Landscape Color Found at the Trials

Two hundred years ago, we all like to believe lifeleading producer of seed in California; Ferry a man
was less hectic. A man could have a lot of time towho believed in putting seed racks into crossroads
read and think, to talk with friends and walk over thestores and buying back the unsold seed at the end
countryside, to learn the important news of the dayof the season so that only fresh seed would be
and work in his garden.available each spring. Long range policies to protect
Gardeners have an obligation to create propaganda innot only the good name of the company but the
our home communities for better use of shade trees.interests of the home gardener helped spread
Our back-yard trees, or the sidewalk trees the city isvegetable and flower gardening all over the United
responsible for are a great part of America`s realStates. This story inspires me to grow plants from
wealth. A wiser choice of trees, a replanting program,seed, as of now i am focusing on growing coleus
and a way of caring for the trees we have, shouldfrom seed.
be among the ends that every one of us works for.The story of that 150 years is told in a book. The
A very small garden, but perfectly designed andSeeds of Tomorrow written for the Ferry-Morse
gardened with loving care often meant as much toSeed Co. by Frederick G. Brownell.
its owner as any fine estate. Seeing gardens such asIf you ever get a chance visit one of the trial
these is a wonderful experience.grounds of seed companies like Ferry-Morse. These
The spread of gardening, as a part of the home andtrial grounds are a fascinating spot to visit during the
family life of America, is accomplished by friendlygrowing season. For example, a visitor may find
people, talking and showing how.samples of most vegetables and flowers listed in
Over 150 years ago a young clerk in a seed store incompanies publications, catalog and website. Plus the
Detroit became a partner in a new firm. The clerk'sdozens of varieties of zinnia, marigold, sweet pea,
name was Dexter Mason Ferry and after somepetunia, stock, and other flowers all blooming at once
changes in the company name the business nowmake the the flower trials landscape especially
known as Ferry-Morse came into being. Morse was acolorful.