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Gardening Catalog Reviews

Spring, 2009 ce

Abundant Life Seeds, P O Box 157, Saginaw, OR 97472-0157; 1-541-767-9606; Continuing original the foundation's work, Tom and Julie are deeply dedicated to the best quality seeds. The Foundation suffered a devastating fire in 2003 but thanks to the love this couple has for the plant world, we may continue to let you know about the new, improved (and exceptional) catalog. Many seeds, wonderful reading. Provides medicinal herbs, heirloom plants, organic work, much more than a seed source, offering books, etc. 56 pp [2006] ****

Amador Flower Farm, 22001 Shenandoah School Road, Plymouth, CA 95669, http://amadorflowerfarm.com, 1-209-245-6648. The catalog says "all about daylilies" and this grower certainly is. It cost us $3.50 for the full color, glossy catalog and we got a redeemable coupon for the same. But there are over 700 different species in every imaginable hue and color. We're placing an order! An efficient catalog provides a HUGE selection in only 30+ pages. [2004] ****

A. M. Leonard, 241 Fox Drive, Piqua, OH 45356; 1-800-543-8955, http://www.amleo.com. Absolutely the best source for reasonably priced, top quality gardening tools. Since 1885. The source for our "famous" garden trowel. I am consistently pleased. 290+ pp. on recycled paper. Seasonal catalogs as well. Excellent service. We use this company a lot! [2009] *****

American Nurseryman Publishing Company, 223 W. Jackson Blvd. #500, Chicago, IL 60606;http://www.amerinursery.com or 1-800-621 5727. To source for books, videos and software for those who love gardening. Database software ranges from landscape work to encyclopedias. Books on every imaginable aspect of gardening. 47 pages. [2006] ****

Annie's Annuals & Perennials Rare, Heirloom & Unusual plants. P O Box 5002, Richmond, CA 94805-1576, http://www.anniesannuals.com, 1-866 266-4370. One of the more personable and "friendly" catalogs. Annie Hayes loves growing plants and it shows. Also a web site with 2,000 different species. Plants are grown from seed - outdoors - and Annie Hayes promises healthy, vigorous plants (grown naturally). Nearly 50 pages of color photos and excellent plant information. [2009] ****

Aquascape Designs, Inc., (contact via their web site) http://www.aquascapedesigns.com . 30 page glossy catalog includes everything needed to create water gardens including a complete water ecosystem. Videos, waterfalls, CD Rom. If you have a desire for a water garden, you need this resource. Outstanding!! Publishes a great quarterly magazine as well. [2003] ***

Arbic, P O Box 4247 CRB, Tucson, AZ 85738 1247; 1-800-827-2847, http://www.arbico.com. Environmentally safe products for gardens and household. Arbido promotes "low prices and highest quality services and products." It's their 30^th anniversary! 50+ pp. [2008] ****

Audubon Workshop, 5100 Schenley Place, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025; http://www.audubonworkshop.com; 1-513-354-1485. "Helping Backyard Birders since 1937." Specializing in plants which attract birds as well as standard garden varieties. 50 pp. [2008] ***

Back to Nature, Organic Lawn Services, 4500 Old Route 13, Carterville, IL 62918, http://backto-nature.com, 1-877-373-5296. A simple but very friendly 20 page catalog. I am often asked in my spring horticulture and gardening classes what I would recommend for lawns. Having only solid garden with no grass, I've not had an ideal response, but now I will recommend this catalog. Includes deer and mole treatment and much more. 20 pp. [2007] ****

Basement Shaman, P O Box 1255, Elgin IL 60121, 1-847-695-2447, http://www.basementshaman.com. Specializes in plants of interest to shamanic paths. Not always easy to get catalogs by mail but worth the effort. 46 pp.[2000] ****

Ben Meadows Company, P O Box 5277, Janesville WI 53527-5277, http://www.benmeadows.com, 1-800-241-6401. I don't know how I got on this mailing list but this catalog, for "when the outdoors is your office" carries all manner of equipment I've wondered about, from GPS to mineral collections, from archaeology tools to soil analysis equipment. Sprayers, gloves and more for the gardener and horticulturalist but so much more for those who deeply love and study our planet. Our first order convinced us to rate this company highly. You'll be amazed at what you find. Hundreds of pages!! [2009] *****

Bluestone Perennials, 7211 Middle Ridge Rd., Madison, OH 44057, http://bluestoneperennials.com 1-800-852-5243. New to us in 2008, I was very pleased with their catalog, so much so that I placed a large order the same day. A family business with a great selection, Bill and Sarah Boonstra offer an impressive selection. The web site is great for ordering and Bluestone includes a guarantee that plants arrive in good shape and grow. 70+ pp. catalog. [2008] ****

Breck's, P O Box 65, Guilford, IN 47022-0065, (513) 354-1511. [http://www.brecks.com] Since 1818. Has been around many years. Prices are low but Breck's offers an extremely generous guarantee of plants and satisfaction. Lots of color photos in their 57 pp catalog. They again have a workable web site but appear to have dropped their toll-free phone number. 50+ pp. [2009] **

Brent and Becky's Bulbs, 7900 Daffodil Lane, Gloucester, VA 23061, http://www.brentandbeckysbulbs.com/ (804-693-3966. Discounts for early ordering. Growing bulbs since 1900. Color photos and just an astounding selection. Also other accessories, tools and books. Great catalog of 65 pages. [2009] ****

Brussel's Bonsai, 8125 Center Hill Rd., Olive Branch, MS 38654, http://www.brusselsbonsai.com 1-800-582-2593. The largest importer and grower of bonsai trees in the United States. I first came to appreciate bonsai trees through a store owned by a Chinese grower in La Crosse, Wisconsin back in the 1960s. Later, a friend of mine in Minneapolis was a passionate grower. Now and then I see what are sold as bonsai at nurseries, even in large box stores like Home Depot. What a wonderful resource! Brussel's provides information including the age and height of their stock. The photos are clear and show the stock well. Fortunately there are tools, books and supplements offered as well. 24 pages of dreams! [2007] ****

Burgess, 905 Four Seasons Rd., Bloomington, IL 61701; 1-309-663-9551. Part of Bloomington, IL gardening site: http://www.directgardening.com. Well known source for vegetables, trees, ornamentals. Service less than exemplary. 55 pp. [2007] **

Burpee & Co., 300 Park Ave., Warminster, PA 18974; 1-800-888-1447. http://www.burpee.com/. Synonymous with quality seeds and an astounding selection.125+ pp. Since 1876. Has been busy buying many smaller businesses. [2006] ***

Caladium World, PO Box 629, Sebring, FL 33871-0629. Web site not working 16 ii 2004 ce. 1 863-385-7661. Color flyer for those who appreciated the beauty of these plants. I lived on Caladium Street during my Dallas time and gained a great appreciation for these handsome plants although they are not fond of our climate here in Washington! [2003] ***

Charley's Greenhouse Supply, 1599 Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, WA 98273; http://www.charleysgreenhouse.com, 1-800-322-4707. The best (as far as we know) source for greenhouses, supplies, potting equipment, cold frames, etc. Very courteous, friendly, very nice to do business with. Reliable - 25th Anniversary! We ordered a "seed house" and cold frame and are very happy. 87 pp. [2001] *******

Cistus: 22711 NW Gillihan Road, Sauvie Island, OR 1-503 282-7706. http://www.cistus.com/. A retail micro-nursery offering plants from around the world that thrive in the northern Willamette Valley. Highly recommended by Judith of Fancy Fronds. [2003] *****

Cloud Mountain Farm: Plants for the Northwest Garden, 6906 Goodwin Road, Everson, WA 98247; 1 360-966-5859, http://www.cloudmountainfarm.com, Top quality fruits and ornamentals. Some really beautiful species! Mail order on fruit trees only. Educational programs on site! [Web site O.K. in 2006] 46 pp. [2001] ***

Clyde Robin Seed Company: Wildflower Catalog, P O Box 2366, Castro Valley, CA 94546 0366; 1-510-785-0425, http://www.clyderobin.com. Individual species, mixes, collections. Small but very lovely catalog. Many photos. $2. [1999] ***

Cook's Garden, The, P O Box 5030, Warminster, PA 18974; 1-800-457-9703, http://www.cooksgarden.com. Primarily seeds, supplies (books to rain gauges) emphasis on cooking and "European Garden Vegetables." Kitchen herbs, vegetables, unusual morning glory colors, nasturtium, etc. Very pro-organic gardening. Attractive catalog! 106 pp. [2009] ****

Cooley's Gardens, P O Box 126, Silverton, OR 97381, 1-800-225-5391. $5.00 for an 65+ page catalog, all glossy, color photos with hundreds upon hundreds of iris species. This is pure iris heaven. Beautifully organized by color to make an outstanding reference. A family business with over 75 years' experience. The iris we purchased are large, vigorous and produce stunning flowers! [2007] *****

Country Casual, 7601 Rickenbacker Drive., Gaithersburg, MD 20879, 1-800-284-8325, http://www.countrycasual.com. Offering solid teak garden furniture and much more. For people whose gardens are living space, you'll find wonderful things which will survive the weather. Lots of color photos show the products well. 75 pp. [2006] ****

Cricket Hill Garden, 670 Walnut Hill Rd., Thomaston, CT 06787, 1-860-283-1042; http://www.treepeony.com. I grew up with peonies and this vendor specializes in Chinese tree peonies. Color photos of species with names like "Green Dragon Lyon on a Chinese Ink Stone." Family run and a rare find in today's world. [Web site O.K. in 2006] 23 pp. [2001] ****

Dixondale Farms, P O Box 129, Carrizon Springs, TX, http://www.dixondalefarms.com, 1-877 367-1015. A small catalog but a must for people who garden for their kitchen. A family business for 90+ years, they are specialists in onions. Excellent and complete instructions in the catalog with varieties which will dazzle you. 12 pp. [2006] ***

Doctors Foster & Smith, 2253 Air Park Rd. POBox 100, Rhinelander, WI 54501-0100, 1-800-443 1160, http://www.drsfostersmith.com. The web site is for pet supplies and animal care (Foster and Smith are veterinarians). Go to the link for ponds. All manner of equipment for garden ponds (pumps, filters), bird feeders, garden trellises and much more. If you try them, let us know how you rate their quality. 45+ pp. plus supplemental catalogs. [2009] ***

DripWorks, 190 Sanhedrin Circle, Willits, CA 95490-8753; 1-800-522-3747, http://www.dripworksusa.com. Everything you need to know to create your own irrigation (spray or drip) or ponds. Offers service to help you design your own spray/drip system. Highly informative. 63 pp. [2001] ****

Duncraft: Birds & Nature, P O Box 9020, Penacook, NH 03303-9020; http://www.duncraft.com/index.aspx1-800-593-5656. Our preferred source for top quality bird seed at great prices. Friendly, efficient telephone service. Our chickadees and finches prefer Duncraft's feeders. A great source for feeders which keep squirrels out, etc. Frequent catalogs. [2006] ****

Dutch Gardens, 144 Intervale Rd., Burlington VT 05401, 1-800-944-2250, http://www.dutchgardens.com. Excellent catalog - this importer deserves your interest. Great assortment of plants, not a tulips-amok source from a Netherlands firm. The best. Outstanding selection. Competitive prices. 163 pp, lavish photos, good text. Very tempting catalog. Not only that but you get a fall catalog and a spring rose catalog as well! [2005] *****

Easywildflowers, P O Box 522, Willow Springs, MO 655793, http://www.easywildflowers.com, 1-417 469-2611. Price list by mail, all plants on web site. Site easy to navigate, has color photos. Also books, xeriscaping, more. Most current (postal) price list: [2006] ****

Fancy Fronds, P O Box 1090, Gold Bar, WA 98251; http://www.fancyfronds.com; 1-360-793-1472. Specializing in ferns. No longer a print catalog but Judith is a wonderful person, highly knowledgeable and just great fun. Our ferns from her are completely wonderful. [phone contact 2004] *****

Farmtek Growers Supply, 1440 Field of Dreams Way, Dyersville, IA 52040; 1-800-327-6835, http://www.FarmTek.com. Offering a wide selection of supplies for major growers, including poly buildings, tools and equipment. Garden carts, wheelbarrows and É wheel! Catalogs throughout the year. Every time a new catalog arrives I find myself browsing. [2009] ***

FedCo Seeds, P O Box 520, Waterville, ME 04903-0520, http://www.fedcoseeds.com, 1-207-873 7333. A beautiful resource! Outstanding newsprint catalog, richly illustrated with botanical and woodcut style b/w work. "Moose Tubers" for potatoes. Vegetables and flowers, medicinal herbs. Organic supplies from soil amendments to fertilizers. Believing in sustainable agriculture, this is one resource you must have. 135+ pp. Supplementary tree catalog available equally valuable, 58+ pp. [2006] ****

Ferry-Morse Seeds, P O Box 488, Fulton, KY 42041-0488; 1-800-283-3400. Sells seeds for many stores. Flowers, herbs, vegetables, many types our grandmothers grew. [phone contact 2004] ***

Florian, 157 Water Street, Southington, CT 06489; http://www.floriantools.com, 1-800-275-3618. Although best known for their exceptional tools, this amazing catalog includes some wonderful and fascinating items. Terrific kneeling pads, a top quality push mower... And the most beautiful and completely practical bird feeder. Seasonal catalogs. [2006] ****

Forestfarm, 990 Tetherow Rd., Williams, OR 97544-9599, 1-541-846-7269. http://www.forestfarm.com. The catalog by which I measure all others. Averages 500 pp. (honest). Largest selection of plants available through a catalog we've ever seen. Occasional drawing, excellent text. Outstanding stock, best shipping methods we've ever seen. If I could give them more than five stars, I'd do it. Many of our best trees and favorite herbs came from these folk. $5.00 and worth every penny. Spring and Fall catalogs [2009] *****

Four Seasons Nursery, 1706 Morrisey Dr., Bloomington, IL 61704; 1-309-663-9551. http://www.4seasonsnurseries.com. Discount, cheap plants. Example: 25 periwinkles for under $3.95. 43 pages. We've learned to be wary of such "deals." We've heard some pretty strong complaints. Let us know what your experience has been. [2002] *

Fungi Perfecti, P O Box 7634, Olympia, WA 98507, www.fungi.com 1-800-780-9126. Gourmet and Medicinal Mushroom Products for Home and Garden, Farm and Forest, People and Planet. A family-owned, environmentally friendly company, according to the catalog. This is the first time we've seen this source and the catalog is exceptional. Good growing information and beautiful photographs will help you transcend beginner's panic. Books and more as well. 48 pp. [2007] ****

Gardeners' Choice, 81961 County Road 687 So., P O Box 8000, Hartford, MI 49057-8000; http://www.gardenerschoice.net, 1-203-857-3800.Mass market, sells to the gullible. Very poor customer service, plants in poor shape. We cannot recommend. Due to this catalog listing we errantly receive numerous misrouted complaints. 75 pp. [2002] *

Gardener's Supply Company, 128 Intervale Rd., Burlington, VT 05401; 1-800-863-1700, http://www.gardeners.com. If you have to wait on hold, you'll hear the most wonderful bird songs! Excellent source for gifts, planting supplies, hot houses, potting supplies. 71 pp. [2006] ****

Gardening for Life, P O Box 1001, Wixom MI 48393; 1-800-888-0010; general gardening, too many chemicals but otherwise some practical and handy tools. [phone contact 2003] **

Gardening Ideas, http://www.gardeningideas.org/ is a great web site. We don't usually include resources other than catalogs, but you'll find all sorts of information and re4sources here. It's definitely worth visiting and exploring. [2007 ce] ****

Garden Medicinals and Culinaries, P O Box 320, Earlysville, VA 22936, http://www.gardenmedicinals.com, (434) 964-9113. Excellent resource for the herbalist. From beeswax to bottles, books to grinders. Herb seeds from anise to yarrow. Some plants although primarily seeds. 28 pp. catalog definitely worth the $2.00 price but the web site is free and has numerous links. [2002] ****

Gardens Alive! 5100 Schenley Place, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025; 1-513-354-1482. Our highest recommendations for this source of organic and environmentally safe fertilizers and all manner of pest control. Helps you identify invaders. Organic seeds as well! We used their compost enzyme and it's terrific. http://www.gardensalive.com. large catalog [100 pp] + monthly mailings. [2009] *****

Gempler's, 100 Countryside Dr., P O Box 270, Belleville, WI 53508, 1-800-382-8473, http://www.gemplers.com. Great source for unusual products ranging from very durable gloves to straw hats, from protective wear to unusual products. Our preferred source for nitrile gloves! Now over 500 pages! [2008] *****

Gilbert H. Wild & Sons, P O Box 338, Sarcoxie, Missouri 64862-0338, 1-888-449-4537; http://www.gilberthwild.com. Stunning assortment of lilies: day lilies, trumpet lilies, Asiatic lilies. Color, glossy information. Also hostas and peonies. We received healthy plants. Very nice to deal with by telephone. Check out their half price sales. They are amazing!!! 50+ pages. Sales mailings are great. [2004] ****

Graceful Gardems, P O Box 100, Meeklenburg, NY 14863. http://www.gracefulgardens.com, (607) 387-5529. Specializing in Delphiniums and other Cottage Gardenm Delights. Completely, charming, this small and simple catalog offers delphiniums, foxglove, columbines, lupines and other plants I've loved so much over the years. Color photos are on their web site making this simple paper catalog highly useful. 24 pp. [2005] ****

Grandma's Garden Catalog, from Underwood Gardens, Ltd., 1414 Zimmerman Rd., Woodstock, IL 60098 or visit http://www.grandmasgarden.com, 1-815 338-6279. $3.00 brings you an excellent seed catalog described as "a compendium of hard-to-find, open pollinated and heirloom seeds." Flowers, herbs and much more from beneficial insects and native prairie plants. Over 64 pages. Site loads as "Underwood Gardens, home of Grandma's. [2007] ****

Greer Gardens: Famous for the Rare and Unusual, 1280 Goodpasture Island Road, Eugene, OR 97401 1794, http://www.greergardens.com, 1-800-548-0111. Wonderful newsprint catalog with limited color lists a vast selection of species. Many herbal plants tucked within this multitude of pages. Books and more. 152+ pp. [2007] *****

Gurney's Seed & Nursery, P O Box 4178, Greendale, IN 47025-4178, http://www.Gurneys.com, 1-513-354-1491; An old standard for the upper Midwest. Emphasis on seeds for vegetables, excellent selection of stock. Trees, fruit, dehydrators, etc. Our boysenberries grow abundantly, the elder berries have done well. 65 pages [2009] ***

Harris Seeds, 355 Paul Road, POBox 24966, Rochester, NY 14624-0966; 1-800-514-4441; fax 1 877-892-9197. Email: gardeners@harrisseeds.com and visit http://www.harrisseeds.com. Mostly vegetables but more, even greenhouses. It had been three years since they sent us a catalog. Good supplies for seed loving gardeners! 81 pp. [2005] ***

Heronswood Nursery, 300 ParkAve., Warminster, PA 18974. http://www.heronswood.com1-877-674-4714. This is the new incarnation of the internationally famous company formerly on the peninsula across Puget Sound in Kingston, WA. A handsome catalog with lush, color photos. Many avid plant collectors were deeply troubled when the original Heronswood owners sold their business, specializing in unusual and rare species, to a large corporation. The main operations were moved east. Now we must decide if this new (older) company is worth many stars. Please let me know if you order from them. We've tried quite a few plants over the years but with poor success. 85+pp. [2009] ***

High Country Gardens, 2902 Rufina St., Santa Fe, NM 87505-2929, 1-800-925-9387, http://www.highcountrygardens.com. Plants for dryer western gardens; from winter hardy cacti to ornamentals to grasses. Our friends in Denver swear by this vendor... Great folk! Note: guarantee limited to 120 days unlike most mail order companies which offer a year. Many new species. 100 pp. Also large fall bulb and plant catalog. [2009] ****

Holland Bulb Farms, P O Box 220, Tatamy, PA 18085-0220; 1-800-283-5082. Bulbs, lilies, etc. Color photos. Peonies and other perennials. [Are they still in business?] 47 pp. [1999] **

Horizon Herbs Strictly Medicinal Growing Guide and Catalog, P O Box 69, Williams, OR 97544-0069, 1-541-846-6704. Truly an outstanding collection of (Strictly Medicinal) seeds with some live roots, books and more. Visit http://www.horizonherbs.com/. Great text, sprouting information. Author Richo Cech's business - he's very knowledgeable. We're thrilled with the quality. Their plants are healthy and outstanding! This year the page count is 85+ pp. [2009] *****

House of Wesley, 1704, Morrissey Drive, Bloomington, IL 61704. Note: This is the identical address to the Four Seasons, This catalog has many plants at worrisome low prices but is a larger catalog. If you try them, let us know your experience. (309) 663 9551 or http://www.houseofwesley.com/. 63 pp. [2001] **

HPS, P O Box 10, Graniteville, SC 29829-0010, 1 803-663-9771. Vegetables and garden flowers. Looks to be standard but large but large, attractive catalog. 135 pp. [1999] **

Inter-State Nurseries, 1800 Hamilton Rd., Bloomington, IL 61704; 1-309-663-9551. Very cheap prices usually mean very small plants. Zone listings sometimes missing, rarely provides pot size so you don't know what you're getting. Proceed with caution. 47 pp. [2001] **

Irish Eyes & Garden City Seeds, POBox 307, Thorp, WA 98946. Phone 509-964-7000. Largest selection of potatoes, garlic, shallots, onions in the U.S. Over 200 types of potatoes, many heirloom. Great selection of garlic. Handsome catalog, great reading! http://www.irish-eyes.com. 85 pp. - much larger than last year's with a new phone number. [2001] ****

Jackson & Perkins, P O Box 1028, Medford, OR 97501; 1-800-292-4769. Highly reputable source for roses and perennials. Good photos. Lovely descriptions but short on horticultural information. Fun items. 50 pp. Replaces plants which don't make it. http://www.jacksonandperkins.com[2009] ****

J. L. Hudson, Star Route 2, Box 337, La Honda, CA 94020; http://www.JLHudsonSeeds.net; (no telephone). Specializing in ethnobotanical seeds. Extensive selection includes hard-to-find (e.g. yellow belladonna, extensive selection of medicinal herbs). Quite amazing selection listed botanically. 95 pp., $1.00 and worth it. Excellent resource. [2003] ****

Johnny's Selected Seeds, 955 Benton Ave., Winslow, ME 04901-2601; 1-877-564-6697, http://www.johnnyseeds.com. Highly attractive seeds. Numerous unusual vegetables including purple tomatoes, tomatillos, many types of peppers. Lovely assortment of flowers, many herbaceous. 184 pp. [2008] ****

John Scheepers, Inc., 23 Tulip Dr., Bantam, CT 06750; http://www.johnscheepers.com, 1-860 567-6086. 90+ years experience in bulbs and the staff with whom I've spoken care very much about the quality of their business. (1) Beauty from Bulbs. Beautiful catalog of all manner of bulbs. 85+ pages of color photos. High desirable. [2008] *** (2) Kitchen Garden Seeds A garden catalog [101 years!!], http://www.kitchengardenseeds.com55+ pages and highly attractive. Includes recipes for cooking and other fun information about plants and herbs. Catalog is growing larger! [2009] ****

Jung Quality Seeds, 335 S. High St., Randolph, WI 53956; 1-800-247-5864, http://www.jungseed.com. Spring seed catalog filled with flowers and vegetables. A traditional garden catalog offering me many childhood memories (they're located not far from my childhood home). Over 100 years. Seasonal catalog [bulbs, iris, perennials, lilies] half as large. 100 pp. [2009] ***

Kelly Nurseries, 410 8th Avenue NW, Faribault, MN 55021; http://www.KellyNurseries.com, 1-507 334-1623. Very good basic catalog. Many of our favorites, peonies, liatris, ornamental and fruiting trees. Low prices. 55 pp. [2002] **

Kinsman Company, P O Box 428, Pipersville, PA 18947, http://www.kinsmangarden.com, 1-800-733 4146. An excellent catalog (glossy, color photos) of hard goods for the gardens. Numerous planters, esp. wrought iron and wire, all manner of pillars and arches, nice selection of useful items. Many items of whimsy can bring joy to your gardening! 95+ pp. plus fall gift catalog. [2009] ***

K. Van Bourgondien & Sons, K., 245 Rte. 109, P O Box 1000, Babylon, NY 11702-9004; 1-800 552-9996. Wholesale. 80+ pp. + seasonal catalogs. Excellent quality bulbs and spectacular perennials; we've been pleased with their stock. Great photos. Spectacular prices on large quantities. For retail see Van Bourgondien. http://www.dutchbulbs.com. Many herbs disguised as perennials. [2009] ****

Lee Valley Tools, P O Box 1780, Ogdensburg, NY 13669-0490; http://www.leevalley.com/ 1-800 871-8158. Classy catalog. Good source for quality tools, Wonderful browsing and beautiful merchandise! Humane traps, garden supplies. 32 pp. [2006] ****

Le Jardin du Gourmet, P O Box 75, St. Johnsbury Ctr., VT 05863-0075. A lovely, home-spun catalog filled with love of kitchen herbs. Call 1-800 659-1446. 22 pages packed full with all sorts of information and seeds and plants. Lovely little seed sampler packets! Seem like just terrific folk! [2001] ***

Lilypons Water Gardens, 6800 Lilypons Rd., P O Box 10, Buckeystown, MD 21717-0010; 1-800-365 5459. http://www.lilyponswatergardens.comThe source for water lilies and myriad plants, supplies for water gardens. Nothing else like it. $5.00, 99 pp. [phone contact 2005] ****

Logee's, 141 North St., Danielson, CT 06239 1939; 1-888-330-8038. Breathtaking source specializing in "container" plants, many of which will grow in a variety of climates. Includes many great finds e.g. many Passiflora, other species of definite interest to the herbalist. Specializes in tropical plants. http://www.logees.com. Well written, beautifully photographed. 45+ pp. [2009] ****

McClure & Zimmerman, 108 W. Winnebago, P O Box 368, Friesland, WI 53935; 1-414-326-4220, http://www.mzbulb.com. Specializing in bulbs. Not run-of-the-mill; very interesting species. Seasonal catalogs. We've ordered and like them. [2001] ****

Mellingers, a long-established family business in Ohio appears to have been lost. The 2005 catalog is all Harris Seeds and the products we loved from Mellingers are missing. The catalog which arrived with Mellinger's name has Harris Seeds' address, lists Harris (also) on the front cover, and is nearly indistinguishable from Harris Seeds 2003 catalog (even the same number of pages). We are very disappointed. The web site (late March, 2005) does not yet indicate this change. [2005] **

Michigan Bulb Co, Grand Rapids, MI. Runs ads in Sunday papers. We personally had bad experiences and more more comments from internet readers than about any other company, always consistently very unhappy with service, quality and more. They now have a phone number: 1-513-354-1497 and web site: http://michiganbulb.com/ We can only urge you to be VERY cautious. [2008] *

Miller Nurseries, 5060 West Lake Road, Canandaigua, NY 144424, 1-800-836-9630. http://www.millernurseries.com- a new website. One of the old "traditional" place we old folks have known of for many years. Family run for 120+ years. Premier source for fruits. Also has popular perennials, useful trees. Catalog has grown (we hadn't seen one in several years.) 64 pp. [2003] ****

Mischel's Greenhouses LTD., 11660 Arrowhead Drive, Williamsburg, MI 49690, http://www.mischelsgreenhouses.com, 1-800-830-8447. Specializing in quality annuals ideal for planters, baskets and for adding color to your beds. With a guarantee inside the front cover, beautiful color photos and reasonable prices, this might well be a far better option than stressed plants from a local garden center. Beautiful selection. Excellent growing information. 48+ pp. [2007] ****

Mountain Maples: Japanese Maple Specialists, 54561 Registered Guest Rd., P O Box 1329, Laytonville, CA 9454-1329, 1-888-707-6522, mtmaples@mcn.org. Very attractive catalog, 40 pp. Maples for containers, bonsai, gardens. Wonderful selection!! Visit http://www.mountainmaples.comand see what Don and his family have created. A fine resource. [2007] ****

Musser Forests, Inc., Dept. F-03M, 1880 Route 119 HWY N, Indiana, PA 15701-7341, 1-800-643 8319, http://www.musserforests.com. Excellent resource. Primary stock is excellent selection of trees, specializing in two and three year seedlings at outstanding prices. Shrubs and ground covers. Excellent growing information, photos (we identified several of our species through the catalog). Pages of new plants this year. 48 pp. [2007] ***

Native American Seed, 127 N. 16th St., Junction TX 76849; http:www.seedsource.com; 1-800 728-4043. Attractive catalog with numerous color photos; promotes restoration of native species. South central (e.g. Texas) oriented but should be of interest to all who are serious about preservation. 46 pages. [2001] ****

Natural Gardening Company, P O Box 750776, Petaluma, CA 94975-0776; 1-707-766-9303. http://www.naturalgardening.com/shop/index.php3. Tools, plants, supplies. Excellent quality of certified organic seeds. Nice catalog with interesting species. 31 pp. [2005] ****

Netherland Bulb Co, 13 McFadden Rd., Easton, PA, 18045-7819; http://www.netherlandbulb.com, 1 800-788-8547. Wholesale catalog including display materials. Tremendous supply of bulbs, peonies, lilies, etc. Spectacular assortments of tulips, hyacinth, anemones, fritillaria, allium and much, much more. 60+ pp. Spring and fall catalogs [2009] ***

New Holland Bulb Company, P O Box 134, Hooven, OH 45033-0134, www.newhollandbulb.com, 1-646-805-3422.Wholesale catalog of tulips, daffodils and traditional spring bulbs at the wholesale level. Priced in quanities from50 to 1,000. Standard catalog with glossy color photos. [2007] ***

Nichols Garden Nursery, 1190 Old Salem Road NE, Albany, OR 97321-4580, http://www.nicholsgardennursery.com, 1-800-422-3985. herb seeds, live herb plants, vegetable seeds, brewing and wine-making supplies, some herbs and oils and more. Highly earth conscious. 75 pp. [2005] ****

Nor'East Miniature Roses, P O Box 440, Arroyo Grande, CA 93421, http://www.noreast-miniroses.com, 1-800-426-6485. Small catalog with color photos, beautiful selection of colors. Do you want roses which bloom continuously throughout the growing season? Excellent prices. 19 pp. [2007] ***

One Green World: Unique Fruits & Ornamentsals from Around The World, 28696 S. Craker Rd., Molalla, OR 97038-8576, http://www.onegreenworld.com, 1 877-353-4028. Highly recommended by a friend of ours, I found the catalog fascinating. Intriguing photos. Highly Earth conscious. A fine resource to know. 70 pp [2008] ****

Park Seed Co., 1 Parkton Ave., Greenwood, SC 29647-0001; 1-800-845-3369, http://www.parkseed.com. A standard and dependable source for flower, herb and vegetable seed. Since 1868. Even houseplant seeds! Good photos although limited growing information; a catalog full of spectacular annuals, many also perennial. 80+ pp. plus seasonal catalogs and mailings. [2009] ***

Peaceful Valley Farm Supply, P O Box 2209, Grass Valley, CA 95945; 1-888-784-1722, http://www.groworganic.com. Had I only found Peaceful Valley decades earlier, my life would have been easier. Tools and supplies for organic farming and gardening. Truly everything you need. Friendly, helpful. Exceptionally Earth-conscious. Few folk are so helpful over the phone answering questions. Thanks to their help I dropped the commercial service and now do all of our organic spraying. Our top compliments go to this fine business. I always give them top recommendations in my gardening classes. 165+ pp. [2009] *****

Pinetree Garden Seeds, Box 300, New Gloucester, ME 04260; 1-207-926-3400. http://www.superseeds.com. Definitely one of the better seed sources (over 900 varieties). Thick catalog! Many herbs, flowers, vegetables, garden supplies and other items. A rain gauge which is eminently affordable. Really fun items. 163 pp. [2006-2007] ****

Plant Delights Nursery, Inc., 9241 Sauls Rd., Raleigh, NC 27603-9326, 1-919-772-4794, http://www.plantdelights.com. Catalog cost? "10 stamps or a box of chocolates." How can we not love them? They say it the best: "Started in 1988, the goal is to change the way America gardens by offering the best, the newest, and the strangest in fun, garden-worthy perennials." Excellent, color photos, growing information, and a selection that makes you want to start a botanical garden. This year's cover? "Yes I'm Clay," the garden Idol! 110+ pp., [2009] *****

Plow & Hearth, P O Box 5000, Madison, VA 22727-1500; http://www.plowandhearth.com/ 1-800 627-1712. Outdoor stuff, garden accessories. Furniture, planters, etc. Frequent catalogs. [2006] ***

Raintree, 391 Butts Rd., Morton WA 98356; 1 360-496-6400, http://www.raintreenursery.com. Fruits (from figs to quince and all sorts of common and uncommon gruits), nuts, berries, bamboo. Mouth watering photos! Very good quality. Courteous service. They even ship worms and mason bees! Truly an outstanding resource for gardeners. 94 pp. [2003] ****

R.H.Shumway's Catalog, 334 W. Stroud St., Randolph, WI 53956-1274, 1-800-342-9461, http://www.rhshumway.com. In business over 135 years, produces a nostalgia catalog but it contains some excellent species. Seeds, plants. 60+ pages, large heritage-style format with handsome color illustrations. The original company from So. Carolina is now part of a catalog conglomerate in Randolph. [2009] ***

Richard Owen Nursery, 2300 E. Lincoln St., Bloomington, IL 61701; 1-309-663-9551. Nice iris, typical garden assortment - perennials through trees. 55 pp. Part of Bloomington IL gardening association through http://www.directgardening.com. [2004] **

Richters Herb Catalog, Goodwood, Ontario, Canada L0C 1A0; 1-905-640-6677, http://www.richters.com. One of the premier vendors for seeds and live plants, possibly largest selection of herbs (over 900). Still the only source for many essential species. Only drawback? Plants often small (yet appropriate for the price) and climate differences between Canada and the U.S. may affect shipping dates but don't let this stop you. The most comprehensive source for medicinal herb selection. Ships to U.S. 75 pp. [2007] *****

Rock Spray Nursery, Inc. Box 693, Truro, MA 02666, 1-508-349-6769, http://www.rockspray.com. Devoted to heaths and heathers. Very attractive catalog is $2.00. The display of colors and flower shapes will simply amaze you! [1999] ****

Ronnigers Potato Farm, Star Route, Moyie Springs, ID 83845, http://www.ronnigers.com, (208) 267-7938, small family business. Even senior discounts! A small family farm and not a typical mail order business, these people know their potatoes and the number of varieties they offer is a wonder. Onions and garlic as well. Handsome, 45 page catalog (with family photos!). [2005] ****

Roots & Rhizomes, P O Box A, Randolph, WI 53956-0118, 1-800-374-5035, http://www.rootsrhizomes.com. Plants guaranteed. Day lilies, Siberian iris, hostas and stunning perennials. Interesting, attractive full-color catalog offers hard-to find species with a lot of temptation. Plants we've bought from them have done well in our gardens. 59 pp. [2009] ****

Royal Dutch Gardens, 905 Four Seasons Rd., Bloomington, IL 61701, 1-309-663-9551. Division of Burgess. Low prices, large quantity of moderate quality. Good for new gardens needing an abundance of bulbs. I'd recommend caution. 45+ pp. [2009] **

Schreiner's Iris Gardens, 3662 Quinaby Rd. NE, Salem, OR 97303-9720; 1-800-525-2367 ext. 62, http://www.schreinersgardens.com. 72 page catalog is $5.00, but the colors and selection are dazzling. The Blueberry Parfait on the cover is breath-taking. This ranks among the most beautiful of all plant catalogs. Prices from $6.00 to very award-winning species which are much more expensive. Several generations of Schreiners run the business. [2009] *****

Seeds of Change, P O Box 15700, Santa Fe, NM 87592-1500; 1-888-762-7333, http://www.seedsofchange.com. 100% certified organic seeds and supplies. Excellent photos and text, vast selection of herbs, flowers, vegetables. Other products, tools and more. Very important resource. Spread the word! People were dazzled with some of the annuals we grew! 80+ pp. [2008] *****

Select Seeds and antique flowers, 180 Stickney Hill Road, Union, CT 06076-4617; 1-800-684-0395, http://www.selectseeds.com. Highly interesting catalog with excellent photos; many historic species of vintage flowers, pleasing selection of herbal species. We've been pleased with their quality. 65+ pp and worth the dollar. [2009] ***

Seymour's Selected Seeds, 334 W. Stroud St., Randalph, WI 53956, (800), 353-9516. http://www.seymourseedusa.com. Color photos of ornamentals. Everything from Himalayan poppies to numerous foxglove species. We had mediocre luck with seed germination and found their customer service below average. Catalog address is Wisconsin, the orders go to Virginia and the web site is British. 47 pp. Same address as Vermont Bean. [2008] **

Shady Acres Herb Farm, 7815 Highway 212, Chaska, MN http://www.shadyacres.com, 1-952-466 3391. A beautiful, color catalog filled with photos. Plants lovingly grown. Wide selection of herbs. $3.00 for 70+ page catalog (refundable coupon enclosed). [2005] ****

Shepherd's Garden Seeds, 30 Irene St., Torrington, CT 06790; 1-860-482-3638, http://www.shepherdseeds.comwhich will take you to White Flower. Owned by White Flower since 2000. One of the better vegetable seed catalogs. 72 pp. (Down 16 pages.) Many new items again. [2002] ****

Smith & Hawken, Two Arbor Lane, Box 6900, Florence, KY 41022-6900, 1-800-776-3336, http://www.SmithandHawken.com. A staple for gardeners who demand quality. Tools, garden clothing, supplies. Garden furniture and all manner of temptation with limited live plants. Now appearing in their own retail stores in upscale suburbs. Seasonal catalogs. We ordered one of their fine, steel arches in 2003. It's worth every penny. [2003] ***

Spectrum, 23839 West Andrew Road, Plainfield, IL 60544, http://www.specmeters.com, 1-800-248-8873. "Your field measurement resource." Quality instruments for measuring all aspects of weather, allowing the data to be transmitted to your computer. Essential for serious growers, orchards. Software for insect/disease models. Chlorophyll meters, soil ph measuring devices, more. Surprisingly affordable. 32 pp. glossy color catalog. [2003] ***

Spray-N-Grow, 20 Hwy. 35 South, P. O. Box 2137, Rockport, TX 78381, http://www.spray-n-grow.com, 1-800-323-2363. Listed as environmentally friendly and organic, dozens of products to help your garden. Insecticides and amendments, sprayers. 30+ pp. Since 1982. [2009] ****

Spring Hill, 110 West Elm St., Tipp City, OH 45371-16997 or http://www.springhillnursery.com. (812) 537-217. We have ordered from them with success and have perennials from Spring Hill which are many years old now. A handsome catalog with attractive and popular ornamental perennials and shrubs. Guarantees their plants. 50+ pp. Additional catalogs during the year. [2009] ***

Stark Bro's, P O Box 1800, Louisiana, MO 63353; 1-800-325-4180, http://www.starkbros.com. [since 1816] Beautiful and unusual fruit selections. Some hard-to-find items for people with fruit trees. The ladybug cottage and the bee condo are very interesting items. Fruit trees, ornamentals, some perennials. Have not ordered from them. 50 pages, seasonal mailings [2006] ***

Stokes Seeds Inc., Box 548, Buffalo, NY 14240 0548, http://www.stokeseeds.comor call 1-800-396 9238. Excellent catalog filled with vegetables and flowers. Good selection of flowers which cut well. Great selection of supplies from temporary raised beds to mini-greenhouses. Since 1881, this company is successful due to their quality and service. 97 pp. [2005] ***

Stokes Tropicals, P O Box 9868, New Iberia, LA 70562-9868; 1-800-624-9706, http://www.stokestropicals.com. $7.95 and worth every penny. At last, medicinal ginger. Greatly expanded. Most species zone 8 and warmer and require southern California or a greenhouse. Stunning selection. Gracious and helpful service. [2000] ****

Sundance Supply, http://www.sundancesupply.com. A web-only source. 250 pages of educational material and catalog online, many photos of completed greenhouses, solariums. Specializes in polycarbonate, the better-than-glass material (it's what we have in our cold frame and seed starters and it's terrific). Friendly, very nice to deal with. Outstanding web site. [2005] ****

Sunshine Farm & Gardens: uncommonly rare and exceptional plants, Rt. 5 V, Renick, WV 24966, 1 203-497-2208. http://www.sunfarm.com offers an exceptional web site with a wonderful plant selection. Limited mail order may or not be an option - you'll have to contact them to find out. I hope to try their stock. Outstanding web site. [2001] ****

Swan Island Dahlias: Quality dahlias for 80 years. http://www.dahlias.com, 1-800-410-6540, P O Box 700, Canby, OR 97013. One of the most magnificent species for any flower garden, we have a fondness for dahlias. Swan Island offers the premier catalog with simply spectacular choices!. 70+ years' experience and excellent growing information. Beautiful color photos in a glossy catalog. Worth every penny of the $4.00 cost. 66 pp. [2009] *****

Territorial Seed Company, P O Box 158, Cottage Grove, OR 97424-0061; 1-800-626-0866, http://www.territorial-seed.com. Another top source for seeds, gardening supplies, even bees!. Wonderful selection, growing catalog. Color photos, good descriptions and more varieties than you can shake a gourd at. 165+ full pages! Always new items. [2009] ****

The Garden Window, an online tree peony store - http://www.thegardenwindow.com, 1-408-364-2156. Small but highly selective assortment, excellent quality and exceptional information about planting and growing.[2001] ***

Thompson & Morgan, P O Box 1308, Jackson, NJ 08527-0308; http://www.thompson-morgan.com. 1-800-274-7333. Lovely catalog with many color photos, a stunning assortment. Perennials, vegetables. Well-deserved fame. 45+ pp. Since 1855. [2009] ****

Totally Tomatoes, 334 West Stroud St., Randolph, WI 53956, http:www.totallytomato.comor 1-800-345-5977. Several companies with the same address and catalogs which are somewhat similar. 55 pp. [2008]. **

Trees of Antiquity, 80 Wellsona Rd., Paso Robles, CA 93446; http://www.treesofantiquity.com, (805) 467-9909. From the Sonoma Antique Apple Nursery folk, this is a catalog of heirloom fruit trees. For those who wish to conserve valued and loved species and for those wanting certified organic stock. 58 pp. [2003] ***

Twilley Seeds, 121 Gary Road, Hodges, SC 29653; http://www.twilleyseed.com; 1-800-622-7333. Lots of vegetables, flowers, both annual and perennial herbs. A wonderful assortment of quality seed by the packet to the 25 pound bag! Discount on large orders. Suited for roadside sellers. 88+ pp. [2006] ****

Van Bourgondien, 245 Rte. 109, P O Box 1000, Babylon, NY 11702-9004; 1-800-622-9997. 67+ pp. + seasonal catalogs. Excellent quality bulbs and spectacular perennials; we've been pleased with their stock. Great photos. Gorgeous color! Retail catalog (see K. van Bourgondien for wholesale.) We find their quality to be excellent. and have bulbs from them thriving in our gardens. http://www.dutchbulbs.com. Many herbs disguised as perennials. [2009] *****

Van Dyck's Flower Farms, P O Box 200, Virginia Beach, VA 23450-2000; 1-800-248-2852, http://www.vandycks.com. Great selection of bulbs, iris, etc. 67 pp. annual fall catalog. [2006] ***

Van Engelen Inc., 23 Tulip Dr., Bantam, CT 06750; 1-860-567-8734. Awe-inspiring selection. Very reasonable prices for quantities of 100, the wholesale branch of John Scheepers; http://www.vanengelen.com. 50+ pp. [2008] ****

Vermont Bean Seed Co., current address listed as 334 West Stroud St., Randolph, WI 53956-1274, phone 1-800-349-1071. http://www.vermontbean.com. Primarily vegetables, some flowers and portable greenhouses. color photos. 60+ pp. [2008] **

Vesey's, P O Box 9000, Calais, ME 04619-6102; http://www.veseys.com, 1-800-363-7333. Vegetables and annuals. Beautiful catalog, 65 years' experience. Seeds and more. 120+ pp. plus additional rose and flowering shrub catalog. Great for Canadians! Good photos. [2005] ***

Walt Nicke's Garden Talk, P O Box 433, Topsfield, MA 01983; 1-978-887-3388, http://www.gardentalk.com. Charming catalog, 60+ b/w pp. $1.00. Humorous articles, great selection of tools and supplies. For anyone who loves gardening. From "trout spouts" to copper plant markers. Twice a year. These folk know the love of gardening. [2006] ***

Wayside Gardens, 1 Garden Lane, Hodges, SC 29695-0001; call 1-800-845-1124, http://www.waysidegardens.com. Top ratings from me for twenty-five years; outstanding photo with excellent text; accurate zoning; plants in excellent condition; free replacement. Perennials, shrubs, many herbs. I've been a "frequent shopper" and consistently pleased (we also give gift certificates to our family). Large, seasonal catalogs abundant with colored photos. Guaranteed satisfaction. Spring catalog has 145+ pages [plus seasonal and a rose catalogs]. It never fails, I start looking through the pages at their amazing collection and... [2009] *****

Weiss Brothers Nursery, 11690 Colfax Highway, Grass Valley, CA 95945, 1-530-272-7657. Now grows commercially only. [2004 by phone] ***

White Flower Farm, P O Box 50, Litchfield, CT 06759-0050; 1-800-503-9624, http://www.whiteflowerfarm.com. Superb catalog, outstanding photos of most species. Dependabke quality, competitive prices. We've had solid success with plants ordered from this family-owned vendor. Selection seems to grow increasingly tempting. Has a "kitchen" section worth investigating, also an autumn bulb and seasonal catalog. This nursery loves their work and (gasp!) they actually have true ladyslippers! 140+ pp [2009] *****

Wildseed Farms, 425 Wildflower Hills - P O Box 3000, Fredericksburg, TX 78624-3000, 1-800-848 0078, http://www.wildseedfarms.com. Great source for seed. Specializing in wildflowers and unusual species. Excellent information including average success rates for species. Great photos, information. Bulk seed available for large plantings. 52 pp. 26^th edition! [2009] ****

Winterthur, Winterthur, DE 19735; 1-800-767 0500, http://www.winterthurgifts.com. A "museum" catalog with very nice gifts, some garden things, a few plants. [2005] ***

Worm's Way Catalog, 7850 N. Highway 37, Bloomington, IN 47404; 1-800-274-9676; http://www.wormsway.com. A terrific source of products and supplies to improve your soil. Very interesting! [1999] ****

this edition: 16 March, 2009 ce

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