HOW TO GROW DAHLIAS 
There are three important factors which contribute largely to successful dahlia growing. 
They are: insect control (thrip, leaf-hopper, tarnish fly), good drainage and water. 
INSECTS 
The dahlia, because of its succulent, sweet sappy growth, is a ready source of food for leaf- 
hopper, thrip and tarnish fly. These insects come in cycles—varying in quantity from year to 
year and are always prevalent after a season of heavy early rains. 
We blame 80% of all dahlia stunts upon sucking insects and the other 20% on the normal 
tendencies of this temperamental plant. 
CONTROL OF SUCKING INSECTS 
Absolute control] on dahlias was almost impossible during infestations before DDT was 
available. Now—a 5 or 10% dust or spray applied weekly will give easy control against hopper 
and tarnish fly. It will also clean out flower chewing beetles and may also control European 
Corn Borer. Preliminary sprayings of a rotonone content, such as N.N.O.R. may be used to 
clean out early thrip if needed. 
GOOD DRAINAGE 
Never plant dahlias in a heavy mucky type soil unless drainage ditches or tile have been 
provided. Any type soil is suitable but never plant in a puddle. 
WATER 
Dahlias need little water after establishment until they reach the height of two feet. From 
then on, the larger they become the more water they need. Water with over-head spray in the 
heat of the day—soaking the soil for several hours, at least once a week unless rains occur. 
PLANTING 
Plant in prepared spaded or plowed rows the same as you would a tomato or potato. Four 
inches deep in heavy soil to six inches in sandy soil. Plant from two to three feet apart in rows 
three to three and one-half feet apart. Set in either tubers or plants —the results will be the 
same. 
CULTIVATION 
Hoe and cultivate until buds appear—then concentrate on the water. Mulching with straw 
at this period will greatly help to conserve moisture, covering all bare ground with three to four 
inches of straw. 
DIGGING 
Dig dahlias two or three weeks after killing frost. Handle them carefully and pack tightly 
in a tight box or barrel. Place immediately in a cool moist cellar and cover to prevent drying. 
DIVIDING 
Split the clumps so as to leave one eye or sprout to each root. 
CHRYSANTHEMUM CULTURE 
Hardy Mums are easily grown—they will grow in almost any location but are at their best 
in a sunny place where they can be watered and cuitivated. 
Planting time is from April until July—the earlier they are planted the bigger the bushes 
will be. 
When you receive your plants—plant them immediately. If your garden is wet at the time, 
pot them until planting is possible. 
Use a handful of fertilizer per plant at planting time. 
Fertilize each month and water after each application. 
Pinch the plant when setting and then give two more pinchings until August Ist. 
Clumps can be wintered in a light cellar or cold frame—or left in the garden with a covering 
of leaves, excelsior or cornstalk. 

HOW TO ORDER 
3314 discount to dealers and nurserymen only. For large quantities or hundred lots, write for special quotations. 
Root orders are filled with true to name grown divisions. Rooted-cutting orders will be filled from true to name 
stock grown and shipped in the way that has made us foremost in the shipping of green dahlia stock. 
Large root orders sent express collect. Small roots orders (from 1 to 10 roots) remit 40c for parcel post. 
All plant orders, remit 30c regardless of size, plue 25c for Special Delivery. If you have no Special Delivery service, 
remit 15¢c for Special Handling. 
To guarantee you perfect condition of plant shipments, 25c must be added for Special Delivery service. 
CASH with order unless credit is established. Make checks and Money Orders payable to Golden Rule Dahlia Farm. 
Telephone 463X, Lebanon, Ohio. 
All Shipments Sent Express Collect Unless Parcel Post Charges Are Included. Include 25c For Special Delivery On 
All Plant Orders. 
Purchasers in Ohio are subject to this tax, but only on plants and rooted cuttings. Roots are exempt. If you have a 
vendor’s license, please send us a resale certificate with your order, properly made out and signed. If not, please remit 
3 per cent of the cost of plants and rooted cuttings. Wewill at once mail you the tax stamps. 
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