W. W. WILMORE ^ DAHLIA SPECIALIST 
J5 
A FEW FACTS AND FANCIES 
About the Dahlia 
This interesting flower derives its name from Dr. Andrew Dahl, a noted Swedish 
botanist. The wild Dahlia is found in South America, and extends as far north as Mex- 
ico. There are but few species, but these have been propagated into a seemingly end- 
less number of varieties of every hue. Just who should have the honor for first intro- 
ducing the Dahlia as a domestic flower is a question upon which the authorities differ. 
But it is generally conceded that the first collection was sent to Madrid by Baron Hum- 
boldt, who was traveling in Mexico. They were first introduced into England in 1789, 
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 1815, 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. Especially is this 
true of some of the new cactus varieties which, with their long twisted or pointed petals, 
remind me more of a Chrysanthemum than a Dahlia. But, however popular this new 
type may be with some, it is plainly evident that it will not supplant the old show and 
fancy types. It, however, should be borne 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 capricious habit of the Dahlia to sometimes freak, and sport, has given rise to some 
popular delusions concerning them, as for Instance, drawing color from other plants 
through the contact of the roots, and making variegated varieties by drawing various 
colored yarn 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 PL.VNTING.) 
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 neglect the flower will rapidly degenerate — become semi-double 
and faded in color. The Dahlia, with but few exceptions, should be given an open, sun- 
ny 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 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 se- 
cure from frost. 
FLOWER AND VEGETABLE SEEDS 
I do not keep these in stock, but will gladly procure them from local dealers and send 
them without extra cost to customers who may have need of them, under the guarantee of 
the dealer. 
W. W. WILMORE:. Dahlia Specialist 
