52 



THE DAHLIA. 



The first annual exhibition of the reorganized American Dahlia Society, held in September, 

 1915, in New York City, was a revelation, not only to the immense crowds of visitors but to the 

 old guard florists. The American Dahlia Society is affiliated with the Society of American 

 Florists and Ornamental Horticulturists, and both Societies did their utmost to make the first 

 national exhibition of the newly reorganized Society the success it deserved. 



To give an idea of this great Dahlia show I give below a reproduction of a section of the 

 display that was awarded the Gold Medal. 



DAHLIA EXHIBIT 



The competition was keen, not only for the best general displays but for vases of the 

 various colors on long stems, collections of each of the different classes and types and for indi- 

 vidual blooms, designs and various decorations. 



Taken all in all it was a wonderful exhibition and set a high standard for all future 

 national Dahlia shows. 



Every local community should have its Dahlia show, where the friendly competition excites 

 each grower to do his or her very best to surpass. 



It is very easy to organize a local club or society, become affiliated with the American 

 Dahlia Society and help along the good cause, as well as community interest and personal satis- 

 faction. See chapter "American Dahlia Society," page 55. 



