In the 1890s competition among seed catalogs was fierce. Companies tried to distinguish themselves by using novelty plant varieties and superlative descriptions such as "Mammoth", "Giant", or "Perfection." Catalog covers devoted more space to illustrations, descriptions, testimonials, contests, special offers, and awards. This competition increased the size and number of seed catalogues into the early 1900s and led to more precise ordering and shipping instructions. Burpee and Ferry Morse are two seed companies that still exist today 125 years later.
Growing Home - 1890s Seed Catalogs
