Abstract: The invention relates to a growth device for crop, provided with at least a casing and a core part, wherein the casing is substantially manufactured from fluid impermeable material and surrounds the at least one core part at least partly, wherein the core part comprises a growth medium or is formed therefrom. The invention further relates to an assembly of at least two of such growth devices, a cladding or construction part comprising such growth device and a method for the manufacture of growth devices.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for hanging a load from awnings, ceilings or wall brackets, for example a planter or other item to be suspended but selectively lowered. The load is suspended from a cord that is constantly urged to a wound up position on a spool held above the load. The load can be lowered by overcoming the winding force. Optionally, the load can be fixed over a range of lowered positions. In one example, a wedge clamps the cord in any of a range of extended lengths to set different heights of the load. Optionally, the spool can be enclosed. The planter easily and in a controlled manner can be lowered against the winding force with relatively little manual pulling force on the planter. But also, the planter can easily and in a controlled manner by assisted when raised by relatively little manual lifting force.

Abstract: The invention relates to a plant aid for surrounding a young plant. The plant aid comprises a tube at least partly sideways surrounding a young plant placeable in the plant aid. The plant aid further comprises a water collection sheet for collecting moisture present in the atmosphere. The water collection sheet comprises a water collection surface comprising a receiving surface, which receiving surface operatively makes a first angle with respect to the orientation of gravity. The water collection sheet further comprises a collecting surface adjoining a lower edge of the receiving surface, which collecting surface operatively makes a second angle with respect to the orientation of gravity. The first angle is smaller than the second angle.

Abstract: A method of developing seedlings includes germinating the seeds and air pruning the seedlings to a depth of about 3 inches.

Abstract: A kit for a planter is disclosed that has a polygon shape and has a selected number of sides and a same selected number of corners. The kit includes a selected number of bottom corner brackets, a selected number of corner beads, a selected number of top corner brackets, a selected number of top frame corner brackets, and a selected number of pairs of spacer runners that each correspond to the selected number of corners. The kit also includes a planter tub sized to fit within a planter body. The brackets and spacer runners are configured to be connected together to form a skeleton to which boards can be attached to form the planter body.

Abstract: A container liner comprising a backing, a porous covering, a seed carrier interposed between the backing and the covering, and a plurality of seeds embedded in the seed carrier such that upon germination the seeds will sprout through the porous covering to form a soft, natural, protective cushion for objects, such as candies or Easter eggs. The container liner is sufficiently flexible so that the container liner can be easily manipulated to substantially conform to the interior contour of the container.

Abstract: An apparatus (6) for the cultivation of plants (10) is provided, the apparatus (6) comprising a track assembly (7,8,9,10); a plurality of support assemblies (5,6) mounted to the track assembly (7,8,9,10) so as to be moveable therealong; each support assembly comprising a receptacle for one or more plants (10), wherein the receptacle is removable from the apparatus. A growing room (2), such as a glasshouse or the like, comprising such an apparatus (6) is also provided.

Abstract: An assembled container has a body and an upper collar. The body has an open top, an annular lip, an annular wall and multiple combining blocks. The annular wall is formed on and protrudes from the annular lip and has at least one engaging recess. The combining blocks are formed on and protrude from the annular lip and each have a combining hole and at least one engaging hole. The upper collar is connected to the open top of the body and has an annular recess, at least one engaging block and multiple combining inserts. The at least one engaging block is formed in the annular recess and respectively engages the at least one engaging recess. The combining inserts are formed in the annular recess and are respectively inserted into and combined with the combining holes.

Abstract: A multi-plant product and a method of producing a container of plants are described. Cast pellets containing plant seeds selected for their seed germination timing are planted in a container with a vegetative cutting. The cutting can be selected for having root initiation timing synchronized with the seed germination timing of the plant seeds in the cast pellet. The seed germination timing of the plant seeds can be modified by selecting the volume of the cast pellet.

Abstract: Planter systems include planters releasably integrated with a support structure primarily by releasable and penetrable engagement that is sufficient to support the planter without requiring conventional attachment devices. Engaging portions of the planters are releasably and penetrably received and concealed by the support structure to provide an integrated appearance. The planter systems optionally include adjustable irrigation systems configured to controllably supply water to the planter and/or surrounding terrain.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to, a container, multiple arrangements of container and flat/tray pallets, corresponding container/flat/tray/pallet assemblies, an automated pallet assembly/disassembly system, autonomous pallet assembly transfer units, an autonomous pallet assembly transport train, and an integrated automated production system, for use in a horticultural nursery environment for: substantially reducing labor needed to produce; stabilizing of; collecting and shedding broadcast applications to; reflecting desired sunlight to foliage of; reducing root tip heating of; reducing water consumption in growing; reducing wetting of foliage of; controlling excess root growth of; and, reducing weed growth proximal to; spaced potted plants.

Abstract: A buoyant walkway or island and its method of manufacture. In a preferred embodiment, the buoyant walkway comprising: an internal frame comprising semi-rigid members that are attached to one another, said internal semi-rigid frame having openings; an internal block disposed in each of said openings, said internal blocks being spaced apart from one another by gaps and forming a top surface and a bottom surface; cured thermoplastic foam disposed in said gaps that attach said internal blocks to said semi-rigid internal frame and to one another; a permeable top layer that is attached to said top surface; and a bottom layer that is attached to said bottom surface.

Abstract: One embodiment of a dual purpose Planting System allows for the growth of plants in an upright position and also allows for the growth of inverted or upside down plants. One embodiment of a dual purpose Planting System allows for the growth of plants in an upright position until after the plants have reached early maturity or maturity and begin to suffer the effects of gravity as a result of sheer size, legginess or vegetable growth. At this point the much larger, stronger plants—when inverted—will have greater access to sunlight or other light sources (and therefore the process of photosynthesis) as a result of the sheer size of the plant in relation to the planter and its position between the sun and the larger plant.

Abstract: Planter systems allow for the raising, lowering, holding, locking and releasing of a planter on a vertical support structure. The planter assembly may include a carriage, to which one or more planters is attached. Guides such as cables, rollers, sliders, bristles, gaskets, carpet and registration pins maintain space between the vertical support and planter assembly and facilitate raising and lowering. A tether guided over a pulley may be retracted or extended by winding it around or unwinding it from a winch, cleat or windlass to causes the planter assembly to rise or descend. When raised to a locking height, the planter assembly causes a mechanical locking mechanism associated with the planter assembly to move into a locking position, securing the planter assembly to the vertical support. Further raising releases the locking mechanism. Attachable items such as banners, flags, hangers and the like may be coupled to the carriage.

Abstract: A plant growing assembly is configured to grow a plurality of plants in multiple directions above a ground surface. The assembly includes a growing container and a support structure for elevating the container above the ground surface. The container presents a generally hollow body to retain a plant-growing medium and the plurality of plants. The body extends along an axis to present opposite axial end margins and a radial peripheral wall. The wall defines a plurality of discrete plant-receiving ports extending therethrough, and disposed generally radially about the wall. A method of growing plants above ground in substantially opposite directions from one another is also disclosed.

Abstract: A lantern planter wherein an exterior vessel contains inside of it an interior vessel. The interior vessel contains an interior fill material utilized to create mass inside the present invention. Affixed atop the interior vessel is a post support collar used to provide support to a post that is used to provide vertical support and stability to a supported device mechanically fastened to the post. The interior vessel, once filled with the interior fill material, and after the post is inserted via the post support collar has exterior fill material and decorative material installed atop the interior vessel such that the lantern planter provides structural support for the supported device and is aesthetically pleasing to the user.

Abstract: A long-term no-watering flowerpot includes a main body having a lower portion formed as a water groove. At least a water exit is bored in a circumferential wall of the main body above the water groove. The water groove can store extra water. By means of capillarity, water in the water groove can be sucked up to moisturize the soil in the flowerpot for the plant to absorb. Thus watering cycle can be prolonged to save manpower and water resource.

Abstract: A container for plants includes an integral structure having a bottom wall, a side wall extending upward to an edge forming an open top, and an elongated member extending downward from an opening in the bottom wall for attachment of the container to the soil of a garden. In one version, the elongated member is removably attached to the container, and a plug is provided for the opening, so that the container can be placed on a flat surface for displaying a plant that is later placed in a garden area in the container with the elongated member extending into the soil.

Abstract: A hollow pot includes a pot unit and a connection unit. The connection unit is a hollow unit and installed to inner surface of a mold set before pressurized air is introduced in the mold set and before the mold set is closed. A probe is inserted into the mold set and blows the plastic material in the mold set. The plastic material expands and contacts against the inner surface of the mold set and seals the connection holes of the connection unit. The plastic material is extended and broken to match upon the connection holes of the connection unit. The plastic material is solidified to form the pot unit. The pot unit is air-tightly connected to the connection unit, and the conjunction area of the connection unit communicates with the space in the pot unit.

Abstract: The instant invention describes a portable and reusable gardening device and kit for providing growth of one or more plant varieties in a downward manner while simultaneously providing for plant growth in an upward direction. The device comprises a planter bed for holding one or more plants. The planter bed includes an outer wall defined by a front panel, a back panel, a right side panel, and a left side panel. The panels are constructed and arranged to partially enclose a bottom panel. Each of the side panels extend upwardly from the bottom panel. The bottom panel has at least one aperture for receipt of a plant root or stems system, and preferably, has one main center aperture and a plurality of side apertures. The portable and reusable gardening device further includes a support base having integrally formed side walls which extend in a downward manner from a first generally planer surface.

Abstract: A storage device for maintaining potted plant viability and quality that allows for sufficient water or other suitable liquid to roots and growing media of a plant. The device includes a storage pot having a base and walls, a foam insert disposed within the storage pot; and the insert having a lower surface that engages the base and a flat upper surface where the root mass and growing media are placed. The root mass and growing media maintains its position by engaging the upper flat surface of the foam and at least one of the walls of the pot. A method is also disclosed for transporting or storage that includes potting a plant in the storage pot, and wetting the foam insert.

Abstract: A stackable planter has a generally rectangular base having a base area. A hollow leg is attached to opposite sides of the base. Each leg has an open top, the open top of each leg being adjacent opposite sides of the base. The area of the open top is less than the base area. Interconnected sidewalls extend from the base and the legs to define a cavity for planting soil. A removable cover fits over the open area of each leg. These covers also fit on the rectangular base. The base, covers and open tops of the legs are sized such that the covers may be placed on the base and not extend into the open area of the legs and each cover can be placed over the open area of a leg fully covering the open area. The sidewalls and the legs are sized and configured so that one planter body can be positioned within another planter for storage and shipment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device (1) for accommodating plant material (4), such as in particular seed, but also a cutting, a seedling or other plant material. The device (1) comprises at least one holder (2) in which at least the plant material (4), and possibly herein a substrate material (5), can be placed, and the bottom of which is substantially open and can be closed with a closing element (6).

Abstract: A modular planter assembly for growing plants includes a container with a bottom wall and an outer wall attached to and extending upwardly from the bottom wall. An elongated primary stake is mounted to the outer wall and is engageable with a ground surface. The primary stake is hollow and vertically oriented. An elongated secondary stake is mounted to the outer wall and is engageable with the ground surface. The secondary stake is vertically oriented, and has a size configured to be received by the primary stake.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a container for cultivating biological material, comprising a solid inert substrate, a growth medium and biological material arranged in or on the substrate, wherein the container is substantially closed, wherein the volume of the container is sterile and wherein the biological material comprises sowing material, and to a method and the use of the container for cultivating biological material.

Abstract: An insulated plant housing is a device extends the growing season for a plant by protecting the plant from frost damage at the beginning or end of the growing season. The device is partially filled with water to insulate the air and soil surrounding the plant from freezing temperatures at night. The device also allows the user to shroud the plant in order to protect the plant from harsh weather conditions.

Abstract: The Plant Growing System “PGS” is a convenient and easy way to grow a high yield plant/vegetable/herb garden in a limited space within a self-contained watering and fertilization system. The PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM design allows plants to receive essential and critical nutrients through a self-contained irrigation and natural (worm) cultivating root system. With the PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM you can grow plants, herbs or vegetables indoor with UV lamps or outdoor in direct sunlight using either soil based growing methods or hydroponic growing methods. The PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM has built in pest deterrence techniques to keep unwanted animals from attacking the plants, herbs and vegetables. The PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM can be restricted to confined areas and used on apartment patios, small backyards, basements or small area with a yield of greater than 10 times of that of traditional gardening methods.

Abstract: A roof system includes modular trays placed side-by-side on a roof, and a border along the boundaries of the system. The border includes side members with walls that extend from the roof to the top of the modules, along the length of the outer sides of the modules, to conceal the otherwise exposed sides of the modules. The side members include feet that extend along the roof line, from the base of the sidewalls to below the outer perimeter of the modules such that the weight of the trays holds the feet against the roof. The feet are formed with upward projections that are gravitationally engaged into voids formed in the bottoms of the modules to lock the side members in position at the sides of the modules.

Abstract: A modular wall mounted agricultural system that includes a mounting structure having a first end, a second end, a fluid conduit extending longitudinally between the first end and the second end, and at least one longitudinally extending channel. The system further includes at least one planter box that is adapted to mount within the at least one channel of the mounting structure, and wherein the at least one planter box includes a plurality of sidewalls and a bottom wall that cooperate to form a compartment adapted to receive plant matter therein, the plurality of sidewalls cooperating to form an upwardly opening aperture adapted to receive a fluid from the conduit.

Abstract: A modular wall planting system includes at least a pair of planting units each comprising a mounting structure mountable to a vertical wall surface, and a trough extending outwardly from the mounting structure and including an upwardly opening aperture, the trough defining an interior compartment divided into a first section and a second section at least partially divided from the first section, wherein the first section is adapted to receive plant matter therein, the second section is adapted to receive fluid drained from the first section, and wherein the trough includes at least one weep aperture adapted to allow water to drain from the interior compartment and the second section to an exterior of the trough.

Abstract: A horticultural sloped slot pot having an upper and lower end connected together via a wall having a height and thickness, wherein the wall extends about the perimeter of both ends wherein an axis extends radially through the ends such that the upper end is smaller than the lower end in terms of the total area, and having at least one orifice in the wall.

Abstract: A collapsible floral container stored and shipped in a substantially planar configuration and expanded into the form of a flower pot or flower pot cover is disclosed. The collapsible container includes a plurality of segments and a connecting member for connecting the segments such that the segments define a sidewall and such that the segments are movable between an expanded position wherein the segments cooperate with one another to form an object receiving space and to provide the sidewall with a unitary appearance and a collapsed position wherein the sidewall is substantially flattened.

Abstract: A device for sprouting includes an element (1; 101; 201) with opposing first and second openings (2, 7; 102, 7; 202, 7), a water and air-permeable material layer (15; 215), wherein the material layer (15; 215) can be removably mounted on the element (1; 101; 201) so that it covers the first opening (2; 102; 202) of the element (1; 101; 201). The device is characterised in that the element (1; 101; 201) is shell-shaped and extends continuously between the first and second openings (2, 7; 102, 7; 202, 7), and the second opening (7) can be closed.

Abstract: A floating island comprising a combination-cell thermoplastic foam. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising at least a first portion that comprises a combination-cell thermoplastic foam and having a cavity; and a bedding material that is disposed in said cavity; wherein said combination-cell thermoplastic foam is buoyant in water and permeable to gas and water. In another embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising a first matrix layer, a second matrix layer and a third matrix layer; and a gas-trapping insert that is disposed between two of said layers.

Abstract: A method of producing a horticultural display containing more than one variety of the same or different species of plant is disclosed. The plants are produced from unrooted cuttings that are rooted in a single growth cell and cultivated in a single container so that the final product includes more than one plant species or more than one plant variety, or both. A plant growth cell having rooting media and more than one plant cutting from more than one plant species or plant variety, or both, rooted therein is also disclosed. Further, a horticultural display having more than one plant of more than one plant species or plant variety, or both, initially rooted together from unrooted plant cuttings in a single growth cell is disclosed.

Abstract: A semi-circular flexible flower box (top section) and a semi-circular flexible mounting shelf (bottom section), are both functional companion units. The top section functions as a flower box but has a flexible accordion pleat (inside/outside diameters) configured in a semi-circle to allow for attachment to cylindrical objects. The bottom section functions as a mounting shelf for the top section and is structured not only in the same flexible semi-circular fashion, but is designed in such a way as to capture the flower box section allowing it to rest securely on the mounting shelf or bottom section. Configured to the inside or backside diameter of the mounting shelf are slots that allow for insertion of an attachment strap. The attachment strap allows for a precise and snug fit of the mounting shelf and companion flower box, top section to cylindrical objects within the range of the mounting shelf's diameter.

Abstract: A container for growing plants has a base and a side wall extending upwardly from the base, for containing a growing medium. An opening is defined in an inclined portion of the side wall, and a rib positioned on the side wall and facing into the container defines a root-guiding angle between the rib and the side wall, the root-guiding angle leading to the opening. Plant roots growing adjacent to the side wall are therefore guided by the root-guiding angle to the opening to be air pruned.

Abstract: The invention discloses a planter container made of flexible material in a bag-like shape used to fill, ship and cultivate a plant from seedling to mature plant. The planter can be used both with the plant upright for initial growth and stability during cultivation and shipment and then inverted to an upside down position to hang plants in the home garden. The container can be folded for easy storage and shipment and is inexpensive to manufacture and ship. Due to its versatility, the planter also ensures healthier and unbroken plants due to the upright and stable position of seedlings during cultivation and shipment.

Abstract: A method for cultivating a plant, wherein a substrate is formed, in which substrate a seed or a root of the plant is placed, which substrate containing the seed or the plant is placed in a holder for the plant to grow, characterised in that at least two substrate parts are formed, with the seed or a root of the plant being placed between said at least two substrate parts before the substrate containing the seed or the plant is placed in the holder.

Abstract: A floating island comprising a combination-cell thermoplastic foam. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising at least a first portion that comprises a combination-cell thermoplastic foam and having a cavity; and a bedding material that is disposed in said cavity; wherein said combination-cell thermoplastic foam is buoyant in water and permeable to gas and water. In another embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising a first matrix layer, a second matrix layer and a third matrix layer; and a gas-trapping insert that is disposed between two of said layers.

Abstract: A system and a method of computer controlled irrigation and fertigation composed of one or more sensors positioned in order to quantify the amount of water and/or nutrients that a plant is consuming. By controlling the fertigation, the plant or a part thereof, has improved yield and quality.

Abstract: A novel apparatus for the treatment, e.g., cleaning, humidifying, filtration and/or detoxifying, of ambient air incorporates a plant, soil, roots and a water reservoir to allow for effective filtration of air over an extended period of time. In particular, the device is designed with an air impeller system such that external ‘dirty’ air is circulated within the device in the proximity of the plant, soil, roots and/or water reservoir, thereby removing impurities, toxins and other undesirable chemicals from the air. The apparatus and methods of the present invention are readily applicable to a number of applications where air treatment is desired, e.g., household use. Moreover, by incorporating a plant system, the apparatus serves not only a functional but an aesthetic purpose as well.

Abstract: A decorative surround for potted plants is described. The surround may be a shell having a generally convex outer surface and an aperture in the shell suitable for either receiving or supporting a plant pot. The surround may be supported with respect to the ground or other reference surface by the periphery of the shell or by the bottom of a structure within the aperture, and the surround held against the ground by the weight of the potted plant. Alternatively, the surround may be affixed to the ground with pins or stakes. Another decorative surround is sized so that the aperture is smaller than a maximum diameter of the plant pot, and a strap is provided to hold the plant pot against an inner surface of the shell. The visible surface of the surround may be formed, textured or colored so as to have a visual appearance simulating natural rock.

Abstract: A flower pot with double revers has a pot body, a ring-shaped stepped unit extending outward disposed on the upper part of the pot, and a connecting circle with an “n” shaped cross-section is disposed on the top of the ring-shaped stepped unit. The connecting circle has an inside circle, an outside circle and a top circle, and the top of the inside circle and the top of the outside circle are connected by the top circle. The outside circle and the top of the ring-shaped stepped unit are connected by an inside screw. The inside circle and the outside circle form a connecting circle connected to the top opening of the pot to strengthen the revers of the flower pot.

Abstract: Articles-of-manufacturing which comprise (a) a germinateable seed having a germinating end and an apparent germination polarity; or alternatively a germinateable seed having a hole formed therein; and (b) a cage or, respectively alternatively, a member securing the germinateable seed; the cage having a structure such that when securing the germinateable seed, the cage not inhibiting or slowing a germination process of the germinateable seed; the member is secured to the hole. Seedlings which comprise the cage or member engaged therewith. Articles-of-manufacturing which comprise the seed or seedling, the cage or member and a display article attached to the cage or member. Methods of making same and of displaying the display article in context of the seedling.

Abstract: A plant pot has a container and a ring cover. The container has a top, a sidewall and multiple fixing posts. The sidewall has an annular collar. Each fixing post protrudes out from the collar. The ring cover is mounted over the collar of the sidewall of the container and has an inner edge, an outer edge and multiple fixing barrels. The inner edge and the outer edge are attached to the sidewall of the container. Each fixing barrel is formed on and protrudes out from the inner surface of the ring cover and has a corresponding fixing post. Engagement of the fixing posts to the fixing barrels prevents the ring cover from being rotated relative to and detached from the container.

Abstract: A decorative surround for potted plants is described. The surround may be a shell having a generally convex outer surface and an aperture in the shell suitable for either receiving or supporting a plant pot. The surround may be supported with respect to the ground or other reference surface by the periphery of the shell or by the bottom of a structure within the aperture, and the surround held against the ground by the weight of the potted plant. Alternatively, the surround may be affixed to the ground with pins or stakes. Another decorative surround is sized so that the aperture is smaller than a maximum diameter of the plant pot, and a strap is provided to hold the plant pot against an inner surface of the shell. The visible surface of the surround may be formed, textured or colored so as to have a visual appearance simulating natural rock.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides devices for rooting and/or dormancy for plant bulbs. The devices can include at least two components configured to form a chamber when engaged and at least one of the components can receive electronic communication and control the environment within the chamber. The devices can include at least one tray, which supports one soil vessel within the chamber. The chamber is environmentally controlled to provide rooting and/or dormancy for plant bulbs and can include at least two elements that engage and define a space substantially free of ambient light. At least one of the elements can control the environment within the space. The present method provides for bulb rooting and/or dormancy by coupling at least two components to form a chamber and providing an environment conducive to bulb rooting and/or dormancy within the chamber by maintaining a predetermined temperature within the chamber.

Abstract: A plant growing device includes an envelope and a plant growing medium. The envelope is made of a sheet material and has substantially planar first and second walls, a surrounding wall connected between the first and second walls, and a plurality of openings formed in the second wall and adapted to permit extension of plants. The plant growing medium is enclosed by the envelope, and includes a water-absorptive material selected from a polymeric foam, saw dust, charcoal, soil, sand, wood pulp, polymeric fibrous substances, and natural fiber materials.

Abstract: A container structure for growing a plant comprises a container including at least one upwardly extending side wall having a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end is coupled with at least one bottom wall. The plant container structure further comprises a conical member extending from or inserted within a central position of the at least one bottom wall. The conical member comprises at least one top surface and at least one bottom surface. The conical member being upwardly facing towards the top end of the at least one container side wall. The conical member further comprises a plurality of air openings being disposed through the conical member. The plurality of air openings may increase from the at least one top surface to the at least one bottom surface.