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Sparks’ Dahlia Gardens
616 Hutchins Ave.
Columbus, Indiana
STOCK UP WITH SPARKS’ DAHLIAS
We described most of the varieties briefly, as we feel the sav¬
ing of an abundance of adjectives, is better passed to the buyer.
Our stock is properly grown for quality root production, which
is again proven by many of our customers, excellent show record.
Your success depends upon good stock, and our success de¬
pends upon yours.
Terms
Cash with order or 25% down, balance before delivery. All retail
orders of $5.00 or more shipped prepaid.
Guarantee
All stock guaranteed to be true to name and in growing condition.
Satisfaction upon arrival or money refunded.
Substitutions
We never substitute without permission.
Prompt Shipments
Personal attention given to all orders, large or small.
WHOLESALE
The usual discount of 33-1/3% from the prices listed,
excepting varieties marked “Net.” We do not issue a
separate wholesale list.
Grow dahlias--they will give you endless pleasure.
Buy Sparks’ Dahlias. You will not be disappointed.
NO SUNDAY SALES
THE “SPARKS”
GREETINGS:
TO ALL OUR FRIENDS and DAHLIA LOVERS:
It is with gratitude that we reflect on the many splendid new
I relations established during 1939 season, and the continued patron¬
age and loyal support of our regular customers over a long period
of years. We like to think of our customers as our friends, assuring
all that we will in every way do our utmost to justify your faith in
our service.
To our prospective customers, may we have a trial order?
I And so, we wish you a New Year brim full of dahlia success,
unprecedent happiness, and prosperity, not because it is the cus¬
tomary thing to do, but because it’s a sentiment genuinely felt.
Yours for better results.
Sincerely,
SPARKS DAHLIA GARDENS.
SPECIAL AWARDS OF 1939
Indiana State Fair, Indianapolis, September 4: Best display of
dahlias, 100 to 150 blooms, at least ten varieties. Twenty-two entries,
eighteen ribbons.
Cincinnati, September 30 to October 1 : Sweepstakes for most,
poinst, open to all. Grand sweepstakes for most points, over entire
show. House Beautiful medal, entry Hillside gold.
Louisville, October 7 to 8 : Nineteen entries, sixteen ribbons.
Six special awards —
Best 6 Ball Dahlias.
Best 3-bloom, entry. Pink Elegance.
Best 12 Ball Dahlias, open to all, Tecumseh and Wolverine
Gem, awarded silver medal.
The House Beautiful Futurity medal, entry. Hillside Gold.
Best entry of 15 blooms, Cherokee Brave, awarded Growers’
special prize.
Best entry outside of Jefferson county, awarded Couried Jour¬
nal ribbon.
(The picture opposite, is medals — all won in 1939).
Dahlias excel in popularity. They produce more flowers to the
plant and have more variation in color and shape than any other out¬
door flower in existence.
MID-WEST DAHLIA SHOW
LOUISVILLE, SEPT. 21-22.
It’s very important to plant the correct -type and color, for
each class, in the particular section you are qualified to exhibit, in
this manner help glorify the dahlia in show room, by sharing its
beauty with others, and at the same time you may enjoy the thrill of
winning ribbons.
Bm 3s' '
SPECIAL AWARDS 1939
Pilot successfully through
diate order from our catalog will
the 1940 dahlia season. An imme-
help chart the course aright.
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SPECIAL AWARDS 1938
ACHIEVEMe,
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SPECIAL AWARDS 1937
OUR 1940 IINTRODUCTIONS
CHEER LEADER
(Richardson-Sparks)
Where the crowds look on you will always find CHEER LEADER
in the limelight.
It is outstanding because of its VIGOR, UNIQUENESS AND USE¬
FULNESS.
This dahlia not only performs well when the shows are on, but its
field performance is most satisfactory and floriferous.
Where a dahlia must cope with the hard-driving elements CHEER
LEADER commands the applause.
Dressed in a self color of rose pink and poised just right on a stem
both strong and long, this dahlia has what it takes to go places. It can
also stand rough handling and still look good. It has the right substance.
CHEER LEADER is formal in its makeup of about six to eight
inches by five in size with supporting foliage that withstands the insects
and weather.
CHEER LEADER is excellent in the field where a host of bloom is
avaliable for the early market and throughout the season.
This dahlia does not lay down on the job. It has proven a grand
commercial commanding top prices.
Being a good root maker and propagator we offer this reliable
dahlia at
$7.50 net, strong division,
$3.00 net, strong plant.
G
WEDDING BELLS
The beautiful white that surpasses all existing varieties of its color
and type, for cut flowers, garden, and exhibition. A ball type formal, bloom¬
ing early in July and continuously. Uniform with centers full, and the best
of stems. Size of flower 4V^-6 by 2V2-4 inches. Height five feet six inches.
It’s a dahlia which makes excellent growth, with little effort, as it with¬
stands the insects. Remarkable keeping qualities, and easy to handle makes
it very popular with local florists. Honor Roll, Flower Grower.
$5.00 net, strong division,
$2.00 net, strong plant.
GREEN PLANTS
Propagated for growth and production to give dependable results.
Shipped in new upright cartons. Safe delivery regardless of distance. No
better stock available. Plants are more economical. Here’s an opportunity to
satisfy that desire to have a nice planting of lovely dahlias to usher in the
fall season.
7
1940 Introductions of Other Growers
AUTUMN ROSE (Morgan) — A real aristocrat, being a seedling of
Jerome Kern and Jane Cowl. Blooms range from 9-11 inches, with a great
depth. The formation of the face of the bloom greatly resembles Jane Cowl
but the petals curl and twist back to the stem like Jerome Kern. The color
is very pleasing, being deep rose pink to old rose, different in shade from
any other variety. Stems are long and strong and the blooms keep well,
making an excellent cut and exhibition flower. Bushes are quite prolific,
very vigorous and form large clumps. Awarded a medal of honor at the
Alabama trial grounds 1939.
Roots $5.00 Net; '/2 -Clumps $7.50 net; Clumps $12.50 net; Plants $2.50 net.
CHEMAR S DAHLIAMUM (Chemar). A striking new type of informal.
Very similar to a huge Japanese Chrysanthemum. Color a bright Cadium
apricot with a golden sheen. The extra long petals recurve to stem, form¬
ing a very deep flower which is held erect on long stiff stems, well above
a large six-foot plant. Blooms average 12 inches by 10 inches. Even under or¬
dinary field culture the centers arealways full. Certified at the A. D. S.
trial grounds with a score of 86 and notation, “We consider this a good
dahlia.” Also featured in Dudley’s Honor Roll. Roots $10.00; Plants $4.00.
EVELYN CHANDLER (Ballay) — straight petal semi-cactus which
has been called a Gold Satan. Size of bloom 10 to 13 inches by 6 to 7
inches deep. Color is bright golden apricot with deeper shadings on reverse
of the petals which show through, especially at the center of the flower.
It was selected by the guest of honor (an annual custom) at the San Fran¬
cisco show to be named for her.
J. W. Currie selected this variety as one of the eight new dahlias
seen on his travels which impressed him as particularly outstanding.
Plants $5.00.
EVENTIDE (Bissell)— A rich dep violet purple. Scored 86 at A. D. S.
Trial Grounds in 1938. Blue ribbon winner. It is an informal decorative and,
at the end of each petal is deeply lacerated, forming two or three distinct
parts. Height of plant four feet, with flowers 10 by 12 inches, and 6 inches
deep. Stems and centers continue good until frost. On the leading honor
rolls. One of the eight of the new releases selected by J. W. Currie, as be¬
ing outstanding. Plants $3.35.
GAY CABALLERO (Morgan) — Selected by J. W. Johnston and Lynn
Dudley for Honor Rolls of 1940. A beautiful deep red incurved cactus of un¬
usual form and color. The formation is most distinctive, as the ends of the
petals twist abruptly at right angles to the main body of the flower, giving
a staghorn effect. The 7-9 inch blooms are borne early and profusely on
long, strong stems, well above the sturdy bush. The flowers keep well when
cut. Gay Cabellero has been a centr of attraction since it won the Blue
Ribbon in the two-year-old class at Akron in 1937 by defeating a number
of other fine entries. A leading judge, after seeing Gay Caballero on exhibit,
wrote to the Mid West Dahlia News: “A perfect incurved cactus without
a perceptible fault.” Gay Caballero was one of two varieties to win a Blue
Ribbon in the undisseminated classes at the 1939 Mid West Show at Cleve¬
land.
Roots $5.00 net; '/z -Clumps $7.50 net; Clumps $12.50 net; Plants $2.50 net.
KING COLE (Ballay). It is an informal decorative 12 inches to 14 inches by
7 inches to 8 inches deep. Color a very deep maroon red, with velvety-like
texture and fine substance. It is a strong grower with splendid stems. It won
the medal for best 1940 introduction at San Francisco. Johnston Honor Roll.
Plants $5.00
SULTAN OF CHEMAR (Chemar). A bright pink formal. Sport of Sultan
of Hillcrest with all the good habits of its parent. Only difference is color.
Strong grower. Produces huge, full-centered flowers throughout the season,
starting early and continuing until frost. The stems are stiff and long, hold¬
ing blooms upright. Roots $10.00; Plants $4.00.
8
EVELYN CHANDLER
KING COLE
9
MAESTRO
MAESTRO (Ballay). Semi-cactus of bright cerise, J. W. Johnston Honor
Roll, describes it as a beet red, and J. W. Currie describes it as a large
purplish red, with a tall growing bush. Lew Sarett in his description of it
as seen in our garden under No. 1341 in “The Dahlia.” This is a purplish
red, informal and decorative. It has perfect formation, remarkably good
substance, rich velvety petals, good size, and is clean, vigorous grower.
This seedling has quality, distinction and beauty. Plants $5.00
THE WORLD’S FINEST COLLECTION
of NEW and STANDARD VARIETIES
KEY TO ABBREVIATIONS
F. D. — Formal Decorative; I. D. — Informal Decorative; S. C.
Cactus; C. — Cactus; and (*) Foreign Introductions.
ALICE MAY
ALICE MAY, I. D. — Pure waxy white from Australia. Here is
a variety that will rank with the greatest to date. The
bloom is of tremendous size, often I2V2 inches by 8V2
inches without forcing. The flower is beautifully formed,
reminding one of a White Lord of Autumn with its pet¬
als folding all the way back to the stem. It is a perfect
substantial, symmetrical flower with the best of centers
despite its size The stem is as stiff as a rod and averages
10 inches to the first set of leaves. The bush is of medium
height, very sturdy, resistant and prolific.. Numerous Roots
awards throughout the whole country this past season. 5.00
Semi-
Plants
1.75
11
Roots Plants
AURORA, F. — 1. D. — The runner up for the Achievement
Medal at Camden in the hottest class of seedlings ever
shown in the East. It is rose pink overlaid wax giving it
a pink appearance. Many blooms reach 13 inches and
they have stiff stems .
AMELIA EARHART, S. C. — Golden apricot, mammoth bloom.
A sure winner. Our stock of this variety is exceptionally
good .
AMERICAN PURITY, S. C. — Pure white with straight long
stems .
^AMSTERDAM, C. — Deep rose red with petals golden tipped.
A real beauty .
AZURA, I. D. — Rosy lilac with bluish sheen, mammoth size
many blooms measuring 12 to 14 inches in diameter.
Plants tall and strong. Blooms have a distinctive and
interesting formation .
*BALLEGO SURPRISE, S. C.— Beautiful snow white. Perfect
form, free flowering, excellent stems. One that will rank
with the best .
*BAERNE, S. C. — Old rose pink with salmon glow. A real
winner .
BETTE DAVIS, S. C. — Deep violet rose, a consistent winner.
Bush growth rugged. Very desirable .
BURGUNDY, I. D. — Wine purple. This dahlia looks tous like
an improved Thomas Edison. Color is quite similar, but
it will bloom more freely than the older variety. First
flowers are large with good depth and the long stems
hold them well above the strong plant .
BETSY, I. D. — A very beautiful pastel shade, excellent stems,
free flowering. One of the good 1938 introductions. Cer¬
tified at Storrs .
BING CROSBY, I. D. — Yellow penciled red. One of the largest
bi-colors. Sturdy bush growth .
BLUE RIVER, F. D. — Blue French violet. It never fails to
grow. Wins more than its share of blue ribbons .
BUCKEYE KING, F. D. — Color amber gold. Extremely vigor¬
ous stems, strong .
BUCKEYE GLORY, I. D.— Orchid, shaded lavender. It pro¬
duces very strong growth, long, straight stems, blooms
freely .
BERNICE GEER, I. C. (1938) — Rose pink, suffused salmon
pink veined and tipped straw yellow .
BRILLIANT LADY, 1. D. (1939)— A bright reddish French
purple reflexed silver. Many of the other petals roll and
twist, showing silver reverse, which adds to its attract¬
iveness. Blooms are 11 to 12 inches, with good depth.
BORCH FORAKER, 1. D. (1939)— Beautiful scarlet. Mich¬
igan’s most outstanding and highest scoring Dahlia at
Mid West Trial Gardens. Very long, stiff, straight stems.
11 to 12 inches without forcing. Heavy foliage. Insect
resistant . . .
CALIFORNIA PEACH. S. C. — Bright coral or peach pink. Size
and form similar to Satan. Bushes very robust .
CALIFORNIA IDOL, 1. D. — Clear bright yellow, blooms early
and freely, an outstanding winner. The world’s greatest
yellow . : .
CAVALCADE, F. D. — Rich mulberry rose. Early and pro¬
ductive .
5.00
2.00
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.50
1..50
.50
.50
1.00
.50
1.00
.50
.75
.50
1.50
.50
1.00
.50
1.00
.50
.75
.50
.75
.50
.50
.50
.75
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1.00
.50
5.00
2.50
5.00
1.75
2.00
.85
.75
.50
.50
12
CHEERIO
Roots
CARL G. DAHL, L D. — When on trial, won the popular vote.
Its immense size and splendid formation created some¬
thing of a sensation at the N. Y. Show. Color emberglow
with golden sheen and a sweetbrier reverse. Honor Roll
Dahlia . 2.00
CHEROKEE BRAVE, 1. D. — Glowing dark carmine, does not
burn or fade. Long, stiff stems hold bloom in perfect
position. Wealth of beautiful foliage. Possesses every
exhibition quality of a champion . . 2..50
CHEERIO, C. (1939)— Salmon rose. Blooms 8 by 5 inches; an
A. D. S. medal winner. Cheerio is a very full fluffy
flower with long strong stems and good centers. Partic¬
ularly fine for basket work, and an exhibition winner.
The strong bushes are five feet tall and make large
clumps. Blooms literally cover the bushes from August
first to frost, and bushes often produce thirty salable
blooms. The blooms keep from 3 to 5 days. Cheerio is at
its best in the heat of August when others fail. This
glorious cactus is a great favorite. Be sure to grow it. 5.00
1 o
Plants
.75
1.00
1.75
One plant of ROBERT RIPLEY with 12 blooms.
14
several measuring over 12 inches in diameter.
15
Roots
Plants
CHEROKEE ROSE, I. D.— Bloom 9x5 inches, bush 6 feet.
Lilac pink, shaded deep rose pink. Full centered flowers
from the beginning^, of the season until frost. Long,
erect stems . 1-00 .50
CONSERVATRIX, C. — Bright geranium red, plants medium to
tall. Consistent prize winner . 50 .50
COMETEER, C. — Straight cactus, pure gold to pinkish gold,
certificate American Datlia Society 1937, scoring 86 for
exhibition and 85 as cut flower . 1.00 .50
CORONADO, F. D. — Bright rose magenta. Very large in size
and of excellent build and texture, it produces magnifi¬
cent blooms early and freely. This variety has rugged
individuality combined with beauty and productiveness. 2.00 .75
CORALLINA, S. C. — Deep brick red, best of stems, highly
recommended . 75
CURLY LOCKS, F. D. — Autumn tints, bright gold with tints
of apricot. The petals are exceptionally long, curl and
twist, forming a beautiful bloom. One of the top notch-
ers. We recommend it highly . 1.25 .50
DEAN ANDERSON, 1. D. — Radiant henna orange, one of the
outstanding varieties. Much praise due thie one. At¬
tracted attention of our visitors . 2.00 .75
DISCOVERY, I. D. — Rosy magenta, a champion in every way.
Bushes are literally bouquets with mammoth blooms in
strong stems . 1-00 .50
*DOKOUPILS GIANT, F. D.— Soft lilac rose, excellent variety. .45
DULCINEA, C. — Soft crimson red, with long pointed petals.
Slender, wiry stems and a good grower. A lovely cactus. .75 .50
DOMINANT, Inc., C.| (1939)— Lilac pink, suffusing purple
changing to sulphur yellow at center. Robust growing,
special exhibition variety. Certificate of trial garden,
Holland . 2.50 1.00
DARCY SAINSBURY, I. D.— A fine white dahlia, long stiff
stems. A real champion . 2.00 .75
DAHLIACRAFT, S. C. — A dandy yellow cactus, prolific
bloomer on long canelike stems. Shade or two darker
than Frau Bracht, but a much better bloomer . 1.50 .50
EMMA WALKER, S. C. (1939) — Large yellow and old rose
with unopened petals showing lavender at tips and re¬
verse. Early profuse bloomer, bush tall and rugged. Win¬
ner American Home Achievement Medal at Toledo. Best
undisseminated semi-cactus at Cleveland and Toledo . 5.00 1.75
FRAU IDA MANSFIELD, C. — Buttercup yellow, lovely blooms
of medium size . 50
FRECKLES, I. D. — Lemon chrome blotched scarlet. A fine
grower and one of the best bi-colors . 1.75 .75
GLAMOUR, I. D. (1939) — The color of this dahlia is unusual
as it is a purple veined violet. It is a tall, rugged grower
with blooms 11x7 inches on good stiff stems. Listed in
House Beautiful Futurity, ’39, and an Achievement
Medal Winner, Baltimore . 6.00 2.00
GALA CALIFORNIA, C. — A true cactus in brilliant orange,
with erect stem . 1.50 .50
16
GERTRUDE LAWRENCE
Roots Plants
GOLDEN BEAUTY, 1. D. — The stout stems carry huge blooms
to erect facing position. Color golden apricot yellow.
Really a beautiful dahlia that is sure to please. Visitors
especially were attracted to this one . 1.25 .50
GERTRUDE LAWRENCE, I. D. (1939)— Light cerise red, pro¬
bably best described as currant red. The bloom is very
large and artistically formed with a slight twirl to the
petals at center. The bush is of medium low spreading
growth, but the sturdy long jointed stems hold the bright
flowers well above the plant. It was a winner in hot com¬
petition at Cincinnati show . 7.50 2.00
GRAND MASTER, F. D. — An immense decorative 12 to _ 14
inches in diameter by 8 inches in depth. Bronze shading
to orange at the center. The plants are wide branching
with huge blooms on erect stems. Foliage of heavy text¬
ure. An honor roll dahlia . 2.00 .75
GREATER GLORY, C. — Deep rose pink. Occasionally a bloom
will show some deep cream at center. It is one of the
most artistic. Immense size and a great winner . 1.50 .50
*HASLEROVA, I. D. — White with royal purple markings.
Winner as best bi-color in many shows. Attracts much
attention in our gardens . 75 .50
17
Roots Plants
HI-SPEED, I. D. — A new color that is a delightful French
plum. Early and free bloomer. Blooms held high above
foliage from a side bud . 1.50 .50
HUNT’S VELVET WONDER, I. D.— Rich violet burgundy with
bloom of enormous size, winning its share of largest
bloom honors . 50
HILLSIDE GOLD, C. (1939)— This is a combination of golden
yellow with an apricot glow. Blooms average 8 by 4
inches. Bush grows about 4 feet tall. Very prolific. It
was this dahlia that won us two Home Beautiful medals,
Cincinnati, and Louisville shows . 5.00 1.75
JESSIE E. COWLES, I. D. (1939)— Huge graceful flowers and
a grand new color; American Beauty rose overlaid cer¬
ise, with metallic sheen, some tones of purple. Tall plants,
foliage large and resistant to insects. Stems up to five
feet, holding flowers perfectly erect and high above the
foliage . 7.50 2.50
JULIUS C. BUNGE— Bloom 7 by 4 inches, Bush 4^/2 ft. Color,
pure bright pink without any lilac or violet. A very free
bloomer on excellent long stems. A wonderful exhibition
variety . 2,00 .75
JERSEY’S DAINTY, C. — White, very beautiful and easy to
grow . 50
JEROME KERN, I. D. — Soft, shrimp pink, exquisite forma¬
tion. Very desirable . 50
JUNGLE QUEEN, 1. D. — Carmine red, long stems, good
grower . 75 .50
KARL BON A WITZ, S. C. — Velvety carmine. It is outstanding
in the garden, with long stems holding the brilliant red
flowers well out the foliage. It always attracts . 75 .50
KATIE K, I. D. — A clean pink of large size on long stems. A
certified winner. Nice bush. It is one of the best. Listed
on all honor rolls . 2.50 .90
KENP’S MONARCH, I. D.— Huge blooms almost ball-shaped,
grow 10 and 12x7 inches. Stems stiff, foliage darg green
and insect resistant. The color is deep salmon, changing
to orange chrome and lighter salmon . 75
KEMP’S GREAT EASTERN, I. D.— Blend of golden orange
and reddish bronze. One of the largest. Foliage leathery. .50
KENTUCKY SUN, F. D. — A pure yellow that does not fade or
burn. You can always find a blue ribbon on this variety
in the yellow formal classes . 1.00 .50
^LEIDEN’S ELEGANCE, C. — Vermillion red, good keeper and
strong stems . 50
LILAC GLORY, C. — Violet rose. Always beautiful. Excellent
stems, profuse bloomer. One of our favorites in its class. .50
LORD OF AUTUMN, I. D. — Deep golden yellow. Its wonderful
color and formation makes this one hard to beat . 1.00 .50
LOIS WALCHER, I. D. (1939— The Achievement Medal winner
of the year. A bi-color with perfect stems. The color is
very interesting — true pansy purple, evenly tipped white. 2.00 .75
LYNN B. DUDLEY, S. C. — This past season found this variety
beautiful. A bi-color, grenadine red, tipped white, with
reverse russet. A good grower . 1.50 .50
LELAND STANFORD, 1. D. — Brilliant cardinal red. It is
claimed the brightest big red. It does not fade. Plants
are very vigorous, strong stems and good foliage, and an
early and exceptionally free bloomer . 1.25 .50
18
SAN FRANCISCO
Roots Plants
MAY ROBSON, S. C. — Clear, bright pink, sturdy bush, straight,
long stems . 75 .50
MASON’S PURPLE BEAUTY, F. D. — Purple, certificate win¬
ner at East Lansing Trial Grounds 1936 . 75 .50
*MASCOTTE, C. — Received the highest award in Holland. Color
carmine pink, fine stems. One of the loveliest cactus for
its perfect formation. It creates much attention . 1.00 .50
MICHIGAN WHITE, S. C. — A fine commercial white. It has
won four certificates of merit. Bushes of medium height. 1.50 .50
MIRIAM HOPKINS, S. C. — Salmon pink, very large blooms on
long, straight stems. Tall bush . 75 .50
*MISS BELGIUM, C. — Bright orange, a good cut flower, excel¬
lent long stems, perfectly formed flowers . 50
MISS GLORY, S. C. — Apricot yellow, perfect stems. Free and
early bloomer, extremely refined flower in every sense,
yet massive in size . 50
MISS INDIANA, F. D. — Color a beautiful soft shade of pink.
A real beauty, with flowers held in just the right posi¬
tion, on long, strong stems. Flowers can be cut when
only half open, to bloom completely when placed in
water . 50
MISS OHIO, C. — Color lilac suffused deep rose pink. Stems
very long and erect . 75 .50
19
Roots
Plants
mss PARKERSBURG, I. D.— Sensation and winner. Color
ochraceous buff, back of petals carrot red and flest color.
It grows 12 inches in diameter by 8 inches in depth.
It is an abundant bloomer, having from 7 to 8 blooms on
a plant at one time. It branches from the ground with
canes four to five feet long .
MONARCH OF THE EAST, F. D.— Orange bronze with or¬
ange buff reverse. It has cane-like stems that hold the
bloom well out of the foliage . .
MRS. C. E. WILDON, F. D.— A scarlet red with orange buff
reverse. Something different in a very large red which
rolls back to stem. An abundant bloomer with good
stems and foliage. Truly outstanding .
MRS. WM. KNUDSON, I. D.— A pure white, a flower that can
easily be grown to 12 inches without forcing, on six-
foot bush. Has heavy foilage .
MRS. GEO. LE BOUTELLIER, I. D . — Crimson red, a good one.
MRS. HERBERT O’ CONNOR, S. C.— Soft rose pink, beautiful
form, profuse and continuous bloomer .
MURPHY’S MASTERPIECE, I. D.— Dark red shading to gar¬
net. Blooms of enormous size. It still wins its share of
prizes .
MAYOR FRANK OTIS, I. D. (1939)— Truly one of the big
boys. Long strong stems, holding all flowers erect, and
with a vigorous habit of growth. Color soft, rich golden
honey yellow with some shadings of copper. Achieve¬
ment Medal winner .
MARIETTA E, I. C. (1939) — A clear and even canary yellow
that does not burn or fade. Bloom 7x3 inches. A profuse
bloomer with perfect stems, an da good grower. Eleven
firsts made it the outstanding cactus for the season .
NANCY GENE (Australia), I. D.— A gem. Huge graceful flow¬
ers, perfect foliage and stems. Color clear, rich, dep yel¬
low tone. A very vigorous variety that will go far. One
of the best we have sen. Extra .
OAKLEIGH MONARCH, F. D.— Cerise red, very attractive
flower. Keeping qualities splendid. Diameter of flowers
8 to 11 inches. Sturdy in growth .
PACIFIC SPLENDOR, I. D.— Nearly white at center, with
body of flower delicate lavender pink. A true pastel
shade. The soft tones of this flower gives a distinctive
beauty and definite appeal. The blooms are large, with
petals slightly waved. Growing habits good .
*PAUL PFITZER, S. C. — Beautiful blending of shell pink and
primrose combination .
PEACE, I. D. — Lovely snow white, long stems hold flower fac¬
ing. Petals long and broad, with light, wavy but grace¬
ful effect, which enhances its beauty. One of the best.
Don’t miss this one .
*PINK SPIRAL, C. — Peach blossom pink. Blooms are very
artistic. Stems excellent .
PINK ELEGANCE, S. C. — Unusual charm and beauty, a true
brilliant rose pink, blooms 8 to 11 inches in diameter
with corresponding depth; holds perfect center through¬
out the season. Its artistic formation, keeping qualities,
consistent blooming, created sensations by exhibitors
and garden enthusiasts. Winner of best entry of three at
Louisville. We win every year with this variety .
2.00
1.00
1.75
2.00
.75
.75
1.00
7.50
3.00
5.00
.75
.50
.75
.50
2.00
.75
.50
.75
.75
.50
.50
.50
2.50
1.00
2.00
.50
.75
.50
.50
.75
20
PINK ELEGANCE
Roots
Plants
rRIMROSE — Incurved cactus. An Honor Roll variety. An
excellent growing plant with medium large flowers.
Color straw yellow, rose pink reverse. Very flne . 1.00 .50
-PRACHTKERL, S. C.— A deeper yellow and larger than Frau
O’Bracht. Very attractive . oO
QUEEN CITY, F. D.— Pretty shade of bright red. It attracts.
Medium size bloom on long stems . -50
RED SALUTE, F. D. — A bright scarlet with a reverse of old
rose. Strong stems which hold the bloom in great style.
It is an extremely free bloomer and blooms never show
open centers. Petals fall back to the stem and terminate
with serrated tips. Blooms average from 9 to 11 inches. 2.00 .75
R. A. BROOMFIELD, I. O — Saffron orange flushed with rose.
Very prolific . 50
RED JUG — Bloom SV2 by 5 inches. Bush five fet high. A re-
remarkable brilliant crimson carmine with faint yellow
tips. It has wonderful keeping qualities . 1.00 .50
RIALSIDE KING, I. D. (1938)— Picric yellow at base of pet¬
als, blending to peach pink, deeper at end of petals. An
Achievement Medal winner . 2.50 1.00
RUDYARD KIPLING, F. D.— Color a very deep rose with
shadings . 1.00 .50
ROBERT J. RIPLEY, I. D. — Rhodamine purple with rose suf
fusions. One of the largest flowering dahlias in existence
to date. An ideal growing variety . 2.00 .75
ROYAL PURCHASE, C. — Deep straw yellow with outer petals
suffused with pink. An incurved cactus that attains im-
immense size . 75 ..oO
SALEM STREAMLINE, I. D. — Beautiful old rose_ suffused with
carmine rose. It has substance, very artistic in form . 50
RITA WELLS “Wells-Straight” (1939)— A massive informal
decorative to semi-cactus averaging 13 to 14 in. in diam¬
eter with a depth of 7 to 8 inches. Makes a rugged bush
growth of 5V2 to 6 feet in height with long, heavy stems.
Color is grenadine pink on buff gold, an unusual color in
such a large flower. Winner of the American Home
Achievement Medal at Rockville Centre, L. I., N. Y.;
best semi-cactus seedling at Racine, Wisconsin . 7.50 2.50
SALLY LOU, S. C. — Color dark orange shaded brown. Average
size of blooms 7 to 8 inches. Very prolific, bushes always
loaded with beautiful flowers. Visitors liked this one.
Winner of American Home Achievement Medal . 2.50 1.00
SEVERIN’S TRIUMPH, F. D.— Clear, true pink. A very at¬
tractive flower . 50
SHOW A C, — Deep cerise tipped silver . 50
SLEEPY HOLLOW, C. — An honor roll dahlia. It has tall, vig¬
orous growth. Average size 9 to 11 inches, long stems,
and never a bad center. This dahlia possesses a tendency
to close at night. It resembles a giant deep shell pink
“m.um” with its twisting and curling petals which en¬
tirely hide the center of flower. Scored 33.33% more
poinLs tnan any other variety in the first annual House
Beaut.ful Futurity contest. Voted one of the best two
caccus varieties in existence by Dahlia Society of Ala¬
bama. Winner of numerous prizes during the last two
Seasons at shows throughout the country, including a
special award at each of the last two A. D. S. shows at
new York . ^*50 1.00
22
SLEEPY HOLLOW
Plants Roots
SUNRAYS, 1. D . — A winner of American Home Achievement
Medal. Highest scoring dahlia in West Virginia trial
grounds in 1936. The color is a bright apricot, blooms
averaging 12 inches. Extra long stiff stems. Flowers
have great depth, substance, and excellent keeping qual¬
ities . 3.00 1.00
SON OF SATAN, S. C. — Noted for its early and prolific bloom¬
ing, with its gorgeous big red flowers and petals in¬
curved. No doubt one of the best . 1.00 .50
SHIRLEY TEMPLE, C. — This fine new variety was sent to us
as a semi-cactus, but in our soil was a huge 12 by 6
cactus. Long, strong stems, and a grand plant, with all
flowers facing. An Achievement Medal winner. Color
soft, lavender pink. Extra . 2.50 1.00
23
Roots
Plants
SAN FRANCISCO (Ballay) I. D.— Shrimp pink. In all respects
it is a dahlia built on a massive plan, and is outstanding
particularly because of the extraordinarily tall, strong
growth of the plant which is well able to carry the
blooms of such enormous size. All blooms measure from
12 to 15 inches, with great depth, and there is no sug¬
gestion of coarseness about them. The well proportioned
plant averages 6 to 8 feet in height. The color is approx¬
imately shrimp pink. The foliage is always bright and
clean . 2.50
THE FIREMAN, I. D.— Spectrum red, tips of petal mustard
yellow .
TYRUS, C. — A very attractive variety. The medium size flow¬
ers have a lively dark magenta rose color. Stems strong. .50
VOLCANO, F. D. — Orange flame color. Its huge size and keep¬
ing qualities, along with its great vigor makes this dah¬
lia one of the best . 1-00 .50
WHITE QUEEN, 1. D. — A pure, clean white, an excellent
keeper . 75 .50
YOUR LUCKY STAR, C. (1939)— Pink with white center, the
color immediately demands admiration. The stems are
ideal and hold the huge flowers in perfect poise. The
plant is upright, healthy and easy to grow. Field cul¬
ture, bush 5 feet, flowers 12 by 7 inches . . 1.75
BALL OR SHOW DAHLIAS
Growing more popular every season and, because of their
unusual keeping qualities, we predict that they will be more exten¬
sively grown.
ACQUISITION— Beautiful deep lilac . 45
BLACK DIAMOND — Large dark velvety red . 50
CLARA CLEMENS — Crimson tipped white . 45
CHARLOTTE CALDWELL — Bright orange with shading of
terra cotta. It has wonderful foliage and vigorous
growth. Always a winner . 50
FIREFLY, (1939) — The sensational Chinese red. A winner at
New York, Cleveland and Akron shows. Hard to beat. 2.50 1.00
LANNIE — The prettiest of all yellows. Nicely quilled stems.
Prolific . 75
FLORENCE — Bloom 5 by 3 inches, bush feet. Phlox pink
or lilac . 45
*LUCY FAWCETT — Pale lemon yellow, lined and dotted red¬
dish purple. Excellent color for cut flowers . 50
MRS. C. B. ANDERSON — Free cutter, large purplish red . 45
MISS VIVIAN— White-tipped rose . 45
MARMOR — White overcast light violet, most prolific . 56
MARY HELEN — A lovely yellow, one of the best yellows . 35
OLIVE PICKFORD — Base of the petal is yellow, blending-
through primrose to salmon pink, heavily-tipped rosy
carmine . -'>0
ORCHID BALL — Orchid, good form, exhibition variety . 45
PATRICIA ARMSTRONG— White penciled violet and red, very
outstanding . - . 75
PINK BALL — Silvery pink, stems and foliage splendid . 45
24
Roots Plants
PEACHERINO — Peach pink, with good stems . 45
PRINCESS VICTORIA — An early bloomer, with nice long
stems and keeps well, closed centers all season. Golden
yellow . 50
SNOW QUEEN — Pure ivory white, very, fine . 50
SUPT. AMRYHN — Tyrian pink. Won us a special at Louisville. .50
TECUMSEH — Large dark red . 75
WOLVERINE GEM — White and red. Excellent bi-color . 1.00 .50
YO YO — Autumn shades of perfect form and a good grower .45
ZELDA — Beautiful formation and unusual color, nearest to
rose ash, good in every respect. Exhibition variety . 1.00 .50
MINIATURE DAHLIAS
Miniatures are of the same form as the large dahlias, but
miniature in size. We enjoy much the growing of miniatures. They
are wonderful as cut flowers, and beautiful for home arrangements,
with their variety of adorable colors. They require less garden
space. We recommend them to you.
BABY SAGAMORE, F. D.— Golden bronze . 75
BUCKEYE BABY, F. D.— Gold buff, blooms very small . 40
BEATRICE VON VALKENBERG, F. D. — Orchid lavender, a
very small flower, free and good . 25
BLUEBIRD, F. D. — Bluish lavender, stems and foliage good .40
BLUE STAR, S. C. — Violet and white. Best bi-color, free
bloomer . 1.00 .50
BAGATELLE, S. C. — Deep purple rose flowers . 75
CYNTHIA, S. C. (1939)— Glorified Baby Royal . 1.50 .50
*CHARD VANITY, S. C. — Clear rich pink, attractive, a winner .50
CHARMA, F. D. — A novelty, bright red flecked white. Held
erect with long stems . 50
D. B. MILLER, F. D. — Shell pink, dwarf height, but prolific
and pretty . 25
ELSIE, S. C. — Bloom 414 by 2y2 inches. One of the best. Color,
soft peach red shading to lemon yellow at center. Blooms
are of fine form. Dwarf dahlia . 50
DEANNA, F. D. — Clear pink, good stems . 75
FAIRY, F. D. — Soft rose pink, very reliable . 40
GLUROSE, D. — Best described as miniature Jersey Beauty in
color. It is most profuse bloomer the whole season . 75
GLORIOUS — Raspberry red. A winner . 45
GLARE, I. D. — Fiery flame. One of the best . 75
*GOLDEN ROD, — Golden color, good stems and a beauty . 50
GUTT GLUCK, S. C.— Violet tipped white, good bi-color . 45
HELLYBOUDEWIJN, F. D.— Pure white, long strong stems. .75
JOAN, I. D. — Clear tyrian pink, very prolific. One of our fav¬
orites .
LITTLE COLONEL, S. C.— Soft pink with a yellow center . 1.50 .50
LITTLE MISS MUFFET, I. D.— A glorious pink (Extra) . 75 .50
*LITTLE JENNY, S. C.— The flowers are flesh colored with
canary yellow in center. The petals are a little curved.
very strong and recommended for every purpose . 75
♦LITTLE DREAM, C.— Brilliant rose with lighter center, very
popular. Always outstanding .
25
Roots Plants
MIA, S. C. — Flaming Scarlet. Free . 75
MRS. P, O’NEAL, P — Blooms small, rich saffron . 45
ORANGE GLORY, MFD. — A vry beautiful orange colored dec¬
orative of perfect formation. Sturdy grower . 75
ORCHID LADY, F. D. — Orchid pink, excellent in every respect. .45
PETER, C. — Yellow suffused and tipped red, one of the best . 45
PEYTIE CONWAY, F. D. — Violet rose with silver, long stems
and a champion . 45
PERSIMMON, F. D. — Soft russet orange, best of its color . 35
PETITE PARISIENE, C. — A deep flaming red . 50
RIE MASTERBROOK, F. D. — Rose, long stems . 50
*ROBIN, C. — Deep crimson of perfect form . 45
ROSALIE WHITE, MFD. — A most pleasing bi-color that has
become very popular. The color of this little gem is
white with broad clean cut bands of deep rose on the
edges of the petals, leaving the tips white. Plants are
sturdy growers and the blooms are held erect . 75
SAMARITAN, C. — Beautiful white cactus. Very useful for
cutting . 35
'^'SLAVKA DOK, F. D. — A splendid bi-color, orange and white .40
SYLVIA, F. D.— Most beautiful garnet red. A rampant grower,
making nice long stems. It scored at Storr’s and East
Lansing . 75
SNOWSPRITE, S. D.— Snow white, very fine . 75
TINY-P. — Peach pink, outstanding prize winner . 25
VREEKIJK — Apricot colored, good straight stems and splen¬
did keping qualities. . . 50
WINE DROP, 1. D. — Purplish wine . 25
WHISPER, S. C. — Pure yellow . 25
WHITE GEM, I. D. — Pure white. Never show open centers.
petals clefted. Should be planted early . 75
POMPON DAHLIAS
Pompons are small ball-shaped flowers, and are always in
great demand. We still list some of the older varieties as we find
them invaluable, and add our choice to tried new ones.
BETTY ANN — Rose pink. Perfect . 35
BRITU — An excellent yellow . 50
■‘'BUR WOOD — yellow tipped scarlet . 50
CANARY — A beautiful canary yellow. Very large bushes, very
prolific bloomer. A winner in its class . 75
CHERRIDOR The color is a distinctive shade of deep orange
red that lends itself so well in Autumn decorations. An
added feature is the unusually long stems that hold the
blooms high above the foliage . .
DEE DEE — Pure lavender, small perfectly formed . 25
DOLORES — Deep pink, pretty, very charming . 50
DOTTY DIMPLE — Small yellow, long stems . 50
DONNY — Small orange, holds center, very pretty . 50
*DORIA— Rich maroon red, from Australia, most perfect tiny
bloom, an easy winner. Stems long and strong . 5$
GERTRUDE — Bright red . .
26
Roots Plants
GOLDEN PHEASANT — Bronze gold . 40
HONEY — Gold shaded red . 25
ILA — Deep blood red (Extra). The best red. Sure winner . 1.00
LITTLE DAVID — Burnt orange, perfect . 30
LITTLE SUNSHINE — Gold, one of the best . 30
LIBBIE ROHR — Cerise purple, long stems . . . 30
LITTLE DORRIT — Deep purple of small size. Real good . 30
LITTLE NELL (1939) — Pink with orchid shadings. Size about
IV2 inches. Blooms freely; with fine stems . 1.00 .50
LITTLE EDITH — Often wins in show room as the smallest,
yellow tipped bronze . 40
MARY MUNNS — Fuschia overlaid orchid sheen, long stems . 40
MIKE — Burnt orange . 25
MORNING MIST — White with rosy lavender center, outlined
with lavender, great bloomer, stiff wiry stems. Excellent. .25
*MRS. BRITTAIN — Mauve pink. A great winner . 75
NERISSA — Soft rose pink, tinted silver . 40
NELLIE FRAZIER — Light pink shaded with rose pink . 25
ORANGE GEM — This is a very small pompon of close, com¬
pact formation. The color is a true, clear orange . 40
POSEY GEM — The most beautiful of all autumn shades . 40
POSEY PINK — A true pink. Certified at East Lansing 1937 . 25
ROSA WILMOUTH — Rosy pink, grand for cutting . 25
SHERRY — Royal purple. Exhibition type . 50
TY TEE — Lovely cream peach . 25
TOM THUMB — Very small red, strong stems . 25
YELLOW GEM — Pure canary yellow . 25
ORCHID, COLLARETTE, ANEMONE, and SINGLES
Your garden is not complete without some of these beautiful types.
Orchid flowering and single dahlias will hold their petals and keep for days,
if cut before the pollen shows.
BUTTERCUP (Orchid type) — Light buttercup or canary yel¬
low. Erect stems. Early, profuse and keeps well when
cut . 50
DAHLIADEL TWINKLE (Orchid type) — Tyrian rose and
white . 50
FRAGRANCE (Single) — Lovely red and white, bi-color, very
attractive . 35
GRAZIELLA (Anemone) — Red penciled with white, center
gold . 75 .50
HELENA (Mignon) — Purest white, long wirelike stems . 50
JERRIANN (1939) — Orchid flowering. Bush 2V2 feet, flowers
3V2 to 5 inches. Certainly most unusual. Long graceful
stems and a profusion of flowers, with each petal cleft,
color true orchid, splashed white . 1-50 .50
LAGOLADRINA — A true pink Collarette with oval petals.
The collar is white and the same color pink as the pet¬
als. By disbudding, this variety can be grown to seven
inches .
PRINCESS MARIE JOSE (Mignon)— Satin pink, very fine,
long stems .
27
Roots Plants
FREAKNESS — The champion white collarette . 50
SCHWEITZER’S BABY — Very tiny rose, single . 75
TWINKLE, “Lee” (Anemone) — Pale pink, tipped light yellow,
cushion pale yellow, blooms very small, notched petals. .35
TRIBUNE — Bloom five inch, bush four feet. A deep rich crim¬
son carmine with white collar. An early and continuous
bloomer. A real cut flower, and showy in the garden . 75 .50
VESPER (Orchid type) — White heavily suffused Tyrian Rose.
Uniform, early, very satisfactory for cutting and land¬
scape . 50
PREPARING DAHLIA BLOOM FOR EXHIBITION
and TRANSPORTATION OF DAHLIAS
From experience we have found certain principles which we
consider to be valuable in our own work, and which may be of as¬
sistance to others.
To prevent wilting of bloom depends on three items:
Namely, GROWTH OF PLANTS, with balanced fertilizer.
Feed enough for vigor, but not force for bloom. If the latter, do what
you may, and to no avail, as they haven’t the substance to hold up
through the show and maybe not until judging. Better grow with
balanced rations and less nitrates, if you desire good flowers for
show room.
Secondly, CUTTING. We cut any time of day, when flower is
ready, preferably morning before the show, but have cut on Thurs¬
day for Saturday’s exhibition. We don’t think the time of day so im¬
portant, as the treatment thereafter. Select the most perfect and
uniform bloom, cut stems at an internode, where stem pores are
larger, and thereby obtain more moisture. Stems should be cut at
an angle with sharp knife, and carried with heads down to cool,
clean, rather dark room, which has been well ventilated. Positively
no draft on flowers at any time. Of course, place in clean contain¬
ers. Cut the stem under water about one inch, which allows expell¬
ing of air from stem and absorbs more water. Never crowd the
bloom, so as to avoid crushing petals. Use ice to chill the water,
keeping it cold until packing. We never use any chemicals or hot
water treatmens as a preservative.
Thirly, PACKING. Many a fine exhibition bloom should have
been a blue ribbon winner, had same been correctly packed. There¬
fore the corrugated or cardboard box, convenient size for us 10"x-
2()"x48". We use two quart Mason jars filled with ice cubes, sealed.
Tie securely at each end of box in opposite corners. Lay largest
bloom with longest stems first. At center sew with soft cord through
box, over stem, and tie, to fasten securely, preventing blooms from
shifting. For a padding, interlace foliage of additional blooms
packed. Place shorter stems nearer center of box. Tie these down
and then fill box with bloom of still shorted stem, and pack tightly
before closing.
Let s all be Boosters for BIGGER and BETTER Dahlia Shows.
28
JOIN THE DAHLIA SOCIETY
of Indiana
Dues one dollar per year. On receipt of same we will be glad
to forward it to secretary.
DAHLIA AIDS
As to sharing the knowledge we have gained in growing dah¬
lias, we are ever ready to give any information that will help to pro¬
mote the flower we love. We realize that every diiferent kind of soil
will need different treatment, especially in regard to feeding, and we
doubt if any one can give a blanket formula that could possibly cover
the needs of the different gardens. A few fundamentals in successful
dahlia culture will apply anywhere.
(a) Do not plant dahlias in dense shade, too close to build¬
ings or trees.
(b) Never fertilise at planting time. Wait until plants are
well established. Thereafter, as needed. We always advocate spar¬
ingly and more often. Heavy applications are dangerous of burning
the fibrous roots.
(c) Never allow soil to bake around the plant. Cultivate
regularly.
(d) Do not allow plants to suffer for want of water. We use
overhead irrigation, soaking thoroughly. Frequent LIGHT watering
brings the roots to the surface where the heat injures them.
(e) Never save any stunts or diseased stock.
(f) Keep insects under control, by regularly spraying.
(g) Keep plants disbudded to obtain the length of stem de¬
sired. This course will help the size of bloom.
If you will follow these simple rules and be always on the
alert to add to your own experience, then when show time comes,
you will win your, share of honors. After all is said and done we
must work hard for success. It just doesn’t “happen.”
Visitors Welcome
Remember, a cordial invitation is extended to you to visit us
and our gardens.
OUR LOCATION
Our Exhibition Gardens are located at 616 Hutchins Avenue,
and 620 Cottage Avenue, Fieldstock at 24th and Caldwell Drive, two
blocks from State Road 46.
For Dahlia News We Recommend
AMERICAN DAHLIA BULLETIN
251 Court St., West Haven, Conn.
THE DAHLIA
12147 Harvard Ave., Chicago, Ill.
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