Abstract: An automated mechanical loading system for loading seedling carriers into a transporter bin for transport to the field for planting. The system of the present invention includes a transport bin having a plurality of rails mounted on the inside walls of the bin for accepting a plurality of carriers, power driven projections slidably mounted on sleds which are fixedly mounted to the top frame of a lift for urging one or more carriers into a preselected set of opposing rails in the bin. The lift controls the height of the sled so that the carriers are urged into the preselected set of rails in the bin. A mechanically referenced coupler is included for securing the lift to the bin to restrict movement of the lift relative to the bin into which the seedling carriers are to be loaded during the automated loading operation.

Abstract: An independently automated mechanical transplanter for dispensing seedlings into a furrow located in the ground or in a field. The transplanter includes at least one automated transplanter unit mounted to a transportable frame. A trundle is mounted to the transportable frame having a plurality of gripper fingers. Each automated transplanter unit has a seedling tray for presenting a plurality of seedlings to the trundle to grip and extract the seedlings from the seedling tray. The transplanter also includes a moveable conveyor belt having a plurality of pockets attached thereto; the trundle configured to transfer the plurality of seedlings into the plurality of pockets as the conveyor belt moves; and each individual pocket configured to open when positioned directly over a delivery chute for dropping the seedlings into a planting shoe for delivery into the open furrow.

Abstract: ‘SAVared’ is a new and distinct variety of miniature rose plant primarily identified by the very strong fragrance in a red miniature rose. The plant is upright with medium to dark green, matte foliage. The attractive flowers may occasionally have award winning, exhibition rose form, especially for the open bloom class. They are held well above the plant, borne singly on long stems and in small sprays, and good as cut flowers.

Abstract: ‘WEKwapunk’ is a new variety of miniature rose plant with informal, semi-double blossoms of a unique muted russet and smoky lavender with orange centers. Having a columnar and spreading habit makes it suitable for decorative use in a garden or as a specimen plant. This new variety has an above average degree of resistance to powdery mildew and rust.

Abstract: This new rose plant is of a medium size and upright growing habit. It bears hybrid tea-form flowers of great substance, primarily one to a stem. The flowers last very well on the plant making it an excellent decoration for the garden.

Abstract: ‘SAVaboo’ is a new and distinct variety of hardy miniature rose plant, identified by its bi-color blooms of a noticeable bright orange-red offset by the deep yellow at the center and covering the reverse of the petals. The plant is vigorous and a profuse bloomer, making it ideal as a specimen plant, in a border, or in a container.

Abstract: ‘BENred’ is a new and distinct variety of rose plant of the miniflora class. It grows 22 to 36 inches tall and 22 to 30 inches wide, bearing dark red flowers in proportion to the size of the foliage. Blooms are borne primarily singly, last well on the plant, and are good as cut flowers. The dark green, glossy foliage offers outstanding resistance to powdery mildew.