This book investigates the horticultural practices and available plant materials from the late 19th century, specifically focusing on seeds, plants, and bulbs as offered in 1896. Drawing from the original 1896 publication, Pitcher and Manda present a catalog and guide to the flora available to gardeners at the turn of the century. The text emphasizes the quality and novelty of seeds, plants, and bulbs, guaranteeing the best quality from the 1895 crop.

This reprint offers a direct window into the horticultural offerings of 1896, serving as a valuable historical document for gardening enthusiasts and historians alike. The publisher's note indicates a commitment to preserving the original text's integrity, including any minor imperfections inherent in aged documents. The focus on tested and guaranteed seeds highlights the commercial standards of the era.