The Dahlia Blue Book for 1961

This 1961 catalog from Rocky River Dahlia Gardens in Columbia Station, Ohio, showcases their dahlia breeding program and current offerings. Featured are eight Rocky River introductions developed through multi-year selection and trial-ground testing, including Betty Baynes (yellow formal with thick petals, Certificate of Merit), Billy (miniature yellow cactus), Evelyn Rumbold (purple formal, Derrill W. Hart Medal winner), I Believe (miniature semi-cactus with golden-yellow and light rose coloring), J. Clare (dark red formal), Joan Dowling (cherry red large flower), Kathy Lou (coral pink ball), and Sunbrite (yellow cactus). The catalog also includes new novelties from other breeders such as Peanuts (white miniature with high trial-ground scores) and Susan Daly (Cardinal red and Primrose yellow informal). Pricing lists roots and plants separately, with detailed horticultural descriptions of each variety's growth habits, flower form, stem quality, and show awards.