THE BOOK OF THE PEONY 



Visits to peony exhibitions will also prove in- 

 valuable in giving the opportunity to compare 

 colours and to determine those one likes best. 

 Furthermore, at exhibitions one can readily and 

 delightfully become acquainted vi^ith names of 

 varieties and types of form. 



In addition to seeing the nurseries of com- 

 mercial growers and studying exhibitions, still 

 another important source of aid lies in viewing 

 private collections. The gardening spirit usually 

 prompts the owners to extend assistance to other 

 flower lovers, so that disinterested information is 

 easily available. Even in a small garden con- 

 taining a few cherished peonies, much help may 

 be obtained. I give here a list of questions to 

 ask of one's indulgent friends, the answers to 

 which it will be of benefit to have and consider 

 before buying. 



1. Where and when were the roots purchased? 



2. How old were they when they were bought? 



3. How large were they, and did they have fat eyes? 



4. Did they bloom the first year after planting? 



5. If not, how many years passed before they 



bloomed ? 



6. Have they been transplanted? 



7. Have they been divided? 



8. Was the stock clean and healthy? 



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