PREFACE 



ing has been proved sound by events : on the Hsts 

 of some of these growers there are more than 

 ten thousand names of active customers. Hun- 

 dreds of acres are planted to peonies to supply 

 the demand. 



The annual exhibition and the publications of 

 the American Peony Society have done much to 

 awaken the interest of those who have had but 

 a slight acquaintance with this flower. Many 

 persons, vastly surprised on seeing the improved 

 varieties for the first time, complain at not hav- 

 ing been sooner shown the sources of pleasure 

 that the peony holds. 



Because of the lack of easily accessible in- 

 formation, until now the knowledge of a finer 

 cultivation of the peony has remained the prop- 

 erty of the comparatively small number who have 

 made its gi-owing either a hobby or a business. 

 Fortunately the peony is a very hardy and 

 friendly flower that does its cheerful best to bloom 

 even though neglected. When attention such as 

 is ungrudgingly expended upon less responsive 

 flowers is bestowed upon the peony, its gratitude 

 finds expression in an increased loveliness which 

 is more than sufficient reward. 



