Dear Fellow Gardeners: 
Some of you who receive this, our 1956-57 catalog, are old friends who 
have watched our development over the years. In fact it is due largely 
to this early interest and enthusiasm that we were encouraged to continue 
and expand. Our new friends may be interested to know a little of our 
beginning. Thirteen years ago I started with two Gloxinia plants in the 
sunporch of my home. By crossing these I obtained several very large 
flowers in a new color range, and from these have gradually been de- 
veloped some of the beautiful plants that today may be found in our 
greenhouses. For many years this was my hobby, and now I devote my 
full time to the growth and development of the business. 
Over these years the color and pattern range of Gloxinias has been 
greatly increased as well as the size of the flower. Slipper Gloxinias in 
the hybrid form are an exciting addition to every collection. 
For the future our aim is to continually improve the foliage so that 
all our varieties will eventually have the quality of leaves that are found 
in our variety Trudy; to increase the color range, and propagate and sell 
true to name varieties that are outstanding; to foster an ever increasing 
knowledge and enthusiasm among our gardening friends, and to introduce 
other plants of merit in the Gesneriaceae family. 
We are now growing over two hundred choice African Violets, adding 
to our collection each year better and newer varieties. We always have a 
good display at our greenhouses for those who are near enough to enjoy 
them. 
Yours for better Gloxinias, 
thd  BuY 
VISITORS WELCOME: We are always pleased to have visitors at our green- 
houses. People traveling long distances should contact us to be sure of a 
good display. We are closed Sundays. 
GROWING INSTRUCTIONS: We have prepared printed booklets which will 
answer most of your Gloxinia and African Violet questions. If you have 
any additional problems we will always be pleased to help you. Full grow- 
ing instructions are sent with each order. 
OUR PLEDGE TO YOU: All our shipments are guaranteed to reach you 
in absolutely perfect condition, and to be true to description. There is 
no need to return any doubtful shipments, as we have complete 
confidence in your judgment. A short note from you will bring a prompt 
reply and a replacement at no cost to you. 
Your complete satisfaction is our goal and greatest pleasure. 
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