We Want Your Business
Like any business, nurseries and seed-houses need customers. Many methods were used to entice people to spend money. Catalogs were richly illustrated with attractive engravings and beautiful covers; contests were held. There were bargains galore and unusual items were offered for sale – everything from boats to livestock to porcelain vases. Testimonials from satisfied customers were sprinkled throughout: “I am nearly 84 and have raised flowers ever since I was five and have never seen your seeds excelled.”* Bountiful harvests were suggested, if not promised: “213 Bushels Grown from One Acre!” As seen throughout this exhibit, guarantees of quality were also an important draw.
* Testimonial from Mrs. Maria E. Hawkins, Highlands, N.C., placed on the back cover of the Emma V. White Co. 1928 catalog.
Catalogs are essentially one big advertisement for a firm’s wares. In addition, seed and nursery companies would advertise in newspapers, magazines, and create beautiful seed rack displays in local stores.