Historic, Archive Document
Do not assume content reflects current
scientific knowledge, policies, or practices.
fOUNDED 1887
fffMARYLAHft
Moines fSeed Co
409- 1 1 East Fifth Street
Des Moines, Iowa
Of BOSKS
THE BEST OF ALL
SARDEN ROSES
PRfCE FOR THE §rr
KOc
THE CAPITOL ROSE COLLECTION
FOUR GRAND SORTS
The Premier Pure White Rose.
This extremely beautiful new, pure white, everblooming Rose has proved a most valu-
able vabetv^or garden bedding. It is a strong, vigorous grower, making- healthy., hand -
l()me bushes. The buds and flowers are of large size and perfect form, pure snow white,
'4nlntftilly fragrant and very full and perfect. It a v»*prous grower .hat its.
iven some support.
ear-old, 35 cents.
branches shoot up above the ordinary bushes and it will do better if j
Blooms better the, Second- season than the first. Each, 15 cents; tivo-j
Mile F. Kruger
Deep Copper Yellow. . T , . .
Quite unique, and ^distinct from all others, and strikingly beautiful. Largest, sized
blooms .very finely formed and come on long, vigorous stems, making an ideal _ort for
Vnttin - Each. 15 cents; two-year-old plants, each, 35 cents. •. •
One strong plant of each of /the four Capitol Roses, 30 cents postpaid; one two-je
old plant of each, ready, to bloom at once, postpaid for only
Bountiful Vegetable Collection
Here is the chance of a lifetime. A great big garden, of the
choicest vegetables, at so low a price it appears ridiculous It
means $50 for 50 cents, cr 100 for 1. A ou can have aljthe vege-
tables’ you can use with only just a small piece -of : ground and
but little labor. One full-sized packet of each of th-e following .
Eclipse Beet, Jersey Wakefield Cabbage, Harvest Home Cab-
bage. C hantena v Carrot, Early Cluster Cucumber, Black Seeded
Simpson Lettuce, Yellow Meatetl Muskmelon, Early Klondike
Watermelon, VVIlow Globe Danvers Onion. Improved H<Blow
Crown Parsnip, Large Cheese Pumpkin, French Breakfast Rad-
ish, Chartier Radish, Mammoth Sandwich Island Salsify, Hub-
hard Squash, New- Stone Tomato, White Egg Turnip.
17 PACKETS, LARGE AND WELL FILLED; CHOICE FRESH
SEED. POSTPAID FOR ONLY 50 CENTS.
YOU WILL NOT FIND A BIGGER BARGAIN IN SEEDS
Address all orders plainly to Des Moines Seed Company, Des Moines, Iowa
Exquisite in * coloring, fine in form,
strong in growth and low in price.
ONLY 50 CENTS POSTPAID.
Or in large, strong, two-year-old
plants, for immediate blooming, only
$1.00 postpaid.
My Maryland
Finest Salmon Pink.
AVe are very much inclined to
regard this splendid Rose as the
best of its color. It does- remark-
ably well in the open ground, has.
wonderfully beautiful flowers,
which are full, deep and double.
A very hardy Rose, a strong grow-
er and free bloomer and has won
friends wherever it has been
planted. Large, full, double flowers,
a pleasing shade of salmon-pink.
Distinct and beautiful. Price, 30c
each; two-year-old plants, 40c each.
Etoile De France
Velvety Crimson Red.
The gold medal Rose of
France, and claimed by the
raiser to.be the fin-
est Rose he has
ever sent out. A
very strong, vigor-
ous grower, with
handsome green-
bronzy foliage, and
exceedingly fine
flowering. Flowers
very large, borne
on good, long stiff
sterns; color lovely
crimson red; very
fragrant and keeps
well. Price, 15 ets.
each; two-year-old
plants, 35 ets. each.
Frances E. Willard
Founded
1887
Catalogue of Challenge Seeds
SOLD ONLY BY
DES MOINES SEED COMPANY
409-411 East 5th St. DES MOINES, IOWA
BUY CHALLENGE SEEDS FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS.
It is our ambition to build up a great seed business for our house and we wish to thank
all our friends and customers who are assisting us to this end with their patronage. We
are distributing 50,000 catalogues this year and we
hope to get an order from every person who receives
one of these books. Our old customers we feel sure
will buy of us because they know from experience
that they receive first-class seeds and full value for
money paid. Those who have not dealt with us are
earnestly requested to give us their patronage. We
assure you it will be appreciated and we will show
our appreciation by sending you first-class goods and
giving you a square deal.
There are two systems upon which business is con-
ducted today. Some houses solicit trade simply on the
question of price, always quoting cheap prices and hop-
ing by the lure of low figures to secure the business.
The other plan is to furnish the best obtainable qual-
ity of stocks and sell at a fair margin of profit. We
distinctly believe in and carry out this last policy.
Quality in seeds is so far above question of price that
the customer would always buy the best grades were
he able to determine in advance the quality question.
He cannot do this, but must depend upon the integrity
of the firm he patronizes. We ask you to depend on us
and we assure you we have the best seeds.
The manager for this company has been in the
seed trade for twenty years and knows his business.
He works hard; has to; because the business is so big
it won’t let him idle, and he gives his personal atten-
tion to your orders so that they go right. Mr. Guthrie’s .hobby is the “chicken business.’’
He is secretary of the Jowa State Poultry Association and is personally known and re-
spected by nearly every%oultry fancier in his state. You can bank on the poultry supplies
from this store because he knows the needs of the man raising chickens. This branch of
our trade is so important that we devote a special illustrated catalogue to our poultry
supplies and if you only say the word will be glad to send you a copy.
K. H. Guthrie, Gen. Mgr.
BE CAREFUL WITH YOUR ORDER
DON’T GET US CONFUSED WITH ANY
OTHER SEED FIRM. — Be sure and use the
envelope which you will find in this cata-
logue, or if you write us address Des Moines
Seed Co., Des Moines, Iowa. We want your
trade. We don’t want any competitor to
have it. We’ll send you order sheets and
envelopes whenever you want them.
ORDER EARLY. — If you wait too long
some things may be sold out. It takes time
for long freight shipments to reach their
destination, and besides you ought to be
forehanded and have the goods before they
are actually needed.
SEND YOUR MONEY by P. O. or Express
Money Order, Bank Draft or enclose cash in
a registered letter. Don’t send coin loose in
a common envelope; better send postage
stamps for small amounts.
TELL US HOW TO SHIP YOUR ORDER.
If you don’t we will send them by the most
convenient method, always figuring to get
them to you for the least cost for transpor-
tations.
WE GUARANTEE that if you send money
as instructed above it will reach us. That
we will get your goods to you in good con-
dition, and that if you are dissatisfied and
promptly return any goods, the purchase
price will be refunded.
WE DO NOT GUARANTEE our seeds to
grow or produce a crop. We exercise great
care in keeping our seeds pure, true to
name, souncf and vital, but we want to dis-
tinctly siate here, so that it may not be
misunderstood, we give no warranty, ex-
press or implied, as to description, quality,
productiveness 'or vitality of any seeds,
bulbs or plants that we send out, and will
not be responsible in any way for the crop.
If the purchaser does not accept the goods
on these terms they are to be sent back to
us at once and we will refund the purchase
money when we get them.
WRITE OFTEN. — If you want to know
about something that is not clearly ex-
plained in this book, ask us. If a mistake
occurs, let us know about it at once. If
you get bad results, tell us about it, and if
you get good crops, tell us that, too. We
are anxious to serve you any way we can
because we must have your friendship and
confidence, but that isn’t hard to get when
once you have planted Challenge Seeds.
DES MOINES SEED CO.
K. H. GUTHRIE, Pres. & Mgr.
F. H. PAGE, Sec’y & Treas.
2
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
CHALLENGE GARDEN SEEDS
We are offering you under our name “Challenge
Seeds” only a comparative few of the long list of vari-
eties of vegetables, but each one is selected because of
its quality. We are just as particular about our stocks
as we are about the varieties, and the quality of our
seeds ^ the very best. We give you full value for your
money — honest seeds, honest prices, honest dealing —
and we want your business on that basis. All seeds we
send out are tested and of known vitality and will
please you in results. Prices on garden seeds are pre-
paid except on beans, corn and peas in quantities of
one-half peck or larger.
ASPARAGUS
One ounce will sow 60 ft. of
row and produce about 500
plants.
Asparagus is perhaps the
most popular of early spring-
vegetables. It is so easy to
grow that we wonder whj-
everyone does not have a bed.
When once established it fur-
nishes continued growth for
years, and really gets better
as it grows older. In prepar-
ing a bed dig trenches a foot
deep; see that the soil around
the roots is strong and rich
and if necessary add well-
rotted manure to furnish plant
ASPARAGUS ROOT
ASPARAGUS ROOTS.-
PALMETTO ASPARAGUS
lvu,:u nuumuj IU iunu.su Plant foot. Liberal applications oi
manure on the beds in fall will add materially to the growth the
following spring. Quick, heavy growth makes the best aspara-
gus and to get this you must give plenty of food for the roots,
it you want to grow it from seed select a rich, mellow, deer
soil, sow the seed in rows about two or three feet apart. Plant
seed two inches deep, and add fertilizer as outlined above.
PALMETTO. This asparagus is now quite extensively grown
for markets, where it sells at high prices, owing to its fine size
and regularity. Although of southern origin, it is equally well
adapted to the North. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 20c- lb. 65c.
CONOVER’S COLOSSAL. — A well-known, old standard variety.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; *4 lb., 20c; lb., 50c.
-See page 25 for varieties and prices.
SEND US YOUR CHECK
Perhaps it won’t be convenient to get a money
order or draft, and if not you can send us your
check on the bank in which you keep your funds.
Many times you can save time and expense by this
means. Don’t send coin in a letter if you can pos-
sibly avoid it. Coins tear the envelope and drop
out in transit and get lost. We can use postage
stamps for small amounts.
3ROCCOLI
SNOW WHITE. — Forms heads very much like a cauliflower, but is
much hardier, q.nd gives excellent results in cool localities. It is not
as valuable as the cauliflower in warm climates, nor of so good qual-
ity, but is more sure to head under the dry weather conditions of sum-
mer and early fall. You will like broccoli, and if you cannot grow
cauliflower successfully you should try this. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c; lb., 75c.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS
A species of the cabbage family, which produces miniature
heads from the sides of the stalk. These heads are a great deli-
cacy, prepared in any manner in which cabbage is used, and in
the same way as cauliflower. Cultivate same as cabbage. Break
leaves from stem to aid formation of heads. One ounce of seed
yields 4,500 plants.
IMPROVED DWARF. — Produces compact sprouts of the finest
quality; a good keeper. Pkf., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 50c; lb., $1. 75-
No deduction can be
given from catalogue
prices on seeds except if
you order seeds to go by
express, or freight you
may deduct 10c per lb.
from postpaid price.
SNOW WHITE BROCCOLI
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
8
GOLDEN WAX
DWARF BUSH VARIETIES.
One quart to 100 feet of drill or 200
hills; 2 bushel per acre in drills.
Beans cannot be planted with safety
until warm weather. Any porous soil
will answer. Remember, we pay the
postage on quantities up to one quart.
If to go by freight or express not pre-
paid, deduct 10c per pint or 15c per quart.
PROLIFIC BLACK WAX. — A very early
wax podded sort. An old-time variety,
unsurpassed in quality if used for snap
beans. Pods are round, full, stringless
and of exceptionally delicate and fine
quality. Large pkt., 5c; Yz Pt., 15c; pt.,
25c; qt., 45c. Not prepaid, half-peck,
$1.00; peck, $1.75.
IMPROVED GOLDEN WAX. — This is
the favorite early wax variety, more
largely used than any other. The pods
are yellow, stringless, large and hand-
some. Very productive. The pods are
rather flat, beans white with purple
blotch, and both pods and beans are
tender and fine for cooking in any man-
ner. They are still first in favor, though they have been offered for many years. Large
pkt., 5c: Yz pt., 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 45c. Not prepaid, half-peck, $1.00; peck, $1.75.
WARD WELL’S KIDNEY WAX. — This splendid
variety has a pure wax pod, is entirely stringless
and almost rust proof, as it holds its pod so high
above the ground. Hardier than either Golden Wax
or Black Wax and does not go down so quickly
after picking, therefore preferred by some market
gardeners. Beans resemble Golden Wax in appear-,
ance except in shape. Large pkt., 5c; Yz pt., 15c;l
pt., 25c; qt., 45c. Not prepaid, half-peck, $1.00;
peck, $1.75.
DAVIS KIDNEY WAX. — A comparatively new
variety of great value. It is adapted alike for the
canner, market gardener, shipper or amateur. The
dry bean is large, kidney shaped and white in
color, making it one of the best for cooking in the
dry state. The pods are long, meaty, stringless and
a beautiful light yellow color. It stands shipping-
better than any other, and is one of the best of
the wax podded varieties. Large pkt., 5cf Yz pt.,
15c; pt., 25c; qt., 45c. Not prepaid, half-peck, 95c;
peck, $1.75.
STRINGLESS GREEN POD BUSH. — One of the
best of stringless green pod bush beans. Surpasses
all others in crisp, tender flavor. The finely-shaped,
long green pods are absolutely stringless, and are
ready to market two weeks earlier than the Valen-
tines. It is of immense value not only to the mar-
ket gardener, but also to the amateur who seeks
a rare quality early for the home table. Large
pkt., 5c; Yz pt., 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 45c. Not prepaid,
half-peck, $1.10; peck, $2.00.
EXTRA EARLY ROUND POD RED VALENTINE.
— The best green podded “snap short” bean. The
pods are round and fleshy, they mature quickly and BOUND pod bed VALENTINE
are of first-rate quality. This is the most popular of all green podded beans. We have
always kept abreast of the improvement made in this important variety, and have for some
years past sown a strain that is unequalled in extra earliness and round-podded appear-
ance. This variety is the most popular of all
green pod sorts, and with good reason. For
years new kinds have continually been brought
out as improvements on existing sorts, but in
our opinion none have proven in any way su-
to this improved and selected strain of
tine. Large pkt., 5c; Yz Pt., 15c; pt., 25c;
qt., 45c. Not prepaid, half-peck, 95c; peck, $1.75.
HENDERSON’S BUSH LIMA. — Grows in com-
pact bush form, producing enormous crops of
delicious Lima beans which can be as easily
gathered as the common garden bush bean; is
at least two weeks earlier than any of the
climbing Limas; produces a continuous crop
from the middle of July until frost. Enormously
productive. Pkt., 5c; Yz pt., 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 45c.
Not prepaid, Yz pk., $1.10; pk., $2.00.
California wonder (see next page)
Please remember in comparing our prices with
other dealers, that we pay the postage on beans,
corn and peas on quantities of one quart or less
at prices named in this book.
BEANS
4
UATAL.UUU.U OF CHALLENGE SEELS
BURPEE'S BUSH LIMA
BEANS— Continued
BURPEE’S BUSH LIMA. — The true bush
form of the old Lima Pole Bean. It grows
vigorously to a height of eighteen to twenty
inches — forming a circular bush two or two
and one-half feet in diameter, requiring no
poles or stakes, yielding from fifty to one
hundred and fifty fine pods, similar in size
and quality to those grown on the Large
White Lima Bean. Large pkt., 5c; V2 pt., 20c;
pt., 30c; qt., 50c. , Not prepaid, half-peck,
$1.00; peck, $1.90.
VARIETIES FOR Wl NTER SH ELL BEANS
THE CALIFORNIA WONDER, OR IM-
PROVED TREE, is easily the heaviest yield-
ing bean known. It is a field variety. The
seed resembles the well-known “Navy,” and.
on account -of its whiteness and small size, commands the highest prices in all markets.
It has the additional merit of being pure stock. Mixed stock always sells at from 25 to 50
per cent less than straight stock. A few cents extra expended on the seed means
many dollars in the crop. Twelve quarts of the California Wonder Bean will plant an
acre. Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt., 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 40c. Not prepaid, half-peck, 70c; peck, $1.25.
WHITE NAVY. — Valuable chiefly as a field bean, and considered by many the best bak-
ing variety. The standard market variety in the dry state. Sold in immense quantities
all over the world. Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt., 13c; pt., 20c; qt., 35c. Not prepaid, half-peck,
65c; peck, $1.20.
LARGE WHITE MARROW. — The standard large white bean commonly sold in market.
Beans are more than twice the size of the Navy or California Wonder and are good green
or dry. Of vigorous growth and productive. Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt., 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 45c.
Not prepaid, half-peck, 75c; peck, $1.40.
POLE OR RUNNING BEANS
KENTUCKY WONDER (Also sold under the
name “Old Homestead”) — Fine, vigorous, climb-
ing well, and very productive, bearing its pods
in large clusters; pods green, very long, often
reaching nine or ten inches, nearly round when
young, and very crisp, becoming very irregu-
lar and spongy as the beans ripen. A very
prolific sort, with showy pods. Large pkt., 5c;
y2 pt., 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 45c. Not prepaid, half-
peck, 90c; peck, $1.75.
LAZY WIFE. — This sort ^
is popular in many local- wf
ities. As its name indi-
cates, a handful of choice,^
(stringless pods at a single
grab. The pods are broad,
thick, very fleshy and en-
tirely stringless, and pos-
sess a rich, buttery flavor
when cooked. The beans
are white and make a very
good dry bean for winter
use. May be grown either
on poles or on corn. Large
pkt., 5c; y2 pt.,- 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 45c. Not
prepaid, half-peck, $1.00; peck, $1.90.
WHITE DUTCH CASE KNIFE. — Yields
an immense crop of handsome, flat,
white beans of excellent flavor. Cooks
easily. Large pkt., 5c; % pt., 15c; pt.,
25c; qt., 45c. Not prepaid, half-peck, 90c;
peck, $1.75.
LARGE WHITE LIMA OR BUTTER.—
Richest and finest flavor, and estimated
to be the best of Lima pole beans. Large
pkt., 5c; y2 pt., 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 45c. Not
prepaid, half-peck, $1.00; peck, $1.90.
CUT SHORT OR CORN HILL. — This is
a popular old variety specially de-
sirable for planting among the corn, ^
as they seem to thrive better grown
in that way than do most sorts.
Very fine as green snap beans. Large
pkt., 5c; y2 pt., 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 45c.
Not prepaid, half-peck, 90c; peck,
$1.75.
LONDON HORTICULTURAL. — Al-
so known as “Cranberry” and
“Wren’s Egg.” A splendid large
bean of vigorous growth, very prolific and finest quality. Pods and
beans are both larger than most of the pole varieties. A favorite va-
riety because it is fine either as a snap or shell beans. Large pkt., 5c
y2 pt., 15c; pint, 25c; qt., 45c. Not prepaid, half-peck, 85c; peck, $1.60
KENTUCKY WONDER
WHITE DUTCH case You may deduct 10 cents per pint or 15 cents per quart from price of
knifk beans if you will pay express or freight charges.
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
5
One ounce to 100 ft. of drill; 5 to 6 lbs. to the acre,
in drills.
STERLING. — In this new beet we offer our cus-
tomers a decided novelty. It is as early as Eclipse,
perfectly globe shaped, with a single tap root, and
of the richest color of any of the beets. It is a
splendid keeper, is not excelled in yielding qualities
by any other sort; is exceedingly tender, fine and
sweet, and is unequalled for table use. Market gar-
deners will find our Sterling a very profitable variety
to grow, as no other sort approaches it in attract-
iveness. Exposed on the market by the side of other
beets, it at once catches the eye of the customer and
completely dwarfs in appearance all other sorts.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; % lb., 60c; lb., $2.00.
MARKET GARDENER’S. — This is the ideal beet
for market gardeners and the home garden. It is
very symmetrical, with small tap root and but few
fibrous roots; color outside is deep, blood red; inside, layers of blood red and light red
alternate. When cooked they are beautiful dark red throughout, fine grained and unsur-
passed in quality. At the age of the earliest varieties it is larger, while it continues to
grow until late in the fall, attaining a large size, and leaking a
good selling and eating beet for winter. One sowing only is neces-
sary to produce early beets for market and main crop for winter
use. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; % lb., 60c; lb., $2.00.
EARLY BLOOD TURNIP (Dewing’s). — Roots are turnip
shaped, deep crimson, tender and sweet.
An old standard variety still popular.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; lb., 45c; lb., $1.25.
EXTRA EARLY EGYPTIAN ("
toy’s). — The earliest sort. Turnip sL
symmetrical, deep blood color. The ]
popular with gardeners for r-~
bunching. Our strain is : '
in earliness or evenness.
15c; i/4 lb., 45c; lb., $1.50.
ECLIPSE. — Makes rapid growth. Near-
ly round in shape. Top small, quality
fine, larger than Egyptian, but not as
deep a red in color. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c;
i/i lb., 40c; lb., $1.25.
DETROIT DARK RED BLOOD TUR-
NIP.— A handsome, clean, turnip-shaped
blood beet. Skin and flesh are of a deep,
blood red, sweet and tender in quality, market
and unsurpassed for solidity and keeping gardeners
purposes. The roots grow regular and
are of the right marketable size. The tops are small, allowing them to
be grown closely together. They mature early, and give every satis-
faction as a bunching sort. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; 14 lb., 45c; lb., $1.50.
IMPROVED LONG BLOOD. — An old and popular variety, especially
desirable for autumn and winter use. Roots long in shape and our
stock will produce fine, large, smooth beets of excellent quality. Pkt.,
5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 40c; lb., $1.25.
MANGELS AND STOCK BEETS
We have our seed grown under contract in England by experts in
that line, as there is no place in the world where Mangel and Ruta
Baga are produced in such perfection. Crop is short this year and
prices somewhat higher in consequence.
IMPROVED MAMMOTH LONG RED. — Our stock is a great improve-
ment on the old variety. The roots are very large, uniformly straight
and Well formed. Color, deep red; roots solid, tops small. Roots at-
tain a large size, one being exhibited last year which weighed 58 lbs.
Produces an immense bulk and tonnage Oz., 5c; 14 lb., 20c; lb., 55c;
10 lbs. at 50c per lb., prepaid.
IMPROVED GOLDEN TANKARD.— We have for years insisted that
this was the best mangel grown and recommend it unqualifiedly as the
best mangel for dairy farmers. The color is a deep, rich
yellow. The flesh is yellow and white
in rings, beautifully alternating with
each ether. On account of its shape,
enormous creps are grown, and it is
easily lifted from ground. Oz., 5c; 14 lb.,
20c; lb., 50c; 10 lbs. at 45c per lb., prepaid.
YELLOW GLOBE. — Especially fine for
shallow soils, as it requires but little
depth to grow in. Heavy cropper and
will produce nearly as great results as
the longer sorts. Oz., 5c; 14 lb., 15c; lb.,
55c; 10 lbs. at 50c per lb., prepaid.
HALF SUGAR MANGEL.— Cross be-
tween a mangel and a sugar beet, con-
tains much greater per cent of sugar
than the ordinary mangels and is there-
fore better for feeding purposes. Will
produce more real flesh-forming feed per
mammoth long red acre than any sort we list. Oz., 5c; 14
lb., 15c; lb., 55c; 10 lbs. at 50c, prepaid. Detroit blood turnip beet
6
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
CABBAGE
One ounce will produce 1,500 plants; one-half
pound to transplant an acre.
EARLY JERSEY WAKEFIELD.— Heads are
very hard, compact, solid and conical in shape.
Few outside leaves. We do not admit that our
stock has any superior except the Washington
Wakefield. Pkit., 5c; <oz., 25c; ^4 lb., 75c; lb., $2.40.
NEW WASHINGTON WAKEFIELD. — This grand
variety is a trifle later than the Jersey Wakefield,
but produces much larger heads, which are of
perfect pyramidal shape, very solid, and with few
outside leaves. Grows remarkably uniform, the
heads even size and shape. Unequaled for mar-
ket or family garden. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c; H lb.,
75c; lb.. $2.40.
HENDERSON’S EARLY SUMMER. — Is deserv-
edly popular with market gardeners throughout
the country. It forms large, solid, round, flat-
tened, compact heads of excellent quality. The
heads average over double the size of the Jersey
Wakefield, while it matures only ten or twelve
days later. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
20c; % lb., 60c; lb., $2.00.
EARLY WINNIG-
STADT. — Very early. Will
grow a hard head under
circumstances where most
sorts would fail. Heads
regular, conical, very
hard and keep well both
summer and winter. Pkt.,
5c.;%>z., 15c; % lb., 50c;
lb., $1.75.
IMPROVED AMERICAN
SAVOY. — Heads large and
finly curled; short stalk;
compact grower; sure
header; keeps well. The *
best Savoy cabbage for pi
main crop. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
20c; % lb., 50c; lb., $1.75. m
MAMMOTH ROCK RED.
— The best, largest and
surest heading red cab-
bage. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c;
% lb., 80c; lb., $2.75.
EARLY JERSEY WAKEFIELD
S U R E H E A D.— Never
fails to make a remark-
ably fine, solid, large
head, with few outer
leaves. A strong, vigor-
ous grower, ripening late.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c; % lb.,
70c; lb., $2.40.
LATE LARGE DRUM-
HEAD.— It is similar in
most respects to the Pre-
mium Flat Dutch, but the
heads are more rounded
on top. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c;
% lb., 60c; lb., $2.00.
HOLLAND (Genuine
Danish Grown Stock). —
The heads are solid and
deep, of medium size, av-
s eraging about 8»$>ounds in
gji weight; in color entirely
distinct, in point of qual-
ity have no superior, and
they keep better than any other sort, being
as solid and perfect when taken up in the
spring as when put away in the fall. Pkt.,
10c; oz., 30c; % lb., 90c; lb., $3.00.
SELECTED LATE FLAT DUTCH. — A low
growing variety; heads large, bluish green,
round, solid, broad and flat on the top; an ex-
cellent fall and winter variety, and a good
keeper. It is a sure header. Our stock has
been grown from carefully selected heads,
and we consider it superior to any other
strain of Flat Dutch cabbage on the market.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; *4 lb., 60c; lb., $2.00.
GREATER DES MOINES. — Large, early,
white, solid, new. Amongst many sorts of
white cabbage, none of them combine the two
desirable qualities of being early and large.
We recommend this as a really early one
(coming in as early as the Early Flat Dutch),
at the same time making fine large heads.
Pkt., 10c; oz., 40c; % lb., $1.25; lb., $4.00.
PLANT BARGAIN
Ready for Mailing About May 1st.
It is not always convenient for
the private gardener to grow veg-
etable plants in hot beds or frames
and perhaps you would rather buy
enough vegetable plants for your
garden than to raise the small
number needed. If so, this offer
will just meet your needs. This
bargain includes:
25 good early Cabbage.
25 standard variety Celery.
50 Yellow Jersey Sweet Potato.
12 large red Tomato.
6 large Mango Pepper.
6 Improved N. Y. Egg Plant.
All Postpaid for Only $1.00.
GREATER DES MOINES
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
7
CARROTS
One ounce for
100 feet of drill;
3 lbs. per acre.
EARLY SCAR-
LET SHORT
HORN. — One of I
the most popu-
lar varieties
grown; color, a
deep orange;
one of the best
for table use.
Used by garden-
ers for early,
market. Pkt., 5c
oz., 30c; % lb.
80c; lb., $3.00.
O X H E A R T,
OR GUERAXDE.
— This fine and
very popular
carrot is intermediate between the half long varieties
|such as Danvers) and the long sorts. It is much thicker
than ordinary kinds, being from four to five inches,
orange, fine grained and sweet. It is of extra quality
for table use, and equally good for stock. Where other
sorts require digging, Oxheart can be easily pulled, mak-
ing it a particularly desirable sort for soils so stiff and
hard that other sorts do not do well. Pkt., 5c; oz., 30c; XA lb., 90c; lb., $3.25.
CHANTENAY. — As a table variety it is first-class. In shape, it is larger than the Scarlet
Horn and also broader at the shoulder. The flesh is of a beautiful, rich, orange color, and
of the finest quality. It is medium early, with small tops. Roots taper slightly, but are
uniformly stump rooted. Gives great satisfaction in both the market and private garden.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 30c; % lb., 90c; lb., $3.00.
TRUE D ANVER’S HALF LONG. — A first-class carrot for all soils; in form midway be-
tween the Long Orange and the Short Horn. The root is of a rich, dark orange color and
grows very smooth and handsome; twenty to thirty tons per acre not being an unusual
crop. Pkt., 5c; oz., 30c; rA lb., 90c; lb., $3.00. 8
IMPROVED LONG ORANGE. — A well-known standard sort, roots long, thickest near the
crown, tapering regularly to a point; color, deep orange; suitable for the table and main
field crop. Pkt., 5c; oz., 30c; % lb., 80c; lb., $2.75.
MASTODON. — A fine white carrot for stock feeding. In shape it resembles the Oxheart
somewhat, but is just a trifle longer. It is the heaviest cropper of any carrot grown and
produces wonderfully. It is not suitable for a market sort, but because it produces so
heavily it is the most desirable for live stock feeding. Roots are very smooth and sym-
metrical, of good substance. Pkt., 5c; oz., 30c; % lb., 80c; lb., $2.75.
CELERY
One ounce to produce 2,000 plants.
GOLDEN SELF-BLANCHING. — R egula?
stock. Solid, resembling White Plume, except
it is a rich, golden yellow. Without banking
or any covering, it assumes a beautiful gol-
den color. Crop very short this year anc.
price is consequently high, but you cannot
afford to be without it, as it is so easy to
raise. Pkt., 10c; oz., 75c; % lb., $2.25.
WHITE PLUME. — Handsome, self-blanch-
ing sort, of very easy cultivation; crisp. The
earliest known. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; % lb., 60c.
CELERIAC, OR TURNIP ROOTED. — Grown
the roots. Excellent for salad and flavor-
Very popular among1 our German cus-
Pkt„ 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 50c; lb., $1.50.
GIANT PASCAL. — This should properly be
called a giant self-blanching, as it is from
that variety that it originated. It is a better
keeper than the original sort and grows very
large. Stalks of excellent quality. The heart
is bright golden yellow, blanches readily and
is solid and of splendid flavor. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
20c; % lb., 60c; lb., $2.00.
WINTER QUEEN. — Has superceded all
dwarf sorts on account of vigor of growth
and keeping qualities. It is of bright green,
but blanches readily to a clear white. It
withstands rust and blight and produces good
celery when other sorts become diseased.
Recommended for general planting. Pkt., 5c;
oz., 20c; *4 lb., 60c; lb., $2.00.
OLD CELERY SEED. — This is celery seed
that will not germinate. It is clean and pure,
retains its full flavor and is fine for flavoring
soups, stews or wherever the celery flavor is
desired. Oz., 5c; % lb., 15c; lb., 40c.
GIANT PASCAL CELERY
8
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
CAULIFLOWER
OUR SELECTED STRAIN OB' SNOWBALL CAULIFLOWER
SNOWBALL. — The best variety for general purposes. Forms snow-white heads six to
ten inches in diameter and as it does not spread greatly it will grow closer together than
most sorts and produce more per acre. Nearly all seedsmen offer this variety, but we have
an exceptionally fine strain and know it will give satisfaction. It is suitable for either
early or late planting; for home or market growing; and in fact will be desirable wher-
ever Cauliflower is grown. We make a specialty of this sort and have it grown for us by
the best growers under the best possible conditions. Pkt., 15c; % oz., 60c; 1 oz., $2.25.
ERFURT EXTRA EARLY. — The favorite market sort in Europe where cauliflower is a
staple and important crop. It is specially good for hotbed or coldframe growing or forcing
in winter in the greenhouse. Pkt., 10c; % oz., 50c; 1 oz., $2.00.
CHICORY
LARGE ROOTED. — This is a root crop
grown and cultivated like carrots or pars-
nips. When ripened they are dug and cut
in very small pieces and dried. When
wanted for use they are ground and pre-
pared just as you would coffee, for which
it is substituted. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 25c.
CRESS
CURLED. — The common peppergrass,
with pleasant pungent flavor, used as a
salad. Sow as wanted at intervals, as it
grows quickly and soon becomes past use-
fulness. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 25c.
WATER. — A greatly prized variety, much
more pungent than the ordinary pepper-
grass and also of finer flavor. Much used
for garnishing like parsley. Sow along the
borders of running water. Pkt., 10c; oz., 35c.
(There are about 3,000 seeds in one ounce.)
COLLARDS
GEORGIA. — A loose-growing form of cab-
bage, very nearly allied to kale or borecole.
In the South they are very popular as
“greens” and are really desirable, as they
have a flavor of their own very much liked
by some. Our variety is the one in most
general use. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 30c;
lb., 85c.
CORN SALAD
Sow about one ounce on 20 square feet.
This is sown in fall (September is best) and
is covered when cold weather sets in, with
loose straw or leaves, and it can be used
during winter. Used for “greens” and sal-
ads. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; lb., 30c.
BULK PRICES FOR BEANS, CORN AND PEAS.
Customer to Pay
Half Peeks Sold at Peck
BUSH BEANS.
Prolific Black Wax $
Improved Golden Wax...
Wardwell’s Kidney Wax. .
Extra Early Red Valentine
Henderson’s Bush Lima. . .
Burpee’s Bush Lima
White
Kentucky Wonder
Lazy Wife
White Dutch Case Knife. .
Large White Lima
Cut Short or Corn Hill. . . .
London Horticultural ....
it.
Peck.
Bu.
.30
$1.75
$6.50
.30
1.76
6.50
.30
1.76
6.50
.30
1.76
6.50
.30
2.00
7.00
.30
1.75
6.25
.30
2.00
7.00
.30
1.90
6.50
.25
1.25
4.50
.20
1.20
4.25
.30
IS.
1.40
5.00
.30
1.75
6.50
.30
1.90
6.50
.30
1.75
6.25
.30
1.90
7.00
.30
1.75
6.25
.30
1.60
6.00
Express or Freight Charges.
Rates, Half Bushels at Bushel Rates.
m SWEET CORN.
I Peep O’ Day $ .25
S Golden Bantam
i Extra Early Cory....
Country Gentleman
Mammoth Sugar
PEAS.
American Wonder
Alaska
First and Best
Gradus
Greater Des Moines .60
Little Gem , . .
Nott’s Excelsior 65
Stratagem
Telephone
White Marrow (Dwarf) . .
Qt.
Peck.
Bu.
$ .25
$1.45
$5.00
.40
1.75
6.50
.20
1.25
4.50
.20
1.25
4.50
.20
1.50
5.00
.20
1.50
5.00
.20
1.25
4.50
.25
1.50
5.00
.55
3.00
11.50
.55
2.75
10.50
.50
2.75
10.00
.65
2.75
10.00
.60
4.25
16.00
.55
3.25
12.00
.65
3.25
12.00
.60
3.75
14.00
.55
3.25
12.00
.35
2.25
8.00
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
SWEET CORN
One quart for 200 hills. One peck for an acre in hills.
PEEP-O’-DAY. — The two points of this remarkable corn are
its extraordinary earliness and unparalleled sweetness. It is
also wonderfully productive. The early varieties of sweet corn
do not, as a rule, yield as heavily as the later sorts; but, owing
to the fact that the stalks bear from two to five ears each, and
that they are very dwarf, which admits of their being planted
close together, it not only gives an early yield, but it gives one
of great productiveness as well, sometimes doubling the yield
per acre of other early sorts. Pkt., 5c; % pt., 12c; pt., 20c; qt.,
40c. Not prepaid, half-peck, 80c; peck, $1.45.
GOLDEN BANTAM. — A remarkably sweet variety. In
fact, we believe it is the best of the smaller early sorts.
When ripe the grain is golden yellow color, hence its name.
It is a first early and because of its quality is preferred to
all other early kinds for home use. It is not large, but is
a vigorous grower and produces good ears which are plenty
large enough to please anyone. Pkt., 10c; % pt., 20c; pt.,
30c; qt., 55c. Not prepaid, half-peck, $1.00; peck, $1.75.
EXTRA EARLY CORY (White Cob). — The earliest variety
except Peep-o’-Day. Is a standard extra early varied
ears are fair size and
the quality good.
Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt..
12c; pt., 20c; qt., 35c.
Not prepaid, half-
peck, 65c; peck, $1.25.
EARLY MINNE-
S O T A. — A splendid
and standard variety;
ears are good size,
the grains sweet and ten-
der. Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt.,
10c; pt., 18c; qt., 30c. Not
prepaid, half-peck, 75c;
peck, $1.25,
CHAMPION EARL
This is the largest-eared
early sort. It matures
»v within a few days as quick-
COUNTRY gentleman, as j-he ex£ra early sorts
and is so much larger that it is preferred for mar-
ket growing. The gardener should be sure and
have this corn to follow his first early sort, 'as the
small corns will not sell in competition with
Champion Early when it is ready to market. Pkt.,
5c; V2 pt., 12c; pt., 20c; qt., 35c. Not prepaid, half-
peck, 85c; peck, $1.50.
COUNTRY GENTLEMAN. — We have a stock of
this excellent sweet corn that is exceptionally true
to type. There is no sweet corn that compares
with the Country Gentleman for sweetness. It is the variety par excellence where quality
is desired. Market gardeners who make a specialty of growing for hotels and high-class
restaurant trade use this as a main crop variety in preference to any other. For home
use it will be found superior and it is very productive. The fact that it is a favorite
variety with canners proves its merit. Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt., 12c; pt., 20c; qt., 35c. Not
prepaid, half-peck, 85c; peck, $1.50.
STOWELI/S EVERGREEN SUGAR CORN. — The standard
late sweet corn. Being large eared, hardy and productive,
sweet and tender, it remains a long time in condition suitable
for cooking. Our seed being most carefully selected for depth
of kernel, size of ears and freedom from flint and glaze, we
know that it will give satisfaction. Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt.,
12c; pt., 20c; qt., 35c. Not prepaid, half-peck, 65c; peck, $1.25.
MAMMOTH SUGAR. — A large late variety having ears of
mammoth size, 14 .to 20 rows. Quality excellent, not exceeded
by any variety. A good canners’ variety, being white grained
and very uniform. A week later than Stowell’s Evergreen.
Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt., 15c; pt., 25c; qt., 40c. Not prepaid, half-
peck, 85c; peck, $1.50.
LATE SWEET FODDER CORN. — See page 34. Per qt., 25c,
postpaid. Not prepaid, half-peck, 35c; peck, 65c; bushel, $2.25;
2 bushels for $4.25.
POP CORN
In every household where there is a child, particularly on
the farm, there ought to be plenty of popcorn in the garret.
It is easily grown, occupying but little space in the garden.
MAMMOTH WHITE RICE. — This is a splendid strain of
White Rice Popcorn, producing large ears, with large ker-
nels that pop to great size. It is carefully bred for purity
and excellence. Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt., 12c; pt., 20c; qt., 35c.
Not prepaid, half-peck, 60c; peck, $1.10.
QAJEEN’S GOLDEN. — Has a smooth grain of bright golden
yellow, which pops a rich cream yellow and is particularly
attractive on this account. A good producer, and is splendid
for chicken feed. Large pkt., 5c; y2 pt., 12c; pint, 20c; qt., 35c.
Not prepaid, half-peck, 60c; peck, $1.10.
SWEET COEN FOR FODDER
10
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
CUCUMBERS
One ounce for 50 hills; three pounds per acre in hills.
ARLINGTON WHITE SPINE CUCUMBER
ARLINGTON WHITE SPINE. — This improved strain of the standard White Spine variety
is pronounced by good judges superior to all others. Fruit is even and of good size,
straight, well formed and symmetrical. It is of uniform shape, making it unexcelled for
pickling. Immensely productive and keeps solid and crisp a long time. This is one of our
specialties and we know results will please the grower. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; V± lb., 35c;
lb., $1.25.
JAPANESE CLI3IBING. — The vines are vigorous, strong growing, and unlike most vari-
eties can be trained upon fences, trellises, etc. Fruit is dark green, large and straight.
Makes good pickles and is splendid for slicing. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; V± lb., 50c; lb., $1.50.
EARLY CLUSTER. — Fruit of the slim form desirable for pickling. It is extra prolific,
generally setting in clusters of two and three. These are generally regarded as the most
desirable for small pickles. If the fruits are kept gathered, the vines will continue in
bearing. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 35c; lb., $1.25.
IMPROVED LONG GREEN. — Ours is a selected stock of this standard sort. Vine vigor-
ous and productive, forms fruit fit for the table as early as the shorter sorts. Matured
fruits are about 12 inches long, firm and crisp. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 35c; lb., $1.25.
NICHOL’S MEDIUM GREEN. — A valuable and handsome variety, in size between White
Spine and Long Green and is thus called a medium sort, though in reality it is quite large.
It is an excellent sort for pickles and useful for forcing. Very prolific. Fruit straight and
smooth; color dark green; flesh tender and crisp. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb.., 35c; lb., $1.25.
DAVIS’ PERFECT. — Introduced and named by the originator of the Davis Wax Bean
and Grand Rapids Forcing Lettuce. Mr. Davis has for years been forcing cucumbers under
glass for the Chicago and Detroit markets, and it has been his ambition to produce a
cucumber that would be as handsome in appearance and sell as well grown inthe ordinary
way in the open ground. He has at last succeeded. It has an .ideal shape, and the hand-
somest color of all cucumbers. It is a type of the most perfect size. Eating qualities sur-
pass anything we have ever tried. It is almost seedless one-third of its length from the
stem end, and the .seeds when it is in slicing condition are so small and tender that they
are unnoticed. It is enormously produc-
tive. It does not change its dark, rich
color when grown outdoors; in fact, it
resembles a hothouse cucumber so close-
ly that dealers cannot tell the difference,
and are willing to pay as much for it as
the hothouse production. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
15c; % lb., 40c; lb., $1.50.
EXTRA EARLY EXPRESS. — The fin-
est early cucumber. Illustrated on back
cover page and fully described with our
Capital Collection on the inside back
cover. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 45c;
lb.. $1.50.
BOSTON, OR JERSEY PICKLE. — This
is one of the most popular pickling sorts
in general use, and is used almost exclu-
sively by the market gardeners near
Boston for growing for pickles. Pkt.,
5c; oz., 10c; M lb., 30c; lb., $1.00.
IMPROVED CHICAGO
is the most popular sort on the Chicago
market, and originated with a
pickle grower near that city. Grows
quickly and is a wonderful bearer of fine,
well-shaped fruits. While specially de-
sirable for producing small pickles it also
makes fine slicing cucumbers in its
larger sizes. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; *4 lb., 40c;
lb., $1.20. BOSTON OR JERSEY PICKLE CUCUMBER
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
11
EGG PLANT
IMPROVED NEW YORK SPINELESS. — The handsomest type
and most perfect strain of Egg- Plant in existence. The plants
are stocky and low branching, stalks entirely free from spines,
and produce continually handsome, deep purple fruits of largest
size and most perfect symmetry. The plants usually bear eight'
to ten immense fruits of the finest quality before being killed
by frosts. Large pkt., 10c; oz., 35c; x/4 lb., $1.20.
ENDIVE
Endive is used as a salad like lettuce and is very popular for
summer and fall use. The seed is planted in the open ground,
in June or July, as a second crop. Seed should be drilled in
an inch below the surface, and the soil presed firmly about it.
in autumn the endive is blanehed by tying the leaves together
or laying a board upon the plant, or covering with a box for a
week. Use 4 or 5 lbs., of seed per acre; 1. oz. to 300 feet of row.
GREEN CURLED. — Extra curled. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; ^4 lb.,
40c; lb., $1.25.
GOURDS
IMPROVED NEW YORK EGG PLANT
GREEN CTJRLED ENDIVE
DIPPER. — A well-known and useful gourd.
When grown on the- ground the stem is much
curved; but on a trellis the weight of the fruit
makes the stem or handle straight. This gourd
is very much in demand. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c.
SUGAR TROUGH. — A very large gourd,
holding from 4 to 10 gallons, with a hard,
thick shell!, but light and durable, lasting for
years. It is employed for a variety of pur-
poses, from a bucket to a hen’s nest. Make 4
hills 8 feet apart each way. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c.
NEST EGG. — This interesting gourd produces
white fruit exactly the size and shape of a hen’s egg.
The matured fruit does not crack, and will serve for
year as a nest egg, for use in darning stockings, or
for ornamental purposes. The vine is a rapid grower,
useful for covering screens or trellises. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c.
GARDEN LEMON
This looks just like a miniature musk melon of the
old type. Fruit is of the shape shown in our engrav-
ing, is somewhat smaller than Vine Peach, which it
resembles in growth, but has a thinner flesh, and is
decidedly acid, thus dispensing with the sliced lemons
so important in putting up the Vine Peach. It is used
for sweet pickles and preserves in the same way that
melons and cucumbers are prepared. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c.
Gourds are tender annuals, of trailing or climbing habit.
The seed should not be planted until the ground is warm.
Plant in hills and cultivate as cucumbers. Leave only three
or four plants, and allow the vines to train over a trellis.
DISH CLOTH. — The peculiar lining of this valuable
gourd gives it its name. The fruit grows about two feet
long. The interior membrane is serviceable for a variety
of household purposes, being used as a dish cloth .or sponge.
The fibre is
t o u g h, elastic
and durable.
Start seed un-
der glass in the
North. Pkt.,
10c; oz., 35c.
PICKLING AND PRESERVING
A SPECIAL OFFER FOR THESE USES.
One packet Yellow Ground Cherry, 1 packet Citron
Watermelon, 1 packet Vine Peach, 1 Packet Garden
Lemon, 1 packet Yellow Pear Tomato. These five
packets of seed will produce an abundance of fruit
for preserves and sweet pickles — in fact much more
than an ordinary family can use. The vegetables are
so easily raised and so little trouble to conserve that
every housewife will be delighted with them. All five
packets postpaid for only 20c.
GROUND CHERRY
Also called “Husk Tomato.” It is a very popular little fruit, and
deservedly so, as it is really a valuable aid to the housewife at
fruit preserving time. They grow well on almost any dry soil; are
easier raised than the tomato, are prolific bearers, and oh! what
luscious fruit. For sauce or pies they are excellent. They are de-
licious as preserves and when dried in sugar are much better than
raisins for cakes and puddings, and they will keep in the shuck, if
kept in a cool place, nearly all winter. No one, after raising them
once, will ever make a garden again without devoting a portion to
•O0* “zo !ogg “zo % !oqi ‘"^d -Aajaqo punoaf) ®q*
12
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
DWARF GERMAN KALE
KALE OR BORECOLE
DWARF GERMAN. — This is more hardy than
cabbage and makes excellent greens for winter
and spring use. Leaves are curly bright green,
very tender and delicious in flavor. Sow seed
in May or June, transplant in July and culti-
vate same as cabbage. For early spring use,
sow in September; protect over winter with
a covering of straw or litter. Pkt., 5c.; oz.,
10c; M lb., 25c; lb., 60c, postpaid.
KOHL RABI
One ounce produces about 2,500 plants.
Is generally classed as belonging to the
cabbage, but is rather intermediate between
cabbage and turnip. The illustration shows
its manner of growth. It is really an excel-
lent vegetable and worthy general cultivation.
EARLY WHITE VIENNA.— The most popu-
lar variety. Flesh clear white, tender and
brittle. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; *4 lb., 50c; lb., $1.75.
LEEK
Leeks are a species of
onion, growing readily
from seed, but do not
form large bulbs. Used
like new spring onions,
but it is best to draw
up the earth around the
stem if you want them
to blanch white and become
tender. They are perhaps
more pungent than most on-
ions, but are really valuable
if you want green onions for
late summer and fall use.
AMERICAN FLAG. — A large
growing variety that is hardy
and well flavored. The sort
that is most popular with
American growers. Pkt., 5c;
oz., 15c; % lb., 40c; lb., $1.25.
CHILDREN’S DAINTIES
SEVEN PACKETS OF GARDEN
DAINTIES FOR THE CHILDREN
POSTPAID FOR ONLY 25 CENTS.
Children are particularly fond of
sweet things — nuts and “goodies’
generally. Most of the older folks
also enjoy the dainties that are part
of the winter’s store in most house-
holds. We want to help to interest
the young folks in gardening. We
want them to start as our customers
now, so we can secure their trade in
future years as needs develop. To
further this idea we are making a
special bargain offer of various items
that will appeal to £11 lovers of good
things to eat, but especially to the
children, as they will want to grow
for themselves the items offered. Our
assortment contains:
One packet Pop Corn, one packet
Garden Lemon, one packet Ground
Cherry, one packet Peanuts, one
packet Rocky Ford Musk Melon, one
packet Kleckley’s Sweet Watermelon,
one packet Vegetable Oysters.
HERBS
Don’t neglect to order a few varietes of herbs. Harvest
them properly, on a dry day when not quite in full bloom,
dry quickly and pack closely and entirely exclude from the
air. Those marked with an asterisk (*) are perennial.
Anise. — Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c. Castor Oil Plant. — Pkt., 5c;
Balm. — Pkt., 5c., oz., 75c. oz., 10c; % lb., 20c; lb., 50c.
Basil, Sweet. — For flavor- ^Chamomile. — Largely used
ing soups, stews, etc. Pkt., for medicinal purposes. Pkt.,
5c; oz.. 15c. 10c; oz., $1.50.
Borage. — Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c. Dill. — Seeds sown for dill
♦Caraway. — Seeds are used pickles. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; M
for flavoring bread, etc. Pkt., lb., 20c; lb., 60c.
5c; oz., 10c. *Fennel, Sweet. — Pkt., 5c;
*Catnip, or Catmint. — Pkt., oz., 10c.
5c; oz., 30c. Horehound. — For seasoning American flag leek
Coriander. — Seeds used in and cough remedy. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c.
WHITE VIENNA
KOHL RABI
confectionery. Pkt.., 5c; oz.,
10c- V, lb.. 25c.
Hyssop. — For asthma and catarrh. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c.
Lavender. — Used as a perfume. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c.
Marjoram, S w e e t. —
Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c.
* Rosemary. — Aromatic
leaves. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c.
Saffron. — Flowers used
for coloring. Pkt., 5c;
oz., 15c.
*Sage. — Much used for
dressing. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
10c; % lb., 40c; lb.. $1.40.
Summer Savory. — Used
for flavoring. Pkt., 5c;
oz., 10c; !/4 lb., 30c.
♦Thyme. — Pkt., 5c; oz.,
20c.
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
13
LETTUCE
One ounce for 2,000 plants.
CRYSTAL. HEAD. — Our specially choice
novelty which is shown in colors on the back
of the catalogue, and is one of the items in
our Capital Collection offered on that page.
It is really fine. Pkt., 10c; oz., 25c; % lb.,
75c; lb., $2.50.
CALIFORNIA CREAM BUTTER. — A cab-
bage lettuce, with round, solid head; outside
medium green, slightly marked with small
brown spots; within, leaves are very rich
cream yell<ow color, rich and buttery to the
taste. Heads good size, compact, very hard
and solid. In California they eat the heart
only, with a dressing of olive oil, vinegar,
salt and pepper. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; ^4 lb.,
35c; lb., $1.25.
DENVER MARKET. — An early variety o'
head lettuce, either for forcing or open
ground. It forms large, solid heads, of a
good light green color, and is very slow to
go to seed. The leaves are beautifully marked
and blistered (like the Savoy cabbages) and very
orisp, tender and of excellent flavor. By these
blistered leaves it distinguishes itself from any
other kind grown. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 40c;
lb., $1.25.
BLACK SEEDED SIMPSON. — Nearly double the
size of ordinary Curled Simpson. Stands the sum-
mer well without becoming tough or running to
seed quickly. It is by far the most popular va-
riety for greenhouse forcing, making large, hand-
some, loose heads in a very short time. Gardeners
are always pleased with our seed. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
15c; % lb., 50c; lb., $1.60.
IMPROVED HANSON. — For general use, both of
market gardeners and in the private gardens this
stands first, and we are sure that no variety can
JLr,.,.jn.L^ surpass our improved, carefully selected strain of
CALIFORNIA CREAM BUTTER Hanson lettuce. Has been so judiciously improved
that the heads are so solid that often they do not send up a seed stalk unless cut open
with a knife. Heads are very large, green outside and nearly white within, deliciously
sweet, crisp and tender, and almost absolutely free from rank or bitter taste. Resists the
summer heat exceptionally well. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; *4 lb., 50c; lb.,. $1.60.
GRAND RAPIDS. — A forcing variety of superior quality and beautiful appearance, strong
grower, free from rot, and keeps crisp and tender without wilting when exposed for sale
longer than any forcing lettuce. It is also a desirable variety for sowing in open ground.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; *4 lb., 50c; lb., $1.75.
EARLY CURLED SIMPSON. — This is the standard
loose heading variety for outdoor growling. It is a
greatlj- improved strain of Curled Silesia and sur-
passes: the parent variety in ability to withstand the
sun and boat of summer and will not run to seed so
quickly. If well grown with thorough cultivation it
is very brittle and crisp and excellent in flavor.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; y4 lb., 30c; 1J>., $1.00.
PRIZE HEAD. — A rather loose heading variety with(
dark green leaves, shaded and variegated reddish)
brown. It is an old variety, but is by far the most
desirable of the brown-leaved sorts and ranks well
up with the leading varieties in popular favor. Al-
ways satisfactory in crispness and flavor. Grows
rather open in form and makes large plants. Stands
the sun and does not blister, rot or get bitter from
weather conditions. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; lb.. 35c*
lb., $1.20.
IMMENSITY. — The largest of lettuces.
Many times producing heads fully a foot
and a half in diameter. The heads are
quite solid, remarkably crisp and ten-
der, and of fine quality. A splendid sort
for open ground culture and main crop
growing in spring. Will find ready sale
when the market is crowded, simply be-
cause of extra size and attractiveness.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 50c; lb., $1.75.
EVERYBODY’S GARDEN C0LLE0TI0N
A bargain collection containing those
items that everyone grows and all enjoy.
1 Pkt. Dewing’s Blood Turnip Beet.
1 Pkt. Golden Wax Beans.
1 Pkt. Improved Valentine Beans.
1 Pkt. Early Curled Simpson Lettuce.
1 Pint Yellow Bottom Onion Sets.
1 Pkt., Scarlet Globe Radish.
1 Pkt. Icicle Radish.
1 Pkt. Matchless Tomato.
1 Pkt. Snowball Turnip.
ALL POSTPAID FOR ONLY 40 CENTS.
IMPROVED HANSON
EARLY CURLED SIMPSON
14
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
CHALLENGE ROCKY FORD
MUSK MELONS
One ounce to 60 hills; two or three
pounds per acre, in hills.
ROCKY ford. — This new variety,
which might be described as an im-
Netted Gem, has everywhere
in great demand by the high-
hotels and restaurants. Hundreds
carloads of them have been shipped
the little town of Rockyford, Col-
to Chicago, St. Louis, New Or-
Philadelphia, Newport, Boston,
and other cities, driving out the home
grown. The melons are of just the
right size for table use, slightly oval
in shape. The flesh is thick, of a light
green color, and a fine, juicy, luscious
flavor. It is very early, and is wonder-
fully productive. Our stock is grown
at Rockyford and is genuine, true to
type and carefully selected. Pkt., 5c;
oz., 10c; *4 lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
BURRELL. GEM. — An improved type
of Rockyford melon. It is about the
same size and outside appearance is
similar to that popular variety. We
i , ^ .. - , , . , think, however, it is sweeter, with more
spice, and the flesh is of beautiful rich orange shade, so that when served it presents a
most appetizing appearance. These melons sell 'better in the large markets than the com-
mon Rocky Ford, as the bright color of the flesh makes them more attractive for hotels,
restaurants and eating places. It is certainly the melon of quality. Pkt., 5b; oz., 15c; %
ID., 4(Jc| ID., $l.Z5i
OSAGE. — One of the best melons on the market for family use and also greatly liked by
gardeners. The skin is thin, of dark green color, and slightly netted. The flesh is salmon
color, remarkably sweet and spicy in flavor, extremely thick and delicious to the rind. The
S'eGa cavity is very small. It is seldom that one of poor Quality is found. The whole- crop
is very even and extra heavy, owing to the thickness of the meat. All lovers of fine
melons should try the Osage. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 45c; lb., $1.50.
EXTRA EARLY HACKENSACK. — -A selection of the popular Hackensack, but quite ten
days earlier. Fruit attains a good size, heavily ribbed and netted, thick, light green flesh.
This is one of the best of the larger sized musk melons, has been a standard variety for
many years and is very popular in the markets of the large eastern cities. Takes first
place with the melon growers of New Jersey and the east Maryland coast. Pkt., 5c.; oz.,
15 c ; % lb., 35c; lb., $1.25.
PAUL ROSE. — A hybrid or cross of Netted Gem
IRockyfordj and Osage varieties, retaining the best
features of both sorts. It has the light salmon
flesh of the Osage, together with medium size and
heavy thick flesh of that type, and also has the
fine netting and luscious flavor of the Rockyford
type. It bears the name of the originator, who is
known as a producer of fine melons, and by him
is considered his best variety. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c;
% lb., 40c; lb., $1.25.
EMERALD GEM. — Undoubtedly the finest in
flavor and the earliest to ripen, and while too soft
to stand shipping any great distance, is unequaled
for home use or nearby markets. Vines of strong
and vigorous growth; very prolific. Is rather small
and flattened at both ends. Emerald green, smooth
and free from netting, heavily ribbed, with narrow
bands of light green between ribs. Flesh very
thick, crystalline appearance, and of rich salmon
color. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; XA lb., 40c; lb., $1.25.
BAY VIEW. — Fruit of largest size, frequently ten
or fifteen pounds. Deep ribbed and coarse netted.
Best of large, late maturing sorts. Many persons
prefer the old form of musk melon which was large
and long, and we offer this as the best of the type. It
is of good flavor, productive, with firm flesh, and does
not rot quickly. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 45c; lb., $1.50.
BANANA. — An entirely distinct variety, bearing
long, ■slender, banana-like fruit with a flavor and tex-
ture all its own. Very much liked by most people.
Skin is creamy-white and entirely free from
netting. Flesh deep salmon color, thick and
of good quality. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; XA lb.,
70c; lb., $2.50.
A FEW REPORTS ABOUT THE
GREATER DES I^OINES TOMATO.
Topelca, Kan., November 1, 1911.
I believe the Greater Des Moines To-
mato to be the best of the' several va-
rieties grown by me this year. Out of
four varieties, which included my
favorite, the Ponderosa, the Greater
Des Moines did the best. — P. H. Forbes,
Eldora, Iowa, November 6, 1911.
I find the Greater Des Moines To-
mato is one of the finest and most pro-
lific I ever raised. We gathered ripe
tomatoes from the vines the second
week in July and they continued : to
bear until the frost killed, them, — Mrs
John Moore.
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
15
WATER MELON
COLE’S EARLY. — Decidedly the finest
early variety for the private garden, but is
too brittle for long shipments. It is very
early and will mature farther north than
most other sorts. Of medium size, very
productive, continuing to bear throughout
the season. Flesh of bright red color, of
granulated, sparkling appearance. In flavor
lusciously sweet and refreshing. Pkt., 5c;
oz.. 10c; x/4 lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
KOLB’S GEM. — A standard variety of ex-
cellent quality. Grows large, nearly round,
beautiful form and color. Dark green with
lighter stripes makes it very attractive in
appearance. Splendid shipping melon, as it
carries a long distance and stands up better
than most others. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; M lb.,
20c; lb., 60c.
TO 31 WATSON. — Shape very similar to
Kleckley’s Sweet, but has as its distinctive . hie-hlv recom-
feature thick netting over the entire surface It is a new so^ and i? i<f claimed
mended by those who have grown it. Ships fully as well « Kolbs Ctem and $1 20
to be far superior to that variety in quality. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c, A lb., Zbc, l •» * ' * this
PHIXNEY’S EARLY.— Few if any of the early sorts of recentintroduction surp: ss
old favorite. It is first to ripen, of good size, and productive shape, on pkt 5c*
tinct mottled color; the flesh is of deep red; a first-class early market melon. Pk ., ,
OZpEEULES^ Or’ice CREAM.-The old, but extremely popular "TJf^size almost
There is none better, nor a more handsome melon grown. ^ It is medium m s e ,
round, the skin a pale green, slightly mottled, flesh bright scarlet. Pkt., c , ., ,
^KECKLEY’S 6 SWEETS ( 3Ionte C risto ) .—We re gar d this as the Angst ^Ua
watermelons for
home use. The
rind is too thin
and tender to
stand long dis-
tance shipment.
The fruits are
uniform in size,
I oblong in form;
the skin is a
rich, dark green;
the flesh is of
bright scarlet,
ripening close to
the skin; the
seeds are close
to the r.ind, leav-
ing a very large,
solid, red core,
that does not
crack open when
ripe. The flesh
rich, sugary
and melting to
the highest de-
gree, being en-
tirely free from stringiness. As before said, we regard it as the finest of all melons for
home use. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 30c; lb., $1.00.
SWEETHEART. — Early, large, handsome, heavy, good shipper, long keeper, bright color
and of good quality. Its vines are vigorous and productive, ripening the fruit early. The
fruit is large, oval, very, heavy, uniformly ^nottled light green and dark green; rind thin,
but firm. The flesh is bright red, firm, solid, but very tender, melting and sweet. Pkt., 5c;
oz., 10c; % lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
BLACK DIAMOND. — All that could be said of the Kolb’s Gem as to good shipping
qualities can be truthfully stated in a higher
degree of the Black Diamond. All the praise of
high quality bestowed on the Sweetheart can be
repeated of our new melon, but its most promi-
nent point of merit is its large size and pro-
ductiveness. Its color is a rich, dark green, al-
most black. Shape, roundish to blunty oval.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; 14 lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
CUBAN QUEEN. — Fruit large, globular or
■oval; skin striped light and dark green in sharp
contrast; rind medium thick, but stands ship-
ment well. Flesh, bright red, solid, very crisp
and sugary. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; !4 lb., 20c; lb., 75c.
3IOUNTAIN SAVEET. — The old standard long
striped melon, popular for many years. Very
sweet, brittle and of best quality. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
10c; !4 lb., 20c; lb., 75c.
RED SEEDED CITRON. — Round, dark green,
striped and mottled with light green. For pre-
serving and stock feed. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb.,
CUBAN QUEEN 30cj lb., $1.00.
16
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
MUSHROOMS
Mushrooms can be grown in any dark room or cellar where
the temperature is kept at 50 to 70 degrees. From some old
pasture procure good, rich soil and store it away. To every
bushel of thfs add two bushels of fresh horse manure. Of
this well-mixed compound, prepare a bed, say four feet wide.
Put down a thin layer and pound it down hard, and so on
until the bed is twelve to eighteen inches thick. It soon be-
comes pretty hot, but let the heat recede until it is only 35
to 90 degrees. Then make holes, say a foot apart, and put
in the spawn, two or three pieces as large as a walnut to each
hole. Cover the holes and press the soil down solid and
smooth. Let the bed remain in this condition about twelve
days; then cover the bed with two inches of fresh loam and
over this put four or five inches of
hay or stray, and the work is done. If
the temperature is right, in six or eight
weeks you may expect mushrooms. The
beds will continue bearing from twenty
to thirty days. After the first crop is
gathered, spread over the bed an inch of
fresh soil, moisten with warm water,
and cover with hay as before. The main conditions in mushroom
growing are proper and uniform temperature and very rich soil. One
pound of spawn is sufficient for a bed 2x6 feet.
IMPORTED ENGLISH SPAWN. — Produced by English experts and
imported by us for our critical trade. Experience has demonstrated
its superiority, as it is from selected and most prolific varieties; has
never failed to run. Sold in bricks of about 1 % lbs. in weight at 35c each, 5 for $1.50. Not
prepaid, 10 lbs., $1.00; 25 lbs., $2.25; 100 lbs., $8.00.
MUSTARD
One ounce sows 75 feet of drill.
Mustard is not only used as a condiment, but the green leaves are used as a salad, or
cut and boiled like spinach. Cultivate same as Curled Cress
or Peppergrass. Very easily and readily grown.
WHITE ENGLISH. — Leaves are light green, mild and ten-
der when young; seed light yellow in color and preferred by
most housewives for mixing in pickle, as it does not discolor
so badly as black mustard. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; Y4. lb., 15c;
lb., 40c.
SOUTHERN GIANT CURLED. — The variety most generally
grown for greens or salads. The leaves are thick, nicely
crimped and the flavor, while pungent, is still mild and pleas-
ant. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; V4, lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
OKRA
To southern people okra is a popular garden product, as
they know its uses and value. Extra fine for soups, stews
and among boiled vegetables. Pods are to be picked while
quite young and tender, as they harden and are unfit for use
when full grown. So delicious is the flavor that when once
used it will be grown every year.
PROLIFIC WHITE, OR DENSITY. — This is a fine new
variety, much dwarfer than the ordinary large okra, and
much more productive. Short, thick pods. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c;
% lb., 25c; lb., 80c.
PROLIFIC OKRA
ONION SETS
Prices in bulk subject to change of market. Deduct 10c per quart from postpaid price if
to go bv express or freight not prepaid. . _ :: . , _
WHITE BOTTOM SETS. — Produced from our White Silver Skin onion seed sown thickly
so tha1 theyr are small, yet well grown and clean. Pint, 20c; qt., 35c, postpaid. Not pre-
paid, peck, 90c; bushel, $3.25. .
RED BOTTOM SETS. — Produced from Red Wethersfield seed. Pint, 15c; qt., 30c, post-
paid. Not prepaid, peck, 90c; bushel, $3.00.
YELLOW BOTTOM SETS. — Produced from Yellow Strasburg seed, which
makes the finest yellow set. Pint, 15c; qt., 30c, postpaid. Not prepaid,
peck. 90c; bushel, $3.00.
RED TOP SETS. — These are planted to produce both “early green
onions and large eating onions. The sets grow
in bunches at the top of the stalk, and are com-
monly" known as “button” onions. Pint, 20c;
qt., 35c, postpaid. Not prepaid, peck, $1.00;
bushel, $3.50.
WHITE MULTIPLIER. — Form the first
onions for early spring bunching. Are
pure, silvery-white color, and enormously
ductive. These are produced by multi
during the growing season and the onions come
in clusters. Flavor is excellent; mild and
not get strong from long keeping. Pint, 20c; qt.,
35c, postpaid. Not prepaid, peck, $1.25; bu., $4.25.
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
17
ONIONS
One ounce to 100 feet of drill; 4 pounds per acre.
GREATER DES MOIXES RED GLOBE.
This beautiful strain of Red Globe Onion surpasses all others in earliness, productive-
ness and long-keeping’ qualities. We have proved without doubt to some of the largest
growers of onions in the country that our Greater Des Moines Red Globe is the most per-
fect onion in existence. For several years our efforts have been directed toward the im-
provement of Globe Onions — red and white — having a definite purpose m view — first, to re-
duce the size of the neck and to cut off the projecting bottom, thus producing a perfectly
globe-shaped onion that will mature and ripen down earlier, as well as being of better
shape; second, to produce a very long-keeping onion. There has never been a season since
growers became acquainted with this variety that our stock has been sufficient to supply
the demand. We suggest, therefore, that orders be placed promptly on receipt of this
catalogue. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; % lb., 60c; lb.,
$2.00; 4 lbs. (for one acre), $7.00.
LARGE WHITE GLOBE. — White onions are
generally milder in flavor than the red or yel-
low, though they will not usually keep so
well. This, feature* however, can be overcome
by careful handling and the extra quality will
more than make up for the added trouble-.
White onions will sell better than colored
ones and bring more. Our strain of this vari-
ety is the choicest. The seed will produce
jreat, large, fine onions, of beautiful paper-
iw-hi'te color, solid and even in size. We con-
Isider it the finest white globe strain in exist-
ence. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; % lb., 65c; lb., $2.25.
EARLY QUEE.V (White Barletta). — A small
Jwhite variety sown for early bunching and for
producing pickling onions. Much quicker to
reach marketable size than any other variety
and also matures in much less time. We do not
recommend them for general crop, as they are
too small, but for the uses mentioned they are
unequalled by any other onion grown from seed.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 50c; lb., $1.75. -
GOLDEN GLOBE. — The best of the Yellow
Globe type. Illustrated in color on back cover,
page, and offered in our Novelty Collection. Pkt..
5c; oz., 15c; y4 lb., 50c; lb., $1.75; 4 lbs., $6.40.
AUSTRALIAN BROWN. — A new, medium
sized, wonderfully hard and solid variety of
onion, and one which is quite attractive for the
market, both in form and color. They are ex-
tremely early in ripening, and produce a crop of
fine bulbs which are very uniform in size. Color
is a peculiarly clear, amber brown, quite dis-
tinct from any other variety. In keeping qual-
ities it exceeds any other variety that we know
of. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; M lb., 45c; lb., $1.50.
WHITE PORTUGAL, OR AMERICAN SIL-
VERSKIN. — Produces early onion of mild flavor;
largely used for growing sets and pickle onions.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; % lb., 65c; lb., $2.25.
SOUTHPORT RED GLOBE. — The standard
Red Globe; productive; splendid keeper. At-
tains great size; quality excellent. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
15c; *4 lb., 50c; lb., $1.85.
L ARGE RED WETHERSFIELD. — The stand -
ord red sort; more flattened than the globe
shaped varieties, but attains a large size; very
popular; a splendid keeper. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c;
*4 lb., 45c; lb., $1.50.
YELLOW GLOBE DANVERS. — Perfectly globe
shaped; heavy cropper; excellent keeper, and
large size. Most excellent flavor, mild and
sweet. Has yielded by actual test over 1,000
bushels per acre. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb., 40c;
lb., $1.35.
PRIZE TAKER. — It is one of the largest,
handsomest and most profitable varieties. By
sowing early and transplanting, it can be grown
to an extraordinary size. The Prize Taker onion
is globe shaped, of a clean, bright yellow or
straw color; has a small neck and ripens up
hard. Keeps well until about midwinter. Flesh-
thick, white, mild and agreeable in flavor. It is;
easily grown, medium early in maturing. This
is the large yellow variety commonly sold on
the markets as “Spanish” onions. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
20c; V4 lb., 60c; lb., $1.85.
MAMMOTH SILVER KING. — Of attractive
shape, with silver- white skin and flesh of most '
agreeable, mild flavor. Larger size than any
other of the flat varieties, often measuring
twenty inches in circumference. Must be thinned
Gout to stand five inches apart in the row in
jorder to produce the largest sized onions. Pkt.,
7c; oz., 15c; % lb., 50c; lb., $1.75.
18
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
PEAS
GREATER DES MOINES
One quart will sow about 125 feet of
drill; IV2 bushels an acre.
GREATER DES MOINES.
New Sweet Wrinkled, Mammoth Podded
Pea.
This splendid pea is of the same large
podded type as the Telephone and the
Duke of Albany, but the pods are larger
and the peas sweeter. Excelling, as it
does, in these particulars the two noted
sorts mentioned, the Greater Des Moines
Pea surpassed all other large-podded va-
rieties in another particular, that of pro-
ductiveness. In other words, a pint of
Greater Des Moines pea pods will yield as
many shelled peas as a quart of most
other sorts; a bushel, as many as two
bushels. Quality is always to be preferred
to quantity, but a pea which will give bet-
iter quality and larger quantity is the pea
to plant — that pea is the Greater Des
Moines. This pea came to us from Europe,
where the pea crop ,is very short this year,
.as is, in fact, the case all over the world;
.therefore, the quantity we offer is limited.
On this account we urge early orders and
that at least a small quantity of these
peas be included with every order as far
as possible. Pkt., 10c; % pt., 25c; pt., 40c;
<qi., 75c. Not prepaid, half-peck, $1.75;
peck, $3.25.
AMERICAN WONDER.— Height, 10 in.
Seeds, green; wrinkled. Is a great favor-
ite. on account of its earliness and excel-
lent quality; is particularly adapted for family use, as it requires no brush or other sup-
port. Pkt., 10c; % pt., 20c; pt., 35c; qt., 70c. Not prepaid, half-peck, $1.75; peck, $3.10.
ALASKA. Height, 2% feet. Seeds blue. Very early and exceedingly uniform in ma-
turing its crop. A great favorite with canners and southern truckers. Pkt., 5c; 14 pt., 20c;
pt., 35c; qt., 70c. Not prepaid, half-peck, $1.50; peck, $2.75.
FIRST AND BEST. — Height, 2% to 3 feet. Standard, white seeded, extra early, favorably
known in all pea trucking centers. Pkt., 5c; V2 pt., 20c; pt., 35c; qt., 65c. Not prepaid,
balf-peck, $1.60; peck, $2.75. ’
GRADUS (Prosperity). — Height, 30 inches. As an extra early pea, the Gradus, being
wrinkled, is far superior to all smooth varieties, not only in its delicious quality, but also
in the long pods. While the early smooth varieties contain but four or five peas to the
pod, the Gradus usually contains eight to twelve. Pkt., 10c; y2 pt., 30c; pt., 45c; qt., 80c.
Not prepaid, half-peck, $2.25; peck, $4.25. *
NOTT’S EXCELSIOR. — Height, 12 inches. Seeds green, wrinkled. Resembles American
Wonder, but preferred by many as being a little less dwarf and having larger pods. Qual-
ity fine. Pkt., 10c; V2 pt., 25c; pt., 40c; qt., 80c. Not prepaid, half-peck, $2.00; peck, $3.75.
LITTLE GEM. — Height, 14 inches. Seeds green, wrinkled. Yields profusely. Excellent
quality. One of the very best for family use. Remains fit
for use longer than the Wonder and Excelsior, and thought
by many to be sweeter. Pkt., 5c; V2 pt., 20c; pt., 35c; qt., 70c;
Not prepaid, half-peck, $1.85; peck, $3.25.
TELEPHONE, TRUE STOCK. — Gardeners prefer this pea
to any other. Our stock this year has been carefully se-
lected. Vines and leaves are large and coarse. Long,
straight pods, filled with large, tender, sweet peas of fine
flavor. Pkt., 5c; x/2 pt., 20c; pt., 35c; qt., 70c. Not prepaid,
half-peck, $1.75; peck, $3.25.
STRATAGEM.-^-Vigorous habit, luxuriant foliage. A heavy
cropper. A general favorite not only in private gardens,
but also for gardeners. Large, handsome pods, well filled.
One of the most desirable sorts. Pkt., 5c; V2 pt., 20c; pt., 40c;
qt., 75c. Not prepaid, half-peck, $2.00; peck, $3.50..
DWARF WHITE MARROW. — Much better than the old
White Marrowfat. Pods larger, well filled, and of the true
marrow flavor Pkt., 5c; V2 pt., 20c; pt., 30c; qt., 50c. Not
prepaid, half-peck, $1.25; peck, $2.25.
.FIRST & BEST
CROP SHORTAGE THIS SEASON
Several items in the vegetable seed list gave very poor
crops this season, but none are so near an absolute failure
as Peas. There has been a shortage of this item for three
Reasons until now it is almost a famine. Prices are unusu-
ally high, but we are offering them at retail at the very
lowest prices in order to take care of our regular customers
as best we may. We fear that our stocks may be exhausted
before the end of the season and ask our friends to send in
their orders early so that we will not have to disappoint
them.
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
19
CURLED PARSLEY
PEPPERS
One ounce seed to 1,500
niants.
GOLDEN DAWN
Sweet, handsome, yel-
low. Splendid for man-
goes, as it is lighter, in
color when ready for
use than are the red
sorts. Pkt., 5c; oz., 30c;
V4 lb., $1.00; lb., $3.00.
RUBY KING. — Beau-
tiful bright red, large
fruit, mild, one of the
best. Pkt., 5c; oz., 30e;
lb., $1.00; lb., $3.00.
BONG RED C A Y-
F'lNNE. — Bright red, pods
! mall. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c;
14 lb., 75c; lb., $2.50.
BARGE BELL, OR
BULL NOSE. — Large and
mild, early, favorite
sort. Large pkt., 5c; oz., 25c; y4 lb., 75c; lb., $2.25.
CHINESE GIANT. — The largest of the peppers, the
fruits growing to enormous size. Flavor is mild and
shape is just right for a market pepper. By far the fin-
est sort for suffed peppers, as they hold so much more.
Flesh is unusually thick, and they are frequently sliced
and served as a salad. Pkt, 10c; oz., 50c; % lb., $1.50.
PARSLEY
Soak bed for several hours and sow in border or
frame. Thin the rows or transplant to another
bed. If to be carried late into the fall, set 8 inches
both ways, and cover with litter. It will go
through the winter with moderate protection. Us©
one ounce of seed to 150 feet of drill. Make open
air sowing in April.
DOUBLE CURBED. — The variety so gener-
ally popular with hotels and restaurants for’
sesrving with meats and to garnish fancy
dishes of all kinds. Fine, dwarf, crimped1
leaves. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; y4 lb., 40c; lb., $1.25.
HAMBURG TURNIP ROOTED. — The part
generally used is in the fleshy root, which re-
sembles a small parsnip, and is esteemed for
flavoring soups, stews, etc. The flesh is
white, a little dry and with the flavor of
Celeriac. The foliage is the same as the plain
parsley. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15e; y4 lb., 30c; lb., $L
PARSNIPS
IMPROVED H O B B O W
CROWN. — Don’t depend on
old parsnip seed for your,
sowing. It won’t grow.
This item you have to buy
fresh each year, as it loses
vitality quickly. Our stock
of this old favorite is very
smooth and fine. Pkt., 5c;
oz., 10c; V4 lb., 20c; lb., 50c.
IMPROVED TABLE
UERNSEY. — Roots some-
what shorter but thicker
than Hollow Crown. Extra
heavy cropper and extra
quality. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15 e;
% lb., 40c; lb., $1.20.
PEANUTS
CHALLENGE RED. — Peanuts can be successfully
grown in almost any place where corn succeeds. Every
part of the peanut is useful. They do best on a light
sandy soil, but any open
soil will do. The ground
should be plowed deep-
ly and thoroughly har-
rowed. Careful tillage
is important. All weeds
and grass should be
killed to give the plants
all the food in the soil.
The seed peanuts should
be carefully hulled to
prevent breaking the
skin on the kernels.
They should !be planted
in rows two and a half
to three feet apart and
ten to twelve inches
apart in the row. Cover
with about two inches
of earth. When they
are matured, pull them
up and expose to the sun
for a few days. Large
pkt., 10c; lb., 40c, post-
paid. Not prepaid, 5 lbs.,
f 1.25; 10 lbs., $2.00,
20
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
PUMPKINS
One ounce to 15 hills.
SWEET, OH SUGAR.— This is a miniature field
pumpkin in appearance, but is richer and sweeter
and better for culinary uses. It is a very prolific
and handsome pumpkin; usual size about 10 inches
I in diameter; skin a deep orange yellow. Excellent
(for pie purposes. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 20c; lb., 60c.
KENTUCKY FIELD (Large Cheese). — A popular
variety. Is generally known as “sweet” pumpkin.
Fruit flattened, the diameter being 2 or 3 times more
than the length. Skin mottled light green and yel-
low, changing to rich cream color as it matures;
flesh tender and of excellent quality. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
10c; % lb., 20c; lb., 60c.
CONNECTICUT FIELD.— This is the commonly
known cow or Yankee pumpkin and is one of the
KENTUCKY FIELD best for field culture; can be grown with corn,
largely used for stock for winter feeding and makes splendid pies, though not quite so
rich as some of our other varieties. Oz., 5c; lb., 15c; lb., 40c, postpaid. Not prepaid,
5 lbs., $1.40; 10 lbs., $2.50.
MAMMOTH PRIZE. — The king of all pumpkins. Has been known to weigh over 225
pounds. It has a
salmon-colored skin,
flesh bright yellow,
fine grain and of ex-
cellent quality, and a
splendid keeper. It
is truly a colossal va-
riety, and if you wish
to astonish your
neighbors and win
first premium at your
state fair,
to include
of “Mam-
Pumpkin”
your order for
other seeds. Pkt., 5c;
oz., 15c; ^lb., 45c;
lb., $1.50.
WINTER LUXURY
(Golden Russet). — A
little beauty. About
the size of the small
sugar pumpkin, but
the skin is russeted
and the color is a
lighter shade of yel-
low. Its attractive
appearance makes it
very desirable for a
market sort. It also
has quality. Unsur-
passed by any variety
in sweetness and fine texture. Customers who know it prefer it to other sorts. It is a
splendid keeper and will stand up a long time. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 25c; lb., 80c.
GOLDEN CUSHAW.-A golden type of the
old-fashioned Jonathan variety, and pre-
ferred on account of its attractive color.
Shape is long with a crooked neck, which is
solid and seedless. It is very popular be-
cause there is so little waste when compared
with the ordinary round types of pumpkins.
Flavor and texture equal to any, and keeps
splendidly. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 25c;
lb., 80c.
CONNECTICUT FIELD
WHAT CUSTOMERS SAY
YOU WILL HAVE EQUALLY GOOD RESULTS WITH
OUR SEEDS.
The Greater Des Moines Tomato proved to be
you claim for it, and all of the seeds I
from you grew well. The onion seed did
well. — L. B. Cooley, Oklahoma.
All of the seeds I purchased of you did ivell.-
Mrs. H. H. Fleener, Iowa.
All of the seed I got from you did fine. My let-
tuce, onions and peppers xoere specially nice. — I.
Bradley, Kansas.
All the seeds received from you came up and did
well. I like the Greater Des Moines Tomato just
fine. It did well for me, has a fine flavor and is
a good producer .■ — Mrs. Fred Fisher, Iowa.
the plants I purchased from you did very well.
The Greater Des Moines Tomato was very good in-
deed.—Anna C. Smith j Iowa.
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
21
SCARLET GLOBE
RADISHES
One ounce to 100 feet of drill; S or 10 lbs.-
per acre, in drills.
EARLY BIRD. — The earliest of all round
red radishes. Really wonderful how quick
it matures; illustrated and listed on back
cover of the catalogue in the Novelty Col-
lection. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; *4 lb., 30c; lb., $1.
CRIMSON GIANT FORCING. — A variety
extraordinary in that, while growing to an
unusually large size, it is always tender,
crisp and of mild flavor. It remains in per-
fect condition a remarkably long time, and,
unlike other forcing varieties, does not be-
come pithy even when twice their size in diameter. Root
turnip shaped, color a beautiful crimson carmine; flesh firm,
crisp and tender. While a very desirable early forcing va-
riety, we specially recommend it for outdoor planting. Pkt.,
5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 30c; lb., $1.00.
EARLY SCARLET TURNIP, WHITE TIPPED. — We have a
very clean and beautiful strain of this popular sort. It is
extremely early and is largely used both for growing under
glass and outdoors. One of the most attractive radishes for
the table. Large pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 20c; lb., 60c.
ROSY GEM. — The handsomest of white-tipped round rad-
ishes. Quick grower, very early, small top and splendid qual-
ity. We offer it specially in the Capital Vegetable Collection
on the back cover page of this book. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb.,
20c; lb., 60c.
EARLY WHITE TURNIP. — A medium sized variety, grown
very largely for summer use. It takes about 30 days to ma-
ture and remains fit for use a long time after reaching edible
size. Large pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
EARLY SCARLET GLOBE. — Fine for forcing or open
ground. The shape is a little longer than round, and the
color, which it holds long after pulling, is very brilliant and
attractive. Large pkt., 5c;
•oz., 10c; % lb., 30c; lb., 75c.
FRENCH BREAKFAST. —
A great favorite. Beautiful
bright scarlet, with pure
white tip. Oval in shape;
fine for open ground or forc-
ing. Large pkt., 5c; oz., 10c;
% lb., 25c; lb., 65c.
ICICLE.— A splendid long-
variety of almost transpar-
ent whiteness. Produces nice
CHARTIER roots in twenty-two days
.... from date of sowing, and it
continues in prime condition for a long period, so that in
one sowing of seed, nice, crisp radishes may be had from
spring until midsummer. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 30c:
lb., $1.00.
WHITE STRASBURG. — Of a handsome, oblong, taper-
ing^ shape, both skin and flesh are pure white. The flesh
nrm. brittle and tender and retains its crispness even
n old and large. Excellent for summer use. Pkt., 5c;
ez., 10c; 14 lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
LONG WHITE VIENNA, OR LADY FINGER. — Pure
white in color, of long, tapering shape, very attractive in
appearance; sweet, mild and delicious. Large pkt., 5c;
oz., 10c; lb., 20c; lb., 60c.
LONG SCARLET SHORT TOP. — A standard popular
sort. Grows to six inches in length,- matures quickly and
can be used before it is fully grown. Large pkt., 5c; oz.,
10c; !/4 lb., 20c; lb., 65c.
CHARTIER, OR SHEPHERD.— The largest and hand-
somest summer sort. The .color at the top is of vivid
crimson, fading gradually to pure wnite at tip. Is de-
licious in flavor, resists drouth effectively. Large pkt.,
5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 20c; lb., 70c.
WINTER RADISHES.
Sow about the same as winter turnips.
The radishes must be taken up before severe frosts
and stored in a cool cellar and covered with earth. Put
them m cold water an hour before using. Every family
should raise a supply of winter radishes.
CHINA ROSE. — Bright rose color; flesh firm and piq-
uant; oblong in shape; one of the best for winter use.
Large pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; %■ lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
LONG BLACK SPANISH.— One of the largest and best
for winter use. Large pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 20c; lb., 60c.
CELESTIAL or All Seasons. — A large white radish for
late summer and fall. It is in our opinion thfe best of the
late radishes. Quality excellent and very productive.
Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c: % lb., 30c; lb., $1.00.
22
CATALOGUE OP CHALLENGE SEEDS
4 to
with
It is a splendi
lb., 30c; lb., $1.
CHICAGO W
in size and qua
are vigorous a
dark olive-gre<
warted. Very
cellent keeper
5c; oz., 15c;
GREGORY’S
keeper. Pkt.
HUBBARD,
to our stock i
standard sort
passed. Pkt.,
SALSIFY OR VEGETABLE OYSTER
One ounce for 60 ft. of drill.
MAMMOTH SANDWICH ISLAND. — This new Salsify, recently in-
troduced from the Sandwich Islands, grows fully double the size of
the common variety, and is superior in quality. It is pure white in.
color, and is invaluable to market gardeners. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb.,
50c; lb., $1.25.
SPINACH
One ounce to 100 ft. of drill; 10 to 12 lbs. in drills per acre.
BLOOMSDALE, OR SAVOY LEAVED. — Standard sort. It grows
quickly to suitable size for use, but soon goes to seed. It is one of
the hardiest varieties. Quality is excellent. Large pkt., 5c; *4 lb.,
20c; lb., 35c.
LONG STAND-
ING.— R ound,
thick leaved;
stands longest
without run-
ning to seed.
Best for family
use. Large pkt.,
V; % lb., 20c;
lb., 35c.
Either vari-
ety, not pre-
paid, 5 lbs., $1.
MAMMOTH SANDWICH
ISLAND SALSIFY
SQUASH
LONG STANDING SPINACH
One ounce for 50 hills, 4 to 6 lbs.
per acre, in drills.
WHITE BUSH SCALLOPED.—
Earlier than any other variety, of
dwarf habit, and productive, and occupies less room on the ground than any other. Pkt.,
5c; oz., 10c; *4 lb., 25c; lb., 80c.
GOLDEN SUMMER CROOK NECK. — Early and prolific. The fruits are of the true crook-
neck type, heavily warted, and of light golden color. Fruits when matured are about one
foot long. One of the most popular sorts for
home and market. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; % lb.,
25c; lb.. 95c.
PERFECT GEM. — Is a strong grower, as
■ as twenty-four squashes having been
2 on a single vine. Squashes are from
6 inches in diameter; of a creamy white,
thin, smooth shell, slightly ribbed. Flesh
i cooked is dry, sweet and rich in flavor.
"l keeper. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c;
~ HUBBARD. — Is similar
^ ___ j Hubbard. The vines
1 productive, while the large,
fruits are rather more heavily
handsome in appearance; an ex-
and of splendid quality. Pkt.,
A lb., 40c; lb., $1.25.
J DELICIOUS. — Mr. Gregory, the
the Hubbard squash, writes us
this new variety of his in dryness, sweet-
; and richness of flavor, surpasses all other
’ ?. The shell is green in color, the flesh of a rich orange.
:; oz., 15c; *4 lb., 40c; lb., $1.25.
i great popularity of the Hubbard has led us to pay particular attention
— o important sort. It is hardly necessary to say that the Hubbard is the
sort, not only as a long keeper, but on account of its quality, which is unsur-
Pkt., 5c; oz.^lOc; % lb., 30c; lb., $1.00.
SIBLEY, OR PIKE’S PEAK. — We consider this
one of the very best winter varieties. It has the
reputation of being the only variety surpassing
the Hubbard in quality. Has large oval fruits
tapering at the blossom end. Shell hard, dark
olive green color. Flesh light orange color, of
the very best quality. Vines of strong growth
and very productive. Seed has been scarce for
several years past, but we now have a good sup-
ply. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; & lb., 30c; lb., $1.00.
BOSTON MARROW. — Second early, coming in
about ten days after the bush sorts. Skin yel-
lowish, very thin; flesh dry and fine grained, and
of unsurpassed flavor. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; *4 lb.,
25c; lb., 80c.
MAMMOTH CHILI. — Attains enormous .size,
often reaching a weight of 200 lbs. Despite its
size, its flesh is rich and fine flavored. It is es-
pecially desirable for stock feeding and exhibi-
tion purposes. Pkt., 5c; o? 15c; % lb„ 40o;
lb., $1.20.
SIBLEY SQUASH
An excellent winter
HUBBARD SQUASJI
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
23
TOMATOES
*4 lb. to trans-
THE STONE TOMATO
One ounce to 1,500 plants;
plant an acre.
SPARK’S EARLIANA. — Is as near seedless
aS any tomato we ever saw, containing less
than one-fourth the seeds of other varieties,
and for this reason the genuine seed can,
never be sold at a low price. Pkt., 10c; oz.,
35c; % lb., $1.00.
STONE. — Its solidity and carrying qual-
ities are far in advance of any other
sort now known. Its color is a rich
red; shape perfectly smooth and thicker from
stem to blossom end than most varieties,
making it very handsome and salable. While
:n every particular this tomato is especially
good, its leading characteristic is its remark-
able solidity, which places it in this respect
far ahead of any other sort. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
25c; % lb., 75c.
PONDEROSA. — This is the largest fruited
tomato and is of fine quality for slicing. The
vines are of strong growth; fruits oblong in
form, deep through, and generally ridged or
ribbed; deep purple in color. They are solidly
fleshy with small seed cells; of fine flavor.
Planted in good soil, fruits frequently attain
a weight of one pound or more. Pkt., 5c; oz., 35c; % lb., $1.00; lb., $3.50.
CRIMSON CUSHION. — A continuous and late fruiter. Of immense size, often weighing
a pound, and smooth as an apple. Ripens thoroughly all over. Nearly round and of very
good quality, being free from acid taste; color, bright scarlet. Nearly seedless and as
solid as beefsteak. A prodigious bearer. Pkt., 5c; oz., 35c; *4 lb., $1.00; lb., $3.50.
GREATER DES 3IOINES. — Our own magnificent large tomato which we are making our
leader, and offering as special on the back page of the cover of the catalogue. Color shown
in the lithograph and included in our Novelty Collection. See page. 65. Pkt., 15c; oz., 75c.
MATCHLESS. — This great tomato is well named. The color is a rich, cardinal red. The
skin is so tough that it is a splendid keeper and shipper, and is less liable to crack in
wet weather than any .other large tomato. Unsurpassed for market or for table. The
plant is a strong grower, and is very productive. The fruit is free from core, and the seed
spaces are small. Thd leaves are of a rich, dark green color, and very luxuriant, indicat-
ing great vigor, and giving the plant ability to produce fruit of the largest size through-
out the entire season. It stands at the front as a large, bright red, main crop sort, and we
can safely highly recommend it to all our friends, and especially to those who are running
market gardens. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c; *4 lb., 75c;
lb.. $2.50.
JUNE PINK. — This may briefly be described as
a pink Sparks’ Earliana. About ten days earlier
than most of the early sorts. Fruits medium size,
smooth, wthout cracks or green core. Skin is
tough, thus making it a good shipper. Color is
bright pink. Pkt., 5c; oz., 35c; % lb., $1.00;
lb., $3.50.
PERFECTION. — This s shaped like the Acme,
but is larger, fully as early, perfectly smooth,
blood red in color, very solid, and a heavy crop-
per. It is one of the first of the large, smooth va-
rieties introduced and it still retains a place among standard vari-
etes of merit. Constant selection and careful breeding for many
-years have brought it up in quality, and we really think it is the
:equal of any of*the newer sorts as a main crop tomato. Pkt., 5c;
’oz., 20c; % lb., 65c; lb., $2.25.
FAVORITE. — Ripens evenly and early; holds its size to the end
of the season; free from cracks, and does not rot at the blossom
end; very prolific, good flavor, few seeds, flesh solid; bears shipping
long distances. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; *4 lb., 65c; lb., $2.25.
DWARF CHAMPION. — Leads all others in productiveness; foliage
very distinct; puplish pink; ‘flesh .solid; earljr; fine quality; may be
planted 3x3 feet or even more closely. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; rA lb., 75c;
lb., $2.50.
BEAUTY. — A decided favorite for either home
market or shipping purposes, being early, hardy,
a strong grower, productive, large size, always
smooth, perfect in shape and excellent in quality.
The color is very glossy crimson with a tinge of
purple. It grows in clusters of four to six large
fruits, retaining its large size late in the season.
It ripens with Acme and Perfection, and is en-
tirely free from ribbed and elongated fruit. Pkt.,
5c; oz.„ 25c; V4 lb., 75c; lb., $2.50.
GOLDEN QUEEN. — Some persons do not care
for yellow tomatoes, yet they will appeal to those
who desire to have color in table effects, as when
sliced they contrast nicely with the red sorts.
This variety is of brght lemon yellow color, large,
smooth and among the best of the large yellow
varieties. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c; % lb., 75c; lb., $2.50.
YELLOW PEAR. — Fruits are yellow, pear-
shaped, growing in clusters. Excellent. Pkt., 5c;
MATCHLESS TOMATO OZ., 30c; V4 lb., 75c.
24
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
TOP
TURNIPS
One ounce for 150 feet of drill; 1 to 2 lbs. per acre.
EXTRA EARLY PURPLE TOP MILAN. — The
earliest turnip. Tops are very small, distinctly
strap-leaved, and .growing- very erect and compact.
Bulbs form earliest of any sorts. Roots small and
shapely. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; M lb., 40c; lb., $1.20.
PURPLE TOP STRAP-LEAVED. — This is un-
doubtedly the most popular sort. A general fa-
vorite with all, and more largely grown than any
other turnip; will do well to sow either broadcast
or in drills, and will form good-sized bulbs in seven
or eight weeks. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; hi lb., 20c; lb., 60c.
NIMBLE DICK. — Our special strain of white flat
purple top globe turnip, and is really the finest and tenderest of all.
Tt is a very popular sort for either table use or for market; grows quickly, comes early;
clear white skin and flesh of juicy, mild flavor and excellent quality; produces bulbs en-
tirely free from small roots. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 20c; lb., 60c.
WHITE EGG TURNIP. — A quick grower; a grand, good keeper; excellent either as an
early or late variety. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; hi lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
purple
PURPLE TOP WHITE GLOBE. — Of a perfect globe shape, about six inches n diameter,
with smooth skin two-thirds white with purple top, flesh pure white and crisp, of quick
growth. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; hi lb., 20c; lb., 65c.
GOLDEN BALL, OR ORANGE JELLY. — A very beautiful and bright yellow turnip, of
medium size and universally sweet and delicious flavor. It is hardy and one of the best of
keepers. Flesh extremely firm and solid. Brngs a good price on the market. Pkt., 5c;
oz., 10c; hi lb., 25c; lb., 70c.
RUTA BAGA
PRIZE WINNER. — This
is a purple top, yellow
flesh variety. The roots
reach to a good size and
are exceedingly uniform
in appearance. The Prize
Winner is an all around
Ruta Baga, suited
every purpose and every
soil. We do no
to say that in
Winner we possess the
handsomest and most pro-
ductive stock of purple
top Ruta Baga known to
the trade. We have sold
many pounds of this mag-
nificent strain and have
never received one com-
plaint about them. Large
pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; hi lb.,
20c; lb.. 60c.
NIMBLE DICK,
TOBACCO
Tobacco is looked upon generally as a distinctive southern crop,
but this is an error and a great deal is now being produced success-
fully in the northern states. . , ~
CONNECTICUT SEED LEAF. — Grown over a wider range of ter-
ritory than any other sort. It is well adapted to this climate and
largely grown for cigar fillers. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c; hi lb., 75c.
WHITE BURLEY. — The variety most largely grown m the South
and the most popular market variety with manufacturers, as it is
used for all the various processes, with the best results; a splendid,
vigorous grower and heavy yielder. Pkt., 5c; oz., 40c; hi lb., $1.2o.
TOBACCO
VINE PEACH
Also listed by seedsmen as Melon Peach and Mango
Melon. Grows on a vine somewhat similar to the
muskmelon vine, and requires the same
The fruit is about the size of a large peach,
shaped, and is of a bright orange yellow color, sc
what russeted. For sweet pickles, pies or
they are superb. A jar of these cut in halves
cooked in syrup present a beautiful and tempting
pearance. In general the methods used in
melon conserves or pickles will be found adapted
the use of this fruit. Where fruit is scarce, they are
becoming popular, as they are easily cultivated, won-
derfully prolific, and can be used in every way in
which you would use a peach, except that they are
not usually liked raw. Pkt., 5c; oz., 25c; hi lb., 75c.
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
25
CHIVES. — Perfectly hardy little
VEGETABLE PLANTS
They can be shipped fresh, well packed at the
beds, on a day’s notice. Plants quoted “by mail” are
sent at our expense; “by express” the purchaser is
to pay the express charges. No charge either for
packing or boxes. Early orders filled soon as plants
are ready.
CABBAGE PLANTS. — Early Varieties. — Ready by
April 10th. Jersey Wakefield and Early Spring.
Mail, 25 for 35c; 100, $1.00; by express, 100, 85c;
1,000, $7.50.
CABBAGE PLANTS. — Late Varieties. — Ready May
15th. Surehead, Premium Flat Dutch and Drumhead.
Mail, 25 for 25c; 100, 65c; by express, 100, 45c; 1,000,
$3.50.
CAULIFLOWER PLANTS. — Ready April 15th.
Henderson’s Snowball. By mail, doz., 25c; 100, $1.50;
bv express, 100, $1.25; 1,000, $10.00.
CELERY PLANTS. — Ready May 1st. White Plume
and Golden Self-Blanching. Mail, doz., 20c; 100, 75c;
express, 100, 60c; 1,000, $4.50. Outdoor grown, after
June 15th, by express, 100, 40c; 1,000, $3.00.
EGG PLANTS. — Ready May 1st. New York Spine-
perennials of the onion tribe, and less. Mail, doz., 25c; 100, $1.25; by express. 100, $1.00.
are grown entirely for their tops,
which are used wherever the flavor and Large Bell. By mail, doz.
of onion is required. Plant in small express, _100^ $1.0(p 1,000, $7.50
clumps in any common garden soil
PEPPER PLANTS. — Ready May 1st. Ruby King
" “ 25c; 100, $1.25; by
TOMATO PLANTS. — Ready May 1st. Strong trans-
and they will grow readily. The planted plants: Earliana, Dwarf Champion, Beauty,
tops appear very early in spring and Matchless. By mail, doz., 25c; 100, $1.40; by express,
can be shorn throughout the season.
In New England it is considered in-
dispensable for. use in omelets.
Roots per bunch, 15c; 3 for 35c;
doz., $1.00.
GARLIC. — Species of onion prop
Not transplanted, by express,
100, $1.20; 1,000, $7.50.
100, 75c; 1,000, $5.00.
GROUND CHERRY.— Ready May 15th. Improved
Yellow. By mail, doz., 25c; 100, $1.25; by express,
100 for $1.00.
SWEET POTATO PLANTS. — Ready May 1st.
agated by dividing the bulbs* into Plants strong and vigorous, well rooted, hardy. Can
small pieces, planting each one sep- furnish either the Yellow Nansemond or Early Yel-
arately. Pungent, used for flavor- low Jersey. Write if you want a large lot. Prices
ing soups, stews, etc. Per lb. 40c, vary. By mail, 100, 60c; by express at purchaser’s
postpaid. By express, lb. 25c- 10 express, 100, 45c* 1,000, $3.25.
lbs., $2.25.
HORSE RADISH.— Plant the. sets
small end down in rows 2 feet apart,
about 18 inches apart in the row in
rich, loose soil, covered about 2 or 3
inches. Doz., 15c; 100, 75c, postpaid.
By express, per 100, 50c; 1,000 for $4.
CARDEN PLANTS
ASPARAGUS ROOTS.
Our roots are strong and healthy.
We recommend the one-year-old
roots as more desirable for general
planting than the two-year-old, as
well as cheaper.
CONOVER’S COLOSSAL-Oae
year plants. — Doz., 25c; 100 for 90c,
postpaid. By express or freight, not
prepaid, 100 for 60c, 1,000 for $4.00.
Two-year plants.— Per doz., 50c;
100 for $1.40 postpaid. Bv express
or freight, not prepaid, 100 for 90c,
1,000 for $6.00.
PALMETTO. — One year plants. —
Per doz., 30c; 100 for $1.00, postpaid.
By express or freight, not prepaid,
100 for 75c, 1,000 for $5.00.
Two-year plants. — Per doz., 55c;
100 for $1.50, postpaid. By express
or freight, not prepaid, 100 for $1.00,
1,000 for $6.50. horse radish sets it, for use of its aromatic
HOP ROOTS. — A fine varietty of commercial hops. Vines leaves in seasonng salads,
are ornamental with the added value from crop produced, soups, pickles, etc. Each,
Each, 15c; 3 for 25c; d'oz., $1.00. 15c; 3 for 40c; doz., $1.25.
HOLT’S MAMMOTH SAGE.
— Great improvement on com-
mon sage. Plants very strong
growing, first season attain-
ing one foot in height, and
so spreading that a single
plant covers three feet in
diameter; leaves borne well
above soil; very large and of
unusual substance, strong in
flavor and of superior qual-
ity. A single plant of Holt’s
Mammoth will yield more
than a dozen of the common;
hardy. Each, 10c; 3 for 25c;
doz., 75c. MAMMOTH SAGE LEAF
RHUBARB ROOTS.
MAMMOTH. — The largest
and best. Strong roots 25c
each; doz., $2.00, postpaid.
By express, not prepaid, per
doz., $1.50.
LEMON MINT.— Also called
Citronelle and Bergamont
Mint. A perennial, hardy
herb, the leaves of which
furnish a sweet lemon fra-
grance and flavor. Each, 10c;
LAVENDER. — A favorite
plant for perfume. Each,
10c; 3 for 25c.
PEPPERMINT. — Has high
medicinal value. Each, 10c;
3 for 25c; doz., 75c.
SPEARMINT.— I s c o m-
monly called Mint and im-
mense quantities of it is sold
annually in cities for flavor-
ing salads, garnishing meats,
mint julep, etc. Each, 10c;
3 for 25c; doz., 75c.
TARRAGON.— Appreciated
thoroughly by all who know
26
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
CLOVER
Alfalfa Clover
This is becoming
very popular in Iowa
and the eastern middle
states, while it is by
far the principal grass
crop west of the Mis-
souri river. It is a
most valuable forage
plant for permanent
meadows and pastures
as it will make three
to six crops of hay per
year in good seasons.
Like our clovers, it
builds up the fertility
of the soil, and we
carry both a Challenge
and a Staple grade,
priced according to
quality. Ask for sam-
ples and prices. By
mail, postpaid, lb., 40c;
3 lbs. for $1.10.
ABsike Cloves*
This is the clover for wet land, and is
also preferred by many farmers for sow-
ing with timothy, as it is not so coarse
in growth as the common red, while its
feeding value is fully equal to it. There
is comparatively no waste in feeding al-
sike hay. We offer the same grades of
this as of our other clovers and will
mail samples and name
prices as wanted. By
mail, postpaid, lb., 40c;
3 lbs. for $1.10.
white; dutch
CLOVER.
A good clover for
lawns and bees. By mail,
postpaid, lb., 70c; 3 lbs.
for $2.00.
SWEET OR BOKHARA
CLOVER.
Quantity price on ap-
plication. By mail post-
paid, lb., 40c; 3 lbs., $1.10. alfalfa plant
We give special attention to this de-
partment of our business, and are in
position to supply you with varieties
of grain that have proven to be best
by field trials, not tested plots. We
shall ’give you grass seeds of quality
only. We shall handle no grass seeds
that do not fully meet all the require-
ments of the Iowa Pure Seed Law, and
our Challenge Grades will be very
much superior to even that high standard.
PRICE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. — Mar-
kets on grain and grass seed change con-
stantly and in our Farm Seed Department
prices are quoted subject to change of price
without notice. Should change occur, how-
ever, you Will be notified before shipment.
PRICES ARE NOT PREPAID. — The pound
prices include prepayment of seeds so
quoted, the larger quantities are to go by
express o>r freight not prepaid.
NO CHARGE FOR BAGS. — The prices
quoted include payment for bags to ship in
and for delivery to the freight depots in
Des Moines.
NO WARRANTY IS GIVEN. — All seeds
which we send out are tested for vitality and pur-
ity, and we have full confidence in them, but we
went it distinctly understood that we give no
warranty, express or implied, as to description,
uali.ty or productiveness, or any other matter,
ny seeds, bulbs or plants we sent out, and we
not be in any way responsible for the crop.
If you do not want seed on
these terms, they may be
returned to us at once and
money paid for them will
be promptly refunded.
Med. Red Clover
CHALLENGE GRADE.
This is the most impor-
tant item for the western
farmer in our entire stock,
and is one to which we de-
vote extreme care in clean-
ing, handling and ship-
ping, and our Chal-
lenge grade is so extra
choice that we urge
our farmer friends to
send for a sample and
prices, as we cannot
make a -price in this
catalogue, owing to
the constant change in
value which occurs al-
most daily. By mail,
postpaid, lb., 40c; 3
lbs. for $1.10.
STAPLE GRADE.
This grade of seed is bet-
ter than the requirements of
the Iowa Pure Seed Law, and
in fact is better than most
clover seed sold, but is not
quite so bright in color, nor so
free from impurities as is our
Challenge grade. We will be pleased,
however, to submit samples and prices
of this grade along with the Challenge
grade if you ask us to do so. W- ask
a chance to compete for your trade on
the comparative basis of quality and
price. By mail, postpaid, lb., 40c; 3 lbs.
for $1.10.
Mammoth Red Clover
We offer you the same grades of
Mammoth or sapling clover that we do
of the common red clover and will sub-
mit samples and prices for your con-
sideration. By mail, postpaid, lb., 40c;
3 lbs. for $1.10.
Challenge Farm Seeds
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
2?
CHALLENGE GRASS SEEDS
We take as much care in the selection and quality of our grass
seeds as we do of clover. You need not hesitate to order from us
because if the seed don’t suit you when it arrives, send it back
and we will return your money.
TIMOTHY. — The most important of all grasses. We sell two
grades, “Challenge” and “Staple,” and the price is according to
quality supplied. Timothy is scarce and high in price this sea-
son, and there is an element of uncertainty about it that makes
it impossible for us to name a specific price, but when you are
ready to buy, let us know and we will send samples and prices.
By mail, postpaid, lb., 30c; 3 lbs., 75c,
KENTUCKY BLUE GRASS. — Our grade of Kentucky Blue Grass
is fancy cleaned, new crop, Kentucky, grown, and is plump, bright
seed, and better both in purity and vitality than the blue grass
seed commonly sold. It is by far the best of all grasses for lawns
and make a permanent pasture of finest quality. By mail, post-
paid, lb., 45c; 3 lbs. for $1.25. Not prepaid, per bushel (14 lbs.),
$4.50; 5 bushels for $22.00.
ORCHARD GRASS. — A valuable grass for pasture or hay land,
and on acount of its earliness very valuable for permanent pas-
tures. 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. Suited to shady places, orchards and groves. Sow 15 lbs. per acre. Per lb.,
4Qc; 3 lbs., $1.10 postpaid. By frt., bu. (14 lbs.), $3.75; 5 bushel or more at $3.60 per bu.
TIMOTHY
CHALLENGE LAWN GRASS. — Many customers want a lawn grass
that will keep green during July and August when, blue grass is dor
mant. If you have plenty of water and method of applying it you can
keep blue grass growing all the time, but unless you can do this it
will stand still, turn brown and dull, and look poor during the latter
part of summer. To avoid this we have made a mixture of seeds of
different lawn grasses which will make a green lawn from early spring
until the ground freezes for winter, and offer it to you under the name
of Challenge Lawn Grass. It is not expensive, and will supply a dense
green turf that will make the lawn a thing of beauty at all times. Use
1 lb. to each 20 ft. square. By mail, postpaid, lb., 50c; 3 lbs., $1.35. Not
prepaid, per bu. (15 lbs.), $4.75.
RED TOP. — A very hardy native perennial grass which succeeds best
on moist land. Fancy cleaned or solid seed. Per lb., 40c; 3 lbs., $1.00,
postpaid. By freight, per bu. (14 lbs.), $3.50; 5 bu. or more at $3.35 per bu.
PERENNIAL RYE GRASS. — Or English Rye Grass. — Well adapted for
permanent meadows. Sows 20 lbs. per acre. Per lb., 30c; 3 lbs., 75c, post-
paid. By freight, bu. (14 lbs.), $1.85; 5 bu. or more at $1.70.
ITALIAN RYE GRASS. — Annual variety; will give a large crop first
year. Sow 20 lbs. per acre. Per lb., 30c; 3 lbs., 75c, postpaid. By freight,
per bu. (14 lbs.), $1.85; 5 bu. or more a,t $1.70 per bu.
SWEET VERNAL. — Valuable on account of delicious perfume; when
lncIud,e^ in hay its aroma is imparted to other grasses. Per lb., 35c; 3 lbs.,
$1.00. By freight, bu. (14 lbs.), $3.25; 5 bu. or more at $3.10 per bu.
RHODE ISLAND RENT. — Used for particularly close, heavy turf. Per
lb., 60c; 3 lbs., $1.50, postpaid. By freight, bu. (14 lbs.), $4.40.
MSLLET
The millets are of Wonderful value to farmers generally. You don’t
have to sow them until June or July and by that time you can know
whether you are going to have hay enough for your needs. There is
nothing that you cam sow so late and make a crop of hay, and for this
reason nearly every farmer can use more or less millet seed, and the
demand is enormous every year. We cannot make a price that will gov-
ern the entire season. When ready to buy ask for prices. We can sup-
ply any kind.
28
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
Challenge Seed Grains
In this line we handle only the best grade of seed grains. The
only way to improve your grain crops is to sow heavy, well-
ripened, plump seed, unmixed and pure bred, and these require-
ments are all met in the quality we supply. You have to be very
careful about your own grain. The threshermen are very apt
to leave you with oats in your wheat, rye in the oats, op a dozen
different mixtures in the grain they thresh for you., and you
can’t separate them. We won’t sell you that kind. Ours will
be pure, free from mixture, from fields of highest yield, and
while they will cost a trifle more, they are really worth four
times the price of ordinary grain for seeding purposes.
SEED WHEAT
Sow wheat; sow spring wheat, sow winter wheat, sow macaroni
wheat. Sow any kind that meets your needs and conditions. All
wheat is profitable now. Will yield more dollars per acre than
oats or corn, and is fine as a nurse crop for grass seeds.
EARLY JAVA WHEAT. — For several years past this has given
far better satisfaction in central Iowa than any other variety
and wherever introduced it is driving all other sorts out. The
growers are delighted with it. Ten days earlier than Velvet
Chaff or other standard sorts, and escapes the extreme hot
weather so injurious to small grain. Yields in this locality ordi-
narily about 35 bu. per acre. Per lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c, postpaid.
By freight or express, not prepaid, pk., 65c; bn., $1-85; 2 bu. or
more at $1.75 per bu.; 10 bu. for $16.00.
VELVET CHAFF, or Blue Stem
Wheat. — Standard variety and it is
now the main crop in the Northwest
where the great milling kings use it
for their highest grade flour. Per lb.,
25c; 3 lbs., 60c, postpaid. By freight
or express, not prepaid, pk., 65c; bu.,
$1.75; 2 bu. or more at $1.65 per bu.;
10 bu., $15.00.
CHALLENGE WINTER WHEAT. —
(Selected Turkish Red)— The best in
all respects of any winter wheat. We
recommend it without reservation.
Many crops are reported of 35 to 45
bushels. Everyone is delighted with
it. Ask for price in the fall. Price
by mail, per lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c. By
freight or express, not prepaid, pk.,
60c; bu., $1.60; 2 bu. or more at $1.50
per bu.; 10 bu. for $14.50.
MACARONI, or Durum Wheat. —
(Kubanka) — Per lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c,
postpaid. By freight or express, not
prepaid, pk., 65c; bu., $1.85; 2 bu. or
more at $1.75 per bu. ; 10 bu. for $16.00.
SEED OATS
Change your seed oats. Get a fresh
start of a thoroughbred variety,
which is pure and unmixed and grown
in Iowa, the center of oats production
in the United States. The best au-
early java WHEAT thorities agree that Iowa oats are the
best in the country for seed purposes. We have as good as
can be found in Iowa and so if you buy of us you will get the
best to be had.
SWEDISH SELECT. — Distributed by the U. S. Department of
Agriculture and very highly recommended by them. It war-
rants the praise bestowed upon it, and is really a very valuable
variety. Grain is usually very heavy and plump. Pk., 40c; bu.,
$1.20; 3 bu. or more at $1.10 per bu. ; 10 bu., $10.50; 25 bu., $25.00.
EARLY CHAMPION. — This variety has comparatively short
straw, matures a week to ten days earlier than other kinds,
largely escaping the liability of rust. Its greatest value lies
in its adaptability as a nurse crop to grow with grass seed,
as it does not stool freely as some other sorts. It will not
lodge on rich land Pk., 35c; bu, $1.20; 3 bu. or more at $1.10
per bu. ; 10 bu., $10.50; 2'5 bu. or more at $1.00 per bu.
SILVER MINE.— A popular variety in some sections; has the
reputation of yielding immense crops of 100 to 160 bu. per acre.
The grain is usually large, plump and heavy, but has a reason-
ably thin hull. It is quite a hardy, vigorous variety and has
greatly pleased our customers. It stands up well and has
shown littlje tendency to rust or lodge unless soil was very rich.
Pk., 35c; bu., $1.20; 3 bu. or more at $1.10; 10 bu, $10.50; 25 bu.,
$25.00.
LINCOLN. — One of the very best and most popular varieties,
frequently yielding over 100 bushels per acre. On account of
its soft nib, and heavy meat and thin hull it is unsurpassed for
feeding or making into oatmeal. Pk.. 40c; bu., $1.20; 3 bu. or
more at $1.10; 10 bu., $10.50; 25 bu., $25.00.
EARLY CHAMPION OATS
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
29
SEED BARLEY
MANDSCHEURI. — Improved strain of standard six-
rowed bearded barley. The standard market variety
by which all are graded and therefore the most pop-
ular bearded sort. It is an early variety, very strong,
stiff straw, stands up and stools well. It bears large,
well filled heads of plump-berried grain. Per lb., 25c;
3 lbs., 60c, postpaid. By freight, pk., 50c; bu., $1.85;
2 bu. or more at $1.80; 10 bu. or more at $1.75 per bu.
SUCCESS BEARDLESS. — Very valuable variety. The
earliest barley known. The straw is about the height
of common barley, but better, and will stand up on
any land; on good land will produce 80 bushels per
Sow as early as you can; frost does not hurt it.
Many farmers will not grow barley on account of the long,
harsh beards which are so disagreeable in threshing, al-
though it is a profitable crop. This is beardless and as
easy to grow and handle as oats. It has hulls like the
Mansury or any other old variety, and is a heavy cropper,
yielding from 50 to 75 bushels per acre, and the quality is
excellent, both for malting and for feeding hogs. Per lb.,
3 lbs., 60c. By freight, pk., 75c; bu., $2.25; 2 bu. or more
at $2.15; 10 bu. or more at $2.10 per bu.
SEED RYE
CHALLENGE SPRING RYE. — Quite different from winter rye;
successfully grown in any latitude. The straw is of special
value as it stands six or eight feet high, being better than that
of winter rye and producing nearly four times as much straw
as oats. Produces 30 to 40 bushels of grain to the acre. As it
does not stool like winter rye, not less than two bushels to the
acre should be sown. There is always a demand for first quality
beardless barley rye straw and the price is nearly always remunerative. The dou-
BEARDLess barley crop Gf s,traw and grain make it one of the most profitable
farm crops. Pkt., 5c; lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c, postpaid. By freight,
pk., 60c; bu., $1.90; 2 bu. or more at $1.80; 10 bu. or more at
$1.75 per bu.
CHALLENGE WINTER. — We consider Winter Rye one of
the most important of all farm crops. It is usually sown in
the fall, and as it grows very vigorously, will furnish pas-
ture till late in the fall and also early in the spring before
other grasses have made a growth. If sown early in the
spring it makes an early and abundant pasture, but makes no
grain crop. Our Challenge Rye is of extra quality. Pk., 50c;
bu., $1.50; 2 bu. or more at $1.40; 10 bu. or more at $1.35 per bu.
SEED FLAX
It will pay you to sow nice, pure, high-grade flax
several years the available supply has not equaled the
and prices have ruled very high. Our seed is thoroughly re-
oleaned, free from mustard or any other weed seed and is as
good as can be purchased anywhere. Don’t buy flax seed on
open market. It is generally full of weed seed. One of the
most profitable crops, especially on new land. Price subject
to change. Per lb., 20c; 3 lbs.. 50c, postpaid. By freight or
express, not prepaid, pk., $1.00; bu., $3.50; 2 bu. or more at
$3.40; 10 bu. or more at $3.30 per bu
GRAINS OF SPELTZ
SPELTZ
A comparatively new grain generally grown and handled in the
same manner as barley. Is of high value for feeding and will make
a fair grade of flour similar to rye. Will grow well and produce
immense crops on poor soil, and dry weather appears to have no
effect on it; will make a good crop with almost any condition of
soil and climate. It makes excellent pasture and good hay if cut
at proper season. It yields 70 to 100 bushels of grain to the acre,
besides several tons of straw for feeding. The grain is very rich
for feeding and of superior quality for fattening hogs, cattle, sheep,
etc. May be sown in the spring or fall, 50 to 75 lbs. per
lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c, postpaid. By freight or express, not
pk., 50c; bu. (35 lbs.), $1.26; 2 bu. or more at $1.10; 10 bu.
at $1.00 per bu.
BUCKWHEAT
Buckwheat is a valuable crop for those parts of the farm which
always seem to be left unplanted at the close of the season. As it
is generally sown in late June or early July it will fill up the vacant
plots at a time when all other planting is past and produce a profit-
able crop on what would otherwise be waste places. Use about one-
half bushel seed per acre. Prices subject to change.
JAPANESE. — A week earlier than Silver Hull and yields more.
Flour is equal to any other buckwheat, while it is more productive
than any other, and succeeds well far north. The kernels are quite
large, but the straw is heavier and it branches more; need not be
sown as thicly as other kinds. Per lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c, postpaid.
By freight or express, not prepaid, pk., 50c; bu. (52 lbs.), $1.60;
2 bu. at $1.50 per bu; 10 bu. for $14.00,
30
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
(sufficient for
‘ sort, largely grown
good appearance and
By frt. or exp., not
AMBER CANE
One of the most valuable fodder plants in exist-
ence. Eaten by cattle, horses and hogs. Dairymen
find that the cows will give more and richer milK
from its use and it is claimed that as high as ten
ton of fodder have been grown per acre. Can be
grown successfully in any part of the country. It
is usually put in during the first half of June, sow-
ing 100 pounds per acre broadcast, or 60 to 75 pounds
per acre is sown with a wheat drill. Cut in Sep-
tember or just before frost with a mower and cure
like hay, or with a binder and stand the bun-
dles up. If wanted for sorghum purposes we recom-
mend sowing the Kenney’s, which is purer, but this
cheaper grade is about as desirable for fodder pur-
poses. Price is subject to market changes, but it
usually advances later in the season. Per lb., 20c; 3
lbs., 50c, postpaid. By freight or express, not pre-
paid, 10 lbs., 50c; 25 lbs., 80c; 100 lbs., $2.75; 500 lbs.
or more at $2.50 per 100.
KENNEY’S AMBER CANE
An improved variety which will make the very
finest grade of beautiful amber syrup of delicious
flavor and many persons will prefer it for table use
to either maple syrup or honey. Easily grown and
well in all parts of the country. Sow 5 lbs.
) :r acre. Per lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 65c; 6 lbs., $1.00,
postpaid. By freight or express, not prepaid, 10 lbs.,
$1.00; 25 lbs., $3.00; 50 lbs., $5.00; 100 lbs., $8.50.
MILO MAIZE
Similar in manner of growth and uses as Kaffir
corn, although it is distinct and no one can mistake
one for the other when grown. Seeds are red. Per
lb., 20c; 3 lbs., 50c, postpaid. By freight or express
not prepaid, pk., 40c; bu. (56 lbs.), $1.50; 2 bu. or
more at $1.40 per bu. ; 10 bu. or more at $1.25 per bu.
KAFFIR CORN
A most excellent fodder plant, yielding two crops
of fodder during a season. It grows from five to six
feet high, making a straight, upright growth. The
stem or stalks keep green and are brittle and juicy,
making excellent fodder either green or dried. The
seed crop is also heavy, sometimes yielding sixty
bushels to the acre. Both grain and fodder are ex-
cellent. The stalks remains tender to full maturity
of the seed. There is no failure about it; can go
without rain without any loss in yield. The grain
is extremely valuable for feeding. Cultivated the same as common corn, requiring five
pounds of seed per acre. For fodder sow one-half to one bushel, either broadcast or in
drills. Per lb., 20c; 3 lbs., 50c, postpaid. By freight or express, not prepaid, pk., 40c; bu.
.(56 lbs.), $1.50; 2 bu. or more at $1.40 per bu.; 10 bu. or more- at $1.25 per bu.
SUNFLOWER
A small patch of cultivated sunflowers will produce an immense amount of the very best
poultry feed for winter. Drill in rows, cut with a corn harvester, dry thoroughly anfl let
the fowls do the threshing. If you can’t spare land for cultivating plant in waste corners.
MAMMOTH RUSSIAN. — An extremely large sunflower. Large
pkt., 5c; lb., 25c; 2 lbs., 65c, postpaid. By freight or express, not
prepaid, 10 lbs., $1.00; bu. (25 lb.), $2.00.
TEOSINTE
Somewhat resembles corn in its general appearance, but the
leaves are much longer and broader and the stalks contain
sweeter sap. In its perfection it produces a great number of
shoots growing as much as 12 feet high, very thickly covered
with leaves. Eighty-five stalks have been grown from one
attaining a height of 11 feet. Horses and cattle eat it as
as young sugar corn. Plant as soon as ground becomes warm
usual corn planting time, in hills 3 to 4 feet apart each way, two
seeds to the hill. Teosinte is one of the heaviest-yielding forage
plants known, having yielded 50 tons of fodder to the acre.
Large pkt. 5c; oz., 10c; XA lb., 50c; lb., $1.00; 3
acre), $2.75, postpaid.
BROOM CORN
TALL EVERGREEN. — The most popular
in the West. Produces big, fine brush of
quality. Per lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 65c, postpaid,
prepaid, pk., 85c; bu. (50 lbs.), $2.75.
DWARF EVERGREEN. — Rather late in maturing, but popular
because it produces fine brush suitable for whisks and fine
brooms. Per lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 65c, postpaid. By frt. or exp., not
prepaid, pk., $1.00; bu. (50 lbs.), $3.25.
KAFFIR CORN
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DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
31
DWARF ESSEX RAPE
This is beyond all question the
most popular and profitable of all
forage plants, and everywhere it is
giving the best satisfaction. It is
easily grown anywhere and stands
unsurpassed as a forage plant for
hogs, cattle or sheep. They eat it
greedily and seem to prefer it to
any other pasture during the sum-
mer and till late in the fall or early
winter. It can be sown early in the
season to provide early pasture for
sheep and swine or sow in small
grain a week or so before cutting to>
provide pasture after harvest, or
sow on the stubble, but it is usually
sown in June, July cr August with
corn or potatoes or on well-prepared
land alone for summer and fall pas-
ture. Makes a wonderfully produc-
tive pasture for sheep, hogs, and
cattle, and they gain flesh so rapidly
that they soon “weigh like lead.”
While it is the ideal food for sheep,
still it is of equal value for hogs;
and cattle, as they are very fond of
it. It is extremely cheap and very
prolific, having yielded twenty tons
of fodder per acre. In the East it is
usually sown in drills, two or three
pounds per acre, and cultivated, but
. dwarf essex eape in western states it is almost invar-
iably sown broadcast, four or five pounds per acre, and grows so rapidly that weeds are
quickly smoithered. Our seed is the best quality, direct from Essex, England, and far su-
perior to the cheap Dutch grown seed. Per pkt., 5c: lb., 30c; 3 lbs., 75c, postpaid. By
freight or express, not prepaid, 5 lbs., 60c; 10 lbs., $1.00; 25 lbs., $2.00; 100 lbs., $7.00.
SAi^D OR WIMTER VETCH
Recommended by U. S. Dept, of Agriculture. Succeeds and produces good crops on poor
sandy soil, but is more vigorous on good land and grows 4 or 5 feet high. Recommended for
seeding with fall rye for winter pasturage and spring hay. Perfectly hardy throughout the
United States; is green all winter. Exceedingly nutritious, more so than clover; eaten
with a relish; may be fed to all stock. Earliest for cutting and a full crop may be taken
off before planting spring crops. Sow y2 bu. per acre in spring or fall. Pkt., 5c; lb., 30c;
3 lbs., 85c, postpaid. By freight or express, not prepaid, pk., $2.50; bu. (60 lbs.), $9.00.
COW PEAS
NEW ERA. — The earliest variety of Cow Peas in existence and therefore most decidedly
the best for growing in the northern states. Throughout the South cow peas are consid-
ered one of their most profitable crops, as they yield immensely and are largely used as
green summer feed and also for planting in corn and other crops and plowing under as a
fertilizer. Particularly recommended for planting after grain harvest and plowing under
in fall. If you will get the grain off the ground early and plow and plant to New Era Cow
Peas you can put the ground in fine shipe for next year’s crop. - Matures in 60 days. Pkt.,
5c; lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 65c, postpaid. By freight, pk., $1.00; bu., $3.25; 2 bu. for $6.25.
CANADA FIELD PEAS
For northern states there is no crop of greater
value than Field Peas, and none is more neglected,
which can only be attributed to a lack of knowl-
edge as to their merits as a fodder, being very rich
in the elements that improve the muscle, bone and
nervous system. Sow as early as the ground can
be worked, using two buhels of peas and two bush-
els of oats per acre. Cut when oats are in the milk
and cure for hay. Especially valuable to the farmer
who has not enough meadow land.
WHITE CANADA PEAS. — More used than any
other. Pk., 60c; bu., $2.25; 2 bu. or more at $2.15;
10 bu. or more at $2.10 per bu.
SOJA OR SOY BEAUS
The berries ripen in about three to four months
from the time of planting and produce a crop of 20
to 40 bu. to the acre and are as easily grown as
other beans. Their great value to the farmer lies
in the fact that when ground it makes one of the
most valuable crops for feeding stock and adds
greatly to the milk production. This variety will
ripen in all the northern states, where it has been
grown over 4 feet high, heavily podded with seed and yielded over 10 tons per acre. It is
a valuable fodder variety either for feeding green or for the silo. Being a rich, nitro-
genous feed, it is unsurpassed as a flesh former, and, like the clovers, is a soil improver.
Plant in drills two or three feet apart and one foot between plants. Pkt., 5c; lb., 30c; 3
lbs., 75c, postpaid. By freight, pk., $1.00; bu. (50 lbs.), $3.75.
32
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
Challenge Seed Corn
There is no farmer but who is a judge of seed
corn. Difference in ideas have made necessary a
number of different styles and types of corn to
please different customers. You know what you
want. We know that our seed corn is good and are
willing to take a chance on its pleksing you. Order
the kind you want. Send the money along with the
order, and when the corn comes, if it isn’t up to our
representations or doesn’t please you, send it bacK
and we will return the money you paid us for it.
We take great pains in the production of our seed
corn, but we shall not take up much space to tell
you all about how we do it. All we have to say is
to repeat our offer. If it isn’t right send it back
to us and we will send your money back to you.
This offer speaks a good deal more to the point
than whole pages of claims could do.
IOWA GOLD MINE
This is really a splendid corn; a good, everyday,
money-making variety. A specially fine corn for
the feeder — and most farmers are feeders. Will
grow and mature anywhere in Iowa. Produces more
actual corn per bushel than any other kind. The
grain is richer, stronger and of better feeding value
than any other. Makes a crop in bad seasons when
the "stove wood” kinds won’t ripen. Your animals
won’t get sick from feeding soft corn or frozen
stuff if you grow Iowa Gold Mine. If you want a
corn to “snap” early for fall feed, plant Iowa Gold
Mine. If you want a field to “hog down,” plant
Iowa Gold Mine; but if you want a haul corn to
market in the ear, don’t plant Iowa Gold Mine. The
iowa gold mine corn buyer makes the money in this case. If you must
sell Iowa Gold Mine on the market, shell it first; in this way you get the increase which
amounts to at least 10 per cent on every bushel. Perhaps you don’t understand how this
is, but here is the reason: There is never more than 10 lbs. of cobs in a bushel of Gold
Mine and many lots have shelled out only 6 lbs. of cobs per bushel. You can’t afford to
sell good corn for cobs. It’s just as pretty as a picture, and if you want to see a sample
before ordering, let us know and we will mail you a few grains for inspection free of
charge.
n mail or prepaid, 1 lb., 25c; 3 lbs. for 60c; 7 lbs. (enough for an acre), $1.00
P RS 0 C S exPress or freight, not prepaid, pk., 90c; bu., $3.00; 2 bu. or more at $2.85
per bu.
Ask for price on larger lots.
IOWA SILVER MINE
The standard variety and the best white corn for general use. Grows and matures over
a wider range of territory than any other white sort. Ripens from Minnesota to Texas and
is always of good quality. Yields immensely. Has a record of 215 bushels per acre, the
greatest yield of corn in history, and this amount was produced in Iowa, too. Of course
it won’t yield that much in ordinary field culture, but it will yield as much and more
than any other kind grown in central or northern Iowa. It will compete in quality with
the larger kinds of the South, and will beat them all when it comes to sound, well, matured
quality corn. It grows to a height of about seven or eight feet, and sets the ears about
three and one-half to four feet from the ground, just th^ right height for easy picking.
One peculiarity
which will be
noticed in going
over the. fields is
that there are
no barren stalks;
every one has an
ear, many stalks
have 2 or 3 good
ears.
PRICES
For high grade
extra select seed
corn postpaid or
by express pre-
paid: Pkt., 5c;
lb., 25c; 3 lbs.,
60c; 7 lbs. (will
plant one acre),
$1.00. By freight
or express, not
prepaid, pk., 90c;
bu., $3.00; 2 bu.
or more at $2.75
per bu. Write
for prices in
quantity.
IOWA SILVER MINE CORN
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
33
REID’S YELLOW DENT
This variety is the best known among progressive farmers who grow for the great corn
shows and who try to breed to the show standard. The type of Reid’s Dent is the stand-
ard for corn judges and through its popularity at the shows it has become widely known
and generally distributed. It is a thoroughbred corn having many years of selection for
its foundation, and the type is thoroughly fixed so that reversion seldom occurs, and the
crop is always uniform in size, shape and color. Is the most highly recommended by
Professor riolden, the noted corn expert of the Iowa Agricultural College, and is too well
known to require lengthy description, our illustration well showing the general character-
istics. It requires about 115 days to mature and we do not, therefore, recommend it for
planting north of central Iowa. In good years it will often produce splendid crops as far
north as the Minnesota line, but it cannot be depended on to ripen in short seasons in that
latitude. A splendid variety for the farmer who sells corn in the ear. Our stock is extra
fine, handsome yellow color, smooth, deep grained, and the kernels are packed very closely
on the cob, thus giving it an appearance of great solidity. Pkt., 5c; lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c; 7
lbs. (will plant one acre), $1.00, by mail or express prepaid. By freight or express, not
prepaid, pk., 75c; bu., $2.50; 2 bu. or more at $2.40 per bu. ; 10 bu. for $22.50.
keid’s yellow dent
STAR LEADING
The Learning CoTn, originated by Mr. Learning, of Ohio, had the reputation of being the
hardiest and surest growing yellow corn, but particular growers objected to its red under-
color and uneven kernels, due to its rapid tapering. Our Star Learning, so called to dis-
tinguish it from other strains, has been carefully bred up through a long series of years
to overcome these objections and still retain all its desirable qualities. Ears are large and
handsome, with deep, large grains of rich, deep orange color, on a medium to small cob.
It grows to medium height, setting the ears about 4 feet from the ground, husks easily,
and the corn is snug on 'the cob, thus making a very solid, heavy feeding ear. Surface is
quite smooth for dent corn. It is very productive, and it is the ideal variety for selling in
the ear. Pkt., 5c; lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c;. 7 lbs. (will plant one acre), $1.00, by mail or express,
prepaid. By freight or express, not prepaid, pk., 75c; bu., $2.50; 2 bu. or more at $2.40 per
bu.; 10 bu. for $22.50.
FARMERS’ RELIANCE
This is a choice variety of early corn. Preferred by many to Iowa Gold Mine because it
is smooth and solid on the cob. It is claimed to be the earliest large corn and it will ma-
ture in 95 days in good seasons. Has been planted June 26th in central Iowa and made a
good crop. Grows strong and vigorous with broad leaves of dark green color. Cobs are
rather small and 70 lbs. of ears will make 60 lbs. of shelled corn. Fully 40 per cent of the
stalks produce two good ears. Altogether this is a very valuable variety, especially for
the northern portion of the corn belt, and we recommend it specially to our friends in
northern Iowa and like latitudes. Per lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c; 7 lbs. (will plant one acre), $1
by mail postpaid. By freight or express not pre prepaid, pk., 90c; bu., $3.00; 2 bu. or more
at $2.85 per bu. ; 10 bu. for $26.
IMPROVED YELLOW FLINT
IMPROVED YELLOW FLINT
• eight-rowed yellow flint variety with ears from 10 to 15 inches long, iy2 to 2 y2 inches
in diameter, and well filled out to 'the extreme end of the cob. The cob is small and the
kernel large and broad; ripens in 75 to 85 days. This corn is well adapted to the North-
west and is said to produce 200 bushels of ears to the acre in Massachusetts. Plas given
excellent results in Minnesota and other northern states. Excellent for ensilage and is
often used here for replanting. Pkt., 5c; lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c, postpaid. By freight or ex-
press, not prepaid, pk., 65c; bu., $2.50; 2 bu. or more at $2.40; 10 bu., $22.50.
34
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
PRIDE OF THE NORTH
not prepaid, pk., 90c;
PRIDE OF THE NORTH
The variety originated with A. L. Goddard, of
Kossuth county, Iowa, near Minnesota line, about
■twenty years ago, and sprang at once into promi-
nence as the earliest of all yellow dent corns. The
ears are 7 to 8 inches long with small cob and ker-
nel; seventy pounds of ears will make sixty pound.-:
of shelled corn; color bright orange and very uni-
form. Will ripen in ninety days and matures in
this latitude when planted in June. Good soil s
capable of producing four or five good stalks to the
.hill and many of the stalks have two ears each.
The same results can be better accomplished by
growing closer together or planting in drills, as it
does not require as much room as the large-grow-
ing sorts. This will enable one to get as large a
crop as with a large-eared variety and much more
fodder. It is the dependence of the man in a pinch.
If for any reason you cannot plant at proper time
Pride of the North will make you a crop in 30 days
less time than the large-eared sorts. PRICES:
Pkt., 5c; lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c; 7 lbs. (will plant one
acre), $1.00, by mail or express, prepaid. By freight
bu., $2.75; 2 bu. or more at $2.60 per bu.; 10 bu., $25.00.
LEGAL TENDER
of the most prominent late varieties of yel-
low dent corn. The result of about ten years’
selection by a seed corn specialist in Iowa, and has
taken first premiums at many state and county
fairs. Productive and of uniform pure yellow
color, ear very large and long and a deep grain on
a small cob, while stalk does not grow too large
The introducer says: “Our ideal car is two-thirds
as large around as it is long, containing 16 to
rows, and small shank. Kernels are deep, cob is
small at butt and the ear holds its bigness toward
the point, until near tapering off. Is capped over
and the kernels hold their bigness toward point,
and the butt runs out straight and not crinkled.”
Matures in about 115 days; not recommended for
northern partion of this state. Our stock extra se- T fp at wmvii
lect, improved in hardiness. PRICES: Pkt., 5c; deuad iendek
lb., 25c; 3 lbs., 60c; 7 lbs. (will plant one acre), ’$1.00, by mail or express prepaid. By
frt. or express, not prepaid, pk., 90c; bu., $2.75; 2 bu. or more at $2.60 per bu.; 10 bu., $25.00.
iOWA YELLOW DENT
We always advise farmers to select the best named varieties in buying seed corn, and
believe it pays them in the long run. Every year, however,
there are thousands of farmers in need of seed corn, and their
main object is to secure at a low price a nice grade of yellow
corn which is well matured, thoroughly tested, of strong vi-
tality, and will produce a good crop of sound corn. While
this corn is not equal to our best named varieties, still
we believe you will find it superior to nine-tenths of
the corn offered by other dealers. It is not crib corn
nor is it purchased on the market for sale, but is spe-
cially grown for us and given the same care accorded
to our other varieties. At our price it will cost you only
about 20 cents per acre to plant your field with this
variety and it will pay you well to order sufficient for
your planting. PRICES: By freight or express, not pre-
paid, pk., 60c; bu., $1.75; 2 bu. or more ait $1.60; 10 bu.
or more at $1.50 per bu.
LATE SWEET FODDER CORN
The past two years seed sweet corn has been so scarce
and high in price that we did not urge our customers to
plant it, but last year we grew a splendid crop, both in
quality and quantity, and are therefore enabled to offer
it at a low price. We consider it one of the most valu-
able fodder plants in existence, and stock farmers
should all devote some land to it. The stalks are sweet,
juicy, rich, tender and very nutritious. On a strong
soil it will grow 10 to 12 feet high and produce almost
an incredible amount of fodder, which when well cured
is equal to hay, besides being cheaper. It is claimed by
dairy farmers this fodder will increase the milk and
cream production greatly and keep the animals in the
best condition. It has the further merit of being so
sweet and palatable that cattle eat every part of the
stalk and leaves. As a green fodder for cutting in the
summer, one acre is worth eight acres of ordinary pas-
ture. Of high value also for hogs, and an excellent
plant to plow under for soiling. Sow thickly in drills,
or broadcast at rate of 2 bu. per acre. PRICES: By
freight or express, not prepaid, pk., 60c; bu. (measured),
$2.25; 2 bu. or more at $2.10 per bu.
SWEET FODDER CORN
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
35
CHALLENGE SEED POTATOES
EXTRA EARLY OHIO POTATO
EXTRA EARLY OHIO. — Fancy Stock. — They are of good, average size, strictly pure,
smooth and free from scab or rot, and outyield the other early sorts. A 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 vari-
ety is frequently sold under the 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., 65c; bu., $2.00; 5 bu. or more at $1.75 per bu.
BURBANK. — This has been a standard main crop potato for many years and still retains
its popularity with market and private growers because of its immense yield and good qual-
ity. Tubers are large, long, and have fairly deep eyes. Outer color white, cooks white and
mealy. Pk., 50c; bu., $1.60; 5 bu. or more at $1.50 per bu.
ROSE OF THE NORTH. — An Early Rose grown on the virgin soil of the far North. It
is 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. Pk., 60c; bu., $2.00; 5 bu. or more at $1.75.
CARMAN NO. 3. — 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. Keeps well. Pk., 50c; bu., $1.60; 5 bu. or mere at $1.50 per bu.
RURAL NEW YORKER NO. 2. — One of the largest yielding varieties in existence. Large
and unusually smooth, with few and shallow eyes, skin white as is also flesh. Medium late
and the best drouth resister. Pk., 50c; bu., $1.60; 5 bu. or more at $1.40 per bu.
BONANZA. — Tubers are shaped very much like Carman, but are somewhat more flat-
tened on the sides. Color is pink or light red when harvested, changing a duller shade
when thoroughly matured. Tubers are medium to large in size and will produce abun-
dantly. It is quality that recommends this variety, as where it is known it is preferred to
all other sorts for its mealiness and fine flavor. We do not believe it is possible to cook a
Bonanza to be “soggy.” Pk., 50c; bu., $1.60; 5 bu. or more at $1.40 per bushel.
SEED SWEET POTATOES
Our seed sweet potatoes are grown, stored and
handled especially for seed purposes. They are
not cold storage stock on which the germ has
been killed, but are fresh and vigorous. It is'
absolutely necessary that they be handled quick-
ly in the spring, as they do not keep well after,
being taken from the storage bins. We cannot
guarantee them to be sound upon arrival and we
try to protect our customers by prompt service.
We usually ship from April 12th to 20th and
notify customers when we start them. Prices
are subject to change of market. It does not
pay to buy sweet potatoes in small lots. Better
buy the plants unless you will need more than
1, 00. See page 25 for price of plants.
EARLY YELLOW' JERSEY. — In spite of the
many so-called new varieties, all of which we
have tested, Early Jersey holds the first place.
The earliest and most productive; of large, short
chunky shape and of the very best quality. It
will probably always remain the most popular
market sort. Pk., 50c; bu., $1.75; barrel, $4.00.
YELLOW JERSEY SWEET POTATOES
36
CATALOGUE OP CHALLENGE SEEDS
Challenge Flower
Seeds
When we sell you Chal-
lenge Flower Seeds you get
Challenge quality — the best
to be had anywhere. Only
the best growers contribute
to our stocks. We cannot
use poor flower seeds. We
must have such as will
please our customers with
blossoms of beauty and sub-
stance. The list of flowers
in this book is of the most
popular and desirable kinds
with selections of varieties
chosen for range of color
and type that will afford
pleasure and satisfaction to
our planting patrons.
ASTERS
We put this the very first on
our list, as it is a universal fa-
vorite and our stocks are so
choice that ws want every cus-
tomer to try our Aster seeds this
year, knowing with certainty
that if you plant our Aster seeds
once you will be so greatly
pleased that we shall have your
trade for years to come.
CARDINAL. — This novelty sur-
passes all others in brilliant car-
dinal red color and profusion of
bloom. Pkt., 15c.
DAYBREAK. — L arge flowers,
intensely double and covering the
plant in great profusion. The
'color is a beautiful light seashell
pink. It flowers medium early
land continuously. Pkt., 10c.
SNOWBALL. — A beautiful and
► distinct variety and the best
\ white; of refined and faultless
jform and very freely produced.
Fine for pot culture. Pkt., 15c.
LAVENDER GEM. — An exquis-
ite delicate lavender colored
flower which branches freely and
profusely, bloomly early. Pkt., 10c.
FOUR LOVELY ASTERS, one
packet of each of the kinds de-
scribed above and shown in the
picture, postpaid for only 30c.
TALL VARIETIES MIXED.—
Many varieties and colors. Pkt., 5c.
DWARF MIXED. — Splen-
did assortment of the best
ARCTOTIS GRANDIS. dwarf varieties. Pkt., 5c.
It is a remarkably handsome PERFECTION MIXED. —
GIANT FLOWERED.— Most annual which forms much- (Truffant’s Improved Pe-
beautiful new class, having branched bushes 2 to 3- feet ony Flowered) — A favor-
all the finest colors and mark- high, the foliage is soft and ite; flowers large and al-
ings known in the old vari- downy and of a whitish color; most perfectly round, m-
eties, together with several its flowers, borne on long curved petals. Pkt., 5c»
new shades. Flowers of im- stems, rising well above the
mense size and produced in foliage, are large and showy;
long spikes, 1 to 2 ft. in height the ray florets pure white on
almost as large and beautiful the supper surface, embel-
FOUR LOVELY ASTERS
ANTIRRHINUM.
(Snap dir agen)
as gladiolus, blooming contin-
uously. Pkt.., 10c.
MIXED VARIETIES. — T h e
lished with a narrow yellow
zone at base; reverse of pet-
als pale lilac-blue; disc is
older common sorts in mix- light blue with slightly pro-
ture. Pkt.. 3c.
ALYSSUM.
SWEET.— Has little white
flowers, useful for small bou- Seeds very small, almost
quets. Its fragrance, while microscopic, and should be
sufficiently pronounced is very sown on the top of the soil.
jecting stamen; a lovely flow-
er. Pkt., 10c.
BEGONIA.
delicate. Makes a pretty bor-
VERNON. — Comes absolute-
der and is one of the best ly true from seed. Plants grow
plants for a basket or pot. rapidly and thrive amazingly
under our hot summer sun.
Very dwarf Fine for bedding. Pkt., 10c.
MIXED VARIETIES. — Ex-
Pkt., 3c.
LITTLE GEM.
and remarkably, uniform in
growth, only 3 or 4 inches cellent varieties of the flower.
high. Pkt., 5c.
ing sorts. Pkt., 10c.
ARCTOTIS GRANDIS
3 1
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
BALSAM. — One of the most beautiful of
our annuals and under the old names, Lady
Slipper and Touch-Me-Not, has always been
popular, but by the care and attention given
it in the last few years it has been greatly
improved. The flowers are most brilliantly
colored, very large and double.
Peerless Mixed. — Made up from the best
foreign and American strains. Flowers are
double and of all known colors; plants arc
loaded with hundreds of flowers. Pkt., 10c.
Camelia Flowered Mixed. — Very double, un-
usual size, perfect shape. Our mixture con-
tains all best colors. Pkt., 5c.
All Varieties Mixed. — Mixture of older sorts.
Pkt., 4c; oz., 25c.
BLUE BELLS. — -The popular flower of Scot
land. Beautiful bell-shaped, bright blue-
flowers. Hardy perennial. Pkt., 10c.
CANTERBURY BELLS. — A very pretty per-
ennial quite popular in some sections of the
country. Double and single, mixed. Pkt., 6c.
CALLIOPSIS OR COREOPSIS.— Mixed Col-
ors.— Flowers- of every shade of yellow, or-
ange, crimson, red and brown. Pkt., 5c.
Lanceolata. — (New Golden Coreopsis. — One
of the most showy hardy perennials grown,
bearing in great profusion for a long period
during the summer, large flowers of bright
golden yellow. Grows anywhere. Pkt., 8c.
Golden Wave. — Plant very bushy and com-
pact, reaching two feet in height, and cov-
ered from July until October with hundreds
of beautiful golden blossoms two inches in
diameter with -small; dark centers. Pkt., 5c.
Double. — A grand novelty, bearing double flowers. Pkt., 10c
CANDYTUFT. — Giant Empress. — One of the finest varieties in
cultivation. Intermediate in height between old Rocket and newer
Tom Thumb sorts. Of very branching habit and when fully grown
and covered with its pure white flowers resembles a floral candel-
abra. Pkt., 7c. —
Best Mixed. — Mixture of all varieties and colors. Pkt., 3c; oz., 40c.
Sempervirens. — Profuse blooming white perennial. Pkt., 10c.
CANARY BIRD FLOWER. — A most beautiful climber with deli-
cate, finely cut foliage and curious bright yellow flowers resem- ll peerless
bling the canary bird in shape and color. Pkt., 5c. mixed balsam
CELOSIA. — Giant Empress. — (Cockscomb) — Is very
handsome either for pot plants or specimen plants in
beds, where they excite the curiosity of visitors more
than almost any plant that can be grown. It is not
uncommon for heads to measure over 12 inches in
breadth, very bright reddish purple combs and dark
bronze foliage. Pkt., 10c.
Spicata. — A wonderful new variety of Celosia and
far different from any other. Bears tall growing
pluming spikes of flowers. Pkt., 15c.
Ostrich Feather. — Curled crimson plumes. Pkt., 10c.
Mixed Varieties. — Includes both the cockscomb and
feathered sorts. Pkt., 5c.
CENTAUREA. — Cyanus. — Called Ragged Sailor, Corn
Flower, Blue Bottle, Bachelor’s Buttons and Bluet. A
very old favorite garden annual, flowering freely in
any situation. Height 2 to 3 ft. Mixed colors. Pkt., 3c.
Cyanus Double. — A most charming sport from the
above. Flowers very large and globular. A continu-
ous bloomer and becoming quite popular. Mixed col-
ors. Pkt.. 8c.
COSMOS. — Mammoth Perfection. — .Flowers measur-
giant empress cockscomb ing 12 to 15 inches in circumference; the petals are
broader and overlapping; flowers white, pink or crimson. Seed should be sown early in
the house, as they are quite late. Pkt., 7c.
Early Dawn Mixed. — Two months earlier than any
other. Mixed colors. Pkt., 5c.
CYPRESS VINE. — A beautiful rapid climber with
delicate, dark green foliage and an abundance of
bright, star-shaped scarlet and white blossoms,
which in bright sunshine present a mass of beauty.
Scarlet. — Is very bright. Pkt., 5c.
White. — Pretty in contrast with scarlet. Pkt., 5c.
Mixed Colors. — The above mixed. Pkt., 3c; oz., 30c.
DIANTHUS. — The Dianthus, or Chinese Pink, has
long been a great garden favorite. It is, in fact, one
of our most useful plants, furnishing an abundance
of gay, pretty flowers. Plants from seed grow and
bloom very quickly.
Fireball. — A beautiful very dwarf and compact
growing pink, only 10 to 15 inches high. Flowers are
perfectly double. Rich, velvety blood red. Pkt., 10c.
Snowball. — A fit companion to the above. Pure
white, double, finely fringed, perfect form. Pkt., 8c.
Chinensis. — (Double Chinese Pink) — The finest
double mixed. Pkt.. 3c.
Mixed Varieties and Colors.— Pkt., 5c. fireball DIANTHUS
38
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEELS
FOUR O’CLOCK
GOLD AND SILVER FLOWER.-
-A great novelty from
New .South Wales. Flowers are silvery white while
• center petals are yellow, giving the appearance of a
five-dollar gold piece in the center of a silver dollar
It is an everlasting and retains its colors when dry A
^remarkably beautiful new flower. Pkt., 10c.
HELIOTROPE. — Fine Mixed. — Great favorite with
flower lovers for beauty and fragrance; suited for beds
• or borders, where they will bloom in summer, and may
;be potted and gut back for winter blooming Saved
llrom choice plants. Pkt., 5c. veQ
'New Mammoth. — Grand new variety producing im-
imense clusters of flowers. Pkt., 10c.
-HOLLYHOCK. — Fine Mixed. — No garden flower i<?
imore showy or admired. Start seeds in a box in house
in February or March, and about May 1st transfer to
permanent place in garden where they will produce ele
gant spikes of flowers. Mixed colors. Pkt., 5c
Chafer’s Prize Double Mixed. — Has magnificent double
flowers 3 to 4 inches across, and all of brightest colors"
Flowers are quite as beautiful as perfect as those of
the Camelia. A mixture of seventeen prize varieties in
eluding all colors and shades known. Pkt., 10c
Allegheny Mammoth Fringed. — Entirely new and dis
tinct variety. Flowers single, semi-double and double
of rich colors and fine form. Pkt., 10c. ’
Everblooming Annual. — This fine variety if started in
the house in March or
ESCIISCIIOLTZIA. — Single Mixed. — California
Poppies. Showy summer flowering plants; large
saucer-shaped flowers of striking brilliancy ill
the sunlight. They flower profusely throughout
the season. Mixed colors. Pkt., 5c.
P0,'*,Ie Mixed. — We believe the double form of
this flower will prove very satisfactory to all
flower lovers. Pkt., 5c.
Golden West. — A giant flower from 3% to 6
inches across, with wide overlapping petals
often delicately waved at the edge. It is of a
rich golden yellow color, some specimens having
a dark orange blotch in the center. Pkt., 10c.
O’CLOCK. — (Mirabilis.) — The marvel of
Pf™’ °P,FcLur O Clock is one of the most bril-
liant and showy of annuals. Presents a gorg-
eous sight during the afternoon,
ft tjr!!!? Thumb 1Mi've<1. — Very handsome, compact
*:)Ushy plant, with golden variegated fol-
fknyersUmpk<tUS5crilliant yellow’ red and striPed
a ian<1 Varieties. — Contains a fine
colors and is satisfactory. Pkt., 3c.
DOUBLE MIXED HOLLYHOCK
April may be set out
in open ground in May
and will bloom from”-1
July till killing frost*
in the fall. All colors. gold and silver flower
Single, semi-double and double. Pkt., 15c.
LOBELIA. — Handsome trailing plants, profuse bloom-
ers; for baskets, vases and borders. Mixed. Pkt., 6c.
LARKSPUR. — Dwarf German Rocket. — An old and well
known hardy annual. The flowers are borne in compact
spikes, showy and desirable. Mixed colors. Pkt., 5c.
Tall German Rocket. — Mixed colors. Pkt., 3c.
American Banner. — Plants 2 ft. high, loaded with long
spikes of double striped and blotched flowers. Pkt., 10c.
Perennial Mixed. — Delphinium. Pkt., 5c.
MARIGOLD. — African. — These old favorites have been
greatly improved recently in size and doubleness of its
flowers. Double mixed. Pkt., 3c.
Dwarf French. — Double mixed, colors. Pkt., 3c.
Eldorado. — Immense flowers, 9 to 14 inches around;
double; primrose, lemon, orange and golden shades. Three
feet high. Pkt., 5c.
MAIZE. — Striped Japanese. — An ornamental foliage
plant of rapid growth, giving immediate effect. Desir-
able for groups or ribbon beds or a back border. Pkt.,
5c; oz., 15c.
MIMULUS. — Triginus. — (Monkey Flower) — Very showy
and free blooming. The hardy kinds are well suited for
outdoor culture. Mixed varieties. Pkt., 10c.
Moschatus. — The well-known musk plant, quite pretty,
and has a strong musk fragrance — the odor is pleasant
and refreshing. A nice plant also for pot culture. Pkt.. 8c.
3IIGNONETTE. — Sweet Scented. — The delicious fra-
grance of the Mignonette makes it indispensable for bou-
quets and cutting. Sow seed early in the garden, and
they commence blooming first of June. Pkt., 2c; oz., 15c.
Allen’s Defiance. — Mammoth spikes 12 to 15 inches long,
and more fragrant than any other variety. Pkt., 10c.
Machet. — Dwarf, vigorous growth; throws up numerous
stout flower stalks, terminated by massive spikes of del-
icately scented red flowers. Pkt., 5c.
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DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
9
MOON FLOWER. — White. — One of the grand-
est summer climbers, growing- 25 to 40 ft. high,
and covered nightly and on dull days with beau-
tiful white, moon-like flowers from 5 to 6 inches
in diameter. Pkt. of 10 seeds, 7c.
Blue Flowering. — A beautiful and striking con-
trast to the true White Moon Flower described
above. The color is exquisite, clear, satiny blue
with crimson bars. Pkt., 10c.
NICOTIAN A. — Affinis. — Of all varieties of to-
bacco which are grown for their sweet-scented
flowers this is 'the best. The plant is literally
covered with large, white, star-
shaped flowers, which, after
being cut, will remain perfect
tor a week. A few plants will
perfume the whole yard or
chameleon NASTURTIUM garden. Pkt.. 5c
NASTURTIUM. — Classed among the most beauti-
ful and showy annuals. Of very easy culture; make
a continuous show of bloom.
Imperial Mixed. — Includes about twenty of the
dwarf varieties, selected from both American and
foreign growers, so that the colors harmonize beau-
tifully and delight flower lovers, as they are of neat,
compact habit of growth, and bloom freely when
planted in beds, producing a mass of colors. Pkt.,
5c; oz., 15c; hi lb., 50c.
Dwarf Chameleon. — The flowers of this new Tom
Thumb nasturtium are in color crimson, gold and
bronze, bordered and flamed, changing in hue al-
most daily, hence named “Chameleon.” No variety
could be more satisfactory, and as our crop was
good we have reduced price. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c.
Dwarf Varieties Alixed. — A nice mixture of colors
of this class. Pkt., 3c £ oz., 10c; 14 lb., 20c; lb., 65c.
Lobb’s Nasturtium. — These are much superior to
the ordinary tall nasturtiums in brilliancy of flow-
ers, height, rapid growth. All best named sorts,
mixed. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c.
Madam Gunter’s Hybrids. — Climbers and free,
continuous bloomers. Color of flowers is most
gorgeous, ranging from white through all the
shades of pink, red, carmine, crimson, salmon, gol-
den yellow to deepest brown and maroon — nearly
black — all striped, shaded and blotched in an inde-
scribable manner. Pkt., 5c; oz., 15c; !4 lb., 45c.
Kaleidoscope. — Finest of all climbing nastur-
tiums. A single plant will often have in bloom on
it at one time a dozfcA or more apparent distinct
variety and colors. Some of clear color and various
shades of yellow, orange, red, pink and creamy
white, while others are variously blotched, splashed, madam
.striped or bordered with rich contrasting shades. Pkt., 10c; oz., 30c.
Tali Varit^ies Mixed, — Pkt,, 3c; oz., 10c; J,4 lb., '20c; lb., 65c.
MORNING GLORIES. — I m peri a
Japanese. — Remarkable for the large
size and exquisite new colors of the
flowers, sometimes measuring four or
five inches across. The colors of the
leaves, shading and markings are
really wonders of nature, and of in-
comparable beauty. Double and sin-
gle mixed. Pkt., 8c; oz., 25c.
Improved Climbing. — A great im-
provement on the old climbing morn-
ing glory. Of large size and great
variety. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c; *4 lb., 60c.
New Double Flowering. — A novelty
of rapid growth. About 80 per cent of
the seed will come double. Pkt., 10c.
Fringed Japanese. — A splendid
strain, with beautifully fringed flow-
ers presenting an odd yet attractive
appearance. Pkt., 10c; oz., 35c.
NIGELLA (Love in the Mist). —
Mixed Colors. — -HaTdy annuals about
one foot high; fine cut leaves and
handsome flowers. Blooms early. A
very pretty flower, and one our cus-
tomers should try. Double flowers,
blue, white and purple, beautifully
veiled with feathery, delicate appear-
ing foliage. Pkt., 4c.
40
CATALOGUE OP CHALLENGE SEEDS
PALSIES
Pansies are a specialty with us, and we
use the greatest care in growing and
importing the best strains.
MASTERPIECE.— (Also offered undei
the names Superbissima and Germania).
This superb new pansy is distinct from
all others in form of flowers, the border
of every petal being conspicuously un-
dulated and curled, giving flowers ap-
pearance of a double pansy. The flow-
ers are extremely large. Pkt., 20c.
INTERNATIONAL MIXTURE. — In al-
most every country in the world there
are pansy specialists, notably those of
Scotland, Belgium, Prance, Germany and
Switzerland. Each have their idea of
perfection. This mixture consists of a
grand assortment from the world’s lead-
ing growers. Also many choice Ameri-
can strains which are mainly made up
by selecting and crossing the foreign
isorts. If you like pansies you must have
the International Mixture. Pkt., 20c; %
oz., $3.00; oz., $10.00.
IMPERIAL GERMAN MIXED. — Mag-
nificent flowers of richest hues; one of
our most popular sorts and of high
standard of excellence. Pkt., 10c; XA oz.,
$1.00; oz., $3.50.
AMERICAN GIANT. — A prominent pansy spe-
cialist has put in years of careful, painstaking
labor in hybridizing and selecting a strain of pan-
sies which would be superior to anything in exist-
ence, and as a consequence we have this extraor-
dinarily fine variety which is of such strong, robust, luxuriant growth and produces suc-’n
magnificent immense-sized flowers that it might almost be said to be a superior race of
pansies. They comprise practically all shades, colors and markings known in pansies, in-
cluding the Giant Bugnots, Cassier’s, and the best of the large-flowered sorts from France,
Germany, England, Holland and other countries. Also a strain of curled and ruffled pan-
sies which appear double. Pkt., 25c.
PEACOCK. — This new variety is named Peacock because upper petals of flower resemble
in color the peculiar shade seen only in feathers of the peacock, a beautiful ultramarine
•blue. Petals edged with a thin white line, within which is purplish crimson passing into
a rich central blotch of blue, shading to black. Pkt., 10c.
GIANT TRIMARDEAU. — Flowers of very large size, some have measured 4 inches in
diameter. Each flower marked with three large blotches or spots and stands well above
foliage. Choice mixed colors. Pkt., 10c.
LARGE FLOWERING MIXED. — Pkt., 7c; % oz., 75c; oz., $2.75.
FINE MIXED. — Of many good sorts. Pkt., 5c; XA oz., 35c; oz., $1.00.
FIRE KING. — Very distinct and striking. Upper petals are bright red, really a fiery
shade, warranting the name. Pkt., 10c.
MAHOGANY. — A beautiful, rich mottled mahogany color. Pkt., 5c.
SNOW QUEEN. — Flowers of a delicate, pure satiny white, handsome and attractive.
Shows finely in beds or for cut flower work; beautiful for cemetery use. Pkt., 5c.
QUADRICOLOR, or Pheasant’s Eye. — Upper petals sky blue edged with violet; lower
petals spotted and marbled. Pkt., 5c.
KING OF BLACKS, or Faust. — Flowers intensely dark, almost black. Pkt., 5c.
GOLDEN YELLOW. — Best of the yellow varieties. Desirable as a contrast. Pkt., 5c.
AZURE BLUE. — A very fine shade sky
blue. Pkt., 5c.
Our Challenge Flower Carden
A Great Big Bargain off Challenge
Flower Seeds.
♦*7 cents in actual catalog!**
value. New crop, choice seei
12 full-sized packets, only.
Notice the names and varieties as of-
fered. They are our regular catalogue
sorts, in full-sized packets. We put up
these collections in quantity and cannot
< hange or divide them at this low price.
We show just what each one costs at cat-
alogue price so you can readily see how
great a bargain this collection really is:
Aster, Perfection Mixed. Pkt., 5c.
Balsam, Peerless Mixed. Pkt., 8c.
Four o’ Clock, Mixed colors. Pkt., 3c.
Morning Glory, Imperial Jap. Pkt., 8c.
Climbing Nasturtium, Mad Gunter. Pkt. 5c.
Pink, Mixed varieties and colors. Pkt., 5c.
Pansy, Large flowering mixed. Pkt., 7c.
Phlox, Grandiflora mixed. Pkt., 8c.
Petunia, Fine mixed. Pkt., 3c.
Sweet Peas, best Spencer mixed. Pkt., 5c. American
Zinnia, Finest double mixed. Pkt., 3c. giajit jpansy
TOTAL VALUE 67 cts. POSTPAID FOR ONLY 25c.
des Moines seed co., Des moine&, iowa
41
r*»>
r*»>
PETUNIA. — Grandiflora Mixed. — Very
large, elegant flower; a great improve-
ment and fully twice the size of the
old sorts, with the most beautiful
shades of crimson, white, rose, maroon,
etc., blotched, striped, veined, bordered,
marked and fringed. Pkt., 200 seeds, 10c.
Giant Fancy Flowering. — A new strain
and undoubtedly the handsomest of all.
Most of the flowers are beautifully
fringed and ruffled. Very large and
with exquisite markings. Produces very
lit tie seed and will always be high in
price. Pkt., 25c.
Double Inimitable. — A splendid mix-
ture. Pkt., 25c.
Fine Mixed. — Pkt., 3c.
POPPIES. — Shirley. — A new single of
the most delicate shades. Pkt., 5c.
Rosy Morn. — Is really superb. Flow-
ers very durable and of good size, form-
ing perfect balls of beautiful rose, a
f.new and distinct color in poppies.
^Pkt., 7c.
Double Carnation. — A splendid as-
sortment of the best double carnation
flowered sorts. Pkt., 5-c.
Oriental Hybrids. — For brilliancy of
color there is nothing to equal these
Oriental Poppies. The flowers are of
enormous size, often measuring over G
inches in diameter. They are hardy
perennials, increasing in size and
beauty every year. Pkt., 10c.
Annual Varieties Mixed. — Pkt., 3c.
PORTULACA, Grandiflora Single Mixed* — This old favorite is bright-
est In .the hot, dry weather, when other flowers are drooping. They
are almost every conceivable shade of color, and will make one of
the brightest spots in the garden. Large flowered. Pkt., 3c.
GIANT FANCY FLOWERED PETUNIA
Double Mixetl. — Very handsome
color and shading unknown to the single. Our seed
is extra choice and will produce sixty to seventy-five
per cent of double flowers. Pkt., 10c.
PHLOX DRUMMONDII.— -Grandiflora Mixed. — This
special large-flowering strain has been selected with
great care for many years, until we now have an
ideal flower of immense size and for beauty of color
they are unsurpassed. Pkt., 8c.
Fringed Mixed. — Very handsome. Flowers of the
most velvety colors and handsomely fringed. Pkt., 7c.
Mixed Varieties. — A mixture of the common
varieties. Pkt., 5c.
RHODANTHE. — Fine everlastings; rosy crim-
son, yellow center. Pkt., 5c.
RICINUS. — Cambogiensis. — (Castor Oil Plant)
— rThis beautiful plant grows to a height of 8
feet, and of a most stately, majestic tropical ap-
pearance. Large palm-like leaves of darkest
reddish maroon, covered with a bright bronzy
lustre, while the main stalk and leaf stems are
ebony black. Seed will always be scarce and
high. Pkt. of ten seeds, 10c.
Zanziltarensis. — Grows to a height of 12 to 14
feet, with leaves two to nearly four feet across
handsome specimen plant for lawns. Pkt., 5c.
Sanguineus Tricolor. — Blood red stalk. Pkt., 5c.
All Varieties Mixed. — d?kt., 4c.
SWEET SULTAN. — Large, fragrant flowers; mixed
color. Pkt., 10c.
SMILAX. — One of the prettiest house climbers for
winter. Pkt., 8c.
double as a rose, and contains
SHIRLEY
POPPY
DOUBLE PORTULACA
SCAI1IOSA. — Mourn-
ing Bride. Double
dwarf varieties. Many
colors mixed. Pkt., 5c.
SCARLET RUNNER
BEAN. — Dark scarlet flower and pods. Pkt. 5e.
SUNFLOWER.— Globe of Gold. — Is densely double, globe
shaped flower of rich deep, golden yellow color, being'
veritable globes of gold. Wonderfully beautiful Pkt 7c
Excelsior Branching. — Has a single flower five inches
across, producing a. pyramid of bloom. Pkt 10c
Silver Leaved.— Leaf is long and densely ’ covered with
long white hairs which give it a peculiar shining silvery
appearance. Flowers clear golden yellow, three to four
inches across. Pkt., 5c.
Peerless Mixed.— A splendid assortment of fifteen best
varieties grown together on our grounds. Pkt 5c- oz 15c
Mammoth Russian.— Largest of all and the most profit-
able to grow for feeding purposes. Pkt., 5c- lb 25c
Pillar of Gold.— Beautiful double flowers on short stems
close to the stalk. A veritable pillar of gold. Pkt., 5c. ’
42
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
SWEET PEAS
These may well be called Amer
ica’s favorite, as it is such a popu
lar and easily-grown flower
that everybody can enjoy
its fragrance and beauty.
King Edward Spencer. —
Color of wings and stand-
ard carmine scarlet, with
reverse of wings a rosy
carmine, make a rich and
strikingly handsome blos-
som. Pkt., 10c; oz., 30c;
lb., $1.00; lb., $3.50.
White Spencer. — One of
the finest type of the Spen-
cer class. Flowers deeply
waved and curled. Color
pure white. Pkt., 5c; oz.,
20c: 14 lb., 60c; lb., $2.00.
Captain of tiie Hides
Spencer. — A name striking-
ly appropriate for this love-
ly flower. Standard is pur-
ple and the wings are
bright blue petals finely
frilled and waving, blossom
is very large. Pkt., 10c-
30c; % lb., 90c; lb., $
One packet each of
white and blue Spencer
Sweet Peas for only 15c.
Spencer Hybrids Mixed. — Choice
mixture of the Spencer types and
-varieties. This mixture has been
specially and carefully grown that
planters may have a chance to se-
cure the Spencer type in varied col-
ors at a reasonable cost. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; %' lb., 30c.
imperial Mixed. — Sixty of the best varieties carefully
selected eo as to get the proper proportion of each color
in the assortment. This makes the choicest mixture
ever offered. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; 14 lb., 25c; lb., 75c.
Perfected 3Iixed. — Of graceful form, charming color,
exquisite fragrance and simple loveliness. This mixture
contains many choice new varieties and some old favor-
ites. Pkt., 5c; oz., 10c; % lb., 20c; lb., 50c.
MAMMOTH VERBENA
IMPERIAL MIXED SWEET PEAS
SALPIGLOSIS. — New V a r I-
veined. — Pkt., 8c.
SALVIA. — Splendens. — A bril-
liant scarlet flower. Pkt., 10c.
Mrs. C. N. Page. — More dwarf
than Splendens. Pkt., 20c.
STOCK S. — Large Flowering
Dwarf German. — Pkt., 5c.
Princess Alice. — (Perennial
White) — Plct., 10c.
SWEET WILLIAM. — Giant
Double Mixed. — Pkt., 5c.
Single Varieties Mixed. — The
favorite. Pkt., 5c.
SENSITIVE PLANT. — A pretty,
curious plant, the leaves closing
when touched. Pkt., 5c.
THUNBERGIA. — Beautiful rap-
id growing climbers; bloom
freely. Pkt.* ’c.
VIOLA ODORAT A. — Well-
known Sweet violet; mixed col-
ors. Pkt., 10c.,
VERBENA. — N ew Century
Mammoth. — Of most beautiful
colors, largest flowers, and larg-
est truss. When well grown
every flower truss measures over
nine inches in circumference,
single florets are large as a
twenty-five cent piece. Pkt., 15c.
Extra Choice Mixed. — Finest
collection of named sorts. Pkt., 7c.
Fine Mixed. — ConTains a nice
varietv of colors. Pkt., 4c.
WILD CUCUMBER. — The quick-
est climber known for covering
verandas, old trees and houses,
trellises, etc., never suffering
from the heat, but retaining its
fresh and lively green color; never
infested with insects, and very
profuse bloomer. Pkt., 5c; oz., 20c.
ZINNIA — Curled and Crested. — Large
double flowers with peculiarly shaped pet-
als. Pkt.* 5c.
Pigmy or Lilliput. — Small bushy plants bear-
ing many brilliant colors. Pkt., 7c.
New Zebra. — Beautifully and brilliantly striped.
Mixed colors. Pkt.* 5c.
Finest Double Mixed. — All colors. Pkt., 3c.
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
43'
GREENHOUSE PLANTS
,'Wtrmr
Notice. — We ship all plants as soon after order is received as weather permits. Bedding
plants we will hold until usual season for setting out. If plants are ordered for immediate
shipment they will be sent at purchaser’s risk. We pay postage at prices named.
Special Express Rates. — All express companies now carry plants at a reduction of 20 per
et?nt from regular merchandise rates. If you wish your plants sent by express we will
put in gratis a few extra plants to help pay the charges.
ABUTILON. — -Savitfci. — A most beautiful new varie-
gated-leaved plant. Its large maple-like leaves are al-
most white, being blotched here and there only with
clear, bright green, a most charming contrast. Each, I5c.
Arthur Belsham. — Green foliage. Flowers large, dark
red without markings. Tall and erect. Strong grower,
free bloomer; a satisfactory variety. Each, 15c.
Golden Dells. — The best yellow flowering variety; of
dwarf habit. Each, 15c.
ASPARAGUS. — Sprengeri. — Splendid for hanging bas-
kets or pots. It droops most naturally, sending out nu-
merous feathery fronds, forming an exquisitely handsome
and striking picture. Literally a mass of emerald green.
Nice young plants, each 10c; large size, each 25c.
Plumosus Nanus. — Easily grown, even in a north win-
dow. Leaves bright green gracefully arched, and as
finely woven as the finest silken mesh; their lasting
qualities, when cut, are remarkable, retaining freshness
for weeks. Each, 10c; large, 25c.
ACALYPHA. — Sanderi. — (Chenile Plant) — A most strik-
ing ornamental plant of branching habit, healthy foliage
and the flower spikes which appear in pairs from the
axis of the leaves, grow from two to three feet in length.
They are of a brilliant crimson color, drooping and mix-
ing among the green foliage with charming effect. De-
sirable for outdoor bedding and in house. Each, 15c.
ASTER PLANTS. — All
best varieties mixed,
is low. Doz., 40c; 1
$3.00, prepaid,
very large leaves
ASPARAGUS PLUMOSUS NANUS
BEGONIAS. — Metalica. — Has
shaded with green, crimson and olive, with a - pe-
culiar metallic luster over all. Flowers a clear
pmk, shaded with white. Each, 10c.
Argenta Gutta. — Purple bronze leaves with sil-
very markings. Flowers are white. Each, 15c.
Haageana. — Flowers rosy pink, bright and at-
tractive, plant tall. Shrubby, with hairs on stems
and leaves. Each. 15c.
Thurstanii. — Under side of .eaves rich purplish
red, with prominent veinings, while the upper side
is bronzy green, shaded crimson and olive and a
metallic lustre over all. Flowers rosy white, borne
in clusters. Each, 15c. .
Rex. — Make a magnificent showing with their
rich lustrous tints and tropical looking leaves.
Each, 20c; large speci-
men plants, 40c.
Single Tuberous Rooted. — Flowers
sometimes grow six
inches in diameter,
borne upright on stiff
stems and of richest
colors, embracing
every shade — w h i te,
pink, scarlet, crimson
and yellow. Each, 10c;
doz., 75c.
CARNATIONS
ENCHANTRESS
CARNATION
BEACON — Color is bright
scarlet slightly tinged with
[Orange. ' Produced on long
{stems which stand up well.
\Each, 15c.
HARLOWARDEN: — Is a
bright, dazzling crimson
flower. Each, 15c.
ENCHANTRESS. — Delightful blush pink in
color. The original of the popular Enchantress
type. Each, 15c.
ROSE PINK ENCHANTRESS. — A siport from
the Enchantress and is of extra large size and
of beautiful rose color. Each, 15c. .,
MRS. THOMAS W. LAWSON. — The immense
pink variety for which $30,000 was paid by Mr.
Lawson. Flowers 3% inches in diameter; color
beautiful deep pink. Each, 10c.
WHITE ENCHANTRESS. — Type and habit like the original Enchantress. Flowers extra
large and of purest color. Each, 15p.
EL DORADO. — Canary yellow, distinctly edged and penciled bright carmine. Beautifully
iht, and of striking appearance. Each, lQc- *
REX BEGONIA
fringed, flagrant,
44
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
CHRYSANTHEMUMS
The most popular autumn flower. Beautiful as pot
plants for decorative purposes, and specially lovely
as cut blossoms for vases or personal adornment.
Pacific Supreme. — The earliest flowering pink sort.
Blooms early October. Each, 10c.
Mrs. H. Patrick. — A bicolor flower of red and yel-
low. Large and fine. Each, 15c.
Percy Plumridge. — A Japanese incurved of bright
shining yellow. Each, 15c.
Mile. C. Tousett. — Incurved fine, white with glisten-
ing pearl tints. Each, 10c.
Mrs. If. Robinson. — Large size, pure white. Ea., 15c.
Helen Frick. — A bright shining pink. Each, 10c.
J. Sehrimpton.- — One of finest red varieties. Ea., 15c.
Roi De Italia. — A .splendid new yellow. Each, 15c.
OSTRICH PLU31E VARIETIES.
Beauty of Truro. — A new Ostrich Plume of beautiful
bronze color. Each, 15c.
Leo Cadie. — Finest of yellow Ostrich Plume sorts.
Bright golden color. Each, 15c.
La Enfanta. — A new type of White Ostrich Plume
chrysanthemum. Each, 15c.
One each of the three Ostrich Plumes, only 30c.
CYCLAMEN. — Giant Flowered. — Foliage broad, mas-
sive and graceful, of dark, olive green, beautifully
variegated with silver and rose. The fairy-like flow-
ers are carried on long stems and produced in pro-
fusion for several months; quite fragrant. Assorted
colors. Each, 15c; extra large size.
CHRYSANTHEMUM
COLEUS. — Used in our large city parks
for ornamental beds, curving and quaint
designs which look like varicolored rugs
spread on smooth lawn.
Golden Redder. — Color yellow. This is the
best yellow coleus for bedding; deep gold in
the sun.
Mrs. John Boehmer. — Pilch maroon bor-
dered with golden band. Large pointed leaf.
Anna Pfister. — Pointed leaves with deep
scalloped edges.. Color bright golden yel-
low intermingled with green and crimson.
Of dwarf and compact, but spreading habit.
John Pfiister. — Like above in dwarf habit,
but of bright crimson color ; edged with gold.
Verschaffcltii. — The oldest, still one of
the best; dark rich velvety crimson.
Any variety named each, 10c; doz., 75c.
FUSCHIAS.
Queen Olga. — A good grower, upright and free
flowering. Single flowers of bright carmine red.
Each, 15c.
Black Prinee. — Tube and sepals bright car-
mine, sepals large and broad with pale green
tips; large, open, pale pink corolla. Each, 10c.
Purple Prince. — A double purple flower on a
strong and healthy plant.
Each, 10c.
Rosaines Paitre. —
Double white corolla with deep carmine sepals; a blossom
beautiful contrast. Extra large. Each, 15c.
Gustave Nadautl. — One of the newer varieties, double
purple flowers of great size and substance. Each, 15c.
Ballet Girl. — One of the finest of double white Tr'”~v’
sias. Beautiful large flowers. Each, 10c.
Trophee. — A standard double purple variety
popular because it blooms freely. Each, 10c.
FERNS.
Boston Fern. — (Improved Sword Fern) — Thrives in
all rooms, gas or furnace heat does not seem to in-
jure it. It is one of the most beautiful and useful of
house plants. Each, 15c; large plants, 25c and 50c.
Ostrich Plume Fern. — (Piersonii) — A beautiful nov-
elty which is a sport from the above, but is inde-
scribably more beautiful. The fronds grow broad and
heavy, measuring at least six inches across when fully
developed, increasing in beauty as they grow larger.
Each, 15c; large, 25c, 50c and $1.00.
Whitmani. — Combining all the graceful pluminess
and charm of Elegantissima, with additional features
of shape, size and growth. Each, 20c; large, 50c;
extra fine specimens, $1.00.
Elegantissima. — This is a sport from the well-known
Ostrich Plume Fern in which the plump peculiarity of
the original form is even more distinctly developed.
Plant is of much more compact habit, growing only
one-half as tall,, but with fronds nearly twice as wide,
making it a much more desirable plant for all pur-
poses. Each, 15c; large, 50c,
TROPHEE FUCHSIA
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
45
S. A. NUTT
ALICE OF VINCENNES
DOUBLE GERANIUMS.
Beauty Poitevin. — Great favorite,
conceded one of the best semi -double
sorts. Color salmon pink, shading to
clear salmon in center. Each, 15c.
Bertha De Presily. — A beautiful
light pink. Stands sun without fad-
ing. Will be sure to give satisfac-
tion, for beds or in pots. Each, 15c.
Double Dryden. — Color combination
very attractive. Center coral white,
shading lilac to edge of petals, which
are soft, glowing crimson. Specially
choice as a pot plant. Each, 15c.
S. A. Nutt.— The best crimson bed-
ding variety. This, the finest of dark
crimson geraniums, has now taken the
lead as a bedding variety, being used
in the largest parks and public
grounds of the country in preference
to all others. Its dense, compact
growth, profuse blooming qualities
and sun-proof constitution combined
give it the prominence as a bedder it
has attained. As a pot plant is can-
not be excelled. We sell thousands
for borders and large beds. Each, 10c;
doz., 85c. By express, not prepaid, 50
for $2.75; 100 for $5.00. Large plants
from four-inch pots by express, per
dozen, $1.50.
SINGLE GERANIUMS
Admiration. — A flower of beautiful light sal-
mon color, feathered with apricot. A delicate
and lovely shade. Strong and robust. Each, 15c.
Alice of .Vincennes. — A charming novelty
which has a border of intense scarlet forming
a band around the body color of rosy pink, heav-
ily veined with scarlet; center white. Each, 10c.
Carmen Sylva. — One of the very finest single
white geraniums. Strong, healthy and vigorous,
free blooming, with immense trusses that re-
main pure white even during the sunniest
ther. Each, 15c. *
ulorie de Rouges. — Bright, rich scarlet.
Growth and habit strong and robust. One of the
best of single scarlet for all purposes. Ea., 15c.
Jaquerie. — Fine shade of crimson scarlet flow-
ers in immense trusses on very long stems. Fine
for bedding, very vigorous grower. Each, 15c.
Maxime Kovalevski. — A brilliant orange. A
fine growing plant and probably the best of the
single varieties for pot culture. The flowers are
round, of splendid form. A novelty of great
beauty. Each. 20c.
Yvette Frost. — Fine large flowers and strong
trusses. Color violet rose shading to white cen-
ter. A striking and beautiful blossom. Each, 15c.
WM. hANGGUTH
FANCY LEAVED GERANIUMS.
Wm. Langgutli. — This new silver leaved
geranium is a beautiful variety. The plant
is short, stocky growth, and the beautiful
deep green leaves are bordered with a broad,
pure snow-white band, so that it is hand-
some even when not in bloom. It is, how-
ever, free flowering for a fancy foliage va-
riety, and the flowers are double. Clusters
are extra large and a bright red color, show-
ing magnificently against the white foliage.
Each, 15 c.
Mrs. Pollock. — Magnificent. Green leaf disc,
overlaid by beautiful bronze, red, belted with
bright crimson, outwardly margined with
golden yellow. Each, 15c.
Marshall McMahon. — Golden yellow, marked
with a deep chocolate zone. A splendid bed-
ding variety. Each, 15c.
IVY LEAVED GERANIUMS.
Caesar Franck. — -Double as a Crimson Ram-
bler rose. Specialists claim this to be the
best Ivy Geranium. Color soft, rich crimson
scarlet, shaded rose at base of petals. Fol-
iage clean, waxy green. Vigorous, quick
growing and strong. Finest for baskets,
vases, '.etc. Each, 25c.
Jean de Arc. — Very large and finest white
in existence. Perfectly double, white as
snow; flowers literally coyer the plant when
in full bloom. Each, 10c,
46
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
mm
GREVILLEA. — Silk Oak. — With its long, drooping, silky
foliage, it reminds one of a palm or fern. The young
growths are of a light bronze color, the tips being covered
with a soft down closely resembling raw silk. Each, 15c.
HELIOTROPE. — These are universal favorites on ac-
count of their delightful fragrance. Flowers equally well
as bedding plants in summer, or as pot plants in the house
Lord Roberts. — Dwarf growing. Large purple flowers,
free bloomers. Each, 15c.
Jersey Beauty. — Large trusses blue flowers. Each, 10c.
Suow Wreath. — Superb large cluster of delicious fra-
grant flowers, nearly white. Each, 15c.
A. Delaux. — Fine lavender color flowers with variegated
foliage. Each. 15c.
HIBISCUS. — Peachblow. — One of the finest free flowering
plants for either pot culture or the open ground. Flowers
very large, double and of a charming rich, clear pink, witii
deep crimson center. Each, 15c.
HYDRANGEA. — Otaksa Monstroso. — A Japanese variety
used extensively for Easter decorations. Produces enor-
mous trusses of intense pink flowers. Each, 15c.
Thomas Hogg. — The immense trusses of flowers are at
first slightly tinged
with green, changinj
to the purest white,
each, 15c.
Each, 10c;
NIGHT BLOOMING JASMINE
Paniculata Grandiilora. — (See shrubs),
large, 30c.
Arborescens. — The new snowball hydrangea. — (See
shrubs). Each, 20c; large, 50c.
IMPATIEN S. — Sultana. — Beautiful plant producing
waxy, bright flowers, of rosy scarlet almost contin-
uously, winter and summer; suitable for either pot
or garden culture. Of compact growth; almost a
perpetual bloomer. Each, 10c.
White Lady. — A fine pure white, desirable for
contrast. Each, 15c.
JASMINE. — Night Blooming. — World famous vari-
ety, producing pure white fragrant flowers
santly. Each. 15c.
Cape Jasmine. — (Gardenia Florida) — A pretty, low
growing evergreen shrub with thick, glossy green
leaves and waxy white double flowers of delicious
sweetness; highly valued for winter flowering.
Each, 20c.
Graadiflornm. — Flowers
Fragrant. Each, 15c.
LANTANA. — Leo Dix.
Amiel. — Semi-dwarf, very
; fine bloomer, weeping lantana
umbel and floret fine size. Reddish orange with yel-
low center. Each, 10c.
Weeping. — A beautiful trailing variety, very desir-
able for planting in hanging baskets, vases, pots or
open ground. Bears an immense profusion of lovely
clear pink flowers from early summer until late in
the fall. Each, 15c.
LEMON VERBENA. — A universal favorite, in-
valuable for its fragrant leaves. They will re-
tain their fragrance for years when dried. In
rich soil each plant will cover a space of
to 4 feet in diameter. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
MARGUERITE DAISY. — White. — Improvement
on the old White Marguerite. Is much larger and
will produce ten times as many flowers. Each,
10c; doz., $1.00.
Blue.— -(Agatha) — Plants are fairly loaded with
clear sky-blue flowers. Each, 10c.
Yellow. — Similar to above, but of canary yellow
color. Each, 10c.
Queen Alexandra. — Great improvement on the
White Marguerite, larger flowers, produced in
greater abundance, many flowers coming perfectly
double. Each, 15c; dozen, $1.25.
OTAHEITE ORANGE. — An extra fine pot plant, with
glossy green leaves, the true fragrant orange bloom
and abundant little bright oranges that will hang on
the little bush like balls of gold for six m'onths after
they are ripe. Each, 15c. Large size, 50c, by express,
not prepaid.
PONDEROSA LEMON. — On a plant six feet high no
less than eighty-nine of these ponderous lemons were
growing at one time. It was a beautiful sight to see.
The tree was blooming and at the same time had fruit
in all stages of development, from the size of a pea to
ripe fruit, showing it to be a true ever-bearer. Blos-
soms waxy white and as fragrant as orange blossoms.
Fruit has been taken from the tree weighing over four
pounds. Strong plants, each 15c, postpaid. The large
two-year-old plants, 5Qc and 75c each by express, not
prepaid,
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
47
Obconica. — A lovely pe
lers of rose lilac, shading
! Cliinese. — Flowers are
:and beautiful markings.
! PANSIES. — Our plant-
duality of seed and are
vigorous and have bea
velvety flowers of all
colors known in. pansies
50c; 4 doz., $1.50; 100 for
FANTASA DOUBLE
DOUBLE PETUNIAS. — Vivian. — A beautiful bright
glowing red, bordered white, finely fringed. Ea., 15c.
Fantasa. — A handsome double white and
purple petunia. Petals are usually fringed.
Striking variegation. Each, 15c.
Defender. — A beautiful light variegation
on still lighter ground color. A beautiful
sort in contrast with the darker shades.
Each, 10c.
Helen Gould. — A beautifully fringed pink
variety. One of the handsomest sorts in
existence. Each, 15c.
Snow Queen. — This is an extra choice new
double white petunia unsurpassed; for keep-
ing has no equal. Each, 15c.
Double Mixed. — Best blotched and fringed
sorts. Mixed varieties. Each, 10c; doz., 90c.
PRIMROSE. — aiexictin. — Is a perpetual
bloomer, in flower all times of the year, a
good specimen showing always from ten to
30 large saucer-shaped blossoms 2 or 3 in.
across, of several beautiful colors. Ea., 10c.
l lovely perpetual blooming primrose. Flow-
shading to white. Each, 10c.
are all shades of color, with distinct
— .. Each, 15c.
are grown +1'~
_ strong and
have beautiful large
,73 of all shades and
., a in. pansies. Per doz.,
, $1.50; 100 for $3.00, post-
Mixed. — Per doz., 35c; four doz., $1.25; 100
Choice Keddin
$2.00, postpaid. ,
S YLVi 1. — Splemlens. — The plants appearing to be almost com-
pletely hidden by the mass of brilliant scarlet flowers. Each, 10c;
a Snowstorm.— A white flowered, tall growing variety. Each, 10c;
d0puri»le °Prince. — A beautiful purple shade of this popular flower.
Each, 10c; doz., $1.00. _ , , , . . ..
Silver Spot. — Foliage green, spotted clear white; flowers bright
scarlet. Each, 15c; doz., $1.25.
STREPTOSOLEN. — Jamesoni. — Belongs to the Browallia class.
Grows one to two feet high and produces flowers of beautiful orange
scarlet. Each, 15c; doz., $1.25.
VERBENAS. — We have a large stock of the large flowered vari-
eties which bloom freely and are of finest colors. Ea., 10c; doz., 75c.
P SANSEVERIA. — Zelanica. — There is scarcely a decorative plant
listed that is more striking in
SANSEVERIA ZELANICA
MANETTA VINE
appearance, and certainly none
"other that will stand as much
^downright neglect. Erect, rigid.
"sword-like leaves which are
thick and fleshy, dark green
color, beautifully striped cross-
wise with white. Each, 15c;
large plants. 40c.
TENDER VINES AND BASKET PLANTS.
Listed separately for the convenience of our pa-
trons who desire them for special uses.
MANETTA. — Bicolor. — The flower is of the size and
shape shown in our illustration, and of brilliant scar-
let, tipped with clear golden yellow, making it most
wonderfully attractive. Each, 10c; large size, 25c.
IVIES. — English. — An old favorite vine. Each, 10c;
large, 25c.
German. — Well-known ivy which is very popular.
Each, 10c; doz., 75c.
MOON FLOWER.- — White. — A very handsome climb-
er, growing to a height of 25 to 40 feet, and covered
nightly and on dull days with its white, moon-like
flowers. Each, 1 5c; doz., $1.25.
SAXAFRAGA. — Strawberry Geranium. — The well-
known, much u-sed old plant for hanging baskets or
vases. Long strawberry-like runners. Each, 15c.
PASSION FLOWER. — Mammoth.— Will climb up a
trellis 10 to 12 feet high in a season. The flowers are
3 to 4 inches across and the colors a remarkable com-
bination of white and blue. Each, 15c.
Constance Elliott, — A white flowered mammoth va-
riety. Each, 15c.
VINCA MAJOR. — Elegantissima. — The long, trailing
stems of glossy green leaves are broadly margined
and variegated with white and they are always bright
and pretty. Of easiest culture, will stand neglect and
mistreatment and grow very rapidly. Blue flowers,
Each, 10c; doz., $1.00. Large size, 25c.
Harrison. — Similar to the above, but with darker
variegation. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
48
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
ROSES
% We consider these not only the
if most popular, but also the most sat-
W isfactory of all flowers, and there-
in fore we make roses a leading spe-
r tralty.
BARON VON MARSCHALL. — Dark
carmine, buds long and pointed, flow-
ers large, full and of perfect imbri-
cated form. Each, 15c; two-year-old
plants, 35c.
BON SILENE.
I -One of the oldest va-
|u rieties, has been grown for 70 years.
||* Color deep rose, though varying at
v N times to a lighter shade. Each, 10c;
° two-year-old plants, 25c.
BRIDE. — A fine pure white cut flower
rose- Very double. Buds are of very
lar§'e size, carried high and erect; un-
surpassed for purity and whiteness.
Each, 15c; two-year-old plants, 25c.
BRIDESMAID. — Like the Bride, but
of a lively shade of. clear pink. Thou-
sands of this sort are grown every year
C, V' ’ ’r for cut flowers, and it is also very de-
|||f slrable for summer bedding out of doors.
Ill Each, 10c; two-year-old plants, 25.
Ilf CHATENAY. — Flowers are of elegant shape with
slightly recurved petals.
Color is creamy rose
shaded with rose car- A
mine. Each, 15c; two- Amt
year-old plants, 35c.
champion of the
WORLD. — Claimed it will WJ
produce more flowers dur-
ing the year than ten
plants of any Tea Rose.
Blossoms are semi- double jjg
to center, of good shape. Jprg
BARON VON MARSCHALL
IVORY. — Flower is pure
white; a strong grower,
vigorous and healthy. Ea.,
^ 10c; two-year-old a
hermosa plants, 25c. ... /ag
KING OSCAR. — It is such a rich, dark color that in «
comparison with other varieties is appears almost a £g=3l
maroon black. "Each, 20c; doz., $1.75. Large two-year- JR
old plants, each, 40c; doz., $3.50. ^aj|l
MARIE VAN HOUTTE. — Flowers deep, double, canary
yellow in color. As they mature color changes to cream f||^aj
with tints of rose. Each, 15c; two-year-old plants, 30c.
MAD. DE WATTE VILLE. — The tulip rose. A beauti-
ful variety, color cream yellow, tinted rose pink.
Petals are bordered with crimson, making it a strik- ymr,
ing and attractive. Each, 15c; two-year-old plants, 30c. ^
METEOR. — The color is bright, rich, velvety crimson, ^
a delightful shade and the most popular of colors. Each, ^
15c; two-year-old plants, 30c. |§||s
RICHMOND. — Strong rival of American Beauty. Beau- tg||
tiful scarlet crimson. Each, 15CT two-yr.-old plants, 30c. «|||
UNCLE JOHN. — Always in bloom during growing sea- %
son. Flowers fine buff yellow, shading to pink and. ^
white; fragrant, very large and double. Each, 15c; two-
year-old plants, 30c. , , ... .
FRANCES E. WILLARD. — This extremely beautiful
new pure white everblooming rose has proven a most
valuable variety for garden bedding- Blooms much more
second season than first. Ea., 15c; two-year-old, 35c.
RICHMOND
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
49
BEAUTIFUL HARDY ROSES.
The most satisfactory of all flowering
plants, making a permanent improve-
ment which is constantly growing in
value.
AMERICAN BEAUTY. — One of the
best and most valuable roses. Color
rosy crimson, exquisitely shaded and
very handsome. Extra large, full flow-
ers and fine buds. A good bloomer,
each, 15c: dormant, 35c.
GUORIE DE MARGOTTIN. — One of the
very finest varieties. Color is clear,
dazzling red. It is certainly one of the
most brilliant roses ever seen. Each,
15c; dormant, 40c.
PAUL NEYRON. — Double flowers of
shining carmine pink. Largest rose
known and one of the most prolific
bloomers. Each, 15c; dormant, 30c.
COQUETTE DES ALPS. — Flowers are
MARY WASHINGTON
60
CAT LOGUE OP CHALLENGE SEEDS
HARDY VINES
AMPELOPSIS. — Veitehii. — (Boston Ivy) — Very beautiful
hardy climbing plant. Each, 15c; doz., SI. 25. Large plants,
25c; doz., $2.50.
. . Engelmanii. — Has the upright manner of growt hot the
Veitehii and is preferred by many because of its much '
heavier growth of leaves. Each, 15c; large, 25c. ; .
CINNAMON VINE. — A tuberous- rooted, hardy vine. Has <t
beautiful heart-shaped leaves and clusters of delicate white i
flowers and cinnamon fragrance. Large tubers, each 10c, 3 «
for 25c; doz., 75c. Bulblets from which the large tubers can | f
be grown in one season, doz., 10c; 100 for 6Qc. ?
LYCIUM. — Chinese Matrimony Vine. — Every new shoot be- i
comes filled with small purple flowers, which are followed a
by brilliant scarlet berries wh'ch remain on the vine until
winter. The long stems droop gracefully. Ea., 10c; large, 25c. 1
HARDY CLEMATIS. — The most popular climbing plant. \
Jackmanii. — Flowers four to s x inches in diameter, of a i
rich, deep, velvety purple, distinctly veined. It is a prince 1
among all hardy flowering v nes. Strong plants, each 50c.
Henryii. — Briefly a white flowered Jackmanii. Each, 50c. ■; s
Mad. Edouard Andre. — Nearest to bright red. Each, 50c. H *
Panieulata. — Small flowered variety of Clematis. Flowers pure snow-white, produced ! s
in immense clusters, fairly covering the plant with a mass of fleecy white; deliciously fra- ii
grant. Each, 15c; large, extra strong plants, 35c. } f
HONEYSUCKLE. — Red Coral. — Produces its bright red, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flow-
ers almost con1 inuously. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50; large plants, 25c. I f
Hail Jana. — (Hall’s Japan) — Flowers pure white changing to yellow and of peculiarly
delicious fragrance. Fine for trellises or pillars. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00. Large two-year- t
old plants, 20c; doz., $2.00.
Golden Leaved. — Slender, moderate grower; prevailing color of foliage is bright yellow; jj I
flowers yellow and sweet-scented. Each, 15c; large plants, 25c.
WISTARIA. — Blue Chinese. — Perfectly hardy, climbing fifty feet. Each, 15c; large, 35c. i
HARDY SHRUBS
There is nothing which is so quickly, and for so little cost, adds so much to the beauty,
cheerfulness and homelike appearance of a place as an assortment of hardy shrubs.
ALTHEA (Rose of Sharon)- — .Double White, Red, Purple, Bicolor. Each, 25c.
CYDONIA.— Japonica. — (Japan Quince) — Bright scarlet crimson flowers. Blooms early
in the spring. Each, 15c; large, 35c.
DEUTZIA, — Pride of Rochester. — It is a very desirable shrub of strong, hardy growth,
bearing abundance of beautiful racemes of double white flowers. Each, 15c; large, 30c.
FORSYTH1A. — Suspensa. — (Golden Bell) — Of weeping or pendulous habit; bright yellow
flowers. Each, 15c; large plants, 25c.
Fortunis. — A more upright-growing variety. Each, 15c; large, 25c.
Viridisslma. — Blooms among first shrubs. Flowers yellow, drooping and in great num-
bers. Each, 15c; large, 25c.
HYDRANGEA. — New Snowball. — (Arborescens Grandiflora Alba) — A magnificent new va-
riety of the hardy hydrangea. The blooms are
like the snowball. Each, 15c; large, 40c.
Pantieulata Grandiflora. — -Unsurpassed for the
lawn, a hedge, or cemetery planting. It readily
attains a height of 5 to 7 feet; flowers are
massive, cone-shaped, sometimes ten inches
in length, and changing from the original
pure whi e to pink, and finally to a beauti-
ful rich coppery red. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
Per 100, by express, $7.00. Large dormant
plants, each 30c; dozen, $2.50. Large tree
form plants, 75c. Special — Two-year-old
plants grown specially for hedges, by ex-
press, per 100, $12.75; 25 for $3.50.
LILACS. — Persian. — A well-known shrub,
bearing large, purple flowers. Each,
large, 25c.
Single White. — Has white flowers. Each,
15c; large, 35c.
Fiery Plume. — A novelty in lilacs. The
brightest and nearest red. Ea., 25c; large, 50c.
New Double White. — A novelty of great
merit; truss is of large size, and produced
in profusion. The individual flowers re-
semble miniature tuberoses. Each, 25c;
large, 50c.
Common. — The old standard variety with
bluish purple flowers. Each, 15c; large, 25c.
SNOWBALL. — Common. — A well-known
and popular shrub covered with dense white
flowers. Each, 15c; large, 25c
HYDRANGEA, PANICULATA
Japan.— A valuable improvement on the common snowball. Each, 15c; large, 35.c.
SYRINGA.— (Mock Orange) — Immense masses of pure white, intensely fragrant flowers
111 Grandiflora.— One of strongest growing varieties with large flowers Ea., 15c; large, 30c.
SPIRE Biiiardii.— A strong growing variety, pink flowers. Each iSe, large. She.
Anthony Waterer.— Makes a dwarf bush 15 to 18 inches high, with large heads of crim-
son flowers. Each, 10c; doz., 85c. Large, 25c; doz., $2.00. . ,
Van Houttii. — (Bridal Wreath) — Pure white flowers borne in such masses that they form
great plumes, drooping gracefully, giving the clumps the appearance of a snowbank of
white bloom. Each, 15c; doz., $1.25; per 100, $8.50. Large, each, 25c; doz., $2.00, per 100,
by express, $14,00.
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
51
HARDY FLOWERING PLANTS
These require less care and are more satisfactory with
ordinary culture than most other classes of plants. When
once set out they bloom year after year, the flowers really
becoming better as the plants grow older.
ACHILEA. — White Pearl. — Finest of all plants for cem-
etery planting. Flowers good sized, forming a beauti-
ful plant eighteen inches high, completely covered with
white flowers from July until frost. Each, 10c; doz., 75c.
CANTERBURY BELLS. — We can furnish both double
and single in assorted colors. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
COREOPSIS. — Grnndiflora. — Very desirable for perma-
nent plantings, producing flowers of bright yellow from
June until frost. Flowers last a long time in
Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
COLUMBINE. — The Columbines are old favorite late
spring and early summer blooming plants growing
about 2 feet high, that succeed in any ordinary garden
soil. Each, 15c; doz., $1.25. Large clumps, each 25c.
DAY LILY.— White.— (Funkia.)— A very beautiful
plant for partly shady places. Large, round, heart-
shaped leaves, clusters of fragrant lily-shaped white
flowers. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
Blue. — Flowers are of a lovely blue color, borne on
tall sip ikes. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
Variegated. — Beautifully mottled, dark green and
pure white leaves, lilac flowers. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
FOXGLOVE. — Digitalis. — Are used extensively with good effect
in shrubberies and in other shady situations. Each, 10c; doz.,
$1.00. Large clumps, each 25c.
DICENTRA. — Speetabilis. — The old Bleeding Heart,
bears long chain of pendulous bloom of exquisite
beauty. Each, 15c; doz., $1.40.
GAILARDIA. — Grandiflora. — The flowers are
large, from 2y2 to 3 y2 inches in diameter, of
gorgeous coloring. Center is dark reddish
brown. Petals brilliant scarlet, crimson, or-
ange and vermillion. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
CRIMSON EYE HIBISCUS. — A robust grower
with dark red stems and foliage. The flowers
are immense in size, often measuring 20 inches
in circumference. The color is of purest white,
with a large spot of deep velvety crimson in
the center of each flower. Each, 15c; doz.,
$1.25; extra large, 25c.
JAPANESE IRIS. — Kaempferi. — Among the
most beautiful of our summer flowering plants.
Of immense size and beautiful colors. Blos-
soms 8 to 10 inches across and of most beauti-
ful colors, markings and combinations — white,
indigo, purple, bluish, yellow, etc. Double
mixed, each, 15c; doz., $1.50. Single mixed,
each, 15c; doz., $1.25.
GARDEN PINKS. — Dwarf hardy plants that will 'grow anywhere
and increase in beauty every year. Delightful clove-like fragrance.
Her Majesty. — A grand variety; plants grow to large size, spreading and
producing immense numbers of pure white, double flowers. Ea„ 10c; doz., $1.00.
Souv de Sale. — Soft rosy pink, very double. Each, 15c; doz., $1.25.
‘ HELIANTHUS. — Multiflorus Plenus. — This should be in every garden and
will give entire satisfaction. Flowers from 3 to 4 in. in diameter, double as
any Double Dahlia, and cover plant from the ground to the top. Color a bright
golden yellow. Each, 15c; doz., $1.25.
HEMEROCALIS. — Kwanso. — (Double Corn Lily) — A
double flowering orange lily. Flowers beautiful or-
ange, shaded copper, and blooms freely during July and
August. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
GERMAN IRIS. — The true “Fleur-de-Lis,” the nation-
al flower of France. Perfectly hardy, thrive anywhere,
grow and bloom luxuriantly, particularly if plentifully
supplied -with water or if planted in moist situation.
Mme. Chereau. — Tall growing sort. The standard
petals white, edged lilac; fall petals violet. Very large
flowers and strong spikes.
Florentina. — Early, tall, flowers blue. Fine variety.
Florentina Alba. — A lovely soft white, very handsome
plant. Very early bloomer; tall. Plant with Florentina
for contrast.
Gipsy Seedling. — Standards rich cream yellow; falls
deep purple; medium height.
Honorable. — Standards cream yellow; falls chestnut
brown; medium height. Striking in contrast planting.
Canary Bird. — Standards are canary yellow; falls,
white striped with dark purple. A very fine variety.
Not tall, and flowers just at top of plant.
Celeste. — (King of the Blues) — Standards lavende
blue; falls dark blue. Dark growing and beautiful.
Flayencens. — Standard cream white; falls cream,
veined with bronze. Tall growing; later than most
sorts, but fine for contrast.
Any of the above named sorts, 10c each; doz., $1.00. hardy garden pinks
KWANSO
52
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
PAEONIES
They are as hardy as an oak, of the easiest culture, most vig-
orous habit, and free from all disease and insects. Many of the
newer varieties are quite
fragrant and well adapted
or large showy bouquets.
Festiva Maxima. — Color is
the purest snow white
with sometimes slight ear-
marks in the center.
50c; doz., $5.00.
Queen Victoria. — Very dou-
and compact; color flesh
white, white center, petals
lightly spotted with red.
25c; doz., $2.50.
All Aglow. — A magnificent
Outer and guard pet-
a delightful pink,
entire center is a rich
Ea., 35c; doz., $3.50.
Humeii. — Color a bright
red; delightfully fra-
Elegant foliage; a
specimen for the lawn,
late. Each, 25c; doz.,
La Esperance. — An exceed -
i n g 1 y vivid rose-colored
grandieloka rubra paeon* flower, growing compact and
highly perfumed. Early and free flowering. Each, 25c; doz., $2.50.
Grandiflora Rubra. — Probably the largest red variety in existence, often 8 or 9 inches
across. Give it rich soil and you will be
surprised. Each, 50c; doz., $4.75.
Andre Lauries. — A very double flower of
deep bright red. Blooms till late in the
season. Each, 25c; doz., $2.50.
HARDY PHLOX. — Flowers are very
large and have exceedingly brilliant
shades of color. They bloom from June
until very late fall.
Amorite. — Ground color white overlaid
with 1 lac. Center rosy crimson. Each, 10c.
Bridesmaid. — White with large crimson
carmine center. A striking and harmon-
ious combination of color. Each, 15c.
Maculata. — A tall, vigorous growing va-
riety with large trusses. Color rosy crim-
son. Each, 15c.
Obergartner Wittig. — A bright magenta
with crimson carmine eye. Large flower
and truss. Each, 15c.
Pearl. — Best pure white variety. Large,
beautiful flowers. Each, 10c.
Henry Murger. — Flowers are extra
large, floret white with very large crim-
son center. Each, 15c.
CREEPING PHLOX. — We can furnish
three colors: Pure white, deep pink and
light blue. Each, 10c; doz., 75c; 100, $5.00. rudbeckia or golden glow
GRASS PINKS. — The hardy and pretty clove-scented
flowers which our grandmothers loved. Flowers are dou-
ble, semi-double and single, and range from pure white
to dark pink and red. Each, 10c; dozen, 75c.
RUDBECKIA. — Golden Glow. — A glorious hardy plant
that should find a place in every garden. It attains a
height of 6 to 8 feet, and a small plant set out in the spring
will produce hundreds of blossoms. Nice for a screen row
t back of lawn. Price, 10c; doz., $1.00.
SWEET WILLIAM. — One foot high. Flowers are borne
heads or umbels, with individual flowers nearly an inch
across. Color white, pink, crimson, carmine, purple, etc.,
with eyes and rich markings. Each, 10c; doz., 85c. Field-
grown clumps, each 25c.
SHASTA DAISY. — Flowers extremely large and graceful,
about 4 inches in diameter with three or more rows of
petals of the purest glistening whiteness, and are borne
on single, stiff, wiry stems, nearly two feet in length.
Each 15c; doz., $1.25. Field-grown clumps, 25c.
VIOLETS. — Svranley White. — Plants are of vigorous
growth, producing a great many of the pure, snowy white,
double flowers. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
Lady Campbell. — Fine large double flowers of deep, rich
purple color. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
YUCCA. — Filumentosa (Adam’s Needle) — Tropical look-
ing plant with long, narrow leaves: remains green the en-
tire year. Grows in clumps and throws up a flower stalk
from 3 to 4 feet high, from which hang 100 to 300 creamy
white, bell-shaped flowers. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
YUCCA FILAMENTOSA
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
53
SUMMER BLOOMING BULBS
Many of the most showy, attractive, Inexpensive and easiest
grown of all summer and autumn flowers are contained in this
important class. There are scarcely any other flowers that
can compare with the noble and brilliant spikes of the glad-
iolus, the grace and elegance of the lily, the purity and sweet-
ness of the tuberose, the majestic foliage of the caladium, and
t lie wonderful markings of the tigridia.
CALADIUM. — Eseulentum. — (Elephant’s Ear) — A splendid
tropical plant; it grows 4 to 5 feet, with immense leaves, beau-
tifully veined and variegated with different shades of green;
leaves often growing 3 feet long. Medium sized bulbs, 15c,
3 for 40c; large bulbs, 25c, 3 for 60c; mammoth bulbs, 40c, 3
for $1.00.
CALLAS. — Mammoth White. — Largest flowering variety and
most majestic, with large tropical appearing leaves of bright
green color, and yielding a profusion of white flowers. Large
bulbs, each 25c; 3 for 60c; medium size, 15c; 3 for 40c.
Spotted Leaf. — For planting in the garden in summer. Each,
10c; dozen, $1.00.
C ANN AS. — Such a great improvement has been made in
Cannas during the past few years that they may well be called “glorious.” They are gen-
erally considered the most showy and effective bedding plants. They have tropical ap-
pearing foliage and showy flowers, some of which are truly orchid-like.
Alsace. — Color is a creamy white, without any spotting, and when grown with the dark
yellow and red varieties appears like clear white. Each, 15c; doz., $1.30.
Burbank. — The well-known Orchid Flowering Canna. The flowers are truly gigantic in
size, the upper petals spreading fully 7 inches. Flower is rich canary yellow; crimson
spots near center. Height 5 feet. Each, 15c; doz., $1.20.
Buttercup. — Beautiful clear yellow flower; large spikes. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
Crimson Redder.— One of the most showy flowered. Bright crimson scarlet. Each, 10c;
doz., $1.00.
Dr. Nansen. — Flower a clear bright yellow. Strong, vigorous and free flowering dwarf
sort with large blooms of good substance; 2 y2 to 3 ft. Each, 20c; doz., $2.00.
Dr. Robert Funke. — A scarlet-flowered variety growing heavy, dense blossoms of beau-
tiful brightness. Height 4 to 4 y2 ft.; green foliage. Each, 20c; doz., $2.00.
Florence Vaughan. — Height 5 feet. Dark green foliage; yellow flowers, spotted with
bright red. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
Louisiana. — Orchid flowered, color vivid scarlet. A strong grower; height 6 feet. Fol-
iage green. Each, 20c; doz., $2.00.
Madam Crozy. — Height 3 y2 feet. Green foliage; flowers vermilion red, gold bordered; a
succession of flower trusses. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
Mle Beratt. — Brightest pink. Blooms profusely; height 3 yz feet. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
Pres. Meyer. — Height 4 y2 feet. A dark foliage variety, with very large petaled flowers of
cherry red. A choice variety. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
•Richard Wallace. — Height 4% feet. Flower canary yellow; large flowers carried well
above foliage. Strong, robust grower; dark green, massive foliage. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
Venus. — Flower bright pink, with narrow border of bright lemon yellow, center and
throat splotched orange. Each, 15c; doz., $1.50.
Mixed Bedding Cannas. — Each, 8c; doz., 75c.
DAHLIAS. — One of the showiest of autumn flowers. They have been greatly improved;
start roots in house. Why dry roots are sold out, we fill orders with strong rooted plants!
Catherine Duer. — Bright, shining red of decorative form; fine cut flower. Ea„ 20c; 3 for 50c!
Crimson Cactus. — A desirable dark crimson variety. Each, 15c; 3 for 40c.
Mrs. Chas. Turner. — Extra large* with long pointed petals and perfect form. Color bright
lemon yellow. Each, 15c; 3 for 40c.
Ethel Vick. — Early ..blooming, shell pink
variety; handsome. Each, 15c; 3 tear 40c.
Grand Duke Alexis. — Flowers of the larg-
est size known in dahlias, being 18 in. in
circumference ,and of most beautiful form,
petals being rolled up, overlapping each
other. Pure snow white, slightly tinged
delicate pink at center. Each, 25c; 3 for 65c.
Maid of Kent.— r-The richest crimson vel-
vet color imaginable; about half of the
petals are tipped with a large spot of white,
thus adding greatly to its brilliancy. Flow-
ers are very large. Each, 15c; 3 for 40c.
Miller’s Red. — Bright red color, fine form
and splendid size. Each, 15c; 3 for 40c.
Queen Victoria. — Plant a robust grower
and so covered with flowers as to appear al-
most like a solid mass of golden yellow
color. Blooms early, very freely and con-
tinuously. Each, 15c; 3 for 40c.
Queen Emma. — A paeony flowered sort.
Ground color bright rose, yellow margined.
A strong, robust grower. Flowers are
borne on long stems and are fine for cut-
ting. Each, 25c; 3 for 60c.
Red Hussar. — A double show dahlia of
bright carmine red. Fine form and vigor-
ous growth. Each, 20c; 3 for 40c.
Wm. Agnew. — Carmine red, rich and
bright. Decorative type. Each, 20c; 3 for 50c.
Wm. Pierce. — Deep, rich yellow; free flow-
ering. Each, 15c; 3 for 40c.
Double Mixed. — Many shades of thechoic*
est varieties. Each, 10c; doz., $1.00.
54
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
GLADIOLUS. — These are a specialty with us and our
fields devoted to them make a most magnificent sight each
year, appearing at a distance a mass of bright colors.
Groff’s Hybrids. — A mixture containing all the new vari-
eties of this splendid type. Is universally admired. Each,
7e; doz., 50c; 100 for $4.00.
LaMoine Mixed. — Often called Butterfly Gladiolus. Have
odd and fantastic markings. Each, 5c; doz., 50c; 100, $3.50.
Fine Mixed. — Each, 4c; doz., 35c; 100 for $2.50. Second
size, doz., 25c; 100 for $1.50.
GLOXINIA. — Giant Flowered. — Large trumpet-s<haped
blossoms of crimson rose, scarlet, purple, white, etc., tinted
with dots of contrasting color. If bulbs are planted at
intervals will give a continuous bloom. Each, 10c; doz., $1.
HYACINTHUS CANDICANS. — Stem 3 or 4 feet high- bear-
ing drooping, ivory-white bell-shaped flowers of delicate
fragrance. Appear like giant snowdrops. Ea., 5c; doz., 50c.
LILY OF THE VALLEY. — A well-known and universally
admired spring flowering plant, bearing bell-shaped, freely
produced and powerfully fragrant flowers. They are
charming when grown in large patches, as their handsome
green leaves and lovely sprays of flowers make a beauti-
ful effect together. When once planted and established
the crowns increase in number and the larger ones
each year without attention'. Four strong roots for 15c;
doz., 35c; 100 for $2.00.
LILIES. — Nothing can surpass the lily in beauty, purity,
delicacy and stately, magnificent grandeur. A few clumps
planted in some place in your yard where they will not be
disturbed from year to year, will reward you abundantly.
Lemon Lily. — Not a true lily, as the bulb is of different
shape, but the flower is very much like the Lilum Speci-
osum in form, about 3 in. in diameter. Color clear lemon
yellow, very bright pleasing appearance. Ea., 15c; doz., $1.50.
Orange Lily. — (Hemerocalis Demorteri) — Similar to the
Lemon Lily, but of fine orange color. Each, 10c; doz., 75c.
Melpomene. — Frosted white, spot-
ted, clouded and bearded with pink-
ish crimson. Petals recurved and
widely bordered. Ea., 20c; 3 for 50c.
Aurntum.— ( Japanese Gold Band-
ed Lily) — This is justly entitled to
the name often given it — “The
Queen of Lilies.” The immense
flowers are produced in great pro-
fusion and are deliciously fra-
grant. The large white petals are
spotted with rich chocolate crim-
son, and have a bright golden yel-
low band through the center of
each. Each, 20c; doz., $1.75; extra
large bulbs, each, 30c; doz., $2.75.
Speciosum Rubrnm. — Flowers are
white, with a deep rosy or crim-
son band on each petal, with deep-
*er colored spots. Ea., 15c; 3 for 40c.
Speciosum Album. — Has large
white flowers of great substance,
recurved. Each, 20c; 3 for 50c.
Tigrlnum Splemlens. — Improved
Tiger Lily growing sometimes 6
feet high, and producing pyramids;
of orange red flowers spotted black
Each, 10; doz., $1.00.
Double Tiger Lily. — Is densely)
double, color orange red, spotted
with black. Blooms freely. Each,
15c; doz., $1.35.
LEMOINE MIXED GLADIOLUS
MADEIRA VINE.— A beau-
tiful tuberous rooted climber,
with glossy green leaves and
handsome racemes of fra-
grant white flowers. Pretty
for shading a veranda. Each,
5c; doz., 45c.
MONTBRETIA. — Crocosmi-
flora. — A showy summer-
flowering plant producing
many handsome, star-shaped
blossoms of orange red.
i mu Hardy, improve each year if
LILIUM left undisturbed. Each, 5c;
I i\ doz., 40c.
OXALIS. — Dieppi A 1 b a. —
Pretty low-growing variety.
_L 1 C L Lj IV VY ”51 U YV V 0-1 l. J •
with light green leaves and
clusters of pure white bell-
shaped flowers; blooms ’free-
ly. Doz., 10c; 100, 40c.
Lasinndra. — Large, dark
green, palmate or five-fiin-
gered leaves with clusters of
rosy pink flowers. Doz., 10c;
100 for 50c; mammoth bulbs,
doz., 15c.
RESURRECTION PLANT.
— A curiosity sure to inter-
est the children. Looks like
a ball of dried moss, but when dropped in a bowl of
tepid water it quickly opens out into a beautiful fern-
like plant. Each, 10c; 3 for 25c.
TRITOMA. — Pfitzeri. — At all floral exhibitions, and
when sent as cut flowers to market, this plant attracts
great attention. Grows from 3 to 4 feet high, flower
measures 12 to 15 inches long. Dazzling scarlet, lower
half of flower tinged rich orange. Each, 15c; 3 for 40c.
TUBEROSES.— -New Excelsior Pearl. — The tuberose
is justly a universal favorite and very easily grown.
Ours are superior to the ordinary Pearl tuberoses.
Characterized by short, robust stem and long spikes of
large flowers, perfectly double and twice the size of
the common tuberose, while of equally delicious fra-
grance. Spikes frequently bear 30 to 50 flowers, remain-
ing in bloom for a long time. Always wax-like, pure
white, and unsurpassed for buttonhole bouquets. Will
please you greatly. Monster bulbs, each 7c; doz., 65c.
First size bulbs, each, 5c; doz., 40c; second size, doz.,
25c; 100 for $1.25.
PEARL TUBEROSE
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
55
YELLOW TRANSPARENT APPLE
ORNAMENTAL TREES.
We can supply the following orna-
mental trees at prices named. Write
for prices on larger sizes than here
named. They come direct from the
nursery and cannot be shipped in the
same package with other good except'
nursery stock. _ ,
Each.
Ash, American White, 4 to 6 ft. . . .$ .30
Ash, American White, 6 to 8 ft... .50
Birch, Cut Leaf Weeping, 4 to 5 ft. 1.00
Birch, Cut Leaf Weeping, 5 to 6. 1.25
Box Elder, 4 to 6 ft 30
Box Elder, 6 to 8 ft o0
Carolina Poplar, 4 to 6 ft 30
Carolina Poplar, 6 to 8 ft 40
Catalpa, Hardy, 4 to 6 ft 30
Catalpa, Hardy, 6 to 8 ft.... 40
Chestnut, Am. Sweet, 4 to 6 ft.... .to
Crab, Dbl. Flowering, 2 to 3 ft 7a
Elm, American White, 4 to 6 ft:.. .35
Elm, American White, 6 to 8 ft. . . .60
Hackberry, 4 to 6 ft 60
Hackberry, 6 to 8 ft 75
Linden, American, 4 to 6 ft 60
Linden, American, 6 to 8 ft....... *75
Locust, Black, 4 to 6 ft........... .30
Locust, Black, 6 to 8 ft 50
Locust, Honey, 4 to 6 ft.... 50
Locust, Honey, 6 to 8 ft 75
Maple, Soft or Silver, 4 to 6 ft 30
Maple, Soft or Silver, 6 to 8 ft 50
Mountain Ash, 4 to 6 ft 40
Mountain Ash, 6 to 8 ft.... 60
Sycamore, American, 4 to 6 ft 40
Sycamore, American, 6 to 8 ft 60
Willow, Weeping, 4 to 6 ft 50
Willow, Weeping, 6 to 8 ft 75
SENATOR DUNLAP STRAWBERRY
NURSERY STOCK
are two and three years old, five
high. Grape Vines and Small Fruit
■e one-year No. 1 stock.
good plants and trees in order to grow
good fruit. We aim to send out the very best
stock, carefully packed for shipping. Purchaser
to pay transportation charges by express or
freight on all nursery stock unless otherwise
quoted. Orders must amount to at least one dol-
lar. These are shipped direct from the nursery
and cannot be sent with other goods. Ask for
special prices on large orders.
APPLES. — Each, 30c; doz., $3.00.
Summer Varieties. — Yellow Transparent, Red
June, Benoni, Duchess, Early Harvest.
Autumn Varieties. — Maiden’s Blush, Fameuse or
Snow Apple, Rambo, Autumn, Strawberry, Rams-
deil Sweet.
Winter Varieties. — Baldwin, Banana, Ben Davis,
Dominie, Grimes Golden, Genetin, Jonathan, N. W.
Greening. Tolman’s Sweet, Wealthy, Winesap,
Wolf River.
CHERRIES. — Each, 50c; doz., $4.00.
Early Richmond, Montmorency, English Morello.
PEACHES. — Each, 40c; doz., $3.50.
Crosby, Elberta, Champion, Bokhara.
PLUMS.— -Each, 50c; doz., $4.00.
Abundance, Burbank, De Soto, Forest Garden,
Weaver, Wild Goose.
PEARS. — Each, 50c; doz., $4.00.
Bartlett, Clapp’s Favorite, Keiffer, Seckel, Wor-
den Seckel.
GRAPES. — Each, 15e; doz., $1.00; 100 for $4.50.
Agawam (red), Brighton (red). Concord (pur-
ple), Moore’s Early (purple), Niagara (whiteL
Worden (purple).
BLACKBERRIES. — Doz., 60c; 100 for $2.50.
Erie, Ancient Briton, Snyder.
CURRANTS. — Each, 15c; doz., $1.25.
Pomona, Fay’s Prolific, White Grape, Red Cherry.
DEWBERRIES. — Doz., 75c; 100 for $2.50.
Lucretia.
GOOSEBERRIES. — Each. 25c; doz., $2.25.
Josselyn, Pearl, Industry, Houghton, Downing.
RASPBERRIES. — Doz., 75c; 100 for $2.50.
Cardinal, Cumberland, Gregg, Kansas.
STRAWBERRIES.
Perfect flowered varieties are marked (s); the
imperfect marked (p), must have perfect flowered
sorts planted with them or they will not fruit.
Ask for price by the thousand.
SPECIAL OFFER.
25 Bederwood, 25 Crescent, 25 Senator Dunlap,
25 Warfield. Four kinds to grow together and
make a bed for the ordinary family. Postpaid for
only $1.00.
BEDERWOOD (s). — One of the best for planting
with the Warfield or Crescent. Per doz., 30c; per
100, $1.00, postpaid. By express, per 100, 75c.
BISMARCK (s). — This resembles Bubach, of
which it is a seedling, but much better in shape,
color and quality. Per doz., 40c; per 100, $1.25,
postpaid. By express, per 100, $1.00.
BR AX D YWIXE (s).— Fine for market, being
large, firm and of a handsome red color. Per doz.,
40c: per 100, $1.25, postpaid. By express, per 100, $1.
CLIMAX. — Per doz., 40c; per 100, $1.75. By ex-
100, $1.50.
(s). — Decidedly the best early sort. Per
doz., 40c; per 100, $1.25, postpaid. By express, per
100, $1.00.
CRESCENT (p). — Old standard variety, will pro-
a large crop where other varieties would fail.
Per doz., 25c; per 100, $1.00, postpaid. By express,
per 100, 75c.
PARKER EARLE (s). — One of the most vigorous
and best sorts for family garden. Per doz., 50c;
per 100, $1.75, postpaid. By express, per 100, $1.50.
SAMPLE (p). — Per doz., 40c; per 100, $1.75, pest-
paid. By express, per 100, $1.50.
SENATOR DUNLAP (s). — Claimed to be the best
all round variety yet introduced. Per doz., 40c;
per 100, $1.50, postpaid. By express, per 100, $1.25.
SEAFORD (p). — Per doz., 40c; per 100, $1.25, post-
paid. By express, per 100, $1.00.
WARFIELD (p). — One of the best known mar-
ket berries. Per doz., 25c; per 100, $1.00, postpaid.
By express, per 100, 75c.
56
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEELS
Berry Boxes and Fruit Packages
We are prepared to furnish you the best stock
made, at low prices. We handle a great many
carloads each year, and from our long experience
are enabled to select superior stock and give in-
structions for cutting so that it will suit our
trade. Bright, smoothly-cut stock will make the
fruit look nicer and sell better. Prices named
here are subject to change during season. All
goods in this department go by freight or express at customer’s expense for carriage.
Terms Cash With Order. — The profit is so small on these goods that we cannot afford
to make C. O. D. shipments.
BERRY BOXES. — Made of the best white
wood (poplar), heart stock, cut smoothly,
and perfect shape, size 4%x4%x3%, and will
hold a wine measure quart. The bottom is
set up for ventilation. Usually put up in
bunches of 500 boxes complete for shipment
and all ready for putting together, which
can be done very rapidly. 500 at the 1,000
rate; broken bundles at the 100 rate. Price,
per 100, 40c; 1,000, $3.25: 3,000 or more at|
$3.15; 10,000 or more at $3.00. '
ANNEALED TACKS. — Made of the Very
best Swedes iron and of proper length so
that they go through either two or three
thicknesses of the material and clinch to
hold securely. A pound will make 1,000
boxes. Lb., 30c; 4 lbs., $1.00.
CRATES. — Made of thoroughly seasoned
stock, well ventilated at sides and bottom,
but with a, tight cover to protect from dust.
We always ship in the flat or “knock down.”
They make a neat, strong and cheap pack-
age holding 16 and 24 quart boxes. Price:
16-qt. crates per 10, $1.00; per 100, $8.50;
24-qt. crates per 10, $1.20; per 100, $10.00.
CRATE NAILS. — Far superior to common
nails, as they hold much better. Twelve
pounds (makes 100 crates), $1.00.
FOLDING ONE BUSHEL CRATE
FOLDING ONE-BUSHEL CRATE. — Light,
strong and durable. Slats are all run with
round corners so that contents are not
bruised or cut. Size 11% in. in width, 20%
in. long, 13% in. high outside. No. 1, each
35c; per 10, $3.00.
APPLE BOXES. — Apple growers in Iowa
at last realized that to obtain the best prices
for apples, they must pack them in neat
packages and grade them in sizes. The
Standard apple box holding one bushel, such
as has been used by western growers for
years, is now being adopted by the Iowa
growers, and is giving much better satisfac-
tion than barrels and are more economical
when used in large numbers. Prices are
given below for panel end boxes. For solid
48 inch end add $1 per hundred. The panel
end is most generally used. Price: 10 for
$1.65; 25 for $3.90; 100, $14.50.
MAGNETIC TACK HAMMER. — Picks up
the tacks and save much labor. Each, 15c.
IRON MEASURES. — Made of heavy gal-
vanized iron with side handles. Peck size,
each 40c; %-bushel, each 50c; 1-bushel,
0cLCl’l V0c
WOOD MEASURES. — Iron bound, to make
them stronger. Half-peck, each 20c; peck,
each 25c.
DIAMOND MAR-
KET BASKET. — As
will be noticed we
are now having
(these baskets made
[with two handles
which close down
lover the edge of the
basket. The bas-
kets nested in this
way can be shipped
at about half the
cost of the old-
style over-handle
baskets, and they
are also quite con-
venient for ship-
ping the fruit in.
They are used quite
largely for market-
ing grapes, plums,
cherries, etc., as
well as for some kinds of vegetables. Per
doz., 50c; 10 doz., $4.65.
CLIMAX GRAPE BASKET. — The best
package for shipping grapes, cherries,
plums, etc. It is
the standard 8-
lb. size, making
a strong, but
light package.
Baskets arej
made of the best
material. They
are nested for
shipment with
the covers and
bent handles in ... _A . -
separate packages. Price for 10, 50c, 25 for
90c; 100 for $3.25; 1,000 for $28.50.
HALF-BUSHEL BASKET. — This is the
best all-round basket for the use of farm-
ers, fruit growers and
grocers that we
know of. It is very
strong and well made,
^smooth inside, so that
lit does not bruise or
scratch the fruit. It is
particularly adapted to
picking fruit, potatoes,
tomatoes and other
■ Vegetables. The
swinging bale makes
it easily handled.
(Made with wide band
’inside. Price, 20c each;
$2 00 per dozen.
NO. 1 — ONE-BUSHEL BASKET. — The
ideal basket for general use. Standard elm
staves with elm hoops and handles; also
both inside and outside bottom hoops. Is
also reinforced with a 6-inch band around
inside at the top which makes it both
smoother and stronger. Is meant for hard
usage and should last many years. Each,
25c; dozen, $2.70.
TREE PRUNER. — Strong wooden handles
24 inches long; knife 3 inches long. Has
cutting knife 2 inches long. Powerful and
effective. The best pruner for low-headed
trees or where branches are within reach.
Each, $1.50.
WATER’S TREE PRUNER. — The stand-
ard make: with 6-ft. pole, 85c; 8-ft. pole,
$1.00; 10-ft. pole, $1.20.
IMPROVED HAND PRUNING SHEARS.—
The best hand shears on the market. Made
of best steel, 8 inches long, spiral spring.
Price, 75c; postpaid, 90c.
57
SPRAYING PUMPS
No one engaged in agricultural work of any kind can afford to
work without a sprayer. Insect pests ravage the garden and or-
chards, annoy the live stock and poultry, and make trouble for the
housewife during the summer months. We offer in this list only a
few styles, but from years of
study and experiment we have
selected the kinds offered as
a choice in styles am
every one here listed
satisfaction. We can
compressed air and
pumps if desired.
DAISY SPRAYING PUMP.—
popular little pump is
by our illustration. We
hundreds of these pumps
which are used for spraying insecticides
and whitewash in the poultry house, also
for spraying fruit trees and plants. Can
be changed so as to throw a solid stream
of water 20 to 30 feet high and can be
used for washing windows, buggies, etc.
Price, only $1.00. Can be sent by express
only.
LIGHTNING SPRAY AND WHITE-
WASH PUMP NO. 2S.— This all brass pump
is in many respect the most satisfactory
pump on the market. Has brass ball
valves, brass plunger filled with hemp
packing. Furnished complete as shown BRAS$
in cut. Is provided with a large air cham- ball
ber enabling the operator to keep a con- and valve
daisy spraying pump stant pressure on the nozzle of 50 to 100 lightning spray pump
lbs. with little exertion. For whitewashing it is superior to all other bucket
Excellent for washing buggies and windows. Price, $3.25.
FAULTLESS INSECT SPRAYER. — An all-brass sprayer. Will not rust. The best hand
sprayer for applying liquids and insecticides to poultry houses and live stock. Also valu-
able for spray-
ing grape Vines,
small trees and,
shrubbery. Made(
of heavy brass
very durable. We sell hundreds of these and have heard no com-
plaint. For the purposes intended it is by far the best pump of-
fered. Price by express, not prepaid, $1.00. Same in tin, 50c.
CONTINUOUS FAULTLESS SPRAYER. — Made like the old |
pumps.
FAULTLESS
SPRAYER
standard Faultless sprayer which has for years been the most pop-
ular of this type. Made in such a way that the action of the
plunger forces a continuous fine mist spray and the drawing back
of the plunger does not stop the flow as it does in the old-style
sprayer. All brass, $1.25; tin, 75c.
LITTLE GIANT BUCKET SPRAY PUMP. — Constructed entirely of brass and provided
with a large air chamber and has ball valves, and the pressure is held uniformly in the
air chamber and on the hose, so that the nozzle throws a continuous spray and is not
affected by the movement of the plunger. Will throw a solid stream 50 to 80 feet; fitted
with hose and imperial combination and the fine and coarse spray, and solid stream nozzle
and malleable foot rest. Price, $3.00; with 8-foot pipe extension, $3.50.
STANDARD SPRAY PUMP. — The nozzle end is also the plunger. Can be used in a bucket,
tank or barrel. Made entirely of brass, with two solid brass ball valves. Simple, strong
and durable and will last for years. Price with whitewash nozzle, each, $4.00.
INSECTICIDES
standard spray pump
ARSENATE OF LEAD, Paste. — The best of all arsenical insecticides. Does not
burn the foliage and as it shows white you can tell just what has been sprayed.
Sticks well to the foliage and is sure death to all leaf eating insects. The best
known insecticide for spraying fruit trees. Applied at the rate of one ounce to
one gallon of water. Price: 1 lb., 25c; 2 lbs., 35c; 5 lbs., 90c; 20 lb. keg , $3.20; 50
lb. keg, $6.50; 100 lb. keg, $12.00; 300 lb. barrel, $33.50.
BORDEAUX MIXTURE, Paste. — For all fungus diseases. An excellent remedy
for milldew, black rot, blight, leaf curl, scab and other fungoid diseases on fruits
and plants. One gallon will make 50 gallons of liquid. Price: 1 lb. 20c; 2 lbs.,
35c; 5 lb. jug, 75c; 20 lb. keg, $1.75; 100 lb. keg, $7.50.
HELLEBORE, Powdered. — Very effective to use on currant worms, and rose
slugs. Price: % lb., 10c; 1 lb., 25c.
PARIS GREEN. — The most effective destroyer of potato bugs, codling moth,
worms, caterpillar, slugs and bugs. When applied in powdered form it should be
mixed with plaster or flour, 100 parts to one part of Paris Green. In solution
mix 1 lb. in 200 to 300 gallons of water. Price: % lb., 25c; 1 lb., 40c; 5 lbs., $1.75;
100 lbs., $30.00.
TOBACCO DUST. — For green and black aphis, fleas and beetles. Price: 1 lb.,
10c; 5 lbs., 30c; 10 lbs., 50c.
SLUG SHOT. — A non-poisonous powder used largely in dusting potato plants
and melon and squash vines. Price: 1 lb., 10c; 5 lbs, 35c; 10 lbs., 60c.
KEROSENE EMULSION. — One of the best insecticides for a.ll soft bodied suck-
ing insects feeding openly so as to be within reach of actual contact, such as
plant lice, fleas, beetles, aphis, green fly, mealy tug, also for insects of fruit trees,
including San Jose scale. Price: 1 qt. can, 40c; 1 gal, $1.00; 5 gal. can, $4.60.
58
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
■4? CHALLENGE POULTRY SUPPLIES
[CHALLENGE
cmch
FOOD
-MANUFACTURED
DE5M0lflE55EED(|
~DE5 MOINES, IOWa|
Ask for our illustrated Poultry Supply Catalogue. You will find that
our stock and prices are both right.
We handle a complete line of Poultry Supplies of the best quality,
and as we purchase many items in carload lots, we are prepared to
quote as low prices as can be obtained anywhere for first-class quality,
freight considered.
CHALLENGE CHICK FOOD. — Has been prepared with the idea of
supplying a perfectly balanced ration for young chicks. It has been
demonstrated that young chicks do much better on our especially pre-
pared feed than on any moist or soft food that can be obtained. It is
composed of various kinds of grain, bone and other nutritive foods,
making it the most complete and cleanest chick feed on the market.
Price per 25-lb. bag, 75c; 50 lbs., $1.35; 100 lbs., $2.50.
CHALLENGE SCRATCH FEED. — In preparing this feed we have had
in mind the production of the best feed that can be made for laying
hens and the keeping of all fowls healthy. Our Challenge Brands of
j Poultry Foods contain no grit of any kind. Price, 25 lbs., 60c; 100 lbs. $2.
CHALLENGE POULTRY MASH. — Just like our scratch foods. Made
meals, mixed' in proper proportions for a balanced
from clean grain
ration. We put some alfalfa meal in it to give it added value and it
will really make the hens lay eggs in the coldest winter weather.
Price, 25 lbs., 75c; 50 lbs., $1.25; 100 lbs., $2.25; 500 lbs., $10.00.
STAPLE SCRATCH FOOD. — This is the same formula as our Chal-
lenge Brand, but we add grit and shell in proper amounts. Price, 25
lbs., 50c; 50 lbs., 90c; 100 lbs., $1.75; 500 lbs., $8.50.
STAPLE CHICK FOOD. — Some customers prefer to have the grit
mixed in with the grains, and for such we furnish uor Staple Brand,
as this contains the necessary amount of grit for the chicks. In other
respects it is almost the same as our Challenge Brand. Price, 25 lbs.,
75c; 50 lbs., $1.25; 100 lbs., $2.25; 500 lbs., $10.90.
ALFALFA CLOVER MEAL. — An excellent preparation of alfalfa con-
taining a large amount of digestible protein, especially adapted to be
fed with mash feed. Valuable as a winter feed. Price, 10 lbs., 35c;
25 lbs., 65c; 100 lbs., $2.00.
SPRATT’S CHICK MEAL. — Specially prepared to be used as a feed
for young chicks. It keeps them healthy and thrifty. Price, 5 lbs.,
50c; 25 lbs., $2.00; 100 lbs., $6.00.
GROUND BEEF SCRAPS. — Made from fresh beef, thoroughly cooked
and dried. Excellent food for young chicks or laying hens. Price, 10
lbs., 50c; 25 lbs., $1.00; 100 lbs.^ $3.50.
better
staple!
SCRATCH
tood:
^MANUFACTURED
[DE5M0INES SEED©
'DE5 MOINES. I0WAS
CRUSHED RAW BONE. — Really
than the shell, but will pay to use both.
Of best quality, being made from fresh
bones. 10 lbs., 50c; 25 lbs., $1.00; 100 lbs.,
$2.75.
RAW BONE MEAL. — Ground fine for feed-
ing small chickens; also used as a lawn
fertilizer. 10 lbs., 45c; 25 lbs., 85c; 100 lbs.,
$2.75.
PEARL GRIT. — No better grit can be
found for poultry. Sharp and wears sharp.
Per 25 lbs., 35c; 100 lbs., 85c; 500 lbs. or
more at 75c per 100 lbs.
PEARL CHICK GRIT. — A small grit
which is a necessity when raising young
chickens. Per 25 lbs., 35c; 100 lbs., 85c; 500
lbs. or more at 75c per 100 lbs.
CRUSHED CLAM SHELL.— Used very ex-
tensively by poultrymen, and being harder
than oyster shell, and not dissolving so
readily, will serve as a grit and at the same
time contains a large amount of available
lime necessary in egg production. Per 25
lbs., 35c; 100 lbs., 75c; 500 lbs. or more at
70c per 100 lbs.
CRUSHED OYSTER SHELL.— This is a
most important article for the poultry yard
and should be supplied to the fowls liber-
ally. Of superior quality. Your hens will
keep healthier, lay better, and eggs will be
more fertile if supplied with it. Per 10
lbs., 25c; 25 lbs., 40c; 100 lbs., 90c; 500 lbs.
at 85c per 100.
HUMPTY DUMPTY EGG CASE. — The or-
iginal folding egg case. The strongest and
best folding case ever put on the market.
Each case holds twelve dozen eggs. Price:
Each, 35c; three for $1.00.
HEN FRIEND DRINKING FOUNTAIN.—
Made of galvanized iron. Easily filled and
handled. Two-quart size, each, 25c; 4-qt.,
each 35c; 10-qt., each 50c.
> SANITARY DETACHABLE FOUNTAIN.—
Made of stoneware. Chicks can drink all
around. Easily cleaned. Two-quart, 25"-
doz., $2.50; gallon, 35c; doz., $3.50; 2-gal.,
50c; doz., $5.00.
MICA CRYSTAL GRIT. — Hard, sharp, and
instead of grinding smooth like an ordi-
nary stone it breaks off in such a way that
it stays sharp. It is fine for poultry, pig-
eons and turkeys. Per 10 lbs., 25c; 25 lbs.,
40c; 100 lbs., $1.00; 500 lbs. or more at 85c.
HUMPHREY’S GREEN BONE AND VEG-
ETABLE CUTTER. — One of the leading bone
cutters. Be sure and investigate before
you purchase. Manufacturer’s guarantee
given with each cutter sold. No. 1 cutter,
$12.00; No. 2 y2, semi-power, $15.00. No. 2
all-power cutters, each $13.50.
LEADER LEG BAND. — An adjustable
band which can be used for any sized fowl
from a bantam to a turkey. Made of alum-
inum, light and smooth. Doz., 20c; 100, €5c,
postpaid. 500, not prepaid, for $2.75.
CROWN BONE CUTTERS. — No. 1—
Weighs 50 lbs. and is to be bolted to a
bench or table for operation. Each, $6.50.
No. 2 — Same as above, but has a tripod
metal stand upon which the cutter is fast-
ened. Weighs 80 lbs. Each, $8.50.
WILSON DRY BONE AND SHELL MILL.
— It will grind either shell or dry bone and
crack wheat or corn. Each, $4.50.
MODEL GRINDING MILL.— To grind
shell, grit, bone and grains. Easily ad-
justed to' grind coarse or fine as desired.
No. iy2, each $2.50. No. 2, $4.50.
EYRIE EGG BOX. — Made of corrugated
paper. Very strong, light and durable.
Self-locking. No. 1 holds 15 eggs, per doz.,
$1.50. No. 2 holds 30 eggs, per doz., $2.50.
ANDERSON EGG CASES. — Similar to
above, but shipped in flat, saving freight or
express charges. We recommend them.
Price, 15- egg size, $1.25 per doz.; 30-egg,
$2.00 per doz.; 50-egg, $3.00 per doz.; 100-
egg, $5.00 per doz.
SEFTON LIVE CHICK BOX.— Made from
corrugated paper with ventilating holes in
top and sides; for shipping small, live
chicks. 25-chick size, $1.50 doz.; 50-chick
size, $2.00 doz.; 100-chick size, $3.50 per doz.
DES MOINES SEED C<X DES MOINES, IOWA
59
Cyphers Standard Incubators
The incubator
you can insure
against loss ,by
fire. Each ma-
chine is inspect-
ed and approved
by the National
Board of Fire
U nderwriters
and it bears
their official
label of in-
spection and ap-
proval. Are in
general use at
poultry farms of
the college ex-
periment sta-
tions and are
recommended by them,
market.
No. 0 — Capacity, 70 eggs.
No. 1 — Capacity, 144 eggs.
No. 2 — Capacity, 244 eggs.
No. 3 — Capacity, 390 eggs.
Conceded the best on the
Price $15.00
Price 22.00
Price 32.00
Price 38.00
CYPHERS BROODERS. — Well ventilated well
made, and will save every chick that is hatched.
Style A — Outdoor brooder, capacity 75 chicks . $12.50
Style B — Outdoor brooder, capacity 75 chicks. 16.50
Style C — Outdoor brooder, capacity 100 chicks. 18.50
Style D — Indoor brooder, capacity 75 chicks... 11.50
Adaptable Hover — Can be used in any brooder. . 8.50
BUCKEYE 50 ECC INCUBATOR
Lessens the risk of operation, for a failure only
means the loss of fifty eggs, while the loss from sim-
ilar cause with a large standard machine would be
three to six times as heavy. You can buy the same
egg capacity for less money than if a large standard
make is purchased. It is suitable for any poultry
raiser whether he breeds from ten or ten hundred
hens. One of the largest poultry farmers of the
country has discarded all the large machines and
filled his incubator house with these small hatchers,
claiming he gets better results, and has less loss
from failures than under the old system.
Style C. — Equipment — One tank and boiler, one
lamp bowl, one burner with wick, one chimney, one
thermometer, one thermometer holder, one complete
Buckeye regulator, one egg tester and two egg
trays. Has single walls and weighs 35 lbs. crated.
Price each $6.00.
Style A. — Has in addition to double walls and reg-
ulator equipment, compartment below for chicks as
hatched. Price each $8.00.
Only $6.00 buys the Style C machine. It is cheaper
than to set hens. Each machine hatches as many
chicks as four hens, and it won’t be half the bother
to care for that hens are.
WE WILL MAKE YOU SPECIAL PRICE ON FIVE OR MORE
Just the right size, just the right price. You can
set them anywhere, and move them any time with-
out jarring eggs. Guaranteed by the manufacturers.
WIRE POULTRY NETTING
The best make; thoroughly gal-
vanized to prevent rusting, and
properly twisted. Prices are sub-
ject to important market changes.
Made of No. 19 wire and 2-inch
mesh; put up in rolls 150 feet long.
Width Width
Inches Per Roll Inches Per Roll
12 $ .90 36 $2.70
18 1.35 48 3.60
24 1.80 60 4.50
30 2.25 72 5.40
One-inch mesh, No. 20 wire, for
young chicks and Belgian hares.
12 $2.00 30 $5.00
18 3.00 36 6.00
24 4.00
Other widths if desired.
Will allow 5 per cent discount on
lots of five rolls or more.
Cut rolls, q,ny width, of 2-inch
mesh, 1 cent per square foot.
Cut rolls, any width, of 1-inch
mesh, 2 cents per square foot.
CLIMAX WIRE AND POULTRY
FENCING. — Made from steel wire
and galvanized after weaving, mak-
ing it very strong and .lasting
Woven with small meshes at the
bottom, and meshes increase in size
to the top of the fencing. Specially
desirable for yards for young chicks.
4-ft. Size — Per roll of 10 rods.. $4. 00
6-ft. Size — Per roll of 10 rods.. 5.00
6-ft. Size — Per roll of 10 rods.. 6.00
BUFF PLYMOUTH ROCKS
JEGGS FOR HATCHING.
From choice farm-raised, high-
grade, thoroughbred stock.
Barred Plymouth Rocks — Setting
of 13 eggs $1.25.
White Plymouth Rocks — Setting
of 13 eggs $1.25.
Buff Plymouth Rocks — Setting of
13 eggs $1.50.
White Wyandottes. — Setting of 13
eggs $1.50.
Black Laugshans. — Setting of 13
eggs $1.25.
Brown Leghorns. — Setting of 13
eggs $1.25.
Rose Comb Brown Leghorns —
Setting of 13 eggs $1.50.
Light Brahmas. — Setting of 13
eggs $1.25.
Eggs for Incubators. — Write us
for prices.
Breeding Stock. — A few very
choice cockerels and pullets at rea-
sonable prices. WTrite for price list.
Bronze Turkeys. — Setting of 9
eggs for $3.00.
Mammoth White Pekin Ducks,— -
Setting of 9 eggs $1.50,
60
CATALOGUE OF CHALLENGE SEEDS
Standard Garden Tools
STANDARD NO. 7— Spring Beam Cultivator, a great fa-
vorite for the reason that the attachments are fastened to
spring beams allowing them to be moved to and from each
other very easilv. The arch is adjustable in width from 7
to 11 inches. Wheels 16 inches high. We wish to recom-
mend this as a specially good tool for the money. It is
much cheaper in price than the other high-class double
wheel 'hoes and we think it bet-
ter. Prices as shown with culti-
vating teeth and hoes, $4.75.
STANDARD NO. 7
STANDARD NO.
9. — Combined Dou-
ble and Single
Wheel Hoe, Culti-
vator, Plow, Rake,
Hill and Drill Seed-
er. The latest im-
proved and best
^•combination ever
offered. Easily
^changed to a dou-
ble or single wheel
cultivator .This will
plant seed in hills 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24
inches apart or drill in a continu-
ous row. All parts liable to be
broken are of malleable iron. Frame
is very stiff and strong. Has very
fine seed adjustment. Wheels are
16 in. high. Price complete, $12.00.
STANDARD NO. 4. — Cultivator, a
great labor-saving tool for large or
small gardens. All castings mal-
leable, wheels 16 inches high. Can
be used as a single or double
wheel. Shovels, hoes and
diamonds are finely polished
and of the best material
for the purpose. Price
complete as shown,
$6.50.
STANDARD NO. 9
STANDARD NO. 20
STANDARD NO. 20. — Cultiva-
tor has 24-inch wheel and the
handiest adjustment ever put on
a tool of this kind. Mouldboard
has landslide to prevent side-
draft. Furnished with att'ach-
ments shown. Price com-
plete, $3.00.
IRON AGE DOUBLE WHEEL HOE
IRON AGE NO. 1. — Complete Dou-
ble Wheel Hoe. A standard tool
made by one of the best factories in
America. Equipment consists of one
pair side hoes, four cultivator teeth,
one pair plows, one pair rakes, one
pair of vine lifters. Made of best
material in best manner. Ea., $7.00.
IRON AGE NO. 13. — Double Wheel
Hoe. This is same frame as the No.
1, but has only a pair of hoes and
the four cultivator teeth. Ea., $6.00.
STANDARD NO. 4
IRON AGE NO. 6. — Combined
Hill and Drill Seeder, Double and
Single Wheel Hoe. One of the
most complete garden tools. As
indicated, it is not only a drill
which sows 'seed in rows or hills
as desired, but when seeding is
done you change it to a cultivator
and keep the crops clean. Splen-
did time saver for the ordinary
gardener. Each, $12.00.
IRON AGE NO. 7. — Hill and Drill
Seeder Only. This is for planting
only, but it does this work in the
best manner. Ea., $8.0o.
IRON AGE NO. 14.—
The same as the No. 7
Hill and Drill Seeder
with the addition of
the side hoes and cul-
tivator teeth; no other
attachments. Ea., $10.
IRON AGE COMBINED DRILL AND CULTIVATOR
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
61
PLANET JR. NO. 4 COMBINED SEEDER AND CULTIVA-
TOR.— This latest improved tool is giving- good satisfaction.
It combines in a single convenient implement, a first-class
hill-dropping seeder, a perfect drill seeder, a single wheel
hoe, a cultivator and a plow. It holds two quarts and as a
seeder is sows in continuous rows, or drops in hills 6, 9, 12, 18
or 36 inches apart. It is thrown out of gear by simply rais-
ing the handles. The index is accurate, simple and easily set.
The drill is detached and the tool frame substituted by re-
^ moving but one bolt. It then becomes
a single wheel hoe, garden plow or
cultivator. With this one implement
the ordinary farmer can do practically
all the work in his small crops. Price,
i iC J $10.50. Set of three rakes, if desired,
DRILL AND CULTIVATOR.— This is
the most popular tool be have ever
sold. As a hoe it works safely to and
from both sides of the row at once,
or between rows. As a cultivator it
o __ Each machine sent out with the tools
Pair of rakes for same, 50 cents extra.
We regard this as the acme of perfection and most
PLANET JR. NO. 4 COMBINED SEEDER AND CULTIVATOR
is admirably adapted to deep mellowing of the soil,
shown in cut. Price, $9.00. r„l. "
PLANET JR. NO. 3 SEED DRILL,
decidedly the best seed sower made. It will sow
perfectly either to a continuous row or drop the
seeds in hills 4, 6, 8, 12 or 24 inches apart. It
opens the furrows, drops in hills or drills, covers,
rolls down and marks the next row, all at one
operation. It has a force feed, sows equally
well whether the hopper is full or contains only
a paper of seed. Price, $10.00.
PLANET JR. NO. 25 COMBINED SEEDER
AND CULTIVATOR. — Alarge drill and double
wheel hoe, intended es-
pecially for market gar-
deners. Sows all kinds
of garden seeds in hills
or drills, and combines «,
with it a double wheel a _
hoe, cultivator and plow.
Ask for descriptive cir- V f&m ff i;
cular. ' — — —
PLANET JR. NO. 17 SINGLE WHEEL HOE'
^ PLANET JR.
[Ill NO. 16 SINGLE-
WHEEL .HOE. —
^ The latest and
| best single-wheel
h°e; has a very
r fun set of tools,
several of them
w being of new de-
sign, such as have
12 double wheel hoe been found to
work in the very best manner. It has an
11-inch wheel, with broad face; is very
bss. light, strong and easy running. It has
an adjustable handle and quick-change
frame. The tools are a well-shaped plow,
(pPfcj jl a pair of 6-inch shield shoes and three all-
steel patent cultivator teeth; set of two
rakes and a practical leaf guard. Price,
^ $5.35.
PLANET JR. NO. 17 SINGLE-WHEEL
HOE. — Has one pair of hoes, three culti-
planet jr. no. 44 double wheel disc hoe vator teeth and a plow. This is just the
right assortment of tools for a family garden and should fB
be very popular. If desired, the rakes and other attach- j ■
ments can be added later to make a complete tool. Price, A \
$4.50. ^
PLANET JR. NO. 12 DOUBLE-WHEEL HOE. — This
most practical tool is made for gardeners. The arch is
high enough to enable the operator to work both sides of
the row at once until plants are 18 inches high, then
wheels can be set close together and jot ^
work between rows. It will do the work -■
of six men with ordinary hand hoes. The 'iia.
cultivating attachments consist of one
pair 6 -inch hoes, two pairs hollow steel x
cultivator teeth, one pair of plows anr1
one pair leaf lifters. Price, $6.50. Five
tooth rakes, 75c per pair extra.
PLANET JR. NO. 14 DOUBLE-
WHEEL DISC HOE. — Is a new tool es-
pecially satisfactory on heavy soils.
There are three discs on each side, of
which two or more may be used as de-
sired, and can be adjusted for depth.
Two sets of prong cultivator teeth con-
structed on entirely new lines. Tooth
next to the row is narrow and arranged
to run shallow, the middle tooth is
wider and runs one-half inch deeper,
outside tooth is very much wider and
runs deeper still. Teeth are set out of
line from front to back with greater
freedom. Two plows of regular Plahet
Jr. model. Price, $7.50,
Price, $13.00.
PLANET JR. NO. 13
DOUBLE-WHEEL HOE.
— This is identical with
No. 12, described above,
but has only one pair of;
hoes, no other attach-
ments. Price, $4.25.
PLANET JR. NO. S HORSE HOE. — So well built
as to stand incredible strain, yet light and easy
to handle. The depth :is under perfect control by
a new lever wheel, making exact work, steadying
machine and relieving the operator. The revers-
ible side hoes act as plows or hillers, but when
'turned end for end the tool becomes a genuine
horse hoe; works shallow and close. Price, $8.50.
PLANET JR. TWELVE-TOOTH HARROW. —
Depth and width regulated by hand levers while
in motion. We guarantee it to prevent clogging,
and teeth are quickly reversed by changing a sin-
gle bolt in each. Is provided with a pulverizer
which leaves the ground in fine condition. Price,
$8.50; or without the pulverizer, $7.25.
62
CATALOGUE OP CHALLENGE SEEDS
STAR CORN SHELLER
jmSm €Hpto §'radinS seed corn before plant-
A cheap, quick and effective
.:W method of eliminating tip and butt
grains and preparing seed for
OU ‘ edge dropping. Will pay for it-
^Dv||.,. self if you only plant five acres.
DTmfllL Each (by express only), $1.25. If
rU Pdf Pa in included with order for seed
n« rntrftiu corn, onlv $1 0o. ig
LANG’S HAND WEEDER. — Price, 25c; $2.50te|g
jgj^^rveir doz., or 30c each, postpaid. ppB
ppF EXCELSIOR WEEDING HOOK. — Price, 10c : ^
doz., $1.40, or postpaid for 20c each.
CONCAVED AND CURVED SEED POTATO
KNIFE. — Is thin and of right shape to cut one,
two or three eye pieces fast and not crack the
tuber or injure 'the germ. Each 30c, postpaid.
“N EVERRRE A K” GARDEN TROWELS. — Extra
heavy, strong durable. 5-in., 10c; by mail, 20c; 6-in.,
15c; by mail, 25c. i
REDDICK MOLE TRAP. — If you are bothered i
with moles you .should purchase one of these traps, m
It is undoubtedly the best trap made and no mole Bt
can pass under it and live. Price, $1.00. Bn
FLORIST TROWELS. — Ex-
fra heavy at 40c; by mail, 50c. wj
m }r fx DIBBER. — Steel pointed, for
transplanting vegetable plants,
— 30c; b,y mail, 40c.
POTATO PLANTER
EXCELSIOR
WEEDING HOOK
Each,
BLUE GRASS STRIPPERS.
— For gathering seed. Ea., $2
SEED CORN GRADER
DES MOINES SEED CO., DES MOINES, IOWA
63
FRESH CUT FLOWERS
Please mark on the outside of your orders for
cut flowers or designs, “Floral Department — Rush.
Promptness is the essential part of the flower busi-
ness and if you mark your letters as requested
they will get immediate attention. We have the
very best facilities for furnishing cut flowers and
floral designs for all occasions. We can supply
flowers freshly cut, promptly shipped, carefully
packed and sure to arrive at destination in good
shape and give satisfaction. Whatever your wants,
whether for household decoration, weddings, funer-
als, parties or gifts, we can supply them at as low
a price as any first-class house. If you dan t have
time to write for quotations before ordering, send
along about the sum you want to expend and we
will give you all we can for the money. Prices
vary with the seasons, but we ask you to send
your orders and trust us to send you full value at
ruling market prices when order is received. Write
us if you can before flowers are wanted.
UP-TO-DATE BOOKS
SENT POSTPAID ON RECEIPT OF PRICE.
VEGETABLES FRUITS AND FLOWERS.
POULTRY.
Asparagus Culture. — By F. M. Hexamer.
A complete treatise with methods used in
various parts of the world. Cloth, 168
pages. Price 50c.
Canning and Preserving. — Mrs. S. T. Bor-
er. Containing directions for conserving
all kinds of vegetables and fruits. Inval-
uable to the housewife. Cloth, 78 pages.
Price 50c.
Vegetable Gardening. — By Samuel B.
Green. A most practical and up-to-date
book. Cloth, 251 pages. Price $1.00.
Mushroom Culture. — By W. Robinson. A
complete work on the management of this
profitable crop. Cloth, 50c.
Floriculture at Home. — The new book by
Chas. N. Page. It gives full instructions
for the care and management of all kinds
of flowers. The greatest work now offered
and the most valuable to flower lovers.
Paper, 159 pages. 25c.
Landscape Gardening. — F. A. Waugh. Il-
lustrates the effects of different methods.
Cloth, 152 pages. Price 50c.
Horticulturist’s Rule Book. — By Prof. L.
H. Bailey. Tells quantities to plant; is full
of valuable tables on all horticultural top-
ics. Invaluable. Coth, 312 pages. Price 75c.
A B C of Strawberry Culture. — By T. B.
Terry. Full advice for the care and man-
agement of this best of all fruits. Paper,
280 pages. Price 50c.
Amateur Fruit Growing. — S. B. Green. A
practical guide for growing both small
fruits and orchard products. Paper, 140
pages. Price 25c.
New Onion Culture. — By T. Greiner. How
to grow the mammoth onion and produce
big crops. Full of information. Cloth, 114
pages. Price 50c.
Cabbage, Cauliflower and Allied Veget-
ables.— By C. L. Allen, the recognized au-
thority in America. Cloth, 125 pages.
Price 50c.
Celery Culture. — By W. R. Beattie. The
latest and most complete instructions for
the management of this delicacy. Cloth,
145 pages. Price 50c.
Gardening for Profit. — By Peter Hender-
son. New edition of this work which has
been an authority for twenty years. Cloth,
376 pages. Price $1.50.
A B C of Potato Culture. — By T. B. Terry.
Paper, 286 pages. Price 50c.
Fitz’s Sweet Potato Culture. — By Jas.
Fitz. Growing, harvesting and storing.
Cloth, 86 pages. Price 60c.
Tomato Culture. — By Day, Cummins &
Root. Paper, 158 pages. Price 40c.
Play and Profit in My Garden. — By E. P.
Rpe. A biography of a garden written in
the most entertaining style of the author.
Cloth, 349 pages. Price $1.00.
Conkey’s Poultry Book. — This is a book
on poultry diseases issued by the manufac-
turers of Conkey’s remedies. It also gives
hints on poultry houses and the care of
fowls and chicks. It is a really, valuable
work and sells ordinarily for 50c per copv,
but we are enabled to offer it at a bargain
and it will be mailed to you without extra
charge if you will enclose 5c in stamps to
pay postage and packing.
American Standard of Perfection. — Gives
requirements for perfection in all breeds of
fowls. The guide for all fanciers. Each
$1.50.
Reliable Poultry Remedies. — Points out
the cause, describes symptoms and gives
simple and tested remedies for all diseases.
84 pages, six by nine inches. Paper. Price
25c.
Poultry Houses and Fixtures. — Shows
plans of low-cost, practical and labor-sav-
ing houses, designs for inside fixtures,
roosting coops and coops for young chicks,
and appliances for the poultry yard. 96
pages, nine by twelve, illustrated. Paper.
Price 25c.
The Philo System. — How to raise poultry
successfully in the city or in small space.
Complete guide to the successful raising of
fowls for market. Each $1.00.
Egg Money. — How to increase it. By H.
A. Nourse. 128 pages. Price 25c.
Poultry Manual. — A valuable book by
Sewell & Tilson. 168 pages. Price 25c.
Successful Poultry Keeping. — Contains,
we believe, more and better practical, re-
liable information on the subject of “Poul-
try for Profit” than any other book pub-
lished. Compiled by the editor of the Reli-
able Poultry Journal. 176 pages, nine by
twelve inches, illustrated. Paper. Price $1.
The Chick Book. — Tells how to obtain
good hatches; how to feed and care for
chicks of all ages; how to feed for broilers
and roasters and for breeders; how to build
coops; gives complete instructions in all
work connected with successful chicken
growing. 80 pages, nine by twelve, illus-
trated. Paper. Price 50c.
Artificial Incubating and Brooding. — It
solves all problems of artificial incubating
and brooding. Tells how to obtain strong-
germed, fertile eggs, etc. Results gained
from practical experience. 96 pages, nine
by twelve inches, illustrated. Paper. Price
50c.
Egg Record and Account Book. — An easy
method of keeping a correct account of ex-
penses and income; also record of eggs laid,
set or sold; chicks hatched and sold, etc.
32 pages, five by ten inches. Paper. Price
25c.
64
CATALOGUE OP CHALLENGE SEEDS
CATALOGUE INDEX
VEGETABLE SEEDS
Asparagus 2
Asparagus Roots.. 25
Beans 3, 4
Beets 5
Broccoli 2
Brussels Sprouts.. 2
Cabbage 6
Carrot 7
Cauliflower 8
Celery 7
Chiory 8
Chives 25
Colkards 8
Corn, Pop 9
Corn, Sweet 9
Corn Salad 8
Cross 8
Cuounber 10
Egg Plant 11
Endive 11
Gardci T emon ....11
Garden Plants 25
j&arli 25
Gourds 11
Ground Cherry.... 11
Herbs 12
H< rse Radish 25
Kale ....12
K' hi Rabi 12
Leek 12
Lettuce 13
Mangel Wurzel.... 5
Melon, Musk 14
Melon, Water 15
Mushrooms 16
Mustard 16
Okra or Gumbo... 16
Onions 17, 65
Onion Sets 16
Parsley 19
Parsnip 19
Peanuts 19
Peas 18
Pepper 19
Pumpkin 20
Radish 21,65
Rhubarb Roots... 25
Ruta Baga 24
Salsify 22
Spinach 22
Souash 22
Tobacco 24
Tomato 23, 65
Turnip 24
Vegetable Plants.. 25
Vine Peach 24
FARM SEEDS.
Alfalfa 26
Barley 29
Buckwheat 29
Broom Corn 30
Cane . . SO
Clover 26
Corn 32, 33, 34
Corn, Sweet.Fodder34
Cow Peas 31
Field Peas 31
Field Beans 4
Flax 29
Grass Seed 27
Kaffir Corn 30
Lawn Grass 27
Millet 27
Milo Maize 30
Oats 28
Potatoes 35
Rape 31
Rye 29
Sand Vetch .......31
Speltz 29
Soja or Soy Beans. 31
Sorghum 30
Sweet Potatoes. . . .35
Sunflower 30
Teosinte 30
Wheat 28
FLOWER SEEDS.
Alyssum 36
Antirrhinum 36
Arctotis 36
Asters 36
Balsam 37
Begonia 36
Blue Bells -.37
Calliopsis 37
Canary Bird Vine. 37
Candytuft 37
Canterbury Bells.. 37
Celosia 37
Centaurea 37
Cereopsis 37
Cosmos 37
Cypress Vine 37
Dianthus 37
Eschscholtzia 38
Four O’clock. .... .38
Gold and Silver F1.38
Heliotrope 38
Hollyhock ........ 38
Larkspur 38
lobelia 38
Maize, striped 38
Marigold 38
Mignonette 38
Mimulus 38
Moon Flower 39
Morning Glory 39
Nasturtium 39
Nicotiana 39
Nigella 39
Pansy 40
Petunia 41
Phlox 41
Poppy 41
Portulaca 41
Rhodanthe 41
Ricinus 41
Salpiglossis 42
Salvia 42
Scabiosa 41
Scarlet Runner.... 41
Sensitive Plant.... 42
Smilax 41
Stocks 42
Sweet Peas 42
Sweet Sultan 41
Sweet William 42
Sunflower 41
Thungerbia 42
Verbena 42
Violet 42
Wild Cucumber ...42
Zinnia 42
PLANTS & BULBS.
Abutilon 43
Acalypha 43
Achillea 51
Althea 50
Ampelopsis 50
Asparagus 43
Asters 43
Begonias 43
Caladium 53
Callas 53
Canna 53
Canterbury Bells.. 51
Carnation 43
Chrysanthemum ..44
Cinnamon Vine ...50
Clematis 50
Coleus 44
Columbine 51
Coreopsis ..51
Cyclamen 44
Cydonia 50
Dahlia 53
Day Lily 51
Deutzia 50
Dicentra 51
Ferns 44
Forsythia 50
Foxglove 51
Fuchsias 44
Gailardia 51
Geraniums 45
Gladiolus 54
Gloxinia 54
Golden Glow 52
Grass Pinks 52
Grevillea 46
Hawthorne 110
Helianthus i .51
Heliotrope 46
Hemerocalis 51
Hibiscus 46
Honeysuckle ...... .50
Hyacinthusi 54
Hydrangea ....46,50
Impatient Sultana.. 46
Iris 51
Ivies 47
Jasmine 46
Lantana 46
Lemon 46
Lemon Verbena... .46
Lilac 50
Lilies 54
Lily of the" Valley.54
Lycium 50
Maderia Vine 54
Manetta Vine 47
Marguerite 46
Montbretia 54
Moonflower 47
Orange Tree 46
Oxalis 54
Paeonies .' . . . 52
Pansies 47
Passion Flower . . .47
Petunia 47
Phlox 52
Pinks 51
Primrose 47
Resurrection Plant.54
Roses. Front cover
48, 49
Rudbeckia 52
Salvia 47
Sanseveria 47
Saxafraga 47
Shasta Daisy 52
Snowball >50
Spirea 50
Streptosolon 47
Sweet William 52
Syringa 50
Tritoma 54
Tuberoses 54
Verbena 47
Vinca 47
Violets 52
Wistaria ....50
Yucca 52
NURSfeRY STOCK. 55
MISCELLANEOUS.
Baskets 56
Berry Boxes 56
Books 63
Broadcast Seeders. 62
Brooders 59
Cut Flowers 63
Eggs for Hatching.59
Garden Tols,60, 61, 62
Hand Weeders 62
Implements . . ..60, 61
Incubators 59
Insecticides 57
Measures 46
Mole Traps 62
Plant Food 64
Potato Knife 62
Potato Planters .. ..62
Poultry Supplies.58,59
Pruning Shears. ... 56
Sprayers 57
FOR THE HOME CONSERVATORY
A few really valuable . articles which will help to make strong,
thrifty plants and give you opportunity to arrange them in artistic
manner in the window garden.
SULPHO-TOBACCO SOAP. — This is in our opin-
ion the best insecticide preparation for household
use, and is also very desirable for outdoor use
among flower beds. Exterminates all insects on
plants or flowers, rids the house of cockroaches and
is fine for spraying in poultry houses, or to use as
wash on animals. Dissolve two ounces in a gallon
of water. Three-ounce cake postpaid, 13c; eight-
ounce cake postpaid, 28c; three lbs. not prepaid, $1.
BOWKER’S FOOD FOR FLOWERS.— The best
fertilizer for house plants indoors. It is clean,
odorless and strong, and is used by dissolving in
water. It is the standard plant food and produces
healthy growth and brilliant flowers. Box for 20
plants, 25c, or 40c postpaid. Box of 10 plants, 15c,
CAPITOL VEGETABLE COLLECTION
A Splendid Offering of Choice Varieties
ILLUSTRATED ON THE RACK COVER OF THIS CATALOGUE.
There are so many of our customers who each year desire to test something new, that
we are constantly on the outlook for the most desirable novelties from various parts of
the world, and the live new sorts illustrated on the back cover of this book will, we are
sure, please everyone. They are all desirable sorts for the' family garden which everyone
will want, and we have made price very low. so that they can be tested by everyone who
receives this catalogue. Any one of them is really worth the price charged for the en-
tire collection. We offer one packet each of all five varieties for only 30 cents.
GREATER DES MOINES TOMATO.
desirable for family use. Don’t fail to try it.
Greater Des Moines Tomato
The city of Des Moines is now the
most talked of, of any city in the
country, because of the “Des Moines
Flan” of government which is now
being adopted by many cities not only
in this country, but in various parts
of the world. It is decidedly the best
and just so the Greater Des Moines To-
mato will be found to be decidedly the
best of all tomatoes. It is of large
size, averaging nearly one ppund each,
considerably larger than the Beauty,
Perfection- and other well-known sorts.
Very smooth, well formed, deep from
the stpm to blossom end, and very
meaty, which causes it to weigh much
heavier than it appears. It is fairly
early, of a handsome pinkish red color
and unsurpassed' in quality. Matures
early so that gardeners can obtain a
fancy price for their first picking, and
still is so very productive as to be well
adapted to main crop planting. It is a
robust grower, producing large clusters
of fruits at about every second joint,
which ripen evenly, do not crack at the
stem nor rot at the blossom end and is,
\ve believe, as -good a shipper as any
variety cn. opr list, as 'well as the most
Per pkt., 15 'eefits ; ounce, 75 cents.
Rosy Gem Radish
The handsomest of the ' white tipped, round radishes. Very early, small top, quick
growing, and of splendid quality. Color is' .bright rosy red shading to clear white at
tip, a combination most beautiful arid pleasing. .There are many types of small radishes,
but no variety combines earliness, quality’ and attractiveness to a greater degree than
the Rosy Gem. Pkt., 5 cents; oz., 10 cents; lb., 20 cents; lb.* 60 cents.
Crystal Head Lettuce
Crispness is a -chief essential in any variety of lettuc^. and our customers will find this
a distinctive feature in the Crystal Head. It is an ideal variety for the hoirie garden,
as it is a rapid grower, forming compact heads of closely folded leave.s which are crisp,
brittle and of excellent flavor. Outside is of a handsome- green, interior" is almost a
snowy. white, being blanched so that it is tender and delicious' as well as hrindsome on
the table. Ladies who pride themselves on setting a handsome table will appreciate the
great attractiveness of this variety. Per pkt., 10 cents; oz., 25 cents; *4 lb., 75 cents.
Early Express Cucumber
A remarkable new variety which
originated in Nebraska and is one of
the most valuable sorts ever brought
out for febe private garden. It is by all
odds* the earliest variety in existence,
promising fruit several days ahead of
the-HSdrly Siberian, Extra Early Rus-
sian arid other early sorts, and. is near-
ly double the size. Quality is the very
best, being free -from any rank, strong
flavor, and it is as fine a variety for
slicing da any later sort. The plant is
very productive, bearing fruit which is
unite uniform in size and shape. Color is a lively, green, shading to nearly white at the
blossom end as they grow older. Our cut shows compact growth of vine Per pkt., 10
cts. ; ok,, 20 cents; % lb., 60 cents. ’
Golden Globe Onion
In the majority cf markets in this country the yellpw onion has by far the most sale
EARLY EXPRESS CUCUMBER.
Pj._ . . _ - . „ eve it will yield as large a crop as any variety in existence.
1 tr pkt., 5 eents; ok., to cents; % lb., .>0 cents; lb., $1.75; 4 lbs. (will plant one acre), $6.40.
ADDRESS ALL ORDERS PLAINLY TO
DES MOINES SEED COMPANY, DES MOINES, IOWA
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