56 Bulletin 306 



tively unattractive ; far from it. Ikit the remaining twenty-five per cent 

 fill every purpose and have many more virtues than the only medium to 

 inferior sorts. By discarding the mediocre or poor sorts and selhng only 

 the more desirable varieties the customers would be even more infatuated 

 with this beautiful flower, and a more extensive and higher class trade 

 would be built up, to the benefit of all concerned. 



It would also seem highly desirable before a new variety is brought 

 into the trade to have it shown at the American Peony Society's annual 

 exhibit and passed upon by a standing comniittee of the society appointed 

 for this purpose. If the new sort proves to be something exceptionally 

 fine, the society's stamp of approval and commendation should be a valu- 

 able asset in the sale of the novelty. When a new variety is not at least 

 equal if not superior to the similar varieties in the trade, the originator 

 could hardly expect the support of a society already overburdened with 

 too many sorts. 



Permanent plots have been started on the Experiment Station grounds 

 for the culture of varieties of which the identity is reasonably certain. 

 As other varieties are classified, or new ones appear in the trade from 

 time to time, they should be added to this planting, that an authentic, 

 complete, permanent collection may become established for the advance- 

 ment of the peony interests of the country. 



Throughout the entire season Mr. Jos. Dauphin and Mr. B. H. Farr 

 were in almost constant consultation with the writer in identifying vari- 

 eties and establishing synonyms. A great deal of credit is due these 

 gentlemen for their tireless efifort and hearty cooperation with the Ex- 

 periment Station in conducting this work. In fact, if the WTiter had 

 been denied the aid of Mr. Dauphin's vast knowledge of varieties, and 

 Mr. Farr's' constant interest and self-sacrificing spirit, the completion of 

 the work would hardly have been possible. 



Acknowledgment is also due the several members of the American 

 Peony Society, who have so kindly cooperated in answering many ques- 

 tions concerning the identity of varieties. Prof. A. P. Saunders has very 

 materially aided in the w'ork by his valuable suggestions and accurate 

 work in proofreading. The American Peony Society is also greatly in- 

 debted to Professor Craig for his constant interest and wise guidance in 

 the conduct of this work. 



