A FEW FACTS AND FANCIES 
ABOUT THE DAHLIA -^^^ 
This interesting flower derives its nam: from Dr. Andrew Dahl, a noted Swedish botanist. The 
wild Dahlia is found in South America, and extends as far north as Mexico. There are but few species, 
but these have been propagated into a seemingly endless number of varieties of every hue. Just who should 
have the honor for first introducing the Dahlia as a domestic flower is a question upon which the authori- 
ties differ. But it is generally conceded that the first collection was sent to Ma;drid by Baron Humboldt, 
who was traveling in Mexico. They were first introduced into England in J789 by the Marchioness of 
Bute, but they were grown in France and Spain several years prior to this. This collection, together with 
another received in 1804, was lost. Another lot was imported in 18 J 5, and from this collection most of 
the Dahlias of the present time have been propagated. The flowers embrace all colors except blue. In 
their wild state they are single. 
But to speak of the Dahlia of the present,: It is wonderful to note the changes, not only in the 
Dahlia itself but in the popular attention paid to it. Eespecially is this true of some of the new cactus 
varieties which, with their long twisted or pointed petals, remind me liiore of a Chrysanthemum than a 
Dahlia. But, however popular this new type may be with some, it is plainly evident that it will not sup- 
plant the old show and fancy types. It, however, should be born in mind that'the Cactus-Dahlia is still 
new, and it is quite probable that many of the weaknesses of the type may yet be eradicated. The capri- 
cious habit of the Dahlia to sometimes freak, and sport, has given rise to some popular delusions concern- 
ing them, as for instance drawing color from other plants through the contact of the roots, and making 
variegated varieties by drawing various colored yam threads through the roots, etc. ; all such beliefs are 
without foundation in fact. It must be admitted, however, that the laws governing these habits are 
but little understood. 
CULTIVATION AND PROTECTION 
READ THIS BEFORE PLANTING 
While the Dahlia is one of the easiest of all flowers to cultivate, it by no means follows that it 
requires no attention. In fact, no flower that I have ever cultivated will give such a generous response to 
good cultivation as the Dahlia. Deep and thorough stirring of the soil during the early growth of the plant 
is indispensable to success. With poor cultivation or reglect the flowers will rapidly degenerate— become 
semi-double and faded in color. The Dahlia, with but few exceptions, should bs given an open, sunny 
situation for at least a portion of each day. It is a rank feeder and should be given rich soil and kept free 
from grass and weeds. Cultivation should cease when the blooms appear. After this a liberal supply of 
water in dry weather will be all they require." Plant the bulbs two or three feet apart, according to the 
size and habit of the plant. The bulbs should be planted about four inches below the surface of the ground, 
laying the bulb on its side. Varieties growing about three feet in height should be tied to stakes to prevent 
falling. Plant about the first of May in this latitude. As soon as the frost has killed the foliage, the roots 
should be carefully taken from the ground and the soil shaken from among them; they may be stored 
away in a cool place, not too dry, but secure from frost. 
CLASSIFICATION OF DAHLIAS^v^.**.^ 
Dahlias are divided itfto six general classes and are amply illustrated on the back of this catalogue: 
Class J. CACTUS. — This class embraces the long narrow-petaled varieties; the petals of which are gen- 
erally pointed or twisted. 
Class 2. DECORATIVE Iso called for want of a better name"!. — This class is an intermediate form. 
having broad flat petals, and was formerly classed with the Cactus lists. 
Class 3. FANCY. — This class takes in all variegated varieties. 
Class 4. POMPONE. — This class embraces the small rounS Dahlias, the plants of which are generally 
of a dwarf bushy habit. The lines for this clasf, however, are not clearly drawn. 
Class 5. SHOW. — The name Show generally applies to those varieties producing large wi H formed 
flowers, showing only solid colors but may frequently have shaded tips. 
Class 6. SINGLE.— Too well known to require a description. 
Note— There is of necessity more or less overlapping among the classes, and the above rules only 
apply in general. 
