Abstract: Apparatus for engaging and folding the limbs of a tree in a tree baling apparatus features opening and closing by means of concentric part circular tubes of a frame. When gaps of the nested tubes are in alignment, a tree trunk can be received within the frame then closed in by rotating the gaps out of alignment. The closed ring, horizontally engaged about a tree, is then drawn upwardly deflecting the limbs of the tree into a folded configuration for tying. No pivot arms are used as in conventional equipment, avoiding the problems of wear and distortion at pivot linkages.

Abstract: A material-handling device is disclosed, particularly for use as grappling apparatus for the loading and unloading of balled trees and shrubs in the nursery industry. By providing hydraulically powered rotational mechanism in the vertical plane coupled to and in front of hydraulically powered rotational mechanism in the horizontal plane, an arrangement is provided which is capable of rotating a load by a full 190° about a vertical axis and tilting the load vertically in a range of about 100°, while developing greater lifting power and economic advantages over similar apparatus employing pivot rotary actuators.

Abstract: Apparatus for digging and transplanting trees and the like comprises a horizontal frame to which a plurality of sliding spade assemblies is mounted, each comprising a spade blade, a thrust tube secured to the blade and a slide housing, also secured to the blade, which surrounds a portion of the outer surface of the thrust tube. The tower is received within a channel between the thrust tube and the slide housing, so that the spade assembly may be reciprocally moved along the tower with the blade supported both inside and outside the tower for improved stress distribution and durability. The bearing surfaces of the tower and the slider are provided with linings of plastic to minimize frictional resistance.