Comstock’s2012 Seed Guide

201 years with heirloom seeds!

COMSTOCK, FERRE & CO . WETHERSFIELD, CONNWETHERSFIELD SEED GARDENS . SINCE 1811 . HARDY NORTHERN SEEDS

kComstock, Ferre & Co. LLC.

W E T H E R S F I E L D S E E D G A R D E N S

Dear Gardening Friends, We are so excited to be entering our 2nd year with Comstock, Ferre & Co, which is now 201 years old. We are also happy to be reintroducing this year twenty-some “new” varieties from the past. The majority of the seeds in this catalog have been of-fered for over 100 years, including some varieties we have offered for 200 years! It is our goal at the Wethersfield Seed Gar-dens to preserve not only the historic seed varieties that built this nation, but also their history. We must keep alive these treasured seeds for future genera-tions and work to assure a safe food supply free of genetically-modified crops and chemical pesticides. A few corporations in the United States have dras-tically changed our food supply, and they even sue farmers who accidentally get contaminated by their genetically-modified crops. These modified crops have built in toxic genes that kill insects, and now studies are questioning their health impacts on hu-mans. Last June we celebrated our 200th anniversary with a spring garden festival. We had 2000 guests from across New England and beyond. We are pleased to announce this year’s event on June 3, 2012, and hope you come and enjoy the day’s activities with us, including crafts, colonial reenactors, local food, plants, garden supplies, music, and leading garden and farm speakers! We hope to see you at this festival, or at some other time this season. Come by and watch the progress as we work to restore the gardens and buildings here at Comstock.

Thanks for your support; without it we would not be able to continue our work to preserve the oldest agricultural business in Connecticut, and offer you some of New England’s best heirloom varieties!

God Bless,Jere, Emilee and Sasha Gettlewww.comstockferre.comJoin us on facebook, too!

Wethersfield Seed Gardens Celebrates 200 YearsHOME OF COMSTOCK, FERRE & CO.

Comstock, Ferre & Co. located in Wethersfield, Connecticut, has a colorful agricultural history and is the oldest seed company in New Eng-land. Time has left its mark, upon the farm fields of Connecticut being re-placed with a grid of development and interstates. However, Comstock, Ferre & Co. has stood the test of time. Despite being in the cross-hairs for demolition, it has risen again as a vibrant seed house offering heirloom varieties to New Eng-land and to all of North America.

Wethersfield Seed Gardens An advertisement for Joseph Beldon’s seeds was published in the Hartford Courant in 1811 and is the earli-

est known record of a seed business in Wethersfield. Joseph’s brother, James Lockwood Belden, at the age of 46, continued his brother’s business. He called it, “Wethersfield Seed Gardens” and listed 60 varieties of vegetables and common kitchen herbs. James sold seeds, produced out of his own gardens, at his home, which was built by his fa-ther Simeon on Main St. in 1767. The Birth of Comstock, Ferre & Co. In 1834, a fire burned Beldon’s barns and seed houses, but the business survived. In 1838, he sold it to Judge Franklin Comstock and his son Wil-liam. William Comstock was an indus-trious, far-sighted man. He adopted the Shaker innovation of selling seed pack-

aged in “papers,” as they called it, or packets, as we still do today. He was also the first to add a decorative border to the packets. William’s father crafted a light pine box with simple hinges and hooks, varnished the cover and fitted it with an attractive listing of the seed contents. The creative packaging and the useful product within enticed many general store owners to place a seed box in their store on commission. Many young men in Wethers-field hitched up their wagons loaded with Comstock’s seed boxes and trav-eled various routes throughout New England and as far west as the Missis-sippi River delivering our seed boxes to country stores, collecting money

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that was due on last year’s box and re-turning the old boxes to Wethersfield. These “travelers” as they were called were often on the road eight months of the year. This was a staple of the busi-ness until the 1880’s. William Comstock traveled extensively promoting his product. He was selling seed in New Orleans before the railroad had reached that city and in St. Louis and Chicago when they were the end of the railroad. In 1845 William took on Hen-ry Ferre from Massachusetts as his partner, and their business flourished. It was incorporated in 1853 under the name of Comstock, Ferre & Co.

The Willard Family In 1871 Comstock retired from the business but not before leav-ing a little black book he titled Order of Spring Work in which he detailed the process of growing various seeds. This served as a guiding compass for his successors. In that same year, Ste-phen F. Willard began working for the company. He was a “traveler,” one of the many young men distributing commission seed boxes. He set out on the trail in a horse-pulled wagon complete with sled runners for snowy travel and carried commission boxes to the northeast. In June of 1883, he was one of the influential founders of the American Seed Trade Association and became its president in 1904. He also served as president of Comstock from 1898 until his death in 1924. During his presidency, most of our business was in wholesale lots of vegetable seed sold to other seed companies such as Burpee and Peter Henderson, as well as other merchants.

There were seven other seed merchants in Wethersfield. Thomas Griswold and Co., founded in 1845, was one of these seven. In 1932, Comstock, Ferre & Co. purchased the Griswold seedhouse and the history of the two seed companies became intertwined. Over the years, our seed was grown on company farms around Wethersfield and in the fertile meadows along the Connecticut River where we specialized in sweet corn, tomato, on-ion and turnip seed production. At one time, we had a seed farm in Urbana, Ohio, and we also acquired land in what is now Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. Farmers outside of the company also devoted acres of their land to our seed production. Four of Stephen F. Willard’s sons followed in their father’s foot-steps and were involved in the various aspects of the business. After proceed-ing through the ranks, one of Stephen’s sons, Edward Willard, became presi-dent. In 1958 his son, Edward Willard, Jr. acquired the position. Forty-four years later he handed the baton to his brother Richard G. Willard who served until 1980, at which time his wife Cor-rinne became president. During her time with the company, she was very influential in preserving Comstock’s history and sharing our story with the media. She was our radio personality for 12 years on a weekly program called, “Gardentime.” Comstock has much to thank Corrine and the entire Willard family for: their love of gardening and history.

Pierre Bennerup Proprietor In August, 1991 Pierre Benn-erup, owner of Sunny Border Nurseries,

Below: Antique seed packets carried by the “travelers” in seed boxes.

Inc. purchased Comstock, Ferre & Co. Pierre has a family history in the world of gardening. His father started a nurs-ery business in 1929 of which Pierre is the President. Sunny Borders maintains 222 acres complete with 52 greenhous-es. Pierre continued Comstock’s legacy with a retail seed catalog and expand-ed the garden center, offering many of Sunny Borders’ potted plants. Wanting to return his focus to his original family business, he decided to list Comstock, Ferre & Co. for sale.

The Gettle Family Pierre and his wife had received our Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co. catalog every December for many years. When Pierre decided to list Comstock for sale, his wife Cheryl sent us a kind letter expressing her interest in our company and its possible parallel with the history and future of Comstock, Ferre & Co. At the time we were too busy with our recent store opening, The Seed Bank, in Petaluma, California, to consider Comstock as an option. Fast forward a year: as we were on our way home from a winter trip to The Seed Bank, we sat for hours in a traffic jam somewhere in Arizona. Due to boredom, we started talking about finding an East Coast location. Cheryl’s letter came to mind, and thanks to mod-ern technology, Emilee searched the web via our cell phone to see if Com-stock was still on the market. The next day we called Pierre. In June, 2010, we purchased the company—and the rest is just one more page in Comstock’s color-ful history. We brought our Amish crew from Missouri to help begin the resto-ration process of the historic buildings and barns dating back to the 1700’s. The Amish men carried cobweb and dust-covered agricultural treasures out of the many attics to once again be on display and eventually restored to use again. Our family felt like we had en-tered a treasure trove of America’s agri-cultural heritage. Desks in the old offices looked as if someone had simply left for the day with historic documents strewn throughout the room, antique seed cata-

logs and packets all covered in a veil of dust. The old seed scales and scoops were in the same places as they were in the antique photos. The bulk seed room was left much the same, as if it were simply quitting time, waiting for the next work day to begin. It truly was like stepping back in time.

The Future of Comstock, Ferre & Co. We are working to return Comstock, Ferre & Co. to its glorious beginnings as an heirloom seed com-pany. Many of the varieties we are list-ing in this catalog are ones that Joseph and James Beldon grew in the gardens around the colonial home where they were born. When the nation was di-vided by the Civil War, William Com-stock united the country by offering seeds for both the “North and the South” in his 1856 Gardener’s Alma-nac. By searching out and preserving seed varieties once included in their price lists and catalogs, we are work-ing to save what is left of the agricul-tural heritage these men have left to us. Also, the restoration of the grounds and eleven historic buildings, one of which was patriot Silas Deane’s warehouse in the 1700’s, is an ongo-ing process. The antique equipment that has been neglected in darkness for years will be on display and some restored to working order. Our goal is to erase modern influences around the company and return it to something that William Comstock or Stephen F. Willard could recognize, if they were to walk through the doors. Com-stock will be a type of living history museum dedicated to agriculture and our diverse inheritance of heirloom seed varieties that are in danger of ex-tinction, some of which have already passed through the sands of time. This year we are celebrating 201 years of selling seeds. We invite you to join us June 3, 2012, for our anniversary! Also, visit us online to follow the res-toration of this historic company at:

www.ComstockFerre.com.

light-green foliage, resist rust, mildew and the bean beetle. This old favorite has really stood the test of time, and we are proud to offer it once again. Pkt $1.75Contender50 days. Introduced in 1949, this early bush bean offers an amazing yield! The stringless, oval, slightly curved 6-7” pods are as beautiful in appearance as they are tasty. Heat doesn’t stop these prolific plants. A perfect market variety! They are excellent to preserve in canner or freezer for your winter meals as well. Pkt $1.75Golden WaxWe have been offering wax beans since the 1870’s. The delicious flavor of the yellow pods is hard to beat: tender and stringless. They have remained a favor-ite still today and produce good yields on bush plants. Pkt $1.75Hutterite Soup New!70 days, bush—This variety is grown for dry use, where it excels due to the in-credibly rich-textured and creamy soup that it creates when cooked. The plump, ivory-tan colored beans reach maturi-ty fairly early for a dry bean. Brought with the Hutterites, a pacifist religious

lenge in most parts of New England due to its long season, but started in very early winter one may obtain reason-able success here in Connecticut. Pkt (25 seeds) $1.50

ASPARAGUS.(Asparagus officinalis) May be grown from seed, or better from year-old roots, planted in early Spring 18 inches apart in 3-4 foot rows. The roots should be spread out horizontally and set 6 inches deep, covering but lightly at first. The seed may be sown in rows and the roots transplanted the following year. Cutting should be light until the sec-ond or third year after transplanting.

Giant Argenteuil An old traditional heirloom, this gour-met variety is highly esteemed in Eu-rope for its delicious stems that can be blanched white with rose-colored buds. This asparagus was listed by us in 1907, and in 1916 our competitor Burpee Seeds stated, “A special favorite in the Paris markets.” Pkt (25 seeds) $1.50

BEANS.(Phaseolus vulgaris) 50 seeds per packet. Beans are tender and should not be planted until danger of frost is past. Sow in drills 2 inches deep and 2½ to 3 feet apart at intervals from the first of May until August. A larger yield will be obtained if the plants are thinned to 3 inches apart. Cultivate freely but not when the vines are wet.

Black Valentine53 days. This pole bean was touted as being quite vigorous and hardy, not to mention productive. Peter Henderson & Company released Black Valentine in 1897; however, it had been in gardens be-fore 1850. Very attractive in appearance, the 6” delectable pods are semi-round, smooth, straight and entirely stringless. The edible seed is medium-sized, oval, glossy and jet black in color. This ear-ly-producing variety is great to use for snap beans, and the dried seed is perfect for soups. Pkt $1.95Bountiful New!42-51 days- In our 1942 catalog, we said: “Handsome large light green pods, al-ways tender and stringless. Straight, flat pods 6 to 7 inches long. Produces enor-mous crops.” We can only add that the 16- to 18-inch plants, with their striking

b Our CatalogWe offer only heirloom, non-hybrid &

Non-GMO seeds! Our seeds are mostly Northern varieties, that

do well in shorter seasons.

We offer some of the lowest prices anywhere for hardy, quality seed.

All seeds priced under $2!

ARTICHOKE.(Cynara scolymus) A perennial with fleshy thistle-like heads, cooked like Asparagus. Sow in April and transplant 2 feet apart in 3-foot rows. Bank with earth for winter protection.

Green Globe This old favorite was offered in our 1846 list and in 1857 we said, “Produces globular heads with thick and succulent scales. It is the best for general culture. Cultivated more for luxury than for profit. The flower heads in their imma-ture state contain the edible part, which consists of that portion of the fleshy receptacle which adheres to the scales, called the bottom.” This crop is a chal-

over a long period, the flowers are white as is the seed. Pkt $1.95

Kentucky WonderThis old bean, also known as “Old Homestead,” has been offered by us for over 100 years and has gone by many names. It was mentioned as early as 1864. In 1877 James J.H. Gregory offered it as Kentucky Wonder and that name has been popular ever since. It is a pole bean that produces lots of 6-8”, tender green pods that have a delicious, rich flavor. Pkt $1.75Papa De Rola New!90 days, half-runner—The name means “Breast of the Dove” in the language of Portugal, whence this spectacularly beautiful variety originated. Each bean is about one-half white, with the balance marked in warm tones of beige and red. The prolific plants reach 4 ft in height, requiring some support. Primarily used as a soup bean, the pods also make fine snaps when picked young, and this is an excellent shell type as well. Pkt $1.95Scarlet Runner80 days. These beautiful, cool-weather-loving beans were first mentioned in 1750 and sold by Comstock, Ferre & Co. in 1846. This variety was often used as an ornamental due to its beautiful flow-ers which are bright scarlet and bloom in great profusion. The vigorously vin-ing plant can grow over 10 feet and has dark green leaves and large, round pods. The seed itself is very large, kidney-shaped, and marbled with purple and black. They are perfect to use for snap, shell or dry beans. Pkt (15 seeds) $1.95Tendergreen54 days. One of the finest quality beans with round, slender pods, straight and entirely stringless. It bears a heavy crop a few days later than most other variet-ies. This was one of the most common varieties of bush beans in the 1930’s. Popular with our customers. Pkt $1.75Top CropThis bean lives up to its name as the top of the crop, raking in a 1950 All-America Selections award. It was men-tioned in the 1968 Comstock catalog as

an “outstanding Gold Medal winner for productiveness and quality.” The string-less, round, straight 6” pods mature a few days earlier than Tendergreen. This bush bean is quite flavorful and is won-derful fresh, frozen or canned. Pkt $1.95Windsor Fava“This is one of the largest kinds used for the table” as we stated in the 1850’s. This variety yields quality high-protein beans on upright non-branching plants. An old English favorite that must be grown in cool weather. Grown by us since the 1840’s. Pkt (20 seeds) $1.95Henderson’s Bush Lima 71 days. A good lima bean for northern areas that produce delicious baby limas. Peter Henderson introduced it in 1888, and it is one of their most popular va-rieties. Henderson offered a $100 cash prize for plants bearing the most pods and proclaimed it “A VEGETABLE WONDER!!!”. Dwarf bush plants can be grown like regular bush beans. It has been popular with our customers for over 110 years. Pkt (35 seeds) $1.95

“Those who labour in the earth are the chosen people of God.” –Thomas Jefferson

denomination who came to North America in the 1800’s, fleeing religious persecution in Russia, the variety is pro-ductive and very flavorful. Pkt $1.95Landreth StringlessThis meaty Landreth variety debuted in 1885. It is a flavorful, stringless bean and boasts heavy yields. The pods are medium green in color and a little over 5” long. The seeds are a rich chocolate or coffee brown. Landreth proudly pro-claimed it as a favorite and as “one of the finest pod varieties for the home garden, market garden and canner.” Pkt $1.95 Lazy Wife This prolific pole variety from the 1880’s was easy for housewives to pick because the pods grow in clusters on the plant making it quite a time saver for ladies in a hurry. Great Northern Seed Co. in 1918 said it is, “A grand bean, by many considered the best general purpose pole bean. Pods wonderfully broad, thick, entirely stringless, and when fully grown are about 6 inches long, exceedingly rich, buttery and fine flavored when cooked. They are hardy, easily grown and most productive. Sur-passingly fine for an early and late snap sort, also as a green or dry shell or win-ter bean it is unsurpassed.” Productive

BEETROOT.(Beta vulgaris) 125 seeds per packet. Beets are of easy culture and one of the most useful and profit-able crops grown. The seed is enclosed in a hard shell, and in dry soil is often slow to germinate. Soaking in warm water overnight before sowing will help germination. For early use, sow as early as the ground can be worked, in drills 14 inches apart, and for a succession at intervals until the first week in July. They succeed best in a firm, light soil, well-enriched. Beet tops are a very desirable table vegetable cooked as greens. Sow ½ to 1 inch deep and thin to 4 inches.

Albino55 days. A delicious beet with pure white flesh. The flavor is very sweet and sugary and preferred by many to red beets. The greens are extra tender. An heirloom variety from Holland that won’t stain your clothes. Thomas Jefferson liked to plant white beets in his kitchen garden each year. Pkt $1.75Chioggia60 days. Also known as Early Flat Bas-sano. In 1856 we said, “This variety from Italy is valued here principally for its earliness coming into use a week or ten

days earlier than any other sort. Roots flat, turnip-shaped, light red; white flesh is circled with rose color. It is very ten-der, and juicy.” First offered by us in the 1850’s. This old candy-striped beet has gained a renewed interest among gar-deners and chefs alike. Pkt $1.50Detroit Dark Red60 days. First introduced in 1892 by D.M. Ferry Seed Company. This variety was carried by us just after the year 1900 and was quite popular with gardeners in Connecticut as well as throughout America. In our 1933 catalog we listed this variety as, “One of the finest strains in cultivation. Globe-shaped, smooth and with a small tap root; skin and flesh deep red.” Pkt $1.00Early Blood TurnipThis early variety produces round roots that are blood-red in color and turnip shaped. This variety was already being grown in American gardens by 1820 and was very popular with gardeners in New England. In our possession is an order from 1822 where a Mr. Fredrick Butler

purchased 1 oz of blood beet seed for 6½ cents from our price list. It remained popular in catalogs for well over one hundred years. In 1856 Mr. Comstock said of this variety, “It is indispensable in every garden, however small.” Pkt $1.95Golden Beet60 days. This colorful and nutritious beet was introduced to gardeners around 1820. The golden yellow flesh is so good, having a sweet, rich flavor. It is still one of the most popular beets in home gardens. It can grow to a large size. Pkt $1.95Ruby Queen65 days. Excellent home garden beet with a very short top. It is 10 inches tall and has a uniform growth and luxurious red interior color which enhances its early maturity of round smooth medi-um-red roots of outstanding quality and flavor. An All American Selections Win-ner in 1957. Pkt $1.00

Chioggia Beet

Delay is preferable to error.—Thomas Jefferson

BROCCOLI.(Brassica oleracea var. italica) 100 seeds per packet. This desirable vegetable resembles Cauliflower in many respects and requires the same culture, but is much quicker and easier to grow. The different varieties of Broccoli vary greatly in appearance and growth.

Broccoli RabeDistinct from other Broccolis. In addition to the small flower heads, the Turnip-like leaves are used for greens. Hardy, can be sown in au-tumn for a spring crop. This variety has an even more delicious flavor than regular broccoli and is one of our most asked for vegetables. It was first offered by us in the 1930’s after it was im-ported from Italy. Pkt $1.50CalabreseThis variety develops in about 90 days, pro-ducing good sized, compact, deep green flower heads which, according to our 1933 catalog, “are cooked and served in the same manner as Cau-liflower.” This shows how new broccoli was in America in the early part of the 20th century. A fine strain, early with compact heads. Pkt $1.25Di Cicco New!55-80 days—This reliable old European broccoli was introduced in the 1890’s, back when broc-coli was an ethnic crop on these shores. Robust, compact plants produce a medium-sized cen-tral head followed by lots of side shoots of very high quality, ideal for freezing. We first offered it decades ago. Pkt $1.25Early Purple SproutingWe sold an Early Purple Broccoli in our 1846 price list. It is an English heirloom that was se-lected for its overwintering qualities. It produc-es lots of deep purple, small broccoli sprouts in the spring. Frost hardy, it grows slowly through the winter. However, it will need some protec-tion in the coldest climates. It is a rare heir-loom in America and quite delicious. Pkt $1.50

BRUSSELS SPROUTS.(Brassica oleracea) A species of the Cabbage family producing small, tight heads along the stalk. Sow in early spring and transplant in 2-3 foot rows, allowing 18 inches to 2 feet between plants. The flavor is improved by early frosts.

Long Island Improved 100 daysWethersfield, Connecticut seedsman Thomas Griswold stated in 1912 this variety was a fa-vorite in the New York markets. This heirloom is dwarf, with compact hard sprouts ¼ to ½ inches in diameter packed tightly on the stems, matures a good crop with several pickings. This variety was commonly grown on Long Island and transported to the city. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.25 Calabrese

Copenhagen Market

hardiest of all cabbages. A standard winter variety. In 1898 it was said that for over 50 years Danish gardeners had been growing this crop. Very hard, round heads, uniformly solid and heavy; it is an excellent keeper. This variety remained popular in Wethersfield and surrounding regions from around 1910 until the 1970’s. It is perfect for sauer-kraut and cooking. Pkt $1.00Early Jersey WakefieldThis first early variety is extremely pop-ular. The heads are of medium size, con-ical in form and of unsurpassed quality. This variety was first sold commercially by Peter Henderson in the 1860’s. Hen-derson stated, “This variety is grown al-most to the exclusion of all other kinds by the leading market gardeners in the vicinity of New York. The best and most profitable early varieties in cultivation.”

By 1870 we were growing this variety in our gardens at Wethersfield. Pkt $1.35Golden Acre New!60-70 days--An earlier Copenhagen market type. Small, perfectly round, 3 pound heads are produced on compact plants that can be grown closely togeth-er. Our 1937 catalog enthused that this is “a very valuable market variety,” and we offered it for decades. Resistant to cab-bage yellows. Pkt $1.00Large Flat DutchWe’ve offered this variety since the 1840’s and our historic catalogs state, “a superb large, low growing cabbage, heads broad and flat.” An old and popu-lar variety for autumn and winter use. Excellent quality! This variety can reach over 20 pounds in weight and has a deli-cious old time flavor. Very attractive for fall displays. Pkt $1.25

CABBAGES.(Brassica oleracea var. capitata) 150 seeds per pack-et. Cabbage thrives in rich, well-drained, loamy soil. For an early crop, sow seeds of the early varieties in hotbeds in February or early March. Transfer the young plants to cold frames where they may harden before setting in the open ground. Transplant 18-20 inches apart in 2½ foot rows. For a late crop, sow in June in the open ground and thin to secure healthy stocky growth, transplanting when ready.

Copenhagen Market70 days. A fine early variety of Danish origin, nearly as early as Jersey Wake-field. Heads large, round and solid with small outer leaves. Introduced to America in 1911. This variety became a standard for both home and market gar-deners for the next one hundred years. A great keeper! Pkt $1.50Danish Ballhead105 days. This variety was also known as Hollander. It is known as one of the

Mammoth Red RockA good sized, historic cabbage from 1889. Finely flavored purplish-red heads are both ornamental and delightful to cook with. This variety has been offered by us since at least 1900. It is our favorite red cabbage. Great for pickling! Pkt $1.35Perfection Drumhead SavoyA late variety with dark green wrinkled leaves; heads large, sweet and tender. Sa-voy cabbage was offered by us as early as 1820 and Drumhead Savoy was among our popular offerings in the 1840’s. Flat-tened heads grow to a large size and are popular with chefs. Our 1856 catalog states, “The Savoys approach nearer to the delicious richness of the cauliflower than any of the other cabbages.” We are proud to still offer this traditional fa-vorite. Pkt $1.50Succession=All Seasons New!90 days-- Introduced in 1920, this heat-tolerant variety was for decades the vari-ety of choice in areas subject to cabbage yellows, a serious cabbage disease in the Northeast and Midwest. Heads to 12 lbs. are round but flattened on top. Heads are solid and very finely flavored. Pkt $1.25

CARROT.300 seeds per packet. The Carrot is an easily grown vegetable that gives most satisfactory re-sults in a well-manured sandy loam, thoroughly worked. May be sown for succession from early spring to midsummer. Sow in drills 14-16 inches apart and cover lightly. Press the soil firmly over the seed, especially in dry weather. Thin 2 inches apart in the row.

Chantenay Red Core70 days. Stump rooted, early and pro-ductive. Bright orange in color, smooth and of fine appearance. A fine garden and market variety used extensively in bunches. The French Chantenay carrot was introduced in the 1830’s and has re-mained one of the best types to this day. Pkt $1.25Jaune Obtuse du Doubs Beautiful, lemon-yellow roots are deli-cious roasted, and in autumn stews. It is a big, thick carrot that has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its fine flavor and unique appearance. In the 19th century, this variety was primar-ily used to feed livestock because yellow carrots had lost favor due to the popu-larity of newer varieties of orange car-rots. Pkt $1.95

St. ValeryThis was known as an old variety even in 1885. It is a large, attractive carrot ac-claimed for its delicious taste. The roots are a vibrant orange and quite smooth. It can grow up to 10-12” long in good soil. A rare heirloom and one of our fa-vorites. Pkt $1.50Tendersweet90 days. Our old catalogs called this, “the brightest and sweetest of all car-rots.” Deep reddish-orange roots are 8-10” long, coreless and taper to a blunt point. It is a good variety for home and market gardeners. Pkt 95 centsWhite BelgianThis variety grows partly out of the ground, which portion will turn light green. The roots are very large and are creamy white in color. This historic vari-ety was developed from the Long White carrot, an ancient variety that was com-mon in Europe. This carrot was exten-sively grown as a livestock crop due to its large size and ease of production. In 1885 Vilmorin said, “There is hardly any farm on which it is not grown to some extent for feeding cattle, and especially horses.” Pkt $1.75

CAULIFLOWER.(Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) Cauliflower is eas-ily grown if properly cared for, although to be a profitable market crop it is somewhat particular as to soil and location. Many make the mistake of expecting Cauliflower to head in hot weather. To avoid this, it should be started in March or early April in a greenhouse or hot bed and transplanted to good, fertile soil as soon as conditions will per-mit. Sow in June and transplant 18 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart for the late crop. Cultivate thoroughly and frequently to keep plants in good growing condition. When heads begin to form, bunch the leaves together and tie loosely to pro-tect from the sun.

Early Snowball80 days. Standard main crop variety for market and home use, vigorous and compact in growth with large heads, very solid and pure white. Mature over

a two to three week period. We have of-fered this variety for over 110 years. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50

CELERY & CELERIAC.(Apium graveolens var. dulce) For both market and home use, there is no more highly esteemed veg-etable than Celery. As the seed is small, it requires careful planting. Sow in drills 10-12 inches apart early in spring. The soil should be well pulverized and the seed lightly covered with soil pressed firmly over it. Additional sowings may be made up to June 15th. Transplant when ready in rows 3 feet apart, leaving 3-4 inches between plants, or 6-8 inches for extra large stalks. Press the soil firmly around the roots and keep well cultivated. As cool weather approaches, blanching is start-ed by drawing the soil around the plants. This is continued until only the tops of the leaves remain uncovered. Blanching is often accomplished by means of boards or building paper set against the rows in place of soil. Late Celery should be pitted or placed in the cellar before freezing weather.

Giant Pascal104 days. “Choice variety with a sweet, nutty flavor. Splendid keeper. Blanches quickly with but slight earthing up. The stalks are thick, solid and brittle.” This variety was listed in our 1900 annual catalog. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.00Celeric-Giant PragueKnown as Turnip-rooted Celery. A va-riety with large round roots which are cooked like Beets or Turnips. Used for the roots only. The fleshy roots are de-licious when boiled and superb when fried. This wonderful variety came from Eastern Europe and was offered by us in 1907. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.30

Early Snowball

"It is unpatriotic not to tell the truth, whether about the president or anyone else." -Theodore Roosevelt

CORN.75 seeds per packet. Sweet Corn is tender and will not stand frost, nor will it germinate well in wet, cold soils. It responds to good soil and clean, frequent cultivation. Plant in well-fertilized hills 3 feet apart each way, putting 5 or 6 kernels in each hill and covering to a depth of about 1½ inches. When about 6 inches high, remove from each hill all but the three most vigorous stalks. Many gar-deners sow the seed in rows 3 feet apart, leaving the plants standing singly about 9 inches apart. For a succession throughout the season, plant early in May several varieties starting from the earli-est producing variety to the latest. A good second early variety planted at intervals of two weeks until the middle of July will produce a continuous supply. Approximate weights: 1 bushel = 45-50 pounds and 1 quart = 1½ pounds.

Country GentlemanRecommended as a valuable sort for table use. Late in season, it is very pro-lific and yields good-sized ears filled with irregular rows of luscious, tender and milky grains. In 1900 we sold 100 ears for $2.00. Introduced in 1890 by Stiles Denison Woodruff, a Connecti-cut farmer and seedsman. This variety is also called Shoe Peg due to its peg-shaped kernels. It was used by canneries to make creamed corn for many years up until the 1950’s. Pkt $1.95

Golden Bantam80 days. This variety as described in our 1933 catalog is as follows: “A remarkable variety because of its earliness and truly delicious flavor, is a great favorite every-where. Attaining a height of 6 feet, the sturdy stalk usually bears two medium-sized ears, which are of a rich golden yellow color and very tender and deli-cious. Especially adapted to the home garden and better market garden trade.” Pkt $1.95

Strawberry PopcornSmall 2-inch red strawberry-like ears with husks folded back make an excel-lent decoration. This variety is so cute and brings back fond memories from childhood. It is perfect for children and makes great popcorn. Pkt $1.50

"My refusing to eat flesh occasioned an

inconveniency, and I was frequently chided

for my singularity, but, with this lighter

repast, I made the greater progress, for

greater clearness of head and quicker

comprehension." -Benjamin Franklin

Early Snowball

If God is just, I tremble for my country.-Thomas Jefferson

White Wonder

CUCUMBER.(Cucumis sativus) 20 seeds per packet. Cucumbers flourish best in rich, loamy soil. When the weather has become warm, plant in hills 4 to 5 feet apart each way, putting 10 to 12 seeds in a hill. As the plants appear above the surface, they should be diligently watched and protected against insect enemies. This may be accomplished by sprinkling hydrated lime, ashes, tobacco dust or other insec-ticides on the hills. Finally, thin the young plants to 4 in each hill. For a succession, continue plating at intervals. Fruits should not be left on the vines to ripen, as this diminishes productiveness. For late pickles, sow in late June.

Boothby Blonde60 days. A wonderful heirloom variety that originates with the Boothby fam-ily of Livermore, Maine, who have been growing this variety for generations. Me-

dium-sized fruit have a cream colored skin and flesh that is mild and sweet. A good producer that is becoming very popular in New England. Pkt $1.50Boston Pickling60 days. A favorite pickling variety of superior quality. The fruit is medium long, rich green in color, crisp and tender. According to J. H. Gregory of Marblehead, Massachusetts, this was the “standard for pickling in the Bos-ton market,” in 1885. This variety has remained popular with home gardeners ever since. Pkt 0.90 centsLemon Cucumber65 days. This Australian variety was introduced here in 1894. This fine cu-

cumber grows about the size, shape and color of a lemon. It is extremely popular with home gardeners as well as market growers because customers prefer its mild flavor and tenderness. It is one of our favorite varieties. Pkt $1.35Longfellow 65 days. An unusually long, slender, dark green variety. Not a heavy yield-er, but fruits are very large and finely shaped, being 12 to 14 inches in length and very attractive. It has excellent color retention when canned. A great cucum-ber for slicing, it was first offered on the market in 1927 by Jerome B. Rice Seed Company of Cambridge, NY. Pkt $1.95

SikkimThe ancient cucumber that was com-mon in the Himalayan mountain region of Sikkim and in Nepal. It was first dis-covered by Westerners in 1848 by Sir Joseph Hooker as he traveled through this remote region. He said of it, “So abundant were the fruits, that for days together I saw gnawed fruits lying by the natives’ paths by the thousands, and every man, woman and child seemed engaged throughout the day in devour-ing them.” It is unique in color, having a rust-red colored skin when mature, but the pure white flesh is extra crisp and sweet. These will keep for a long period so you can have cucumbers well into the autumn. Pkt $1.80

Straight 8 New!52 days. This was a “new” variety in the 1930’s, when we listed it, describing it as a white-spine type, resembling Longfel-low but with shorter fruits and heavier yields. Won the All-America award in 1935. This worthy variety has had a de-voted following ever since. Pkt $1.00West India Gherkin65 days. In the 1850’s we said the fol-lowing about this variety, “A very small, oval-shaped, prickly variety, having more the appearance of a burr than a cucumber. It is quite late, full of seeds, and when pickled, a perfect sponge.” It is easy to grow and does make nice pick-les. This variety was first introduced to America in 1793 from Jamaica where

colonists prepared this little gherkin by pickling and boiling. Pkt $1.35White WonderA great yielder. Creamy-ivory, 7”-long fruits, delicious and great for pickles or slicing. W. Atlee Burpee introduced this heirloom in 1893 after they received it from a customer in New York. Pkt $1.00

“What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

CobraHead® Hand HoeThe closest thing to a univer-sal garden hand tool you will find. This is Jere’s favorite in the garden! It is perfect for weeding, but it also cultivates, scalps, edges, digs, furrows, plants, transplants, de-thatches and harvests! Made in the USA. $24.95 Caution: These are sharp and must be kept out of children’s reach!

Lemon

EGGPLANT.(Solanum melongena) 20 seeds per packet. Sow in hotbed in February or March, and when 2 or 3 inches high, thin to 3 inches apart, or transplant into other beds or singly in pots. Transplant to open ground in May in rows 3 feet apart, leaving 2 feet between plants. Requires light, warm soil for quick development.

Black Beauty90 days. Sold by us as early as 1907. An excellent sort for home and market use. Fine purple-black fruits of good quality. This variety is an old-fashioned stan-dard. It offers a lower yield and needs a longer growing season. Pkt 95 centsEarly Long PurpleAlso known by its French name Violette Longue Hative. A fine old heirloom that dates back to the 1850’s in America. Our 1856 catalog says that it is, “the earliest and most productive. Fruit long and of superior quality.” This long, tender va-riety truly is early and makes delicious fried or roasted eggplant. Pkt $1.25Scarlet ChinaOne of the most beautiful and attractive of all eggplants, this variety was listed by American seedsmen who stated in the 1870’s, that it’s a fine ornamental va-riety. Truly beautiful, pumpkin-shaped

ENDIVE. (Cichorium endivia) 150 seeds per packet. One of the best salad plants, especially valued for fall and winter use. Can be sown from April until Au-gust in drills 15 to 20 inches apart and thinned to 10 to 12 inches in the row. When well grown, blanch by tying the outer leaves together.

Broad-leaved Batavia90 days. An improved form of the broad-leaved Endive with many leaves in the center, forming a full heavy head. Our 1856 catalog states, “This is the Scarole (Escarole) of the French, and is principally used in soups and stews. Leaves broad, light green, and nearly plain.” This variety also appeared in our 1846 price list. Pkt $1.25

fruit are bright red in color and look like tiny, flat pumpkins. This variety has recently become popular with flo-rists who use it in bouquets and fall arrangements. The fruit has a slight-ly to very bitter taste that is popular among some Asian ethic groups. It is one of the most attractive plants you can grow in the garden. Pkt $1.75

“And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.” -Genesis 1:29

Green CurledOffered by us since at least the 1840’s. It is the hardiest variety, with beautifully curled dark green leaves, very crisp and tender. It is the most cultivated in this country for salads, and is considered a very wholesome vegetable. Fine for summer and fall use. Pkt $1.25

FENNEL.FlorenceAn Italian vegetable with thick stalks which have a delicate Anise flavor when blanched. Sow in rich soil and thin to 8 inches apart. Requires frequent cultiva-tion and moist soil. Blanch like Celery. We have offered fennel to this young na-tion since 1820. Pkt (50 seeds) $1.00

GOURDS.DipperThis gourd was popular in the early days of American history for making drink-ing water dippers before the age of plas-tic. It still works for that purpose, but also makes great crafts and decorations. It is sometimes used to make houses for small birds. Pkt (20 seeds) $1.60

KOHLRABI.(Brassica caulorapa) 100 seeds per packet. This peculiar vegetable partakes of the character of both Cabbage and Turnip. The edible por-tion consists of large bulbs formed on the stems just above the soil. They should be used when young and tender, boiled like Turnips. Sow in spring in rows 18 inches apart and thin to 8 to 10 inches.Early Purple Vienna60 days. This variety predates 1860. De-licious bulbs have a cabbage-like flavor and grow above ground. It has mild white flesh and pretty purple skin. Per-fect for eating raw or using in cooked dishes. It is easy to grow and cold hardy. Pkt $1.25Early White Vienna60 days. Peter Henderson said of this variety in his 1873 catalog, “Flesh white and tender; the best market sort, excel-lent for table use.” It produces a bulb similar to the Early Purple Vienna but is usually larger. It has been popular with our customers since the late 19th cen-tury. Pkt $1.00

very hardy and is improved by a mod-erate frost. The stems rise about two feet and produce an abundance of dark green curled and wrinkled leaves. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.00Kale-Siberian65 days. A very hardy variety with blu-ish leaves curled at the edges. Used to winter over and produce an early spring crop of “sprouts”. A favorite for greens and also makes a great forage crop for animals. This variety has been listed by us for over one hundred years. Pkt (200 seeds) 75 cents

Collards-Vates New!75 days-- In the 1950’s, we offered this variety as a “new, dwarf strain,” long-standing and heat resistant, like all col-lards. Winter hardy to the mid-Atlantic states, producing a crop into very cold autumn weather. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.25Kale-Curled Scotch60 days. This variety was popular with our customers in the 1840’s and is still relished in the kitchen to this day. It is

NesteggThis historic variety was traditionally used as a nest egg, meaning that this gourd was placed in a hen’s nest to fool her and keep her laying in the same nest. The fruit are white and the size and shape of an egg. Vining plants bear in profusion. Pkt (20 seeds) $1.25

GRAINS. Buckwheat JapaneseStrong-growing variety. Good cover crop for poor land. Buckwheat has been used for centuries as a food crop in Ja-pan, grown for its edible seeds, which in this country were added to the tra-ditional buckwheat pancakes. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.75

HEMP.This historic fiber crop was offered by seed companies in Connecticut for over 100 years. Not available until it is legal to plant once again.

KALE & COLLARDS.(Brassica oleracea var. acephala) A tall, loose-heading, Cabbage-like plant much used in the South for greens. Hardier than Cabbage, this veg-etable makes splendid greens for winter and early spring use. The flavor is improved by frost. Sow from the middle of April to first of June and transplant or thin to 18 to 20 inches, as for Cabbage.

“A good end cannot sanctify evil Means; nor must we ever do evil, that good may come of it.”

-William Penn

Extra Large Carentan

LEEK.(Allium porrum) 125 seeds per pack-et. A hardy species of Onion with long stems which are used in soups. Sow very early in Spring in rows about 15 inches apart. Extra large stalks can be grown by transplanting. To insure well-blanched stems, set deep and draw the soil up as the plants grow.

American FlagA hardy large-stalked type, strong growing and productive. This popular American heir-loom is ready for the table as fast as 85 days. This hardy vari-ety has a nice, sweet flavor and is a great addition to the kitchen. We’ve offered this variety at Wethersfield since before 1900. Pkt $1.25Extra Large CarentanWe’ve offered this variety for over 110 years. Long, thick roots grow to 2 inches across. It is vigorous and fast-growing with a delicate, deliciously mild fla-vor; great fresh or cooked. The Carentan leek was mentioned by James J.H. Gregory of Massa-chusetts in 1885 who stated, “A very fine extra large winter va-riety.” An old European favor-ite that is becoming rare. Very adaptable and yields are good. Pkt $1.50

W Plants!

HEIRLOOM

VEGETABLE STARTSBEDDING PLANTS

FLOWERSAND MORE!

Come to Comstock, Ferre in the Spring for all your

gardening needs!WETHERSFIELD, CONN.

LETTUCE.(Lactuca sativa) 150 seeds per packet. Lettuce is so easily grown that nearly everyone who has a garden makes several plantings. Prefers rich moist soil and to be crisp and tender should be grown quickly. For early use sow in a hotbed or boxes in February and March, transplanting to open ground when ready. Allow plenty of room for de-velopment if you wish large heads. The large vari-eties require as much as 1 ½ feet each way, while the smaller varieties can be grown as closely as 12 inches apart. Plantings may be made in succes-sion until the end of August. Thorough cultivation is necessary in summer, as most varieties tend to run to seed in hot weather. Big BostonA widely used variety with light green hard heads of superior quality. Edges of leaves slightly brownish. Thomas Gris-wold said this variety was, “excellent for forcing or field culture,” in his 1912 seed catalog. First offered in this country by Peter Henderson & Co. in 1890. Origi-nally from France, it was renamed Big

Boston by Henderson. Pkt $1.00Black Seeded SimpsonIntroduced in the 1870’s by Peter Hen-derson and Co. Pale green leaves are very tender. Due to its larger size and brighter color, this variety was an im-provement of the old Simpson lettuce. Pkt 80 centsNew York 12 New!90 days. We offered this crisphead type in the 1930’s, when it was esteemed for its dependability. We wrote: “Heads are large and solid with few outer leaves. Sure-heading; some fields cut practi-cally every head.” Heat tolerant, but needs better drainage than some types. Possesses a distinctive flavor. Worth try-ing where other crispheads have proven unreliable. Pkt $1.00Iceberg80 days. This classic variety was first

introduced in 1894. It is a large crisp heading variety with fringed leaves. For many years this was the number one let-tuce variety in American markets. We offered a variety called “Ice Lettuce” as early as 1822. Pkt $1.00Paris White CosLarge oval heads which have an espe-cially crisp texture and a pleasing mild flavor. Easily blanched by tying the outer leaves together if necessary. Today this type of lettuce is often referred to as Romaine. It was offered by the Gregory seed catalog in 1885. Pkt $1.00Rouge d’ HiverThis red winter lettuce has long, thin leaves and is a semi-Romaine type. It is very pretty in the garden as well as in salads. A favorite with delicious flavor! Listed by Vilmorin in 1885. Pkt $1.50

Iceberg

MELONS.(Cucumis melo) 20 seeds per packet. Well-en-riched light soil is an important requisite for the growing of choice melons. Early in May, when the ground is warm, plant in hills 4 feet apart each way, putting 10 to 12 seeds in a hill. Should be treated same as Cucumbers, but are benefited by occasional spraying with Bordeaux Mixture as a preventative of blight.Banana90 days. Unique banana-shaped fruit, smooth yellow skin and sweet, spicy salmon flesh. 16-24 inches long, 5-10 lbs. It was listed in 1885 by J. H. Gregory’s Catalogue, which said “When ripe it reminds one of a large, overgrown ba-nana... It smells like one, having a re-markably powerful and delicious fra-grance.” He also stated that, “None of the 170 varieties of vegetables exhibited by me at the Exposition of the Essex Agricultural Society in the fall of 1883 created greater interest than the Banana melon.” This one truly is gorgeous to look at and is one of our all-time favor-

ites, being very sweet and incredibly fla-vorful. Pkt $1.70Blenheim OrangeA small melon that matures quickly and is a good choice for short climates. This variety was developed in 1881 by the head gardener at Blenheim Palace in Oxforshire, England. The flesh is deep orange, melting and sweet. Originally grown in hothouses and is a great va-riety for this purpose, but it also does well planted in the open soil. In 1920 Breck’s Seed Company of Boston said the following, “Fine flavor; prolific, eas-ily grown, fruit netted, flesh deep, solid with thin rind.” Pkt $1.95Delicious 51Introduced in 1951 by Dr. Henry Mung-er for New York growers. This beauti-ful, 4-5 lb, round-oval muskmelon has juicy, salmon-orange, sweet flesh. It is a popular home and market variety. This melon starts producing early and yields are heavy. Pkt $1.00

Emerald GemThe delicious fruit that are small and sweet made this variety very poplar among home gardeners. It is one of the very best salmon-fleshed sorts. In 1916 Burpee’s an-nual catalog stated that this variety was introduced by them thirty years earlier in 1886 and that it had, “long been acknowl-edged the most delicious in flavor. The standard by which all other melons must be judged.” The skin is a deep green, and fruit are slightly flattened. Pkt $1.80Green Nutmeg83 days. Fearing Burr said in 1863, “The Nutmeg Melon has long been in cultiva-tion, and is almost everywhere to be found in the vegetable garden... It is of most deli-cious excellence... one of the best.” It is a medium-size green-fleshed melon that has a heavy netted skin and rich, sweet, deli-cious flesh; heavy aroma. Our 1856 cata-log stated, “Flesh is green and very highly scented.” At that time we had already of-fered it for a decade. Pkt $1.75

Delicious 51

Delicious 51

Banana Melon

Honey Dew Green Flesh115 days. This globe-to-oval shaped fruit is creamy white to pale greenish-yellow. The flesh is emerald green with a quite delicious, sweet flavor. It is great for the market as it stores and ships well. Honey Dew melons were selected and renamed from the old French variety “White Antibes” that was popular for many years in Southern France and Al-geria. Pkt $1.00Hero Of Lockinge New!Small, round, one-pound melons have delectable, creamy-white flesh that is full of flavor and sweetness. This Eng-lish heirloom was introduced in 1881 by Sutton’s Seeds, but was named for Lord Wantage of Lockinge, founder of the British Red Cross, and was developed at the family estate at Lockinge Park. A favorite! Pkt $1.95PineappleThis historic heirloom was grown by Thomas Jefferson in 1794. It was offered commercially in America in 1824, and it was illustrated in color in France in 1854 in the Vilmorin Album. This wonder-ful variety is very rare. The productive

plants can be trained on a trellis. The fruit is highly perfumed. This was one of the ten melons we offered in 1846 from our Wethersfield Seed Gardens. Pkt $1.75Prescott Fond BlancAmong the most beautiful melons we sell! The fruit weigh 4-9 lbs and have flavorful, salmon-orange flesh. Once common throughout France, this va-riety is known for its flattened, ribbed and warted shape, much like a pumpkin. The rind is a straw-yellow color when ripe. It was offered in New England by James J. H. Gregory in 1885. He stated, “A very popular variety in the markets of London and Paris, the wonder is it has not before this been introduced into the United States.” Pkt $1.75Queen Anne’s Pocket Melon75 days. Beautiful, ornamental fruit are yellow with deep orange stripes, and only 2”-3” long! They are grown for their wonderful fragrance! These melons were very popular in Victorian gardens. Short vines set loads of these tiny fruit that make a wonderful display in the garden but are not used for eating. Pkt $1.80

Schoon’s HardshellThis variety was listed in our 1952 cata-log as, “A superb new late melon, nearly round and weighing 5 to 7 pounds. The skin is coarsely netted, gray-green in color, becoming yellow when ripe. The flesh is exceptionally thick and fine fla-vored. Its hard shell makes this a good market melon.” This melon was devel-oped by Lambert Schoon in Indiana. It was offered by F. H. Woodruff and Sons of Milford, Connecticut, before 1950. Pkt $1.25Small PersianWe've offered a Persian melon since at least 1846. This variety produces small to medium-sized, netted fruit that are filled with the most delectable salmon-orange flesh, sweet and rich. This type of melon traces its origins back to an-cient Persia where melons have been cultivated for millennia. Pkt $1.30

"The most disadvantageous peace is better than the most just war." -Desiderius Erasmus

Hero of Lockinge MelonQueen Anne’s Pocket Melon

Giant White StuttgartThis great keeper is an old-fashioned fa-vorite in Germany. It is perfect for win-ter eating and stores until the following spring. It sets beautiful, large yellow on-ions that have a good, full, onion flavor. A fine variety for home or market. Pkt $1.50Southport White GlobeThis onion has a handsome globe-shaped bulb. It grows to a large size with pure white skin and flesh of mild flavor. Seedsman Thomas Griswold said this was the, “Best white onion for market.” This Connecticut heirloom was named after the town of Southport and was grown along Connecticut’s Mill River. Onions were exported by the millions from this agricultural epicenter also known as the “Onion Capital.” Soldiers

MUSTARD.(Brassica juncea) Sow thinly in shallow drills any time from early Spring through early Fall. The rows may be from 12 to 18 inches apart and when large enough, thin out seedlings to 6-12 inches apart. The soil must be regularly hoed as this will serve to conserve the moisture in the ground by creating a dust mulch, and naturally kill all weeds. Make successive sowings every second or third week for a continuous harvest. The young flower stalks are also edible.

Southern GiantFine curled dark green va-riety, much used for south-ern “greens”. A popular variety with us since 1907. The seed is also used for flavoring pickles. It is slow to bolt and super easy to grow. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.00

OKRA.(Hibiscus esculentus) The green pods of this plant are much used for soups and stews and are wholesome and nutritious. Sow in late spring in rows 2 to 3 feet apart and thin to 9 to 12 inches apart.Perkin’s Long Pod We carried this variety just after the turn of the 20th century and it is still a favorite among okra con-noisseurs. Pods are long and slender, pale green and of excellent quality. This pretty plant also produces lovely hibiscus-like flow-ers. Pkt (30 seeds) $1.35

ONION.200 seeds per packet. Onion seed germinates well in cool weather and may be sown very early in Spring as soon as ground can be prepared, in rows 12 inches apart, covering about ½ inch with fine soil well pressed down. When the plants are 3 to 4 inches high, thin to 4 inches apart in the rows and cultivate frequently, being careful not to stir the earth too deeply. Plants removed when thinning can be used as green onions. Hint: When grown for bunching, the rows can be made 8 to 10 inches apart. The soil best suited to grow onions should be fertile, well drained and well prepared.Australian BrownThis variety was first offered in 1897 by W. Atlee Burpee who said of this onion, “Crisp, solid and of sweet, mild flavor. Bulbs have been kept in fine condition for a year after they were harvested.” We just love this big yellowish-brown onion that easily reaches one pound and has superbly delicious flesh. It originated in Australia and is one of the best onions we have ever grown. Pkt $1.30

in the Civil War increased the demand all the more because pickled onions were used to keep scurvy at bay. Pkt $1.50White BarlettaBest of the small pickling sorts. Ex-tra early bunching variety with clear white skin and a small top. It is used for making delicious onion pickles and also good for green onions. Pkt $1.25White LisbonA quick-growing white variety that does not produce a very solid bulb, but is used for the stalks which are pulled for rare-ripes. This type of onion today is called scallions or green onions. Grown almost entirely as an early bunching on-ion, but bulbs when mature are globu-lar, clear white, with juicy, crisp, mild-flavored flesh. Pkt $1.75Yellow Dutch We carried this yellow onion well over 150 years ago in our annual catalogs, which call it, “the common yellow variety rather flat shaped and excel-lent flavored. This is the Strasburgh of English catalogs and the Silver Skin of the Eastern states. Good to keep.” This variety is a splendid keeper and has mild white flesh. In 1873 Peter Hender-son called it, “one of the oldest vari-eties.” Grow some of these delicious onions for your kitchen. Pkt $1.50

"Starting wars because someday some-body might do something to us. That is not part of the American tradition." -Ron Paul

Our onion field around 1930.We hope to have this historic variety back next season!

Wethersfield Red Onion

WThe growing instructions

throughout are from our 1933 Comstock, Ferre & Co. catalog.

The colorized photos are from the 1920’s-1950’s and were found in an old seed bin at Comstock. The illustrations are from antique seed packets that are in our archives.

FACT

PARSNIP.(Pastinaca sativa) 200 seeds per packet. Sow be-fore May 15th in rows 18 inches apart covering lightly. Thin to 2 or 3 inches apart. Parsnips are improved by frost; they are quite hardy and may be left in the ground through the winter.All American145 days. “New and fine strain with smooth, white roots. Medium length, tapering to a stump root. Very fine qual-ity.” First offered by us in the 1930’s. This variety is more refined and of high quality. Pkt $1.00

Guernsey Half LongListed in an 1871 catalog published by J.H. & W.E. Cone of Hartford, Con-necticut, and sold for five cents a packet. The Guernsey variety was very popular throughout the 19th century. Intro-duced prior to the 1850’s, this variety has medium-short, very fat roots that can be almost heart-shaped with smooth white skin. Flavorful flesh gets even sweeter after a good frost in autumn. A 1916 Burpee’s catalog stated, “The flesh is fined grained and of excellent quality.” Pkt $1.75

Hollow CrownMedium length, pure white, smooth, and inclined to grow without side roots, ending in several small roots rather than a single, long, tapering tap-root. Mentioned in our 1856 Comstock's Gar-dener's Almanac as an “old variety.” Pkt $1.25

Hollow Crown

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and Gardens in HistoricWethersfield, Conn. Learn America’s Seed History.

rather late, and only a moderate bearer.” This variety produces 2 to 3 inch pods, but it is also used for its delicious green foliage and lavender red flowers that are popular in salads. Pkt $1.50Little Marvel54 days. A small podded variety popular for its prolific habit and good quality; height 18 inches. Very early producer. Delicious, fine flavored peas are popu-lar among home gardeners since 1908. A great little pea that is still one of the best on the market. Pkt $1.50Thomas LaxtonIn our 1933 catalog we stated the follow-ing: “In some sections this pea is claimed to possess greater merit than the famous Gradus, which in many characteristics it closely resembles. The pods are not quite as large, but are more numerous and well-filled with peas of extra fine qual-ity. Height: 3 feet.” Seedsman Thomas Griswold praised this variety and said it has, “large handsome pods, sure cropper, first class quality.” Pkt $1.50Clay Cowpea New!85 days—This historic variety was known before the Civil War and was a staple of the Southern armies. Delicious “peas,” in terra cotta tones, may be used like dried beans for something a bit dif-ferent. Does well in southern New Eng-land and the mid-Atlantic states, and of course, farther south. Plants need room to “run.” Pkt $1.95

PEPPERS.(Capsicum annuum) 20 seeds per packet. Pep-per seed is slow to germinate and should be kept warm and moist after sowing. Sow in hot-bed in March or April and transplant in rich, well-prepared soil in rows 30 inches apart and 18 inches between plants. Keep the soil well cultivated and free from weeds.AnaheimDelicious mildly-hot flavor, excellent for roasting or frying; good yields of very large chili peppers. This variety is also called California Chili. It has been offered in Connecticut for about 100 years. Pkt $1.00Bull NoseThe original Bull Nose pepper was pop-ular in early America and was grown by Thomas Jefferson. They are still grown at Monticello today. This is one of the first medium-large “bell”-type peppers, although this strain may be larger than the strain grown by Mr. Jefferson. Deli-cious good-sized fruit are great in salads or for cooking. Our 1856 catalog said, “A very large sort, of a more square form, mild, thick, and hard; suitable for filling with cabbage etc. for a stuffed pickle.” We even had this variety on our lists in the 1840’s. Pkt $1.75 California WonderA large, late thick-meated variety, un-usually solid and heavy; regular in shape and uniform in size; very sweet. This variety was popular with our customers from the 1930’s until today. For many years it was the standard early pepper that this nation grew. Pkt 0.90 centsCherry“A small, smooth, round, red variety, of uniform shape, and very hot; a great bearer,” as our 1856 catalog states. This old favorite was popular for hot pick-les and for seasoning a variety of foods. Cherry-shaped fruit are a brilliant red, with intense flavor, when ripe. Pkt $1.35Jimmy NardelloWe are glad to offer this Italian and Connecticut heirloom. It produces a long, thin-skinned frying pepper that dries easily and has such a rich flavor. Ripens red and is quite prolific. This pepper was grown each year by Gi-useppe and Angella Nardiello, at their

PEAS.(Pisum sativum) 50 seeds per packet. Peas should be sown as early as possible in order to mature before the hot summer weather. To secure an extra early crop, the smooth seeded varieties may be sown just as soon as the ground can be worked. The wrinkled varieties are not quite as hardy and should be planted a little later. Sow 2 or 3 inches deep in single or double rows 3 to 4 feet apart. The tall-growing sorts require brush or other support. This is not so necessary for the dwarfer varieties, but they are greatly benefited if kept up off the ground. Blue Podded PeaThis historic variety dates back hun-dreds of years in Europe and is still popular in parts of Europe and Canada today. It is beautifully ornamental and produces lovely purple flowers and pur-ple blue pods. If harvested young, they are great to cook like snow-peas or if left to mature and shelled, they are per-fect for soups! A great crop for children! Pkt $1.75Dwarf Gray SugarEdible pod variety, the pods are quite plump and fleshy. Should be harvested when very young. This variety is not grown for the peas. Our 1856 catalog says: “About 3 feet high, and of very strong growth. Pods, long, and slightly curved. Containing mostly seven peas, which show in relief along the pods. They are usually cooked in the pods like snap beans. Of excellent quality, but

garden in the village of Ruoti, in South-ern Italy. In 1887 they set sail with their one-year-old daughter Anna for a new life in America. When they reached these shores, they settled and gardened in Naugatuck, Connecticut, and grew this same pepper that was named for their fourth son Jimmy. Pkt $1.50King of the North New!68 days. Our 1947 catalog described this sweet pepper succinctly: “Early, large, long pepper of heavy yielding habit, medium sized plant.” We would add, the variety thrives in the cooler summer weather so prevalent in New England, and yields crisp bells, green ripening to red, right up until frost. Pkt $1.50Long CayenneWe were one of the first seed companies to offer this variety to our young nation in 1820. Our early catalogs state, “This is a long, red, tapering variety, of dwarf growth, very hot and pungent; used for pepper-sauce, and for seasoning.” This pretty much describes this pepper. Pkt $1.00Long Yellow CayenneSlender pointed fruit, somewhat curved. Yellow and very hot. We've offered this variety since before 1900 and it is simi-lar to the red cayenne, but has fiery, yel-low fruit. The colorful pods offer flavor and heat to a myriad of dishes. Pkt $1.35Tabasco“The hottest of peppers, small, bright red when ripe,” as stated by the Frank S. Platt Company of New Haven, Con-necticut. Edmund Mcllhenny made this pepper famous in 1868 when he invented the ever popular Tabasco sauce which he preserved in rejected cologne bottles on Avery Island, Louisiana. This pepper was named after the Tabasco state in Mexico and may have originated there. This is the most famous pepper in American history and was the start of America's devotion to hot foods. Pkt $1.25

"And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good." -Genesis 1:12

Jimmy Nardello

King of the North

RADISH.(Raphanus sativus) 150 seeds per packet. Radish grows quickly and can be sown between rows of slower-growing crops without interfering. For an extra early crop, sow in the greenhouse or hotbed in January or February. Garden culture may com-mence as soon as the frost has disappeared. For a continuous supply, sow at intervals of two weeks until September. Sow in rows 8 to 10 inches apart, covering lightly. Be careful to sow the seed very thinly, or thin the seedlings to 1 inch apart.Black SpanishOffered by us since at least the 1840’s and we stated, “that it must be stored in sand in the cellar for winter use. It will keep good until spring.” This winter variety has smooth, round, coal-black roots that can grow up to 6 inches in diameter and has a spicy, full-bodied radish flavor that is starting to regain the attention of chefs and radish lovers everywhere. It is believed this heirloom predates the 16th century in Europe. Pkt $1.50

Cherry Belle New!28-30 days. All-America Award winner in 1949, and offered in our catalogs for many years thereafter. Very short leaves are borne above refined and uniform scarlet roots, which we describe as “per-fectly round like bright red cherries.” Pkt .95 centsEarly Scarlet Globe22 days. We were offering a “Scarlet Radish” as early as 1820. The classic, round red radish with crisp white flesh is mild and tasty and does better in warm weather than many. Pkt 95 cents French BreakfastThis is a popular radish that is oblong, red with a white tip and has a nice rad-ish flavor. The standard sort offered at French markets. In 1873 Peter Hender-son stated, “A variety of quick growth, very mild and tender; one of the best for forcing.” It was also offered by a myriad

Early Scarlet Globe

“The spirit of resistance to government is so valuable on certain occasions, that I wish it to be always kept alive.” -Thomas Jefferson

of other early American seedsmen, in-cluding us. Pkt $1.00Long Black SpanishLong 9" black roots have pure white flesh that is crisp and pungent. This long version of Black Spanish is much harder to find than the round. For fall plantings. This is a very old European heirloom and was offered by us over 110 years ago. Pkt $1.40Long ScarletThe roots are light red, very long and slender and have a medium spicy radish taste. “This is the standard sort grown in private gardens and for market; when true and pure, it has a bright scarlet root and very small top. In suitable soil it grows quickly, half out of ground, and very brittle,” according to our 1850’s catalog. Pkt $1.25Rose Colored China WinterThis ancient radish produces lovely

rose-red, cylindrical-shaped, 5” long roots. It produces well in the autumn from a summer planting. It is very handsome with tasty, white flesh. It can be stored all winter if packed in sand and kept cool. Our 1856 catalog states, “Recently introduced from China. Its form is rather conical and very smooth; of a lively rose color; flesh, firm, like the Black Spanish.” We were one of the first companies to offer this classic heirloom. Pkt $1.00SparklerRound with crimson top and white tip. In every respect a satisfactory sort; ten-der and crisp. The roots are about half red and half white, with the red being a brilliant scarlet; very crisp and solid. It is a popular spring radish that has been part of our catalog for many years. Pkt $1.00

Rose Colored China Winter

RHUBARB.(Rheum rhaponticum) Rhubarb can be easily grown from seed planted in the spring. Thin the seedlings to 1 foot apart, and in the fall or following spring transplant the most desirable of them in rich gar-den soil 3 feet apart each way. Fertilize heavily for large stalks.Victoria This variety was offered by us in 1856. Thick stalks are popular for making delicious pies, cobblers and preserves. This variety can be harvested starting as soon as the second season. Rhubarb is very popular in Canada and the north-ern U.S. Do not eat the leaves, as they can contain toxic amounts of oxalic acid. Pkt (25 seeds) $1.75

RUTABAGA.(Brassica napobrassica) The Swedish Turnip, also known as Stone or Rock Turnip. A very large, late type with bluish leaves and requiring a longer sea-son and more room to develop than the other Tur-nips. Sow in June in rows 18 to 24 inches apart and thin to 6 inches in the row. May be transplanted.American Purple TopSeedsman J.O. Neill of Fall River, Mas-sachusetts, offered this variety in 1900 and said the following, “This is the va-riety mostly grown; shape oblong; dull reddish color above ground, and yellow-ish underneath. It is harder than any of the common turnips, and will keep solid until spring.” Comstock has been grow-ing “Purple Top” rutabaga since at least 1871. We love rutabagas. Fried, baked or boiled the yellow flesh is so sweet and delicious. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.00

SALSIFY.Mammoth Sandwich Island (Tragopogon perrifolius) Sow in light deep soil in rows 15 inches apart and thin to 2 or 3 inches. The roots should be well-grown in October, when a supply may be stored for winter use, or the roots may be left in the ground like Parsnips.Flavorsome in soups and stews, or cooked alone. Plant in spring, dig in fall, a non-sweet parsnip-like root. This va-riety dates back to 1900 in our catalog, and the old variety of salsify was listed by us in the 1840’s. Young plants look like grass. In 1927 Burrell’s seed catalog stated the following, “Many prefer salsi-fy to oysters. The soup from which gives off an odor exactly the same as oysters, and by some liked better than oyster soup.” Pkt (100 seeds) $1.75

SPINACH.(Spinacia oleracea) 150 seeds per packet. The most important greens crop. It is very hardy and will stand considerable freezing weather, but many varieties run to seed rapidly in hot weather. It is of easy culture and by succession sowing, a supply may be secured throughout the season. For early spring use, sow in late September and protect with hay or straw through the winter. May be sown in spring as early as the ground can be worked, either in rows or broadcast. Summer sow-ings should be on freshly plowed ground and the soil packed hard about the seed, as the seed will not germinate in dry soil.Bloomsdale Long StandingThis improved variety was introduced in 1925. However, the original Blooms-dale was introduced much earlier by the D. Landreth Seed Co. Thomas Griswold listed Blooomsdale in his 1912 seed cata-log and said it was a “good variety to sow in fall for spring use.” The tender and flavorful leaves are preferred by chefs and home gardeners alike. It is truly a standard in spinach breeding. Pkt $1.00Large ViroflayThis delicious variety produces very broad leaves, dark green in color and is quick growing. One of the best smooth-leafed varieties. Wethersfield seedsman Thomas Griswold said this variety was, “popular with market gardeners,” in 1912. It has been a favorite with our cus-

SQUASH & PUMPKINS.(Cucurbita spp.) 15 seeds per packet. Warm and highly manured soil is required for the most suc-cessful culture of Squash. The summer kinds, nearly all of which are of bush growth, should be planted in hills 4 feet apart each way, while the winter and other running varieties require 8 to 10 feet. When thinning, leave only 3 or 4 plants to a hill. Winter Squashes and Pumpkins are frequently grown in cornfields, 3 or 4 seeds being dropped in every third or fourth hill at the same time as the Corn.Blue Hubbard (C. maxima) “A large bluish-gray squash with a very hard shell, making it an excellent keeper. Flesh golden, dry and good quality,” as listed in our 1933 cata-log. Since the 1920’s this variety has become one of the most popular of all squash with many Americans recalling childhood memories of this giant blue squash that occasionally reached 40 lbs. In 1920 Breck’s Seeds of Boston, Mas-sachusetts stated, “Dry and fine quality, favorite market sort for Boston Mar-ket.” Pkt $1.25Canada Crookneck (C. moschata) This historic heirloom was listed within the aged pages of our 1856 catalog which states, “A small, early variety, that bears well, and is by many esteemed preferable. Requires to be planted 6 feet apart.” This variety has wonderful, smooth flesh that is very sweet and creamy. It is an ancestor to our modern Butternut. In 1865 Fearing Burr stated, “The Canada is unquestionably the best of the crooknecked sorts.” We are proud to offer this historic squash which is listed in the Slow Food Organi-zation “Ark of Taste.” This exceptional variety is now on the verge of extinction but was once among the most popular squashes in New England and Canada. Pkt $1.80Cocozelle (C. pepo) Also known as Italian Veg-etable Marrow. Our 1933 catalog states, “Bush type, bearing long dark green fruit, becoming mottled or striped with yellow when ripe. The green fruits are edible without paring and are of ex-

tomers since before 1900. Pkt $1.00New Zealand70 days. A plant used like Spinach, but entirely different. It flourishes in almost any soil and grows most rapidly dur-ing hot weather. It is of a running and branching nature and continues to grow after cutting, thus producing a supply of greens throughout the season. Only the tender tips of the branches should be used. The seed is very hard-shelled and should be soaked in warm water sever-al hours before planting. In the 1880’s Massachusetts seedsman and politician James J. H. Gregory stated that this va-riety, “will endure drought,” which it definitely did this last summer. Pkt (40 seeds) $1.75Prickly or FallOur 1856 catalog lists this as, “the har-diest variety; prickly seeded; with trian-gular, oblong, or arrow-shaped leaves. It is mostly employed for the fall sowing.” This fine variety will withstand severe weather with only the slightest protec-tion of leaves or straw. It is great for winter salads. Pkt $1.50

"Agriculture is our wisest pursuit, because it will in the end contribute most to real wealth, good morals, and happiness." -Thomas Jefferson

cellent quality.” This great old Italian zucchini is delicious fried, baked or in soups. Pkt 0.90 centsConnecticut Field(C. pepo) This variety is also known as Big Tom. It was the standard pumpkin grown in Connecticut corn fields and was used for feeding cattle and other livestock. The yellow flesh also makes a great pie. This is New England's classic pumpkin and has been a standard for Jack-o-Lanterns for many years. Offered in J.H. & W.E. Cone's 1871 seed catalog for fifty cents a pound. Comstock's 1856 Almanac states, “Large soft rinded va-riety, excellent for pies, and for feeding stock.” This historic variety was offered by us in the 1840’s but it traces its ori-gin to a much earlier time as a Native American heirloom. Pkt $1.25Delicata (C. pepo) Small, oblong variety, yellow flesh. Cream-colored skin striped with green. Good for summer or winter use, the flesh has a high sugar content and great flavor. This variety was introduced by Peter Henderson of New York in 1894. This vining variety produces very early. Pkt $1.00Early Bush Sum. Crookneck (C. pepo) 50 days. “The richest and best sort for summer; very early and produc-tive. It is small, crooked-necked, cov-ered with warty excrescences (the more warty the better); color bright yellow; shell very hard when ripe. It is used only when young and tender, which may be known by the pressure of the thumb-nail through the skin. It should be planted three feet apart. Constant picking of fruits will enable the plant to bear over a long season.” The above descriptions were gathered from our old catalogs of which this variety has been offered annually for 190 years, although that is just recent history as this variety originated in a pre-Columbian America. Pkt $1.00

Early Yellow Bush Scollop

“America does not go abroad in search of mon-sters to destroy.” -John Quincy AdamsBlue Hubbard

Early White Bush Scollop(C. pepo) This delicious variety’s origins are lost in time, but we do know that it was a common squash among Native Americans when Columbus arrived. We have offered an Early Bush squash since 1820, and our 1856 Almanac states the following: “More grown in the south than any of the others. Called Patty-pan in the middle states, where all summer sorts have the local name Cymlings. This is one of our favorite squash having a rich, sweet flavor. Wonderful picked young, fried or roasted with a little gar-lic and salt. Pkt $1.25Early Yellow Bush Scollop(C. pepo) Our 1856 Almanac states, “An early, flat, scollop-shaped variety, of a deep orange yellow, and smooth skin; used when young and tender for boiling and at maturity for making pies.” Like the White Scollop, this variety’s origins have been lost in time. We love the rich color and great flavor. This variety is as ornamental as it is delicious. Easy to grow and produces fruit quickly. Scol-lop squash was also dried by the Native Americans to make gourd-like rattles. Pkt $1.25Galeux d’Eysines (C. maxima) A gorgeous squash that is flattened, round and 10-15 lbs. It has a lovely salmon-colored skin that is cov-ered with large warts. The sweet or-ange flesh is used in French cooking for soups, and it can also be baked. This is one of the best squashes we have ever grown, and we are happy to see it being sold in markets everywhere. Pkt $1.75Gills Golden Pippin New!95 days—Developed by the Gill Broth-ers seed company of Oregon, this vari-ety excels in New England and all the North as well. The rich golden, diminu-tive acorn-type fruits are spangled in flecks of ivory and are very finely fla-vored. The running vines are very pro-ductive. Pkt $1.95Golden Hubbard (C. maxima) This stunning squash is me-

Galeux d ‘ Eysines

Tenn. Sweet Potato Winter Luxury

Central Market in Paris in the 1880’s. Today this pumpkin is sometimes called “Cinderella” due to its similarity in ap-pearance to the pumpkin coach in the fairy tale. This variety is used for pies and awesome autumn arrangements. Pkt $1.75Small Sugar New!95-100 Also known as New England Pie Pumpkin or Boston Pumpkin. We offered Small Sugar for decades in the middle of the last century, but it was grown as early as 1863. Vining plants produce small, round fruits averaging 5-8 lbs. The light- to-medium orange fruits are often peppered with reddish-brown speckles. The fine-grained flesh excels in pies. Pkt $1.00Tennessee Sweet Potato(C. mixta) Praised highly in seed catalogs from the 19th and early 20th centuries; this variety was then praised as the best for pies among many seedsmen, who had an impressive list of virtues for this squash, such as this 1918 listing from Great Northern Seed Co: “Has no su-perior for making pies and custards...” Although we at Comstock prefer other varieties for making pies, we love this va-riety skillet-fried with garlic, onions and a dash of salt. Beautiful, pear-shaped fruit are white with faint green stripes, making this variety very ornamental as well! It was first offered by Burpee in 1883; it en-tered our catalog 30 years later. Pkt $1.95Winter Luxury(C. pepo) Medium size, round, russet yellow, netted skin, excellent keeper of high quality. This lovely pumpkin was first introduced by Johnson & Stokes in 1893. This delicious variety is among the sweetest of all pumpkins and renowned as the best for pies. Everyone loves the fine texture and rich flavor. It is a lovely little pumpkin that is as beautiful as it is unique. It has been offered by us for over one hundred years! Pkt $1.95

"I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world" -George Washington

dium to large in size, with deep red-dish, lightly warted, rough skin and fine-grained sweet flesh. This variety was also called ‘Genesee Red Hubbard’ and was introduced in 1898. An excep-tional eating squash that also is among the most gorgeous, ornamental squashes ever developed. Pkt $1.25Green Hubbard (C. maxima) 105 days. (Improved) Tough dark green skinned and bright yellow fleshed; when cooked very dry and sweet. Splendid keeper and shipper. The original hubbard found its way into the hands of James J.H. Gregory because of his seed saving neighbor Elizabeth Hub-bard. She said, “It was the best squash she had ever tasted in her life.” It is believed that it may have originated in South America but was grown in the Marblehead, Massachusetts, area as early as 1830. This classic squash grows up to 20 lbs and is a staple of American cuisine. Pkt $1.25Long Island Cheese (C. moschata) 105 days. This delicious squash has long been a favorite on Long Island, New York. Perfect for pies and delicious baked. Flat, lightly ribbed fruit look like a wheel of cheese, with buff colored skin. A very good keeper that weighs 6-10 lbs each. An attractive heirloom variety that is dependable and of excellent quality. Pkt $1.50Mammoth Red E'tamps (C. maxima) 95 days. This gorgeous heir-loom has been offered by us since before 1900. It produces large fruit that are very flat and brilliant red orange in color. In fact it is one of the reddest of all pump-kins. A traditional French variety that was the most popular pumpkin at the

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V I S I T O U R S T O R E

SWISS CHARD.(Beta vulgaris var. cicla) 75 seeds per pack-et. This delicious vegetable should be grown in every home garden. It is cultivated for its tender leaves, which are used as greens. The midrib is also cooked and prepared like Asparagus. It is productive throughout the season–a veritable “Cut-and-Come-Again’. Space 6 to 8 inches in rows 2 feet apart.Fordhook GiantAn extremely large variety with broad white ribs and curled dark green leaves. Introduced from Bur-pee’s Fordhook Farm in 1924. This variety produces lots of greens that are very tender and of fine quality. Pkt $1.25

Lucullus

TOMATOES.(Lycopersicon esculentum) 20 seeds per packet. To fur-nish desirable early plants the seed should be sown in February or March in a hotbed or box kept in a warm place. When the plants are about 2 inches high, thin; or, better, transplant to 4 inches apart each way to ensure stocky plants. About the 10th of May or so, as danger from frost is past, transplant to the open ground, setting about 3 feet apart each way. The fruit will ripen earlier and be improved in quality if the vines are pruned to two stems and trained to stakes or trellises. Plants for late summer and fall crops may be started from seed in May or early June.

Bonny BestWe offered this variety throughout the 1930’s and stated, “A good commercial strain for general use. Seed of our own growth and of better quality than most strains.” This tomato is exceptionally good tasting, producing medium-sized, globe shaped fruit that are quite smooth and of a deep red color. At one time this tomato was a standard for canning and fresh mar-kets. Pkt $1.35Buist’s Monarch New!85-95 days. Glossy pink fruits of prodi-gious size, produced on robust, indetermi-nate plants. Fruits run 1-2 lbs, very free of blemishes, and show no green shoulders. They are tart, with a complex flavor, quite singular for a pink-fruited variety. A tri-umph of early 20th century breeding work, and highly recommended where the grow-ing season is long enough. Pkt $1.50Comstock’s Sauce ‘n Slice New!85-90 days. Back by popular demand! This dual-purpose tomato was a product of our company’s own breeding program, and sold decades ago. The deep red fruit reach one pound, are meaty with very few seeds, and are wonderful fresh, or for paste or sauces. The seed was maintained by John Oldham, a descendant of Wethersfield’s founding family, who gave us a start in 2010. We are proud to re-introduce this liv-ing piece of Comstock’s history. Pkt $1.95Early Red Chief75 days. Firm, oblate, slightly ribbed 5- 8 oz fruits are lavishly produced on compact indeterminate plants, which don’t need staking! Rich-tasting slicer that has occa-sionally been used for canning as well.

LucullusThe cream colored leaf stems are lon-ger and thicker than other varieties. Leaves are light green and are very crumpled. Thomas Griswold listed this as a, “new variety of excellent quality,” in his 1912 seed catalog. You can start harvesting the delicious greens in 40 days. Pkt $1.25 RhubarbBright red stalks and contrasting deep green leaves make this variety an inter-esting and attractive crop for greens, as well as an ornamental garden plant. This delicious crop is one of our favor-ites. Pkt $1.50

Evergreen

Peche

Tolerates considerable heat, yields over a long season. As described in “The Canadian Horti-culturist” in 1884. Pkt $1.50 EvergreenThis tomato is among the most delicious we offer, having both sweetness and rich old-time tomato flavor. It was offered in the legendary Glecklers Seedsmen 1958 catalog. They stated the following: “A strange tomato that refuses to change color from its green stage other than a pale yellowish green when dead ripe. Interior of fruit is extremely fleshy, remains green even though rotten ripe. Flavor is a typical delicious tomato taste, moderately acid. Very fine for slicing and frying and especially for making de-licious conserves. Size is medium to large; ma-turity about 72 days. Very extensive, vigorous vine growth.” It is showing up in fine restau-rants and farmers’ markets everywhere. Why not try some in your garden this year? Pkt $1.75German Johnson85 days. Simply delicious! The very large 1-2 lb fruit are deep pink, very flavorful and nearly crack-free. The plants are quite productive, and the superb quality fruits are great for farmers’ markets as well as home gardens. Pkt $1.25Golden QueenBeautiful bright yellow; of large size; smooth and early. Good for slicing and preserving. Very attractive when served in alternate slices with red varieties. This variety was first introduced by Livingston Seed Company in 1882. The seed was first obtained at a county fair Livingston attended. He spent so much time admiring it at the fair that the owner decided to give him a tomato to take home. The 1909 Livingston’s Tomato Facts booklet states, “One of the mild-est sorts in existence and one of the most beau-tiful. Elegant for preserving... is quite early.” Comstock sold this variety for many years and we are so glad to have it back. Pkt $1.50Jersey Giant TomatoWe obtained this heirloom variety almost 20 years ago from the late Tomato Seed Company of Metuchen, New Jersey. This is a wonderful Jersey canning-type that produces long, 6 inch, pepper-shaped fruit that are sublimely sweet and delicious. They are just as good for fresh eating as for canning. So much tastier than the common Roma and quite a bit larger too, with a longer, much more pointed shape. Pkt $1.75

Jersey Giant

Livingston’s Gold Ball New!65 days, indeterminate. Introduced in 1892. Vines are covered in gold-yellow, nearly spherical fruits just larger than cherries. In the Buist Seed Company’s 1918 Seed Annual, ‘Gold Ball’ was de-scribed as, “Beautiful canary-yellow fruits about 1½ inches in diameter, borne in clusters. Flesh thick. Fine for preserves.” Still a fine variety, and the earliness is an advantage to Northern growers, or to anyone desiring a quick harvest. Pkt $1.50Livingston’s Paragon New!79 days, indeterminate. Blood-red fruits of 8-12 ounces are large enough to use as slicers, but also firm enough for salsas and canning. Introduced by the Livingston Seed Company in 1870, one of America’s pioneering tomato breeders. Pkt $1.40OxheartFrank S. Platt Company of New Haven, Connecticut, listed this variety in 1933 and said, “A very large, late, pink-fruit-ed tomato. It is oxheart in shape, heavy and solid, setting in clusters of 4 to 7, has few seeds and excellent quality. A novelty in size and shape, but not a mar-ket variety.” We love the delicious flavor of this one-pound, pink beauty. Sweet and rich, this tomato is among the best tasting we’ve tried. Pkt $1.00Peche New!75-80 days—Here is something a little different: small to medium sized fruits

are very slightly fuzzy, reminiscent of peaches. Sizable plants yield large amounts of the pink-to-red fruits over the entire season. This variety was listed in the catalog of the prestigious French seedhouse, Vilmorin Andrieux, in the late 19th century. Pkt $1.75PonderosaOne of the largest and heaviest tomatoes grown; pinkish in color. The fruit is very fleshy with few seeds and practically free from acidity. An excellent slicer that is preferred by many for sandwiches and fresh eating. It is one of the tastiest to-matoes ever developed by Peter Hender-son, who first offered it in 1891. Hender-son said of this variety, “Quality beyond praise, rich and meaty sliced, thick and delicious canned.” Pkt $1.00Red CurrantThis tiny tomato was offered by us in the first years of the 20th century. The fruit are very small, about the size of a pea and are borne in clusters. This variety is very resistant to disease and drought. James J.H. Gregory listed it in his 1885 retail catalog as, “Very elegant; resembles long bunches of currants.” Perfect for salads. Pkt $1.25Red PearThis variety is believed to date back to the 1700’s and was offered by many ear-ly seedsmen. It was often sold as “Red Fig.” A popular preserve of the 1800’s was called “Tomato Figs” and made of this variety. Our 1856 catalog states, “Preferred for pickling, being more fleshy and firm.” Small fruit are shaped like a pear, sweet and bright red in color, perfect for snacking. Pkt $1.00RutgersAn heirloom from New Jersey; these are excellent for canning and good fresh! The large, red, 8 oz. globes are quite flavorful. Good yields and large vines. Pkt 90 centsSparks EarlianaIntroduced in 1900 by George Sparks of Salem, New Jersey. A medium-sized, red tomato that produces lots of tasty fruit quite early. In fact, in 1916 Burpee’s an-nual catalog stated, “For early crops this is planted almost exclusively in Southern New Jersey... practically controls the mar-

kets of our eastern cities during the last week in June and the month of July.” This variety was listed by Wethersfield seeds-man Thomas Griswold in 1912. Pkt $1.50 The Pritchard or Scarlet Topper New! 80 days. Introduced in 1931. At-tractive, small to medium sized rich red fruits are lavishly produced. We offered it in the 1930’s, writing “This new, early, globe-shaped variety is popular on ac-count of its large, bright red fruit and heavy yield.” Other seedsmen agreed; the Peter Henderson seed catalog adding in 1932, “For disease-resistant qualities, it supersedes all others.” pkt $1.50 Valiant New!75 days, indeterminate. This introduction by Stokes Seed company of Vincetown, New Jersey in 1937 is superior for can-ning, with all the medium-sized, glossy red fruits ripening over a short period. It was also a popular market variety, having a mild, sweet flavor. Pkt $1.40Yellow PearThis tomato has a long history in America and was once much used in preserves. Gregory’s 1885 catalog stated, “Pear-shaped, and used to preserve as figs.” Today this little tomato is mostly used for snacking and salads. The fruit is shaped just like a tiny, yellow pear. It is very productive. Pkt $1.00

"He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread." -Proverbs 12:11

TURNIP.(Brassica rapa) 200 seeds per packet. The Turnip is a cool weather crop and should be sown very early in spring for early use, generally in rows 15 inches apart. For fall use, sow broadcast in late July or August, being careful to sow the seed even-ly and not too thick.Early Purple Top MilanExtra early, flat and smooth; white with purple top. This Italian variety named for the far northern city of Milano. This traditional heirloom has been popular in our catalog for over one hundred years. It is a great spring turnip that produces mild, sweet roots that are even better when grown as a fall crop. Pkt $1.00Early SnowballDesirable for table use and early market. Medium size, round and snowy white. This variety yields very early and is crisp and solid. Sold by us for over 100 years. Pkt $1.00Golden BallOur 1900 catalog states, “Flesh yellow, rich in flavor, keeps well.” This variety has a medium-sized, smooth, round root with deep yellow skin and light yel-low flesh. It is a fine garden variety that tends to be very mild and sweet. This variety has been common in Europe for over 150 years and was carried by myri-ads of American seedsmen including Is-abell's Seeds who said the following, “Its beautiful color and fine flesh has earned it the synonym of 'Orange Jelly.' Ready in 65 days.” Pkt $1.00

WATERMELON.(Citrullus vulgaris) 20 seeds per packet. Water-melons require the same treatment as Muskmel-ons except that they should be planted 8 to 10 feet apart. They are a trifle hardier and may be planted a few days earlier.Citron 90 days. This unique watermelon is used for preserving. The firm flesh is not used in its fresh state. It grows uniformly round and smooth, striped and marbled with light green, the flesh is white and very solid, perfect for candying and pre-serves. This variety has bright red seeds and will keep for many months. The citron preserves are an important part of American cuisine and were used in fruitcakes, cookies and many traditional desserts. It can also be made into pick-les. This variety was in our catalogs over 150 years ago. Pkt $1.95Florida Giant 90 days. “A fine shipper, vigorous and productive, with fruits averaging about 40 pounds, large, nearly round and with a hard, tough and very dark green rind. The seeds are large, mottled dark brown, the flesh bright red, coarse grained, high quality and firm,” as of-fered by F. H. Woodruff over 60 years ago in Connecticut. Pkt $1.35Golden Honey 85 days. Also called “Golden Sweet” and “Honey Cream.” This variety has dark green skin and weighs 10-25 lbs with luscious golden flesh. It produces in abundance on vigorous plants. We are glad to bring this old variety back to Connecticut, because it has some of the sweetest and most delicious flavor available in heirloom watermelons. It was discovered commercially by Bur-pee’s Seed Company. In their 1913 tri-als, at Sunnybrook Farm in New Jersey, Burpee said, “The meat is of a luscious sugary flavor and is of so firm a texture as to insure the fruits arriving in good condition on distant markets... A really delicious yellow-fleshed watermelon is a novelty that will create remark when tasted on the table.” Pkt $1.75

Golden Midget 70 days. First developed by Dr. Elwyn Meader from the University of New Hampshire in 1959, making it possibly the newest variety we sell. Pretty little melons weigh 1-4 lb, have brilliant, gold-en-yellow rinds when ripe, with sweet, salmon-pink flesh. Compact vines are also yellowish and are great for garden-ers with small spaces and short growing seasons. Very colorful and unique. Pkt $1.75Kleckley’s Sweet 85 days. Listed in our 1933 catalog as the, “Earliest of the long green melons. Very thin rind with sweet, bright red flesh. Not a good shipper but recommended for the home garden and nearby mar-kets.” This oblong melon has been a tried and true favorite since Burpee in-troduced it in 1897. Burpee states, “...famous, ‘Sweetest of All’ watermelons... Flesh most crisp, sugary, and melting in the highest degree; entirely free from stringiness.” Burpee received the origi-nal stock from a Mr. Kleckley who grew this on his ranch in Texas. Even today this is one of the best-eating of all wa-termelons. Pkt $1.35

Kleckly’s Sweet

Sweet Siberian Scaly Bark

Kolb's Gem 100 days. Melons of this variety have grown as large as 130 pounds. These huge melons date back to the 1880’s. This is a great variety to grow if you want a true giant. Thomas Griswold of Wethersfield said in his 1912 catalog, “Very large, late melon; excellent shipper.” Sweet red flesh comes in abundance with this va-riety. Comstock offered this variety in 1900 for twenty-five cents a pound. Pkt $1.50Stone Mountain 80 days. Stone Mountain was intro-duced in 1923 by Hastings Seed Com-pany of Atlanta, Georgia, and went on to become one of the top commercial melons of the 1930’s and 1940’s, but now it is almost extinct. The rind of this melon is hard and fairly tough, medium green with slight veining. The fruits are very large, up to 35-40 pounds, round-

oval with blunt ends. The flesh is bright red, very sweet and of good quality. This classic Southern watermelon was offered in Connecticut by the old F. H. Wood-ruff and Sons, of Milford. Pkt $1.95 Scaly Bark New!This truly historic New England variety was listed in the 1885 Retail Catalogue of the James J.H. Gregory Seed Com-pany of Marblehead, Massachussetts. He wrote: “Skin somewhat rough, as the name denotes...Remains longer than usual in eating order after gathering.” The mottled, light and medium green rind does indeed appear very much like tree bark, and is very unique looking. The flesh is bright red, sweet and crisp. We are proud to bring this worthy vari-ety back to its original home. Pkt $1.95Sweet Siberian 80 days. It is early, and a great melon for the north. Grown at New Hamp-

shire's Ag Experiment station in 1901. In 1937 McFayden Seeds of Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada said, "Largest of very early strains. A very early yellow-fleshed variety extensively grown by Russians. It is supposed to have come from Sibe-ria. The melons are oblong, dark green, borne abundantly on the vigorous vines. The flesh is a golden yellow, sweet and delicious. Grown extensively by Hutt-erite Colonies, who find ready sale for them in many districts in Manitoba." Luscious, apricot-colored flesh is so fla-vorful. Pkt $1.75Tendersweet 90 days. One of the most delicious wa-termelons, this one has deep golden-orange flesh; very sweet and crisp flavor lives up to its name! Many people prefer golden-fleshed watermelons over reds. A great variety for home gardeners and to sell at farmers’ markets. Pkt $1.35

Golden Midget

HERBS.Listed among the herbs are found a wide variety of plants used for flavoring and medicinal pur-poses. Most of them are small seeded and deli-cate when in the seedling stage. Generally sown in early spring on light soil, not too rich. Notice: Statements made in our catalog are for historical information only and are not approved by the FDA. Seek the advice of your health professional before using herbs for medicinal purposes.Basil-SweetAn aromatic annual with a strong sweet flavor, used for seasoning. We have of-fered this since the 1840’s. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50CarawayThe seeds are in common use for fla-voring bread and pastry. Seeds are not produced until the second year. We sold this seed to your grandparents as early as 1820. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50ChivesGrown for the slender tops which have a delicate Onion flavor. Perfectly hardy, and should be grown in every garden. Often grown in flower gardens for the pretty purple blossoms. Pkt (300 seeds) $1.50CorianderAlso called Cilantro. Easily grown an-nual with aromatic seeds; used in con-fectionery and pastry. The leaves of this plant are among the most commonly used herbs today. It is added to salsa, soups and many other dishes. We have offered this seed for more than 190 years, making us possibly the nation’s oldest supplier. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50

Curled or Peppergrass CressA rapid grower which should be sown at frequent intervals in boxes or in the garden. This plant adds a delicious tang to salads. Offered by us since 1820. Pkt (300 seeds) $1.50DillGrown for its aromatic seeds and foli-age. Much used with cucumbers for Dill Pickles. Easy to grow and yes, we have sold it almost forever, 1821. Pkt (300 seeds) $1.50FeverfewThis herb produces pretty daisy-like flowers; it is used to repel insects and used by many for migraines, arthritis and as a digestive aid. Very easy to grow. Pkt (125 seeds) $1.50

Lion’s TailA member of the mint family, it is na-tive to Southern Africa. It is used as a folk medicine among the native peoples for treating numerous ailments, and has shown promise in studies. Tall ev-ergreen tropical plant produces pretty orange flowers. Caution: This plant is a mild narcotic. Pkt (15 seeds) $1.90Parsley CurledDark green leafed, beautifully curled; very fine and uniform strain. In the 1840’s we carried both the plain and curled parsley as we do to this day. The curled variety is more beautiful as a gar-nish. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.50 Parsley Hamburg RootedThe edible root of this variety resembles a small Parsnip and is used in soups and stews; leaves plain. This variety is quite delicious and was first offered by us

around 1900. Pkt (400 seeds) $1.50Parsley PlainLeaves flat, not curled; sometimes called Italian Parsley. Adds delicious flavor to many dishes and has been offered by us for over 150 years. Pkt (400 seeds) $1.50Sage Broad-leafIn common use for seasoning. Peren-nial. This plant was popular for flavor-ing meats and stews and favored by the mostly English population of our town who purchased seeds from us in the 1820’s. Pkt (75 seeds) $1.50Sorrel Large LeafLarge broad leaves, light green in color. The flavorful leaves of this plant are great in salads and soups. It has been of-fered by us since 1907. Pkt (150 seeds) $1.50Summer SavoryThis is an easy to grow annual and it is highly esteemed for seasoning. It has been a favorite with our customers since 1820. Pkt (250 seeds) $1.50Sweet MarjoramAnnual; the tender leaves and tops are used for seasoning dressings, soups and other fine culinary purposes. This plant was offered by us in the 1840’s. Pkt (800 seeds) $1.50 ThymeAn aromatic perennial used in season-ing and was used medicinally. We have offered it since the 1840’s. Pkt (800 seeds) $1.50WatercressThrives along brooks and in moist places. Sow broadcast and cover lightly. One of the most delicious salad plants. This variety is gaining much acclaim by chefs on both coasts, but we were already promoting it in 1846. Pkt (800 seeds) $1.50

FLOWERS.We are pleased to offer many old-fashioned flower varieties that have been in our catalogs for decades! Please remember some are very poisonous. Do not use for food unless you are sure they are edible!Amaranth: Love Lies Bleeding“An annual growing 3 foot high with long, drooping spikes of crimson flow-ers. Sow anytime in spring,” as listed in our 1856 catalog. Pkt (150 seeds) $1.50Amaranth: Tricolor Joseph’s CoatStunning foliage in shades of yellow, red and green. This amazing plant was mentioned by Thomas Jefferson as early as 1786. This plant is still popular with both home gardeners and public gar-dens that want to add a showy burst of color. Pkt (150 seeds) $1.50Alyssum: Little GemDwarf plant, blooms profusely and

grows 4-6 inches tall. Pretty little white flowers. An old favorite that was offered by Thomas Griswold of Wethersfield in 1912. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.00Aster: Giant CregoGiant blooms 4 to 5 inches across with graceful curled and twisted petals. This variety was introduced around 1900 and has been sold by our company for many years. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.50Balsam: Double Camelia Flowered MixThis pre-1870 heirloom produces lovely flowers that are rose-shaped and come in many pretty shades of pink, lavender, white and red. Short, bushy plants are easy to grow. A charming old-fashioned annual. Pkt (50 seeds) $1.75Calendula: Ball’s OrangeThis is a fine double orange calendula that produces lovely 3” flowers that are

Sensation MixCosmos:

just as stunning in a salad as they are in a vase, as calendula is an edible flower. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50Canterbury BellBeautiful large, bell-shaped flowers; hardy biennials; two feet. In 1856 our annual catalog listed this variety as, “A biennial, growing 2 feet high, much valued for its large white or blue bell-shaped flowers.” Pkt (250 seeds) $1.50Cardinal ClimberA beautiful annual vine that can grow to 15 feet. It has fern-like foliage of rapid growth and soon covers itself with fiery cardinal red blooms. Thrives in warm situations. This variety was carried in our 1930’s catalogs and it is still one of the prettiest vines around. Pkt (40 seeds) $1.75Castor Bean: Giant ZanzibarIncredible tree-like plants can reach 16 feet even in Zone 6, and even larger in warmer areas! Enormous leaves in green and bronze, highly ornamental for backgrounds. This plant was offered to our customers in the mid-20th cen-tury and we are glad to have this true giant back. Caution: Seeds and all parts of plants are highly poisonous! Pkt (10 seeds) $1.50Chinese LanternThis fun plant grows to 2 feet tall, with stems that are covered with bright or-ange lantern-like pods; dried for ever-

Cornflower: Jubilee GemThis is a wonderful, dwarf variety that produces lots of deep blue flowers on tiny plants. It has been popular for over 80 years. Pkt (150 seeds) $1.50Cornflower: Red BoyThe old-fashioned red variety that was popular with generations of American gardeners. Many of the carmine rose-colored blooms are double, and the har-dy plants are quite tall. Very attractive and quite bright! Pkt (150 seeds) $1.00Cornflower: SnowmanThis variety, like all the rest offered here, was popular in seed catalogs of the 1930’s, including ours. It is a pretty white version of this old fashioned flow-er. Pkt (150 seeds) $1.00Cosmos: Sensation MixOffered by us in the 1950’s. Beautiful shades of pink, white, and rose. Tall bush plants are very easy to grow, pro-viding colorful blooms all summer. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.00Cypress VineWe sold this in 1856 and said, “One of the most beautiful annual climbers, with crimson flowers. It is tender, and the seeds are slow to vegetate unless soaked for a few hours in warm water. Sow in May or June, in a large circle, and lead with strings to the top of a stake in the center.” We still love this brilliant red flower and its feathery foliage. Pkt (40 seeds) $1.75

lastings. Pkt (20 seeds) $1.80Cockscomb: CrimsonA very desirable and showy plant, pro-ducing large combs or plumes of crim-son flowers. The “Cristata” sorts are the well-known Cockscombs. We have of-fered the Crimson variety since at least 1856. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.60 Cockscomb: Tall MixedThis is a beautiful blend of tall, large cockscombs that come in a variety of colors. It is sure to make a splashy dis-play in your summer and fall gardens. Offered by us for most of the last cen-tury. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50Coleus: Choice MixedThis is from choice strains and contains a richly colored assortment. This beau-tiful plant is our favorite for adding long lasting color to our flower beds. It is super easy to grow and comes in an

amazing variety of colors and shades. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.75Cornflower: Blue BoyColorful blue, double flowers on tall 3 feet plants; bloom all season. Very easy to grow. It is a self-seeding annual, so you will not have to replant. Bachelor’s Buttons were brought to America in the 17th century. Pkt (150 seeds) $1.00

flies love this lovely 5’ plant. This vari-ety blooms over a very long season, and the plants produce masses of flowers. Pkt (35 seeds) $1.50Moonflower(White Seeded) Fine climber with shin-ing heart-shaped leaves and large pure white flowers opening in the evening. Looks much like a giant morning glory, to which it is related. Pkt (10 seeds) $1.25Morning Glory: Heavenly BlueProfuse bloomer with light blue blos-soms that are 3½ to 4 inches in diam-eter. True light blue, early flowering

the “old” hollyhocks of that period. Pkt (30 seeds) $1.75 Hollyhock: Chater’s Double MixThis variety was offered in our 1933 catalog and described as “Full double flowers resembling small peonies.” This variety looks beautiful planted along a fence or outhouse (Good luck finding an outhouse in Connecticut these days!). Pkt (30 seeds) $1.75Marvel of Peru MixedFree-flowering bushy plant excellent for hedges and low screens. The flowers have the interesting habit of not open-ing until the late afternoon and closing the following morning. Our 1856 cata-log suggests that you “sow in May, in rich soil.” Pkt (35 seeds) $1.50Mexican Sunflower: TorchThis variety is also know as the Golden Flower of the Aztecs. It produces bril-liant, red-orange, 2”- 3” flowers. Butter-Dahlia: Unwin’s Dwarf Mix

Extra fine double and semi-double flow-ers in a great color range. For many years this was the most popular dahlia to grow from seed. It still does an amaz-ing job producing flowers today. Pkt (75 seeds) $1.50Evening PrimroseThis plant was known by the following names in old catalogs: Common Evening Primrose, Fever Plant, Great Evening-Primrose, King’s-cure-all, C, Scabish, Scurvish, and Tree Primrose. It produces lovely, yellow flowers. This annual is easy to grow. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.50Golden CoreopsisThis is a fine hardy plant with large, bright yellow flowers, produced in abundance from June until frost. Valu-able as a cut flower, having long stems and keeping in good condition for some time. Easily grown from seed, flower-ing the first year if sown early. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.50Hollyhock: AlleghenyStrong-growing with semi-double flow-ers, 5 inches across. Flowers first year. We have long offered this variety, and it was introduced in 1898 according to the March 26th issue of American Gardening magazine published that same year. The publication gave this hollyhock rave re-views, naming it far superior to any of

strain. Start in Peat Pots for early flow-ering. Offered by us in the 1930’s. Pkt (25 seeds) $1.00Morning Glory: Pearly GatesWhite, early and free-flowering. Excel-lent combination when planted with Heavenly Blue. We offered this in the 1950’s. Pkt (25 seeds) $1.50Nasturtium: Empress of IndiaVery dark green foliage; flowers are bright crimson. The leaves and blos-soms are delicious in salads. It was a popular variety in Victorian times. Pkt (25 seeds) $1.75 Nasturtium: Golden QueenA beautiful strain with lovely golden yellow flowers. This old variety is as tasty as it is colorful. Pkt (25 seeds) $1.50 Nasturtium: King TheodoreThe deepest and richest dark crimson nasturtium, having a soft, velvety tex-ture. This variety is quite stunning to look at with its dark flowers and bluish-green leaves. Pkt (25 seeds) $1.50Nasturtium: MoonlightLarge flowers of clear, pale lemon color that reminds one of the light from a full moon. Very enticing and luminous. Pkt (25 seeds) $1.95

Nasturtium: VesuviusA most desirable variety with flowers of salmon rose. We love this fascinating color that was also much sought after at the turn of the 20th century. Pkt (25 seeds) $1.75Nigella: Miss JekyllWe described this variety in our 1933 catalog as an, “Odd plant with feath-ery foliage surrounding the double blue flowers.” An easy plant to grow and produces delightful flowers. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50Pansy: Swiss GiantsPre-eminent among the giant strains for magnificence, substance and bright coloring. This variety was a standard in many catalogs including ours. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.30Petunia: Balcony MixedTrailing habit. Covered with masses of beautiful flowers in a variety of clear shades of rose, lavender and purple. This mix was a favorite of our custom-ers in the 1930’s. Pkt (300 seeds) $1.00Petunia: Fire ChiefMost intense flaming red rose of any petunia in the mid-20th century. Of-fered in 1952 by Comstock and we stat-ed that this variety looked “especially brilliant at the seashore.” Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50

Petunia: Rose KingThis variety was an All American Se-lections Winner from 1936. Popular for many years; beautiful clear rose-colored flowers. Pkt (175 seeds) $1.95

Petunia: Rose of HeavenThis is a lovely variety with flowers that are a beautiful shade of delicate rose. Compact plants are covered with small blooms. Popular in the 1930’s but is now very rare. Pkt (175 seeds) $1.95

Mexican Sunflower:Torch

around 1880 in our seed trade boxes that were sold in general stores throughout New England and most of the Eastern states. Pkt (200 seeds) $1.75Salvia: BonfireDwarf, compact and free-flowering. This variety produces masses of scarlet red blooms and keeps flowering right up until frost. Pkt (150 seeds) $1.45Scarlet LychnisIn 1856 our catalog stated the following: “A favorite perennial border flower; very beautiful, and of easy culture in any common garden soil. Sow in April or May.” Pkt (100 seeds) $1.75Snap DragonPopular garden flower, excellent for cut-ting. Our 1856 catalog states, “A showy biennial, producing flowers of different colors; of very easy culture. Sow any-

Petunia: Snow QueenA beautiful pure white sort that is one of the last remaining open-pollinated petunias. These old varieties of petunias used to number in the hundreds and now there is only about a half-dozen va-rieties left. Pkt (175 seeds) $1.75Phlox drummondiiBushy plants with flat-topped clusters of flowers in the most vivid colors. In 1856 we stated, “One of the most beau-tiful of all the annuals, with varieties of all shades of color from crimson to white; in flower all season. Sow in April or May. One and a half feet high.” Pkt (200 seeds) $1.50Poppy: American LegionThis Flanders poppy grew in Europe in World War I, and the name “American Legion” honors the soldiers who died . It was listed in our catalogs from that era. Bright red blooms cover plants; grows and blooms very easily. Annual. Pkt (500 seeds) $1.50Salpiglossis: Mixed(Painted Tongue) This variety was a fa-vorite of Victorian women who loved to use them as cut flowers. Listed in our 1933 catalog as, “Branching slender stems with Petunia-shaped blooms in attractive violet, crimson and bronze shades veined with gold.” We were one of the first companies to offer this plant in colored seed packets which we offered

columns of highly fragrant flowers in a variety of old cottage garden colors. A traditional plant that was very popular in Victorian times. Pkt (150 seeds) $1.00Sunflower: Mammoth RussianThe giant-flowered, tall-growing sort with enormous leaves. Seedsman Thom-as Griswold said this variety was, “...excellent for fowls,” in his 1912 catalog. The large seeds are also good for roast-ing. Pkt (35 seeds) $1.50Sweet Peas: Black KnightIntroduced in 1898 by master sweet pea breeder Henry Eckford, this variety produces very fragrant blossoms in a lovely shade that is so dark maroon it is nearly black. Pkt (20 seeds) $1.75Sweet Peas: Blanche FerryWas introduced by D.M. Ferry & Co. and named after his daughter. Beauti-ful rose-red blossoms are blushed with white. Very profuse bloomer, sweet fra-grance. An old American introduction, from 1889. Pkt (20 seeds) $1.75Sweet Peas: King EdwardBred by Henry Eckford in 1903, this va-riety produces lots of fragrant blossoms that come in a beautiful shade of crim-son. Pkt (20 seeds) $2.50Sweet Peas: Lord NelsonIntroduced from England in 1907, this heirloom is extra fragrant. The flowers are a gorgeous shade of navy blue with a tinge of lavender. Offered by Connecti-

time in the spring.” Pkt (300 seeds) $1.25Stocks: Giant Perfection MixedLong-stemmed spikes of fine form. This is a large-flowered variety that produces fragrant perfumed flowers in shades of lavender, pink, white and red. We have offered this old favorite for many years; it excels as a cut flower. Pkt (150 seeds) $1.50Stocks: Ten Week(Dwarf Double Mixed) Fine early type for bedding. This plant produces lovely

cut seedsmen for nearly 100 years. Pkt (20 seeds) $1.75Sweet WilliamAn old-fashioned variety with large, showy, flat clusters of bright flowers. In 1856 we stated, “A well-known perenni-al producing a great variety of beautiful and fragrant flowers.” Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50Vinca Mixed(Periwinkle) Ornamental plant with dark green glossy foliage and showy single flowers all summer. This mix con-tains a variety of pretty colors. Pkt (50 seeds) $1.50Zinnia: Giant Dahlia Flowered MixStrong branching type with large flow-ers. This variety produces many doubles and singles in a variety of bright colors. Offered by us in the 1930’s. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50Zinnia: Peppermint SticksUnusual and interesting, medium-sized flower striped red, white, pink, yellow and purple. The splashed and striped blooms make an amazing display in the garden or in a vase. It is an old favorite in our catalog. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50Zinnia: Persian CarpetStunning gold, red, chocolate, orange, and cream. Many of the 2” double flow-ers are bicolored. This brilliant heir-loom is still a favorite of many. We of-fered this variety in 1952, the same year it was an All American Selections win-ner. Pkt (100 seeds) $1.50

"The regenerated do not go to war, nor engage in strife. They are children of peace who have beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning forks, and know no war." —Menno Simons

"It is my view that the vegetarian man-ner of living, by its purely physical effect on the human temperament, would most beneficially influence the lot of mankind." —Albert Einstein

"Force may make hypocrites, but it can never make converts." —William Penn

Comstock, Ferre & Co. LLC.263 Main Street

Wethersfield, CT 06109

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We do not take phone orders. Mail order and online orders only.We accept checks, money orders, cash and all major credit cards. (If paying by credit card, please write number and expiration date on order form.To place your order, you may use our en-closed order form or just write clearly on a sheet of paper. Remember to include your name and address. You may also place your order on our website.SHIPPING: Is $2.50 on all orders. Minimum order: $5.00SALES TAX: Residents of Connecticut are li-able for 6% sales tax on flower seed, bulb, book and tool purchases. Vegetable and herb seeds are non-taxable.HOURS: Sunday-Friday: 10am - 4pm Eastern Time.

Closed Saturdays and major holidays.WE SHIP SEEDS ALL YEAR!

PLEASE READ: Seeds are guaranteed to germinate at reasonable rates for one year from the date of pur-chase. Seeds are also guaranteed to grow true to type. Seed packets may be returned for only these reasons, and are only eligible for an exchange or refund up to the purchase price of the item. We are not responsible for return shipping costs. We are in no way responsible for crop failures, insects, disease, floods, drought, terror-

ism and acts of God.

ONLINE ORDERING:www.comstockferre.com

CobraHead® Hand HoeThe closest thing to a universal garden hand tool you will find. This is Jere’s favorite in the gar-den! It is perfect for weed-ing, but it also cultivates, scalps, edges, digs, fur-rows, plants, transplants, de-thatches and har-vests! Made in the USA. $24.95 Caution: These are sharp and must be kept out of children’s reach!

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Other FestivitiesMark Your Calendar!2012

Spring Planting FestivalMay 6 & 7: Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company’s Spring Planting Festival lo-cated in Mansfield, Missouri. This nation-ally publicized event includes speakers, music, demonstrators and 100 vendors with thousands of varieties of heirloom plants. Visit rareseeds.com for info.

National Heirloom ExpositionSeptember 11, 12 & 13: Join seed compa-nies, farmers, gardeners, chefs and food organizations for the National Heirloom Exposition at Sonoma County Fair-grounds in Santa Rosa, California. This will likely be the largest event for heri-tage agriculture ever held! See over 3,000 varieties of heirloom produce and learn from America’s top growers and food ce-lebrities! Including 75 speakers and 300 vendors. Visit theheirloomexpo.com

Enjoy vendors... demonstrating historic crafts and selling their wares. Find great plants, sample local cuisine, buy books and tools and more.

Listen to old-fashioned music and watch historicreenactments from Wethersfield's Colonial past!

Browse our historic store... filled to the brim with heirloom seed varieties, local food and gifts, garden tools, antiques and books.

We have several acclaimed garden speakers, authors and farmers who will be joining us for this historic celebration of our agricultural and culinary heritage! Including the acclaimed authors and gardeners, William Woys Weaver, Ph.D,

Michele Owens, Scott Chaskey, Mike Kandefer and others. Join us at 263 Main St. in Wethersfield, CT!

Come to our 2nd annual

Heirloom FestivalJune 3, 2012 (10am-7pm) Wethersfield, Connecticut

Come Celebrate America's Seed Heritage at New England's Oldest Seed Company

(Last year we had 2000 guests come from across the Northeast and beyond!)

Comstock, Ferre & Co. LLC. Or Current Resident263 Main Street Wethersfield, CT 06109 PRST STD

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Permit NO. 1784Bolingbrook, IL