Greetings 
There is deep satisfaction in growing perennials possessing the ability to with- 
stand rigorous Winters and trying periods throughout the balance of the year and 
still come through with a gorgeous display of bloom. Rarely are we denied the 
pleasure of beautiful bloom on our PEONIES, IRIS and HEMEROCALLIS — the 
three dependable hardy perennials we are featuring in this catalog. 
We are truly appreciative of the many nice orders we received last season and the 
many favorable comments on our 1947 catalog. In compiling this issue we have added 
a considerable number of new varieties and in writing the descriptions we have en- 
deavored to paint a word picture that would convey a true impression of the variety. 
enabling any prospective purchaser te form his own deductions and make evaluations 
of the various offerings. We hope you will find this catalog equally as alluring as 
our previous issue. 
In our listing will be found some of the most noteworthy peonies in commerce. 
Some of the most recent originations as well as some of the outstanding creations 
that have stood the test of time are presented for your consideration. We do want 
to call your special attention to the new varieties we offer in this catalog of the late 
E. F. Kelsey as well as those of Col. J. C. Nicholls. Both of these gentlemen ranked 
very high as originators of outstanding peonies. Two years ago we acquired half the 
entire stock from Messrs. Kelsey and Nicholls. The plants have made substantial 
growth since their removal from New York State and should give a good account of 
themselves during the next blooming season in June. In these collections will be 
found some of the finest peonies yet produced. 
Our constant testing and study of the new originations enables us to evaluate 
them thoroughly and whatever information we have acquired is available to our 
customers. We will gladly assist you in making selections; advising best methods of 
culture; color combinations; adaptations to locations, etc. 
Nothing can give more lasting satisfaction in the garden than a liberal planting 
of PEONIES, IRIS and HEMEROCALLIS — three hardy dependable perennials that 
need no coddling. They become more valuable with the passing of years. 
These are the only three perennials we ship out of the gardens, but local cus- 
tomers will also find a splendid assortment of other worthwhile perennials in our 
plantings that can be supplied on a cash and carry basis, 
A cordial invitation is extended to visit our gardens and make your own selec- 
tion and appraisal of our stock in the varieties we have to offer. 
Your patronage is solicited and we will make every effort to please you with 
quality stock and prompt handling at the proper shipping time. We welcome the 
privilege of serving you to the best of our ability. If you have flower-loving friends, 
supply us with their name and address and we will gladly mail them a copy of this 
catalog. 
Our list of FALL BULBS — TULIPS, HYACINTHS, NARCISSUS, ete., will 
be mailed to you in early fall. 
MISSION Gane 
TECHNY, ILL. 
Located on Highway 42A (Waukegan Road), 3 miles north of Glenview 
