Abstract: The roots of plants being transplanted are intimately contacted with water containing a catalytically effective amount of a novel catalyst. In a preferred variant, the water may also contain water soluble catalyst treated lignite. The catalyst is prepared by a process including the steps of admixing a water soluble alkali metal silicate with an aqueous medium containing carefully controlled amounts of water soluble substances which are sources of calcium ion and magnesium ion, reacting the same to produce an aqueous colloidal suspension of the reaction product, admixing a micelle forming surfactant with the aqueous medium, and agitating the aqueous medium containing the colloidal particles and surfactant to form catalyst-containing micelles. The preparation of the novel catalyst and the water soluble catalyst treated lignite is described in detail hereinafter. The transplanted plants grow more vigorously and are more resistant to disease and/or adverse environmental conditions.

Abstract: A procedure for the treatment of roots of seedlings whereby the roots are provided a water-rich coating, having a surface sufficiently dry and moisture-stable to permit the seedlings to remain discrete and to preserve the integrity of the coating during ordinary handling and planting operation, but sufficiently moisture-sensitive so that soon after planting, the coating disintegrates and releases the pesticide, thus providing the plant protection against pests over an extended period of time. The method is applicable with insecticides, nematicides and fungicides, whether these pesticides are systemic or non-systemic.

Abstract: A long plastic film roll is manufactured in situ for covering an agricultural, athletic or other field. A plurality of short plastic film rolls are supported on drivable rollers, which in turn are mounted on a plurality of spaced trucks extending along the width of the field. The axes of the film rolls are parallel, but alternate rolls are staggered with every other roll being disposed either forwardly or rearwardly of the adjacent rolls. The roll ends overlap and, as the trucks move longitudinally down the field to lay down the film, the overlapping edges of the film are sealingly joined together as they leave their respective rolls and just before being laid down.