TO HELP YOU 
SELECT IRIS FOR YOUR HOME GARDEN 
For the average home gardener the selection of just a few varieties of iris is 
quite bewildering. You can have almost any color, tall or dwarf, early or 
late, and your choice depends on how much you are willing to pay and which 
colors you want. 
You want good iris that are recognized as better than average, and you want 
to be sure they will grow well in your garden. Unless you have seen a variety 
in bloom, and have observed how it grows, you have to rely on other guides 
when making your selection. 
You may be quite sure your selections are right if you make your choice 
from those that have received awards from the American Iris Society and 
have been listed in their annual popularity poll more than once. There are 
many other iris that are very good which for various reasons may not re- 
ceive enough attention from judges to qualify for an award. We list a number 
of those that grow well in this area. 
The American Iris Society has done much to make your task easier. Each 
year they conduct a popularity poll of their members and list the one hundred 
iris receiving the most votes. The latest list covers the vote for 1953 and is 
given on page 26 of this catalog. As this program started in 1940 we have 
now had fourteen of these symposiums. The Society also has a comprehen- 
sive official award system and we give a brief explanation of their award 
procedure on page 23. 
A review of all fourteen symposiums reveals that several varieties have been 
on the "100 Favorites" list year after year. On page 27 we have listed all 
varieties that have appeared in at least five of these annual popularity polls. 
Twelve iris have been included in all fourteen lists. They are: 
Amigo China Maid City of Lincoln Elsa Sass 
Fair Elaine Gloriole Golden Majesty Great Lakes 
Prairie Sunset Sable The Red Douglas Wabash 
To maintain such popularity they must be good in appearance and growth 
habits and be well distributed over the United States. 
We hope these suggestions will help you select iris for your garden. 
PLEASE NOTE 
Orders are welcome at any time, at your convenience. The usual practice 
is to place orders before June fifteenth, to avoid possible disappointment. 
The rapidly increasing popularity of modern iris often results in the demand 
exceeding the supply, so that some varieties are sold out early in the season. 
It will pay you to order early. 
A wholesale price list is available to Garden Clubs and established Dealers. 
amsiee 
