Introduction 
In presenting the Peony, the Queen of Flowers, we wish to say to the 
reader, by way of introduction, that Sinking Spring, Pa., with its surrounding 
territory, is famous for its Peonies. The soil and climate are well adapted 
to the growth of this beautiful flower, which in delicacy of tint and fragrance 
more nearly approaches the rose than any other flower. If you are a lover of 
flowers, you are making a wise choice in selecting Peonies to grow, as they 
are the most satisfactory, being the easiest to raise of any and all flowers for 
this country, particularly the North. They are the most hardy, the most 
showy, the most dependable, the most reliable, the most wonderful flowers, 
and we might say the only flower you can’t kill with neglect. The peony is 
a native of China and was a source of inspiration for painters and poets 
during the Golden Era. Even today the conventionalized peony is much seen 
in Chinese art. Peonies are generally divided into two classes; (1) Her' 
baceous, the tops of which die down to the ground each fall and start new 
growth from the roots in spring and (2) Tree Peonies, which are woody 
and do not die down; but, start growth from the eyes which were formed 
on the branches the preceding summer. 
In general, we may say that the herbaceous peony is very hardy, having 
been known to withstand cold as low as forty degrees below zero, Fahrenheit. 
This type of peony is perennial and under favorable conditions will bloom 
for a generation or more. The Herbaceous is comprised of the following 
types: Early May^flowering (species and hybrids), Chinensis, Japanese and 
Single. 
Eight Weeks of Peony Blooms. We have these beautiful flowers with us 
for nearly two months. You may share our enjoyment with us for the same 
length of time by consulting this catalog and planting the varieties as they 
are classified, from the earliest to the very latest bloomers. 
Time to Plant. The proper time to plant Peonies is in the autumn, 
beginning about September 1, although the early May^flowering section can 
be planted as early as August 15, and the planting of the roots can be 
continued until the ground freezes. To prevent heaving of the roots by 
frost, they should be covered with a mulch of leaves or straw manure the 
first season. Peonies can also be planted successfully in spring if this is done 
early, a soon as the frost is out and the soil is dry enough. 
Our Roots. Our roots have been tested on our grounds, and every one 
is true to name. If you wish to adorn your lawn or garden with true stock, 
correctly labeled, do not overlook this list. As to size, quality, and strength 
of our roots, they rank with the best on the market, and will usually bloom 
the first year. 
Full Cultural Directions Included With Every Shipment. 
