PREFACE. 



In preparing the present edition of our Seed Catalogue ; our desire has been to 

 give a selection of the most choice flowers, avoiding the long list of names usually given 

 in catalogues, a great part of which are of no value in our climate. 



Havinq been engaged over thirty years in growing and harvesting seeds— flower and 

 vegetable, — we flatter ourselves we can safely select the finest varieties, and such as can- 

 not fail to please amateur cultivators, as it is very difficult for an inexperienced person 

 to select from the long lists usually given. Being extensively engaged in importing and 

 growing the new and rare plants and florist flowers, it will be readily seen that our facil- 

 ities for saving seed of the choicest description are unsurpassed. The seeds are of a 

 quality which growers alone can offer; whilst such articles as it is necessary to import 

 are received direct from the first growers in England, France and Germany. 



We quarantee that all seed sold by us shall prove to be as represented, to this ex- 

 tent ; that should they prove otherwise, we will replace them or send other seeds to the 

 same value. But we cannot guarantee the crop any further than the above offer, as 

 there are so many causes which operate unfavorably in the germination of seeds and 

 maturity of the crop, over which we have no control. Among the causes of failure may 

 be mentioned unfavorable weather, which is one of the most important. The soil may be 

 in proper condition when the seed is planted, but the weather which follows may be cold 

 and wet, which will cause the seed to rot ; or it may be hot and dry, which destroys the 

 germ before it shows itself. The soil may also be unfavorable for the variety of seed 

 planted. The seeds may be and are frequently destroyed by vermin of various kinds, 

 jlnd, lastly, changes not unfrequently occur, especially among new hybridized varieties, 

 by which frequent sports are produced which give the planter the idea that his seeds are 

 badly mixed. Such occurrences are beyond the power of man to prevent, and for such 

 we cannot be responsible. 



Forward money with the order. — Please send money with the order, 

 sufficient to cover the whole bill, to facilitate the execution of your orders. During the 

 busy season, to make out bills for customers, mail, charge, and in a few days receive the 

 money, make the proper credit and send receipt, requires more work than we can possibly 

 perform during the great press of business in the spring. 



The safe arrival of all seeds is guaranteed, If a package is injured or lost, we 

 will replace it as soon as informed of the fact. 



Please write the orders legibly in a list apart from the body of the letter, 

 to facilitate execution and prevent errors. Orders for plants should be on a separate 

 sheet. 



This Catalogue annuls all former prices. 



