honesty
courage
wisdom
integrity
perseverance
respect
Ping knew he had a "green thumb", so he worked hard to help his seed to grow. Even though it didn't ever sprout, he never gave up.
Even though he was embarassed and thought he would be punished, Ping still went to the Emperor and told him the truth.
Ping did not consider cheating because the Emperor had told the children to "do their best". He wanted to honour the Emperor by obeying him. He also listened to his father's advice and went to the palace to meet the Emperor with his empty pot.
Ping bravely goes to the Emperor even though he is the only child with an empty pot.
The Emporer very carefully chose a test to find the most honest and reliable person to be his successor.
It's not always the results that are most important. What is most important is HOW you get the results. Ping showed his honourable character by bringing an empty pot. However, the other brought beautiful plants and flowers, but in reality, they proved they lacked sincerity.