THE BOOK OF THE SWEET PEA 



CHAPTER I 

 INTRODUCTION 



THE extraordinary progress made in the development 

 of the Sweet Pea in more recent years and the improved 

 methods of cultivation now practised by the more skil- 

 ful growers, many of whom are successful exhibitors, 

 have induced a large number of admirers of the flower 

 to devote themselves with the greatest enthusiasm to the 

 promotion of its well-being. 



We doubt whether there is any other summer- 

 flowering subject that is held in higher esteem by 

 lovers of flowers in all walks of life than the Sweet Pea, 

 which has been improved beyond our most sanguine 

 expectations. This subject has gained enviable notoriety 

 and distinction, and has been brought from comparative 

 obscurity into the greatest prominence within a few 

 years. Many names that are now household words 

 throughout the universe, would probably never have 

 been heard of out of their own immediate locality, but 

 for their association with the fortunes of the Sweet Pea. 



The common garden name given to the Sweet Pea 

 is a deservedly popular one, and is far more interesting 

 than that of Lathyrus odoratus, the name given to this 

 fragrant annual by the botanist. This beautiful flower 

 has taken a firm hold on the affections of an immense 

 number of enthusiastic cultivators and successful ex- 



