INTRODUCTION 7 



It is a remarkable fact that so many varieties are so 

 nearly alike; in one case there are no less than nine 

 varieties bracketed together. This shows the utter 

 futility of growing just those varieties that take our 

 fancy. We may by so doing be growing a number of 

 sorts quite unnecessarily. The classification of varieties 

 that represent the best in their respective colours is a great 

 boon. Any one who wishes to grow only the very best, 

 may, by consulting this list, gain all the information in this 

 particular, and be quite up-to-date. 



Very praiseworthy is the determination of the 

 Committee to exclude certain specified varieties from 

 future trials. Old and inferior varieties are eliminated, 

 notwithstanding that the list may include varieties that 

 were once held dear. It is useless to grow old and 

 inferior kinds when so many better varieties are available. 

 We should always remember that it is just as much 

 trouble to grow an old and worthless kind as it is to 

 cultivate the very best novelty. 



With the knowledge of certain facts regarding the 

 weaknesses and variability of certain varieties that have a 

 tendency to become sportive, and fortified with the 

 possession of information how best to meet such 

 circumstances, we can look forward to the future with no 

 uncertain confidence. 



There are other elements, however, that are matters 

 for grave concern. The streak disease at the moment, 

 seems to threaten to destroy or devastate whole stocks in 

 the gardens of many of the most enthusiastic growers, 

 unless some ready means are available of ascertaining the 

 cause of the trouble, and unless a remedy can be applied to 

 effect its eradication. We have sufficient faith in the 

 ability of our scientists and others, who, together with 

 the best of our practical growers, will no doubt in time 

 lay bare the source of this disease. A duty is imposed 

 on all lovers of the Sweet Pea to make strenuous efforts 



