
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 deli- 
cacy of tint and fragrance surpasses all other flowers. 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 reli- 
able, 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) Herbaceous, 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 best time to plant both Tree and Herbaceous 
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, as soon as the 
frost is out and the soil is dry enough. If planted in the spring, water 
frequently during the summer. 
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. However we do not 
guarantee results, as we have no control over stock after leaving our 
hands. Do not be too hasty in judging the plants the first season, 
as all plants receive a shock when transplanted and should have a 
season's growth to become established. 
Full Cultural Directions Included With Every Shipment. 
