Both were perfectly satisfied. W. P. Turner, of Pennsylvania, who bought seeds of us to the amount of $1,397.54, wrote us in the fall: All the seed has given perfect satisfaction. We are prepared to select and make up special mixtures of Grasses for all particular purposes, adapted to all soils and climates. When in need, please write us, describing peculiarities of ground. THE BEST, not only in Iowa, but everywhere. W. B. Robinett, of Lockwood, Kentucky, says: "The grass seed received from you is the finest I ever saw. I like it much better than any I ever bought before, and am well pleased in every respect." Your Hog Pasture Mixture made a good stand and I was satisfied with the results.--George Wendel. The clover and grass seed purchased from you grew splendidly and yielded well.--Fred Winter, Hubbard, Iowa. The seeds you sent us are indeed more than you claim for them. The timothy is fresh and clean; clover seed the cleanest I ever saw tested under a microscope. Please accept my thanks for honorable treatment.--John Mitman, Dodge county, Neb. All the seeds purchased of you have given good satisfaction. In particular your clover grass mixture No. 10 has given good results. I shall seed down more ground with this mixture next spring.--John U. Hunziker, H---, Neb.

AN EXPERIENCED AGROSTOLOGIST WILL PREPARE SPECIAL MIXTURES FOR SPECIAL SOILS AND PURPOSES.

IOWA SEED COMPANY, DES MOINES, IOWA. 41.

Des Moines, Iowa, Feb. 1.--During the past summer thousands of persons have admired the beautiful velvety green lawns at our city parks, 489 acres, and we are pleased to say that they were produced by sowing grass seeds furnished by the Iowa Seed company of this city.--E. J. FAIRALL, Sec'y Board of Park Commissioners.

LAWN GRASS SEED. "Thank God for grass! No other glory vies With the refreshing glory of the grass; Not e'en the blue of the o'erbending skies, Nor fading splendors when daylight dies, Can this sweet smile of living green surpass." A nice velvety lawn adds more to the beauty of a place than any other adornment, and even the humblest home may be made attractive with such surroundings, while without a good lawn even the finest flowering plants and elegantly arranged beds seem insignificant. How important it is then to plan for the best lawn obtainable. Do not spend money in sodding a lawn, for it is expensive and seldom satisfactory. When sod is cut from the roadside or some out of the way pasture, it is poor in quality and full of weeds, and when unevenly laid produces a rough surface which disfigures the lawn. It costs much less to sow the seed and the lawn is far better. Ask for circular "How to Make a Lawn." EVERGREEN MIXED LAWN GRASS SEED.--This is a mixture of the best varieties of grass seeds suited for growing together in the central and northern states, and will make a beautiful, soft, velvety lawn as handsome green as an emerald and is formed of grasses which keep green from early spring all through the hot dry summer weather, until late in the fall. It comes up quickly (in about two weeks after seed is sown) and after once up it soon spreads to cover the ground and is ready for the lawn mower in six to eight weeks. It is permanent, maintaining its beauty for a life-time although it is a good plan to give any lawn a top seeding once every two or three years. This mixture is made by ourselves from new crop, recleaned pure seeds of the best varieties, well suited for even and permanent growth, as good as money can buy. It cannot be excelled for producing a rich velvety lawn of beautiful dark green color. Price per qt. (will sow 300 square feet) 25c; 4 qts. 85c, postpaid. By freight, per bu. (15 lbs.) $2.75; 50 lbs. $8.00; 100 lbs. $15.00.

[image] "SHADY PLACE"

TERRACE LAWN MIXTURE.--It is sometimes difficult to get a good sod on sloping ground, terraces, side hills or embankments. This is a mixture of such grasses as have strong spreading roots, making a close turf, which heavy rains cannot wash out easily. Qt. 35c; 3 qts. 90c, postpaid. By frt. per bu. (15 lbs.) $3.60. CENTRAL PARK LAWN GRASS.--A very nice mixture for lawns, but is of special value for parks and around country homes where it is not convenient to mow the lawn frequently. It contains some fragrant grasses which give out a delightful odor when growing or when cut. It is the grass for country homes, parks and large estates and for this purpose sow about 50 lbs. per acre. Qt. 20c, 4 qts. 75c, postpaid. By freight, bu. (15 lbs.), $2.50; 100 lbs. $14.00.

Make Yonr [Your] Place LOOK LIKE HOME this year by fixing up a good lawn.

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SHADY PLACE LAWN MIXTURE.--This mixture is a combination of fine dwarf growing, evergreen varieties of grass which grow naturally in the woods or in shaded spots. They are mixed in proper proportions to make a fine lawn under shade trees. Sow seed thickly, 1 quart to 150 square feet. Qt. 35c; 3 qts. $1.00, postpaid. By freight, bu. (15 lbs.) $4.00. GOLF LINK MIXTURE.--This is a mixture of various sorts of fine grasses which when liberally sown will produce a fine green sward. They grow vigorously when cut closely, form a fine mass of interlacing roots, and also differ in their seasons of maturity, so that a succession of fresh growths is secured from earliest spring to the latest fall. Qt. 30c; 3 qts. 75c, postpaid. By freight, bu. (15 lbs.) $3.00. PUTTING-GREEN MIXTURE.--A mixture of extra fine grasses that will make a close, firm, green and lasting turf; improves the more it is tramped. Qt. 50c; 3 qts. $1.25, postpaid. By freight, bu. (15 lbs.) $4.00. SWEET VERNAL.--A very fragrant grass and everyone should sow a little of it in mixture with other kinds as it exhales a pleasant aroma when lawn is cut. Per lb. 35c, 3 lbs. 85c, postpaid.

[image] Roots of grass showing need of fertilizer.

KENTUCKY BLUE GRASS.--Our stock of this is the best grade of fancy cleaned new crop tested seed. Lb. 30c, 3 lbs. 75c, postpaid. By freight, bu. (14 lbs.) $1.60. WHITE CLOVER.--The well known common white clover is very hardy and its dwarf growth makes it desirable for lawn mixtures. Its close, dense turf and creeping habit make it desirable for terraces and sloping ground. Seed is very small and it requires but little in mixtures. Lb. 40c, 3 lbs. $1.10, postpaid. By freight, peck $3.25, bushel (60 lbs.) $12.00. SOUTHLAND LAWN MIXTURE.--In the southern states there is frequently trouble to secure a lawn. This mixture is made of Southern Blue Grass, Bermuda Grass and other varieties adapted to a hot, sunny climate. Together they make a nice bright lawn the year around. Qt. 40c, 3 qts. $1.10, postpaid.

LAWN FLOWERS. LAWN FLOWER MIXTURE.--Nothing looks more beautiful than a variety of pretty little dwarf growing flowers blooming on the lawn and we have therefore prepared this mixture which we believe will be just what is desired. It consists of low growing, quick blooming flowers very desirable for sowing with Lawn Grass Seed in the spring. They come up quickly, afford shelter for grass seed and will bloom by the time the grass requires cutting the first time. Also desirable for sowing on an old lawn very early in the season. Price per ounce package only 25c.

BEAUTIFY THE HOME PLACE. "Leave the World More Beautiful Than You Found It." The charm of any home place is the lawn, trees and shrubbery. The finest, most expensive mansion looks dreary and like a forsaken castle if the grounds surrounding it are not properly planned and cared for, while, with a comparatively small expenditure of time and money for lawn and shrubbery, it might be made surpassingly beautiful. If you do not employ a landscape architect let us suggest that you at least take time to carefully plan your place. Do not try to plan it all in ten minutes; if you employed a landscape architect you would expect him to take time sufficient to consider well where each tree, shrub and vine should be located. The lawn should be the basis of all arrangements in the nature picture which you are preparing. The best lawns are made by sowing seed. Select for the borders at least, hardy shrubs and plants which will be permanent. Our list of these is quite complete. See plant department. Last spring we purchased from you a quantity of mixed lawn grass seed for use on the College campus. The results were very satisfactory to us. Our lawn was very attractive throughout the entire year. C. C. REARICK, President Highland Park College.

[image] Root of Grass showing the effect of using Peerless Lawn Dressing.

FOR PERMANENT IMPROVEMENTS PLANT SOME HARDY ROSES AND FLOWERING SHRUBS.

42. SEED CATALOGUE AND GARDEN GUIDE.

SEED POTATOES "The Proof of the Potato Is in the Eating." With no other seed is the importance of change more essential than with potatoes and by using our northern grewn [grown] seed you are assured of early maturity, increased yield and vigorous growth. The following varieties are, we think, the best and most satisfactory sorts for growing in Iowa and other states of the same latitude. Most of our seed potatoes are grown in Minnesota or the Dakotas and are of superior quality. Order as early as possible and we will ship as soon as weather permits. Prices are subject to important market changes. Ask for quotations on large lots. POUND PRICES.--All varieties 25c per lb., 3 lbs. 60c, postpaid, except where noted. Read T. B. Terry's new book "A B C of Potato Culture." Price 40c, postpaid. EARLY WHITE TRIUMPH.--The earliest and best variety of all. In shape it resembles the Bliss Triumph but is of better color. Has proven earlier than Early Ohio and still exceptionally productive, yielding a large crop of good sized perfect shaped tubers. Looks a little like the Peachblow in shape and has the same fine grain, mealiness and excellent flavor which was characteristic of that old variety. It has won prizes at the Iowa State Fair and wherever exhibited. Last spring the demand was so great that we were obliged to return money to fully two-thirds of the customers owing to stock being exhausted. Don't fail to order early as the supply is limited. Per lb. 35c, 3 lbs. $1.00, postpaid. By freight, ½ pk. 50c; pk. 85c; bu. $2.50.

[image] WHITE TRIUMPH

BLISS TRIUMPH--The earliest potato in existence, equaled only by our new Early White Triumph. A handsome round variety which matures before the Extra Early Ohio, and is wonderfully productive. The tubers are not large, but are of a nice medium size for early use, round as a ball, and a beautiful red color. For several years it has been the most popular variety in the southern states, and hundreds of carloads are shipped to the northern markets and bring fancy prices. Not so desirable for main crop. Per pk. 60c, bu. $1.75, 5 bu. or more @ $1.50. EXTRA EARLY OHIO.--Fancy Northern Grown Stock.--For several years past we have been having these grown in the noted Red River valley, about 400 miles north of Des Moines, and careful tests have proved them to be fully ten days earlier than the Iowa grown stock. This is a great advantage to the gardener, and puts this variety at the head--the most popular of all. They are all of good average size, strictly pure, smooth and free from scab or rot, and outyield other early sorts. It is an especial favorite with marketmen, and the most profitable potato they can grow. The sprout is very strong and the vines grow erect, making it easy to cultivate, and on account of its early maturity you can get the highest market prices. They will keep firm till late in the spring. This variety is frequently sold under name, Extra Early Six Weeks. This is our specialty in standard varieties. Also desirable for late planting as they keep well for winter and spring use. Pk. 60c, bu. $1.75, 5 bus. or more at $1.50. EARLY OHIO.--Grown in Iowa. Our stock is as nice as any which can be obtained, we think, and is desirable both for early and main crop. Pk. 50c, bu. $1.50, 5 bus. or more @ at $1.25. The barrel of seed potatoes received from you were fine in every shape, form and fashion. Grand they were. I will remember you, gentlemen, for more farm seeds the coming year.--S. A. Kester, Bagley, Iowa. Lee Hudler, the well known gardener of Audubon Co., Iowa, says: "I consider the Early White Ohio the finest early potato I have ever grown."

Ask for Prices in Quantity.

[image] EXTRA EARLY OHIO. (Grown in Red River Valley.)

EARLY WHITE OHIO.--There is a great demand now in many markets for a white potato, and even the good old standard Early Ohio has to suffer because of the color of its skin. Here we have, however, a genuine Early Ohio identical with the old variety in every way except in the improved color. It is of quick, vigorous growth, making many tubers which are compact in the hill, and has produced a crop of 2,500 bushels on five acres in this state. Per peck, 65c, bushel $2.00, 5 bushels or more @ $1.75. ROSE OF THE NORTH.--An improvement on the old Early Rose which has been grown on the virgin soil of the far north. It is very early being only a trifle later than the Early Ohio and much larger. Is smooth and of handsome rose color. Quality superb, either baked or boiled and yields immensely. Keeps sound and fresh well into the spring. Peck 60c, bu. $1.75, 2 bu. or more @ $1.50. Your seeds always give good results. The seed potatoes last year exceeded all expectations and gave an enormous yield of fine, large sized potatoes, some weighing 22 ounces each.--J. J. Lemon, Tacoma, Wash. CARMAN NO. 1.--One of the best main crop varieties grown and more desirable for many soils than the Carman No. 3. The tubers grow very large, and will produce small ones only in unfavorable seasons. It is an enormous producer of handsome and well-shaped tubers which are of the best table qualities. Skin is of a yellowish white color; flesh is white and fine grained and cooks very even throughout, also dry and mealy. The tubers are always nice and clean and free from disease. In maturing it is medium late. We recommend Carman No. 1 very highly as the potato to grow for profit. Peck 60c, bu. $1.75, 5 bu. or more @ $1.50. RURAL NEW YORKER NO. 2.--One of the largest yielding varieties in existence. Large and unusally [unusually] smooth, with few and shallow eyes, skin white as is also the flesh, which is of superior quality. Medium late and the best drouth resister. There is no other potato of more handsome appearance than the Rural New Yorker. Although it is a large yielder it grows but few and small vines. It is very hardy and will stand the heaviest manuring without getting scabby or spotted. For this reason it is one of the most desirable varieties for farmers and potato growers near large cities to grow for main crop for market. Under ordinary circumstances they will yield from 300 to 400 bushels per acre and by heavy manuring this yield can be almost doubled. Pk. 50c, bu. $1.50, 5 bu. or more @ $1.25. CARMAN NO. 3.--This handsome main crop potato is of large size yielding immense crops of uniform size and shape. It is of perfect form, almost every potato being of same size and shape, and averaging nearly one pound each in weight, in good seasons. It has but few eyes and they are shallow, the skin and flesh are extremely white and its cooking qualities are very fine. It is a remarkably handsome potato, enormously prolific, and will please all potato growers. Keeps well. Pk. 50c, bu. $1.50, 5 bu. or more, $1.25. The potatoes you shipped me are the nicest I have ever seen in size, smoothness and purity.--Geo. M. Graff, Orleans, Illinois. Potatoes received O. K. and they are very nice. L. Woodman, Blocksburg, California. The barrel of Extra Early Ohio Potatoes received from you were all right in every respect.--D. E. Hoffman, Arcanum, Ohio. POTATO KNIFE.--Concave and curved. Each 35 cts. postpaid. HYBRIDIZED POTATO SEED.--Potato seed from the flower boll (the true seed). It is from such seed that the choice new varieties of potatoes are originated. The result is interesting, and often very profitable, as you are just as apt to obtain a choice new variety as an experienced potato specialist. Packet 10c, 3 for 25c.

SLUG SHOT WILL KILL THE BUGS. BETTER ORDER SOME WITH YOUR POTATOES AND BE PREPARED. SEE PAGE 97.

IOWA SEED COMPANY, DES MOINES, IOWA. 43.

[image] PHARAOH'S DREAM

Novelties and Specialties FOR 1906 "What have you that is especially new and desirable this year?" is the first question asked us by many of our patrons, and the following pages on colored paper contain much which is of great value. Some of them are novelties and others are sorts of rather recent introduction, but of such superior qualities that we call special attention to them by giving them a place here. Each is faithfully described from careful observation. All are worthy and recommended by us. Aside from these, many desirable novelties will be found listed in various parts of the catalogue, as well as the standard sorts everyone wants for stand-bys. Notice the collection of novelties offered on cover and on the colored plates.

Pharaoh's Dream Sweet Corn. "And Pharaoh slept and dreamed * * and behold seven ears of corn came up, upon one stalk, rank and good."--Genesis 41:5. The most productive and one of the finest varieties of sweet corn ever sent out. This new variety was bred by one of the best seed corn specialists in the country and does not come from an accidental sport, but was gradually worked up from a cross made of two well known varieties and selected for a number of years, until it has attained its high value. Its peculiar manner of growth and earing are well shown by the accompanying illustration, and owing to the fact that it so frequently produces seven ears to the stalk it has been aptly named "Pharaoh's Dream." Stalks which we have on exhibition in our store have attracted a great deal of attention and favorable comment. The corn begins earing almost from the bottom and produces quite long ear stalks from each leaf joint. Ears are of large size, but still not overgrown, just right for table use and would be taken for Stowell's Evergreen in almost any market. It is of superior quality, well bred and will please the most particular. Corn is pure white, tender and of rich delicate flavor, remaining a long time in an edible condition. Instead of ears maturing all at once, they form in succession and therefore make a constant supply throughout the season. Ear stalks are so long that it might well be called a branching variety, and it looks tree-like when growing. It is the greatest novelty in sweet corn that has ever been sent out. You should not fail to plant it this year. Produces better when only one or two grains are planted in a hill. Pkt. 10c, ½ pt. 20c, qt. 60c, postpaid. By freight ½ pk. 85c, pk. $1.50.

Market Gardeners' Beet. This is undoubtedly one of the best varieties ever introduced, and it receives much praise from our customers each year. As will be noticed by engraving, it is very symmetrical, with small tap root and but few fibrous roots. Unusually small tops. Although on some soils the Egyptian can be marketed a few days before the Market Gardeners, still within a week it will be found larger than the Egyptian, while it continues to grow until late in the fall, attaining a large size, and making a good eating and selling beet for the winter. One sowing only is necessary to produce early beets for market and main crop for winter use, which is not the case with any other variety. Color, deep blood red; fine grained and unsurpassed in quality. Summing it all up, we find in it the best beet for Early Market, the best beet for winter use. Owing to the small tops permitting them to be grown close together, and the peculiar shape of the bulb, it is the most profitable beet for the market gardener and for family gardens. Pkt. 5c; oz. 10c; ¼ lb. 25c; lb. 75c.

[image] MARKET GARDENERS' BEET

Golden Bantam Sweet Corn. This handsome new variety of yellow grained sweet corn is claimed to be the richest in flavor of any corn grown. It is quite hardy and can therefore be safely planted earlier than any other sort and it is also extra early. It is of dwarf growth and yields well. Pkt. 10c, ½ pt. 20c, qt. 50c.

Golden Globe Onion. An improvement on the Yellow Globe and it is the handsomest and best keeping sort that we know of. The bulbs are of uniform size and perfect shape. We consider it the handsomest, most prolific, best keeping and easiest selling, making it the most desirable variety of all. Pkt. 10c, oz. 25c, ¼ lb. 75c, lb. $2.50.

Golden Nugget Tomato. When at the Royal Agricultural Show in England, our attention was especially attracted by this grand new variety. The fruits are of the most beautiful golden yellow color, round as a ball and about as large as a walnut. Flavor is exceptionally fine, and it is a most desirable variety for eating from the hand or as a dessert fruit. They are a new sort, however, in England, and we were able to obtain only a small quantity of seed. We grew them the past summer both on our farm and at our trial grounds, and were more than pleased with the result. The plants were loaded down with one hundred and fifty to two hundred of the most beautiful rich golden yellow fruits that you can imagine and the flavor is delicious. Don't fail to try them this season if you want something extra fine. Pkt. 10c, oz. 50c.

Japanese Climbing Tomato. A novelty of 1906. Beyond comparison the tallest growing variety that we know of growing 10 to 12 feet high and bearing fruit way to the tip. The fruits are of a nice medium size of fine shape, solid, smooth and of a beautiful shining crimson color. They are produced in great clusters and the plant is very productive and a continuous bearer. One plant properly trained on a trellis will produce more fruit than a dozen ordinary tomato plants. The fruits contain few seeds and are of superior flavor. Per pkt. of 100 seeds, 15c.

Early Sunrise Sweet Corn. This splendid new variety which we introduced originated with a market gardener in the western part of this state, and for eight years he has been selecting it to an ideal size and the earliest maturing. In this way he finally obtained this variety, which is distinct from all others. Ears about 6 inches long, well filled out at end, and husk covering so completely and being so tight as to prevent working of worms which are so bad in Cory. Grains fairly deep and set in straight rows on small white cob; very uniform and handsome. Quite productive and of as good flavor as any corn we ever tasted. Don't fail to try it. Market gardeners will find Early Sunrise a most profitable and satisfactory variety. Pkt. 5c, ½ pint 15c, qt. 50c, postpaid. By freight, ½ pk. 75c, pk. $1.25. The Maine State Bulletin, No. 27, states that the Early Sunrise was as early as any variety in their long list and much larger and better than Cory; in quality equal to most of the later varieties and the most prolific of all. They say it is worthy of special mention. Try it this year.

[image] EARLY SUNRISE SWEET CORN.

OUR VEGETABLE NOVELTIES INCLUDE ONLY THE NEW THINGS WHICH HAVE PROVEN DESIRABLE.