Plant Supports Patents (Class 47/44)
  • Publication number: 20120000123
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting foliage or fruit on plants and bushes includes a base ring assembly. The base ring assembly includes a plurality of base ring sections that are placed around a base of a plant and which snap together around the base, or stem, of the plant. A pivot assembly supports a lower rod that is able to pivot inward toward a line extending vertically upward from a center of the plant support system or to pivot outward away from the line. The lower rod is able to be secured in the desired position. At least one leg is attached to the base ring assembly for insertion into a soil or growing medium. A preferred oval or elliptical hollow center version of the lower rod is described along with an upper rod that are used to provide an extensible variable overall length structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Tavis Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20110283610
    Abstract: An enhanced-stability, A-frame-shaped plant support for the support of plants such as tomato vines, or other fruits and vegetables growing in soil which, while supporting plants laden with heavy fruits or vegetables, is stable and greenhouse tent wind-sail resistant, in part because of a readily usable starting width gauge indicator on detent latch members operable to controlling the ultimate width between pivotable opposing halves of the plant support during installation to a desired depth in the soil. After use, when removed from the soil, the A-frame-shaped plant support collapses, pivoting about preferably hog-ring type interconnection rings between the opposing halves of the plant support for facilitating easy removal from the ground and folding flat for easy storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: VAHAN M. DINIHANIAN
  • Publication number: 20110252703
    Abstract: A form for shaping a culm of a plant, such as bamboo, is provided. Embodiments of the form can comprise two interlocking corner pieces that can force the culm to grow in a square (or other multisided) shape. The interlocking corner pieces can be frictionally engaged, and the magnitude of the frictional force can be adjusted and optimized. The size of the form can then be automatically expandable, depending on the amount of friction placed on the interlocking corner pieces. In described embodiments, an optimized magnitude of frictional force can allow the form to expand if the culm is too large for the form (such as, for example, if the width of the form is set to be less than the actual width of the culm), while at the same time resisting such expansion enough to shape the culm as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: EMPIRE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT LLC
    Inventor: Alisa Paulsen Ramakrishnan
  • Publication number: 20110232176
    Abstract: The present invention is a modular support for vine plants and tomato plants. It comprises a solid, cylindrical base with holes to accept posts and associate tier rings. A cover may also be provided to transform the base into a miniature hot house. Notches may be formed in the rim of the base to accommodate irrigation systems and stake ends may be provided for the posts to allow immediate securement of the posts to the ground rather than the base. The solid base contains water, mulch and other beneficial compounds for the plants and helps block the spread of weeds immediately around the plant. As the plant grows, additional tiers may be added to the support to increase its size. The parts are preferably made of a durable plastic so as to support larger plants and increase longevity of the support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Chris D. Davis, Geoffrey E. Dobbin
  • Patent number: 7941967
    Abstract: A method provides the steps of: bending a first length of hot rolled steel bar to define a trunk member of a tree frame; bending and welding second cut lengths of hot rolled steel bar onto a bottom end of the trunk member to define feet members; placing a planting pot on top of the feet members with the trunk member extending up through and above the pot; bending and welding third cut lengths of hot rolled steel bar to the trunk member at spaced intervals above the pot to define branch arms; planting flowering vine plants in the pot and braiding the vines up the trunk member and out onto the branch arms; trimming the vines on the trunk member to remove foliage; and allowing foliage of the flowering vine plants to grow on the branch arms to create the appearance of a giant Bonzai tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Wesley B. Jolley
  • Publication number: 20110047871
    Abstract: Disclosed is a plant support and water displacement apparatus, comprised of one or more segments of tubing, configurable to multiple lengths and shaped like a corkscrew with a hollow channel to transport liquids through the plant support system and displace liquids directly at the plants roots. Multiple water reservoirs may be employed to store and displace added liquids. Plant support and water displacement apparatus may also have a decorative feature with the addition of plastic shaped leaves to appear to as natural vegetation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: James Patrick Bowerman
  • Publication number: 20110023358
    Abstract: An apparatus for growing plants comprises a rotatable plant-holding member having an axis of rotation that is at an angle from the vertical, for example a horizontal axis. Holding means are provided on the plant-holding member for holding plants for growth in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the plant-holding member. The apparatus includes support means for supporting the plant-holding member for rotation about its axis of rotation and means for rotating the plant-holding member. The plant-holding member may be a disk, cylinder, or helical blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Edward J. Marchildon
  • Patent number: 7850402
    Abstract: A retaining wall or steeply faced slope is disclosed having a naturally green façade. The wall or slope is made of blocks of compacted earth, each having a face reinforced with wire mesh and covered with vegetation such as native grasses. The blocks may be formed onsite, saving transportation costs and other waste, using native soils. The mesh may extend beyond other faces of each block to provide handles and geogrid anchoring. A press is disclosed to form the blocks by compacting soil mixed with cement, the press including hydraulic rams or screw jacks that create immense pressures and having wedge shaped sides that relieve lateral confining pressure when the block is extracted. The wall may be expected to last indefinitely, despite the vegetation growing on it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventor: Henry Justiniano
  • Patent number: 7818915
    Abstract: The present invention is in the area of agriculture and more specifically is directed to a method for improving the culture of the edible fig (Ficus carica). As currently grown in California, the fig tends to have a rather short season so that fresh fruit is available only sporadically. The present invention provides a comprehensive method for improved culture of edible figs to provide fresh fruit throughout the year. The method specifies optimum methods for establishing and maintaining orchards. The method includes steps for extending fruit production into the winter. The method includes steps for enhancing fruit quality especially antioxidant compounds which are believed to be beneficial to human health. The method includes steps ensuring that fresh fruit will have an extended storage life. All of these factors contribute to higher yield and higher overall profitability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: The State of Israel, Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center
    Inventor: Moshe A. Flaishman
  • Publication number: 20100212223
    Abstract: A plant support with securing ring having a rigid unitary support comprising a lower, vertical, straight segment for pushing into earth and an upper support head shaped substantially as an incomplete circle, positioned horizontally and at a right angle to the lower segment of the same unitary component. In addition, a second component, an incomplete ring formed of semi-rigid material, a capture ring, significantly thicker than the upper support head incomplete circle material, contains a groove around the outer circumference which, when capture ring is rotatably placed within the incomplete circle in the upper support head of the rigid unitary support, receives incomplete circle which, in turn, holds capture ring in place while allowing capture ring to be rotated, thereby closing off the gap in the incomplete circles of both the capture ring and the upper support head, thus holding a plant stem securely within the closed circle form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Lloyd William Gibbons
  • Publication number: 20100180495
    Abstract: A process for controlling grapevine ripening comprises a step, to be implemented between the birth of the rachis (R) and harvesting of the bunch (G), in which rachis (R) supporting means (1) are applied, designed to at least counterbalance the weight of the flowers and fruit developing on the rachis (R), allowing the rachis (R) to grow according to its original direction. A piece of equipment for controlling grapevine ripening, in accordance with the above-mentioned process, comprises a structure (2) fixed to the ground and rachis (R) supporting means (1) which can be connected to the fixed structure (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventor: Franco ARIANO
  • Patent number: 7735259
    Abstract: An adjustable plant stake assembly having cross braces, stake anchors and couplers is provided that can be used with conventional plant stakes. The cross braces extend between two adjacent plant stakes and are adjustable in length to adjust the spacing between the stakes. The stake anchors support the stakes and include a step portion that enables the anchor to be driven into the ground by stepping on the step. As the plant grows in height, each plant stake can be lengthened by connecting an additional plant stake to the top of the existing stake using one of the couplers. A kit including the plant stakes, cross braces, stake anchors and couplers is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Woodstream Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher T. Rich, Curt Rymer, Peter Byar
  • Publication number: 20100126064
    Abstract: A fastener and method of securing a plant to a wire is described. The fastener may be used, for example, to secure a grapevine to a foliage wire. In one embodiment, a flexible fastener is provided that can secure the plant. The fastener includes two convex portions for attaching to the wire, and can deform to restrain the plant against the wire. In one embodiment, the fastener is deformable to allow the two convex portions to overlap and accept the wire, thus restraining a plant. In another embodiment, a biodegradable fastener is provided that can easily secure a plant to a wire, and which can be left in the field to decompose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: Nils Cunningham
  • Patent number: 7722000
    Abstract: A movable support post is attached to a vessel, such as a large planter's pot. Two or more fasteners are employed to attach the post to the vessel. The fasteners extend through the post and extend into the interior of the vessel. A ballast material, such as concrete, is disposed in the vessel and encases the bolts therein. The ballast material acts as an anchor to stabilize the vessel and the attached post. A removable lid or tray is positioned at the top of the vessel. The tray or lid can function as a birdbath or flowerpot, adding a decorative adjunct to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Richard H. Sherburne
  • Publication number: 20100115836
    Abstract: An agricultural growth management tool can include a biodegradable polymer body having a synthetic polymer and an optional biodegradability enhancement additive. The biodegradability enhancement additive can include a microbial attractant. The biodegradable polymer body can be configured as a plant stake, branch tag, blister pack, plantable container, agrifilm, drip tubing, drip tubing connectors, drip tubing accessories, market trays, plug and propagation trays, flats and inserts, transfer pots, transfer trays, landscape ribbon, landscape twine/rope, landscaping bags, pot wraps, floral wraps, hanging basket assemblies, greenhouse films/sheets or the like. The synthetic polymer can be a biodegradable polymer, inherently non-biodegradable polymer, or a combination of the two.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Brandon J. Julian
  • Publication number: 20100005714
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting plants growing from the ground includes an elongated rigid pole with a plurality of axially-spaced apertures along much of the pole. Flexible cord ties are threaded in a spiral fashion through at least three apertures in the long wall of the elongated pole, and knots at the ends are tied around plant stems or branches thereby preventing disengagement from the holes and simultaneously supporting the plant. One end of the elongated pole is cut at an angle to the axis to form a point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventor: JOHN E. AIKEN
  • Patent number: 7587860
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a landscaper trellis that would feature basket hangers and a solar light incorporated into its design. The trellis would measure roughly 8 feet long and 8 feet high. The curved framework would consist of two lattice panels stretching between three support poles, and be made of a material comprising treated lumber, durable plastic, or a metal. The invention provides an attractive setting with the ability to hold planters, and provide lighting when necessary anywhere without requiring an external electrical source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventors: Aqueelah Ilyas, Muhammad Ilyas
  • Publication number: 20090183428
    Abstract: A device for securing and holding a plant creeping along a support wire (11), comprising a fastener (12) configured as a skewed-surface, open ring composed of an annular web (21), which delimits an internal volume (13) for receiving the plant through an access opening (16), and a pair of hooks (14, 15), which are bent back outwardly at the ends of said web to form semi-open retaining eyes (17) that are offset in the heightwise direction and make it possible to exert a wedging effect on the support wire due to oblique deformation relative to the vertical direction. The fastener (12) is hingeless and is made in one piece from biodegradable material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: A. RAYMOND ET CIE
    Inventor: Miquel Massaguer Agullo
  • Publication number: 20090145870
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus may permit the propagation and distribution of plants, or merely storage and/or shipment of items, in a space efficient manner. Individual apparatus may be stacked in a rack system. Space between individual stacked apparatus may be varied to accommodate plants of various sizes and permit varying degrees of air flow. Individual apparatus may be collapsed into smaller units without removable hardware and with all components remaining connected at all times. Apparatus may be delivered in a fully assembled stated and returned in a state of reduced size, minimizing transportation costs and efficiently utilizing transportation resources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: Tagawa Greenhouse Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Randall E. Tagawa, Richard D. Henwood
  • Publication number: 20090133326
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting plant foliage includes a base assembly that is placed in a growing medium. A plurality of support members are attached to the base assembly and extend radially away from a plant center and vertically. Additional linear extension segments are detachably-attached, as desired, to an upper end of any support member to provide increased vertical height. Additional radius extension segments are similarly detachably-attached to the upper end of any support member to provide increased radial displacement. The linear extension segments can be attached to the upper portion of other extension segments or the upper portion of other radius extension segments. The radius extension segments can be similarly attached. Plant ties that do not over tighten the plants and which permit easy attachment and removal are disclosed. A telescopically extensible top segment that prevents injury to a user is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Tavis Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20090031624
    Abstract: A tree tie and method of use is disclosed. The tree tie comprises a member. The tie member including a first end portion; a first tab coupled to the first end portion; a middle portion and one end of a middle portion coupled to the first tab. The tie member also includes an opposite end of the middle portion coupled to a second tab, a second end portion coupled to the second tab and a head portion coupled to the second end portion. The tree tie including a flexible hose surrounding the middle portion of the first member and being substantially held in place by the first and second tabs. Only flexible hose contacts the tree when the first member surrounds the tree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas J. DECKER
  • Publication number: 20080313957
    Abstract: A plant tie and a chain of plant ties are disclosed. The plant tie can include an expandable portion, such as a length of tape, and two twistable portions, such as two lengths of wire. The expandable portion can span a gap between the twistable portions. The plant tie can be wrapped around a portion of a plant and secured in place by twisting the twistable portions. Once in place, the plant tie can expand to accommodate movement and/or growth of the plant to which it is attached. The disclosed chain of plant ties can include multiple individual plant ties linked in series for ease of manufacture and use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Joshua A. Long
  • Patent number: 7448162
    Abstract: A system and method for producing flowers and stems from flower bulbs and marketing them by securing a desired number of bulbs to a uniquely configured support device and causing the bulbs to develop roots and shoots. The support tray is then transferred and inserted into a transparent display container where the support device is elevated from the bottom of the container by a predetermined distance, and a nourishing liquid is added to the container. The combined display container and support device is then shipped either directly to retailers for sale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Inventors: Lilian Paternostre, Joep A. F. Paternostre
  • Publication number: 20080134573
    Abstract: A method and device are described for protecting structures having a central longitudinal portion and radially extending arms, including plants such as palm trees from wind damage. The device may be positioned around a structure and includes a flexible material configured to wrap around a central longitudinal portion and radially extending arms, such that a lower edge of the flexible material is positioned near a lower portion of the radially extending arms and when wrapped around the structure, a portion of the radially extending arms is pushed toward the central longitudinal portion of the structure and two side edges of the flexible material are proximate one another. The device fastens around the structure and is configured to secure the radially extending arms against the central longitudinal portion of the structure and to reinforce the central longitudinal portion of the structure thereby protecting the structure against wind damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Richard J. Flaster
  • Patent number: 7380371
    Abstract: A clip includes a body (10) and an opening (14) within the body and in which, in use, a part of a plant can engage. A slot (19), which is of doglegged configuration, extends between the opening (14) and an edge (17) of the body (10). The body (10) can be coupled to a means for providing support to the plant or part of the plant by a second opening (13) for which a slot (18) extends from an opposite edge (17) of the body (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventors: Murray Douglas Jones, Mark Andrew Jones
  • Publication number: 20080034649
    Abstract: A vegetation attachment device for supporting plant limbs is used in combination with an overhead support member, such as the horizontal support wire of a trellis system used to support grape vines. Embodiments of the device generally comprise an attachment hook configured to engage the overhead support wire, a closing hook, a catch member for engaging the closing hook, a deformable limb containment structure, and biasing means for maintaining the engagement of the closing hook to the catch member. The deformable limb containment structure deforms to accommodate limited lateral deflection or growth in the vine or plant limb. Embodiments of the disclosed apparatus may be used instead of currently known devices, such as wire ties, for supporting vines and branches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Martin Solario Sanchez, Leonardo Favio Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7281352
    Abstract: A folding plant and vine supporter that has rings of different diameters which are attached to four identical vertical supports. When fully assembled, the rings are horizontal or situated perpendicular to the vertical supports. The vertical supports provide four equidistant focal points, which maintain the rings in a horizontal position. Each ring rests at a level along the vertical support. The ring with the smallest diameter is the lowermost ring or the ring closest to the ground. The ring with the largest diameter is the uppermost ring or the ring furthest away from the ground. The rings increase in diameter as the distance from the ground increases. Each ring has a ridge around the inside circumference to stabilize the plant support in the assembled position. The rings resist upward movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Inventor: Walter L Peck
  • Patent number: 7152368
    Abstract: A trellis assembly including a first trellis section having a plurality of vertical rods connected to at least one horizontal rod and a second trellis section having a plurality of connected horizontal and vertical rods. The second trellis section includes a plurality of tubes connected to an outside of the vertical rods at upper ends thereof configured to accept lower ends of the vertical rods of the first trellis section to connect the first trellis section to the second trellis section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Dwight V. Swanson
  • Patent number: 7152367
    Abstract: A plant support hook having an elongated shaft with a U-shaped hook supported at one end of the and forming a resilient interlock with the shaft to engage a string-like support for the U-shaped hook and a J-shaped hook on the other end of the shaft for supporting a branch of the plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Ester Mastronardi
  • Patent number: 7020946
    Abstract: A method of making a decorative arrangement includes providing a wet foam, securing a plurality of decorative elements which may, for example, consist of live flowers or other live vegetation, dried flowers or other dried vegetation, artificial flowers or other artificial vegetation and additional ornaments. A plurality of decorative elements are secured to the wet foam and the wet foam is subsequently permitted to dry or dried. The wet foam may be applied to a release surface or to a support structure. Portions of the decorative arrangement may be made by sequential applications of wet foam, if desired. The wet foam, after partial curing, is shaped to provide a nodule within which the decorative elements are placed. The surface of the foam may be wet, as by spraying water thereon prior to shaping and partial curing, and may also be sprayed thereafter as by spraying water thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Camillo Mele
  • Patent number: 7017299
    Abstract: A gardening cage having self-irrigating and self-fertilizing devices. In a typical embodiment, the cage includes panels having a frame that includes a plurality of horizontal and vertical rungs. The panels are connected so that rungs of respective panels cascade with respect to rungs of the adjacent panel. In a typical embodiment, the bottom rungs of each panel include irrigating holes so that water injected into the rungs can be dispensed around the periphery of the vines. The water is typically suppled to the cage by a hose that connects to a water inlet that feeds the holes. Several cages can be placed side by side and can be fitted with “T” fittings that branch off the supply hose and feed the individual cages via the water inlet fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventors: Janet R. Speed, Stacey E. Talbot
  • Patent number: 7013549
    Abstract: A method of making a decorative arrangement includes providing a wet foam, securing a plurality of decorative elements which may, for example, consist of live flowers or other live vegetation, dried flowers or other dried vegetation, artificial flowers or other artificial vegetation and additional ornaments. A plurality of decorative elements are secured to the wet foam and the wet foam is subsequently permitted to dry or dried. The wet foam may be applied to a release surface or to a support structure. Portions of the decorative arrangement may be made by sequential applications of wet foam, if desired. The wet foam, after partial curing, is shaped to provide a nodule within which the decorative elements are placed. The surface of the foam may be wet, as by spraying water thereon prior to shaping and partial curing, and may also be sprayed thereafter as by spraying water thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: Camillo Mele
  • Patent number: 7003913
    Abstract: Vegetable Cradle with a rigid support platform that is radially curved when looking at an end view and straight and parallel to the ground when looking at a side view. A plurality of legs are attached the underside of the platform to keep the lowest portion of the platform approximately one inch off the ground. The platform has a plurality of ventilation slots and or apertures thereby allowing a fruit or vegetable to be ventilated. The platform is constructed of transparent material such as clear acrylic plastic. In a preferred embodiment, the legs include a broad foot to help prevent the legs from sinking into the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Dudley Smith
  • Patent number: 6981443
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Dutchmaster Nurseries Ltd.
    Inventor: Marlin Tillaart
  • Patent number: 6964126
    Abstract: An assembly includes a plurality of elongated and rectilinear support posts having opposed end portions. The assembly further includes a plurality of U-shaped fastening members removably positional through a primary support member. The primary support member is provided with first and second pairs of arcuate indentations formed along the front face of the primary support member. A bracket including attachable first and second sections is medially situated between the support posts. The first section has opposed end portions conjoined to the front face of the primary support member, and the second section has opposed end portions conjoined to the first section end portions wherein the second section protrudes forwardly of the first section. The first and second pair of indentations are juxtaposed side-by-side and are laterally opposed from the end portions of the first and second sections such that the support posts can abut the bracket during operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventor: Dennis L. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6948277
    Abstract: Methods for making trellis support structures for use in supporting vine borne crops are disclosed. The support structure includes a metallic support member that is bent into a modified U-shape and attached to a metallic cross arm using a process that produces consistent results. The combination of the U-shaped member and cross arm is then attached to a vertical support post at two different locations: one attachment at the center of the U-shaped member, and the other attachment at the center of the cross arm in an axial alignment with the support post. The structure is extremely strong, capable of supporting considerable weight, not likely to shift, and less prone to failure from fatigue. The support structure is produced by first bending the central section of a metallic support member into a U-shape, placing the bent member on a specially designed adjustable jig, and attaching a cross arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: A & P Ag Structures, Inc.
    Inventor: David Parrish
  • Patent number: 6944989
    Abstract: A system and kit of components for winterizing plants and trees, where the invention comprises a skeletal frame formed by plural first tubular members, each having an upper end and a lower end. When assembled, the respective lower ends are spaced apart and positioned vertically and anchored within the ground surrounding the plant or tree. Joined between adjacent first tubular members are plural second tubular, horizontally oriented, members to form a generally square skeletal frame. About the skeletal frame is a light-transmitting plastic wrap. Overriding the skeletal frame is a top frame, preferably pivotal about a pair of upper ends, to allow access to the protected plant or tree. Additionally, the invention contemplates a cover, such as a plastic wrap or canvas-like material over the top frame to ensure complete protection of the plant or tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: John Bradley
  • Patent number: 6938370
    Abstract: A tree support stake having a base and a trunk. The base includes a plurality of tines extending horizontally and radially from a center of the base. Each of the tines includes a vertical portion extending downwardly at a periphery of the base. One end of the trunk is connected to the base and the other end extends upwardly to a predetermined height. The trunk comprises a plurality of upward vertical extensions joined together and extending upwardly at various elevations along the predetermined height, and a plurality of horizontal bars protruding perpendicularly from terminuses of the upward vertical extensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Milt Johns
  • Patent number: 6925754
    Abstract: A new vegetation support for supporting the growth of vegetation such as vegetable plants and vines. The inventive device includes an elongate pole with alternating first and second sets of bores through it. The bores of the first set of bores are extended in a first direction while the bores of the second set of bores are extended in a second direction. Inserted through each of the bores is an elongate dowel. An auger member with a top turning portion and a bottom corkscrew portion is inserted into an opening in the bottom of the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Brian J. Tearoe
  • Patent number: 6922943
    Abstract: A vegetable and plant growing cage and method of use and manufacture comprising a tapered, flexible, and lightweight helical coil which is capable of attaching to a conventional stake and which allows a gardener, farmer, or grower to alleviate the need for tying a plant during the growing season. The device allows a plant to grow within the coil and further allows the coil to support the branches, stems, fruits, and flowers of the plant. The apparatus and method of use allows for the user to non-destructively collapse or compress the helical coil into a substantially flat helicoid for storage during the non-growing season.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventors: Michel G. Paille, Robert L. Sanazaro
  • Patent number: 6907694
    Abstract: A new trellis support structure and a method for its production for use in supporting vine borne crops. The support structure includes a metallic support member that is bent into a modified U-shape and attached to a metallic cross arm using a process that produces consistent results. The combination of the U-shaped member and cross arm is then attached to a vertical support post at two different locations: one attachment at the center of the U-shaped member, and the other attachment at the center of the cross arm in an axial alignment with the support post. The structure is extremely strong, capable of supporting considerable weight, not likely to shift, and less prone to failure from fatigue. The support structure is produced by first bending the central section of a metallic support member into a U-shape, placing the bent member on a specially designed adjustable jig, and attaching a cross arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: A&P Ag Structures, Inc.
    Inventor: David Parrish
  • Patent number: 6874276
    Abstract: A cage for supporting a growing fruit or vegetable vine comprising a series of concentric rings of ever increasing diameter wherein the rings are secured to a pair of opposed continuous wire loops having legs at the free end to be pushed into the ground, and a handle at the upper extremity of each loop above the cage to facilitate handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Mildred G. Morrison
  • Publication number: 20040200143
    Abstract: A plant collar support and containment system for the growing and supporting plants and preventing the onset of diseases and rotting by supporting a plant\.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: Elizabeth Stanley
  • Publication number: 20040088915
    Abstract: Described is a tree or shrub shaping guide comprising at least one elongated support positionable adjacent an object to be shaped; at least one shaped guide; and a connection mechanism connecting the shaped guide to the at least one elongated support, which comprises movement elements to allow the shaped guide to move relative to the at least one elongated support; wherein the at least one shaped guide allows movement along a shaped path and enables a user to operate a cutting mechanism to shape an object such as a tree or shrub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Rod Power
  • Patent number: 6718691
    Abstract: A fastener to secure and train branches of a vine or plant to a horizontal support wire or other structures comprises a longitudinal body including first and second hook portions and a longitudinal flexible member having first and second ends connected to the respective first and second hook portions. The first and second hook portions are mirror images of each other but rotated 180°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Jim Taylor
  • Patent number: 6708446
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tree stabilizing assembly and method for using same, wherein the stabilizing assembly is designed to support or provide supplementary bracing to a tree so as to maintain it in a substantially upright or other predetermined position when the tree is planted or replanted. More specifically, the subject tree staking assembly comprises at least one, but preferably two, or a plurality of support members. A V-strap assembly is used to removably, but securely, position the support members in spaced relation to one another about the circumference of a trunk of the tree being supported without actually encircling or girdling the tree. Consequently, the tree is not blemished or scarred. Advantageously, the assembly affords a system by which a tree can be supported in a predetermined, upright position by a single worker without the need for specialized parts or tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Dennis M. Ambrose
  • Patent number: 6668485
    Abstract: Agrotechnical method for Branch Cordon trained vine, for the mechanizable control of its growth, and yield; where in the branch cordon plantation a cordon arm supporting wire parallel with the direction of the stock row, preferably in 160-190 cm height is used; long canes are preferably cultivated every 10-30-40 cm from one another into producing twigs; characterised in that sprouting, yield and quality are regulated by the thinning of the main buds in the upper zone of the foliage wall, and the measure of thinning of the main buds thus producing twigs are cultivated having short shoots and short canes (which require no pruning), which appropriately reach near the ground, have off-shoots and sometimes grow higher than the cordon arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Babó Tivadar
  • Patent number: 6631584
    Abstract: A method of growing vines trained in rows, particularly for the purposes of avoiding frost damage and promoting good fruiting, the method being of the type consisting in draping a film (8) of plastics material over each row of vines, the film being supported firstly by at least one top wire (2) situated at the tops of a row of stakes (1), and secondly by spreader elements (5, 7) for spreading the two panels of the film (8), the film being held by fasteners (9) that are secured at intervals to the bottom edges (11) thereof and that are connected to fastener members (12, 13) that are preferably situated on said stakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventor: Daniel Seinsevin
  • Patent number: 6625926
    Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a tree or shrub, comprises a plurality of stakes each including first and second ends, respectively, the first ends being adapted for permitting the stakes to be driven into the ground, a plurality of straps, and attachment hooks located on the plurality of stakes, respectively, for securely attaching a portion of selected ones of the plurality of straps thereto, respectively, wherein the plurality of stakes are arranged in a desired spaced apart configuration around the root ball, and driven via their respective first ends at least partly into the ground, each of the plurality of straps being individually connected via the attachment hooks to and between a selected pair of the plurality of stakes, respectively, for providing a desired configuration of a single layer or multiple overlying layers of the plurality of straps, whereby the plurality of straps are positioned over and against the root ball to provide a downward force thereagainst and to secure the root ball in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventor: James A. Mancini
  • Patent number: 6604320
    Abstract: A support for branches and vines consisting of a base which has a hole, a stem which has many holes at different levels and facing in various directions, many rods which may have many holes, many branch support assemblies each of which consist of a string which has at least two hooks, and a holder which may have many holes; the stem penetrating through the hole of the base; the rods being able to penetrate the stem through its holes; one of the hook of a branch support assembly being able to hook on a hole of a rod; another hook of the branch support assembly being able to hook on the holes of the holder of the branch support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Inventor: Chih-Yu Hsia