Abstract: The invention includes an improved container and method for growing a plant to be subsequently transplanted. In one embodiment, an upwardly extending container wall is adapted for retaining soil. A plurality gutters are disposed on an interior portion of the container wall. The gutters extend along the container wall to one or more openings, thereby guiding roots to the openings for air pruning the roots. A root guiding surface of the gutter may extend downwardly and outwardly to the container wall, to form a substantially v-shaped gutter. Alternatively, an upwardly extending lip may be disposed on an inner portion of the root guiding surface, forming a substantially u-shaped gutter between the lip, ledge, and the interior portion of the container wall. The gutters may also slope downward in a direction along the container wall to better accommodate the geotropic nature of plant roots.

Abstract: An apparatus bounds and retains the medium in which a transplantable plant is grown, and promotes the production of lateral root tips by such a plant at all levels in the growth medium. The apparatus includes a sheet having a plurality of hollow protuberances formed with proximal protuberance openings that communicate with distal protuberance openings. The protuberances provide pathways that mimic the natural tendency of the plant roots, so as to decrease the likelihood of the root tips evading the protuberances and promote root-tip growth towards the distal protuberance openings whereby air-root pruning is assured.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of river birch tree, Betula nigra, named ‘WHIT XXV,’ characterized as having a tree form that is broadly pyramidal to oval and may be grown with a single stem or multiple stems for greater landscape appeal. The bark of the ‘WHIT XXV’ is creamy-white during the late summer, fall and winter, developing its coloration at a young age when most stems are about 0.75 to 1.0 inch in diameter. The leaves are dark green of moderate size and turn yellow-gold in the fall.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of crapemyrtle, Lagerstroemia indica, particularly distinguished by having a near constant flower show during the growing season from new flower buds that form in the same positions as flowers that age and fall away. The flowers are soft pink and the flower buds are green to purple. Inflorescences are between about 4 and about 20 inches tall and between about 4 and about 16 inches wide. The crapemyrtle is further characterized by an upright growth habit and leathery leaves that emerge glossy purple and change to dark green.

Abstract: A new and distinct lacebark elm tree, particularly distinguished in having an attractive upright-oval form, dark yellow-green leathery leaves and exceptional wood strength. The tree is easily propagated from cuttings to produce trees having a strong central leader and good stem taper without staking. The tree has proven resistant to common elm insects and diseases. The observed tree produces few seeds, none of which have been viable.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of crape myrtle, Lagerstroemia indica, which is characterized by a dense, upright growth habit; leathery leaves which emerge crimson and change to dark green; low seed production (plant is semi-sterile); inflorescences which are 4 to 14 inches tall and 4 to 12 inches wide; flower buds which are green to crimson; and flowers which are white with transition to light crimson. The new variety is also characterized by a long bloom period.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of crape myrtle, Lagerstroemia indica, which is characterized by a slow to moderate growth habit; leathery leaves which emerge crimson and quickly change to medium green; moderate seed set; inflorescences which are 8 to 16 inches tall and 6 to 10 inches wide; flower buds which are oxblood red; and flowers with tightly grouped and highly wrinkled petals. The new variety is also characterized by a long bloom period.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of winter hardy hibiscus named ‘Whit XX’ is the result of a chance seedling among a seedling population specifically grown for the purpose of screening for variations. This new and distinct cultivar is characterized by being dwarf in stature relative to the species and all other seedlings from the same parent, has blood red flowers that are between about 3.5 and about 6 inches in diameter. The plant is further characterized as having unusually dark green, broadly lanceolate leaves, with a uniform growth habit of dense, stiff branches. Flower production occurs from early July to frost in north central Oklahoma.