Combined Patents (Class 47/66.6)
  • 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: 20100115837
    Abstract: A tray (200) for growing organic material comprising a plurality of LEDs (204) is disclosed. The tray (200) comprises an upper side (202) and a lower side (206). The upper side (202) is arranged to carry a substrate (210) for growing organic material and the lower side (206) is arranged to radiate the light generated by the LEDs (204). The tray (200) comprises a structure which enables the tray (200) to radiate more heat, generated by the LEDs (204), at the upper side(202) than at the lower side(206) of the tray(200). The tray(200) enables to provide an improved nursery assembly (100), wherein the soil with organic material is heated up with the heat generated by the LEDs (204). In this way, the heat is not wasted to heat up the air but is used to heat up the soil such that it can have a higher average temperature than the air above the organic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Lucas Leo Desiree Van Der Poel, Antonius Henricus Maria Raaijmakers
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7665244
    Abstract: A system and method for rotating multiple plants through light on a continual basis and feeding plants while they are rotated. This system is able to provide the plants with food and water at levels inputted into its control panel. The water which runs through the system can be re-circulated and used by the plants. The system aerates the water in the re-circulation chamber before it is put back onto the plants. This system also has the capabilities to test the pH and nutrient level of the growing media which can include but is not limited to one or more of the following: spun rock, clay pellets, soil, or any other hydroponic growing media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Revolutionary Garden Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Jesness, III
  • Patent number: 7654038
    Abstract: A garden planter with integrated irrigation and lighting systems (100) includes a container (101) for holding plants and an irrigation tube (107) for supplying water to the interior of the container (101). A light (213) is positioned above the container (101) for providing illumination. One or more fastening tubes (105) are used for supporting the container (101) and supplying irrigation directly to the container or concealing the irrigating tube (107).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Simmons Specialty Products LLC
    Inventor: Gary D. Simmons
  • Publication number: 20090320365
    Abstract: Plant supporting apparatuses designed to hang a planter and plant at a variety of desired locations without lines for external electrical or water supply. Power is provided by solar cells. This construction allows the placement of plants almost anywhere and provides desired routine maintenance automatically. The apparatuses rotate the plant to grow uniformly even though incident light is non-uniform. There are two main assemblies which rotate relative to each other. A pump transfers liquids from a reservoir to a dispensing outlet onto a planter. The pump may be configured to move within the reservoir to stir the water, fertilizer or other liquids being fed to the planter. A planter is also shown which has solar cells and other parts mounted thereon. A control system is used to control operation and ambient light and reservoir liquid level are sensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: Darryl Matlen
  • Publication number: 20090320366
    Abstract: Plant supporting apparatuses designed to hang a planter and plant at a variety of desired locations without lines for external electrical or water supply. Power is provided by solar cells. This construction allows the placement of plants almost anywhere and provides desired routine maintenance automatically. The apparatuses rotate the plant to grow uniformly even though incident light is non-uniform. There are two main assemblies which rotate relative to each other. A pump transfers liquids from a reservoir to a dispensing outlet onto a planter. The pump may be configured to move within the reservoir to stir the water, fertilizer or other liquids being fed to the planter. A planter is also shown which has solar cells and other parts mounted thereon. A control system is used to control operation and ambient light and reservoir liquid level are sensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: Darryl Matlen
  • Publication number: 20090307972
    Abstract: A substrate for plants comprises at least two connected layers, one layer of which comprises a porous polyester material, and the other layer of which comprises another porous material. The water-retaining properties of this layer are better than those of the porous polyester material. The layer of porous polyester material may comprise polyester fibres, preferably polyester fibres which are entangled and/or arranged arbitrarily.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Rene OTTEVANGER
  • Publication number: 20090307973
    Abstract: A vertically-integrated greenhouse for growing plants in suspended trays. The design is particularly well-suited for installation in a double-skin façade of a building, or in an interior atrium, lobby, or similar structure. In addition to producing food, plants can reduce building maintenance costs by providing shade, air treatment, and evaporative cooling to building occupants. The vertically-integrated greenhouse involves the use of a dynamic movable array of plant trays as a mechanical shading device. The spacings and arrangements of the trays in the tray suspension system can be adjusted on both a diurnal basis and a seasonal basis to maximize plant light capture and building shading, thereby maximizing crop yield and building energy savings, or for esthetic considerations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: Zakery Ward Adams, Theodore Caplow, JR.
  • Patent number: 7631457
    Abstract: A plant potting includes a base, a magnet mounted in the base and connected to an electric cord, a damper mounted on the magnet, a vibration absorber mounted in the base and located above the damper, a vibrator protruding outwardly from the base and connected to the vibration absorber, a vibration receiver having a lower end connected to the vibrator, a pin holder mounted on an upper end of the vibration receiver, and a plant mounted on the pin holder. Thus, the stems, the flowers and the leaves of the plant function as a medium to transmit the sound wave from the sound so as to output a sound wave in a different sound transmitting way, thereby enhancing the sounding effect of the sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Chien-Jen Wang
  • Publication number: 20090293354
    Abstract: An automatic plant watering apparatus having a cavity for receiving a standard houseplant pot, a reservoir for holding water, a pump for removing water from the reservoir, a host for delivering water from the pump to a plant positioned in the cavity. The pump is operated by a microcontroller that is programmed to measure a first time period during which the pump is not operated, and a second time period during which the pump is operated. According, the apparatus can be programmed to automatically water a house plant at predetermined intervals, as well as deliver a predetermined amount of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Leonard Goldberg, James P. Romano, John J. Feketa
  • Patent number: 7624536
    Abstract: A plant container having a frustoconical sidewall extending outwardly and vertically from a bottom of the container to a top of the container, a lip positioned near the top of the container, and a tag-accepting slot formed in the lip. The container may also include a first nesting step located below the lip and extending circumferentially around the container, the nesting step extending outwardly to a maximum circumference and including a container-stacking stop surface extending between the sidewall and the maximum circumference and a extending vertically from the maximum circumference. Further, the slot may substantially be positioned above a slot area, the slot area being an area where the maximum circumference of the nesting step is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Landmark Plastic Corporation
    Inventor: Fred Schromm
  • Patent number: 7624535
    Abstract: A flowerpot 1 made of plastic, in particular in a deep-drawn embodiment having a bottom 7 that is provided with holes and hollow layer regions of the bottom 7 on the bottom side for connecting the holes to the environment on the bottom side is designed so that the holes 12, 13 are arranged at least partially in the bottom areas 8, 9, 10, 11 which sit without any spacers for distancing on a supporting surface and have channels 14, 15 in the form of a bottom channeling crisscrossing through the lower area in at least two directions and leading out to the edges. These channels ensure drainage of the flowerpot at the bottom and optionally watering of the pot without providing feet or edge webs on the bottom that would be susceptible entanglement when being shifted on working surfaces or in conveyance with the help of conveyor belts and which can lead to deformation and resilient recoil movements when work is done by machine, in particular when the pots are being placed on a substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Gebr. Poeppelmann Kunststoffwerk- Wekzeugbau
    Inventor: Guido Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7610717
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flower pot (1) made of deep drawn plastic material and provided for a hanging flower pot wherein a suspension part (2) comprises a plurality of strands (5) that are linked via hook clips (3) with the pot rim (4) that has an outer continuous contour. The aim of the invention is to provide a flower pot that, in accordance with the special technical conditions during the deep drawing, is provided with a fixation of the seat (7) of the hook clips (3), while maintaining a good distribution of suspension loads between the pot and the hook clips and safeguarding an appealing yet easy to handle shape. To achieve this aim, the pot rim (4) has tapered sections extending inwards towards a wall contiguous with the bottom. These tapered sections form a seat (7) for the hook clips (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Gebr. Poeppelmann Kunststoffwek-Werkzeugbau
    Inventors: Reinhard Lüken, Alfons Sieverding
  • Publication number: 20090249689
    Abstract: The present invention includes a reservoir on a base supported at an elevation by a support member above a plurality of plants to be watered. A mechanical fill assembly, containing a flush valve and a float connected to a water supply line, automatically keeps the reservoir filled with water for extended periods. The plants are watered by gravity through a plurality of main valves in the reservoir that provide a controlled amount of water to main lines extending to each group of plants. Branch lines extend from each main line that terminate at perforated plant lines at each plant to be watered. A plant valve controls the amount of water each plant will receive on a continuous basis. In a further embodiment of the invention, a bird porch is attached to the reservoir to automatically provided a bird waterer and to provide a bird feeder. Also, a removable fertilizer tray can be provided to fertilize the plants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Tri Tran
  • Publication number: 20090249690
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to plant hedges or barriers and provide a method, system and apparatus for creating artificial plant hedges or barriers. In one embodiment of the invention, an artificial plant barrier system can be provided. The system can include a starter unit, a middle unit coupled to a top of the starter unit, and a top end unit coupled to a top of the middle unit. The starter unit can include a channel defined between a first opening in a top of the starter unit and a second opening in a bottom of the starter unit, wherein the bottom of the starter unit is coupled to a base support. The middle unit can include a channel defined between a first opening of a top of the middle unit and a second opening of a bottom of the middle unit, wherein the bottom of the middle unit is coupled to the starter unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Lee Garner, II
  • Publication number: 20090229180
    Abstract: A rotatable plant stand having a trivet assembly and a saucer that is mountable thereon. The trivet assembly includes upper and lower trivet plates joined by an annular plate bearing turntable that provides rotational movement of the upper trivet plate relative to the lower trivet plate. The trivet assembly and the saucer are engaged by a centering and retaining mechanism that can secure the bottom of at least two differently sized saucers onto the trivet assembly so as to prevent sideways movement that might otherwise cause the saucer to slide off the trivet assembly, such as when being rotated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: Christopher T. Rich, Edward J. Holliday, Curt Rymer
  • Patent number: 7565766
    Abstract: A transportable planter apparatus including a housing with a bottom and a sidewall having an edge opposite the bottom, an opening located at the edge adapted to receive a houseplant. A handle associated with the housing and fastened to an arm extends between the handle and the housing, where the arm travels between a recessed configuration and an extended configuration in which the handle extends upwardly from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Carrol J. Boylan
  • Publication number: 20090183429
    Abstract: Disclosed is a prefabricated type flowerpot block. It can be assembled in a simple manner, it can perform root-balling for a predetermined period and it can allow a plant to be transplanted to thus be conveniently moved. Accordingly, it eliminates the trouble of planting a plant to be transplanted in the ground during a transplanting process, and thus it prevents the roots of a plant to be transplanted from being damaged while the plant is moved to a transplanting place. The prefabricated type flowerpot block can also function as a flowerpot to plant therein any size of plant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Jung-Hoi Kim, Youn-Ja Jen
  • Publication number: 20090158654
    Abstract: A flag holder is selectively removably attached to a cemetery flower vase and is adapted to hold one or more flags therein. The flag holder comprises a pair of clamp members which are clamped onto the vase at the lower end thereof with one of the clamp members having holes formed therein adapted to receive the staffs or poles of flags therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Lisa Crane, Wayne Crane
  • Patent number: 7533491
    Abstract: A garden bed assembly and extensions therefor is disclosed. The garden bed assembly includes at least one raised garden starter module containing suitable planting soil or other growing media for plants and may be extended using one or more extender modules, such as straight extender modules and/or corner extender modules. The assembly as disclosed herein includes one or more modules defining the planter. The front section of the starter module and the straight extender module may include a rotatable upper portion to provide convenient access to the plants. Each module section may have a substantially imperforate lower portion and a perforate upper portion prohibiting unwanted creatures such as gophers, rabbits and other animals from gaining access to the growing plants in the garden bed assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Modular Merchants, Inc.
    Inventors: Lisa R. Singer, Steven A. Singer
  • Patent number: 7533492
    Abstract: A planter comprising an outer shell having a bottom wall and a side wall, at least of portion of which is translucent for enabling a light source within the side wall to provide an illuminated appearance to the planter. The planter includes a space on the bottom of the outer shell of the planter for mounting a light fixture, wherein a lighting element is projected from the light fixture into a space inside the side wall to illuminate the translucent side wall. The planter also includes a strut extending between the bottom of an inner shell for holding a plant and the bottom of an outer shell, to provide a support and drain to the inner shell for holding the plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventor: Dale A. Klaus
  • Publication number: 20090090051
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: James Hogan
  • Publication number: 20090086470
    Abstract: A telescopic light base couples decorative light fixtures to a flower pot or other similar container. The decorative light fixture may then be used to illuminate the contents of the pot. The telescopic light base has a ground-engaging pad upon which the pot rests. The weight of the pot then serves to anchor the telescopic light base in place. A telescopic pole support of variable length is coupled at a first end to the ground-engaging pad. At an end of the telescopic pole support distal to the ground-engaging pad, a pot upper rim retention arm is provided which operatively passes within the pot sidewalls. Adjacent to the pot upper rim retention arm is a lamppost connector. The telescopic pole support may be contracted to capture a pot between the ground-engaging pad and pot upper rim retention arm, and then later expanded and separated from the pot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventor: Steven R. Schafer
  • Patent number: 7490435
    Abstract: There is disclosed a garden bed assembly and a method of making it. The garden bed assembly includes at least one planter containing suitable planting soil or other growing media. The assembly includes a fence/planter structure and an upright solid imperforate inner planter structure for defining the planter. The fence/planter structure includes a series of fence sections and a gate for surrounding the planter. Each fence/planter section has a solid imperforate lower portion to help define the planter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Modular Merchants, Inc.
    Inventor: Lisa R. Singer
  • Publication number: 20090031628
    Abstract: The present invention provides an easily storing, transporting and displaying plant tissue set, comprising a displaying shelf, and at least one plant-tissue-culturing tube, wherein the displaying shelf has concavities at the bottom or hollow designs to hold tubes. The displaying shelf is designed in a stairs shape which makes the bottom of every tube be irradiated by light, so plant tissues can be exposed to enough light. In addition, the whole package can be easily unfolded and refolded into a displaying mold. This present invention provides a way to displaying the growth process of plants, and it is educative and enjoyable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: TAIKON CORP.
    Inventor: Chih-Fei Lee
  • Publication number: 20090025289
    Abstract: An animal shelter incorporating a planter and associated water management system is provided. There is a chamber for receiving an animal, which is secured to a base at its bottom end. The base provides support for the animal shelter. A saucer is provided and is secured to the top end of the chamber. There is a bowl suitable for containing plant material which is secured to the top of the saucer. A fluid passage, extending through the bowl, saucer, and chamber, is provided for watering of the plant material. As such, an animal shelter is provided with improved aesthetic appeal and chamber climate control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Karl Krieg
  • Publication number: 20080289253
    Abstract: A flower pot cover is configured to be secured to a flower pot and provide substantial benefit over tradition uncovered flower pots. A flower pot cover provides distinguishing information regarding the contents of the flower pot, information regarding the recipient or giver of the flower pot, superior gripping surface, and/or protection to the flower pot and the surface upon which it is disposed. A flower pot cover also provides tactile feedback as well as communicating information visually.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventor: Patti D. Rubin
  • Publication number: 20080271372
    Abstract: A plant potting includes a base, a magnet mounted in the base and connected to an electric cord, a damper mounted on the magnet, a vibration absorber mounted in the base and located above the damper, a vibrator protruding outwardly from the base and connected to the vibration absorber, a vibration receiver having a lower end connected to the vibrator, a pin holder mounted on an upper end of the vibration receiver, and a plant mounted on the pin holder. Thus, the stems, the flowers and the leaves of the plant function as a medium to transmit the sound wave from the sound so as to output a sound wave in a different sound transmitting way, thereby enhancing the sounding effect of the sound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: Chien-Jen Wang
  • Publication number: 20080263943
    Abstract: A combination of a plant flat having a plant talker, and plant containers in the flat having plant tags, wherein the talkers and tags coordinate with respect to the conveyance of particular plant criteria or other useful information to the purchaser. Such criteria may include desired planting conditions, including sunlight, part sunlight, shade, part shade, moisture needs, drainage needs, soil content and soil pH or plant features such as the capability of plants to attract butterflies or hummingbirds, plant color or fragrance. The invention also provides for a method of communicating information about plants through the use of the coordinated talkers and tags.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Werner Sperzel
  • Publication number: 20080163547
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for the irrigation and drainage of fluids in a plant vase 100. The present invention includes a plant vase 100 that has a sculptured head section 13. Sculptured head section 13 may be sculptured to resemble the head of a famous character or a persona. Sculptured head section 13 includes an irrigation ring 21 at its upper perimeter that allows the easy and convenient irrigation of a plant 33. Plant vase 100 farther includes a transparent neck section 15 and a transparent container 16 and a float 17 that enable a visible indication of the excess drainage fluids quantity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Inventors: Yehonatan Sade, Liav Amar
  • Publication number: 20080141585
    Abstract: A plant growth array device includes an aerial growth chamber configured to receive aerial shoot portions of a plurality of plants and a root growth chamber configured to receive root portions of the plurality of plants. A dividing member is between the aerial growth chamber and the root chamber and has a plurality of apertures for receiving the plurality of plants therein. The plurality of apertures are configured so that the root portions grow substantially in a common orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventors: Philip N. Benfey, Richard W. Twigg, Robert L. Clark, Scott Joseph Kennedy, Gregory Kealoha Fricke
  • Publication number: 20080115414
    Abstract: A planter system includes an adjustable height and angular orientation planter and an optionally adjustable irrigation system for controllably supplying water to the planter and/or surrounding terrain. The planter is configured to controllably travel up and down a vertical support, such as a section of a planter pole or other suitable vertical support structure, from a highest to a lowest position using a pulley and winch, block and tackle, rotating shaft, continuous pulley driven belt, continuous sprocket driven chain, lead screw, ball screw, a ballast, hydraulics, pneumatics, spring or other lifting subsystem. The irrigation system may be configured to supply water to the planter and or to the surrounding terrain. The planter is carried along the pole, allowing it to be controllably rotated at any height along the travel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventor: James Hogan
  • Publication number: 20080092440
    Abstract: A watering and shading device for at least one plant is disclosed. The device comprises an elongated substantially hollow shaft. A top end of the shaft terminates in a preferably flared funnel-shaped opening for receiving water, and a bottom end terminates in a soil-penetrating spike for inserting into soil. The spike includes at least one aperture therein for allowing water to pass from the inside of the hollow shaft therethrough. The device also includes a shading umbrella that comprises at least one non-transparent panel attached at one portion thereof to a shaft attachment means. The umbrella may be selectively placed in a deployed position or a collapsed position at a selected height along the shaft. The shaft includes a valve mechanism therein proximate the bottom end controlled by a moisture detection means for regulating the position of the valve mechanism based upon the soil moisture level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Julie S. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20080083163
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a saucer apparatus, comprising: a drainage container, for storing water drained from a soil container; and a conveying mechanism, for conveying the drainage container from a first state in which the drainage container is deployed underneath the soil container, thereby allowing accumulating drained water, and a second state in which the drainage container is deployed apart of the soil container, thereby allowing emptying water stored in the drainage container, and vice versa. The soil container may be is embedded into the apparatus, or comprise means for holding the flowerpot above the apparatus or on the apparatus, such as grill. According to one embodiment of the invention, the conveying mechanism conveys the drainage container linearly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventors: Ofir Amsellem, Meir Gitelis
  • Publication number: 20080016766
    Abstract: Device (1) for thermal nebulisation of a liquid composition (3) comprising: a container (5), a fan for moving the air located in a zone (18) of the container (5) above the liquid composition (3), a channelling housing (9) which has at least one opening (23) for introducing outside air into the device (1), a projection sprayer by means of centrifuging the liquid composition (3) in the form of droplets in the housing (9) in order to form in a mixing region (54) a mist (2) of the liquid composition (3), a conduit (45) for conveying the liquid composition towards the sprayer, and a device (29) for heating the air arranged upstream of the mixing region (54) of the housing (9). Use in the treatment of fruits or vegetables.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Inventor: Alberto Sardo
  • Publication number: 20080016762
    Abstract: A foliage container having a plurality of elongate elements that cooperatively produce at least a part of a wall structure bounding a receptacle into which foliage can be placed, and a base assembly that is configured to be rigidly connected to the wall structure. The base assembly is reconfigurable to cooperate with different types of supports in different manners to maintain the wall structure consistently in an operative orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Inventor: Bradley Emalfarb
  • Publication number: 20080016761
    Abstract: The combination of a support and a foliage container. The foliage container has a plurality of elongate elements that cooperatively produce at least a part of a wall structure bounding a receptacle within which foliage can be placed, and a base rigidly secured to the wall structure. The base is configured to be rigidly connected to the support so that the support consistently maintains the wall structure in an operative orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Inventor: Bradley Emalfarb
  • Publication number: 20070227068
    Abstract: The wraparound flower planter includes two almost-identical semicylindrical members and releasable fasteners for securing the two members together so that the wraparound flower planter is maintained in a closed position around the base of a tree, or other columnar support. Each of the semicylindrical pot members has an open upper end, an open lower end, and a surrounding sidewall. A pair of diametrically opposed interior planar walls extend radially inward from the sidewall. A substantially semicylindrical inner wall coaxial with the sidewall extends between inner edges of the interior planar walls from the open upper end to the bottom edge of the interior planar walls, defining a cylindrical channel extending through the pot. A shelf extends between the sidewall and the inner wall, forming the floor of a generally U-shaped peripheral channel. The shelf has a plurality of drainage apertures disposed therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Russell Cataldi
  • Publication number: 20070220809
    Abstract: A pot comprising a surrounding wall having a curved portion joined to a flat portion and the surrounding wall has a rim that defines an opening. A base having a flat base portion joined to an end of the surrounding wall opposite the rim. An internal post support structure joined to the flat base portion that extends in a direction toward the rim and having a rectangular cross section. A circular cross section pot having an internal post structure. A ground flower pot comprising a ground base, a lawn wall and an opposed garden wall joined to the base. A flower pot link segment comprising a link base, a lawn wall, an opposed garden wall joined to the base, with a first tube joined proximal a first end of the link base and a second tube of lesser diameter joined proximal the second end of the link base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventor: Ron Serio
  • Patent number: 7249440
    Abstract: A container for aeration of a substrate supporting a plant with the substrate being received in a cavity of the container so as to bury a device positioned in the cavity such that gas can be supplied from the device to the substrate. The device comprises a body having a peripheral wall defining an inner cavity. The peripheral wall has a portion permeable to gas such that a gas can flow therethrough from the inner cavity of the body to an exterior of the device. A gas permeability of the body decreases as a function of a vertical orientation of the body. The body has an inlet adapted to receive a gas to fill the inner cavity. The device is buried in a predetermined position with respect to the vertical orientation, such that greater amounts of gas can be supplied to the substrate relatively to a depth of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Universite Laval
    Inventor: Jean Caron
  • Patent number: 7201306
    Abstract: A newspaper box is designed so that is may be easily converted to a planter. Laterally confronting parallel recesses on the confronting sides of the side walls of the newspaper box near it open end are adapted to receive a snap in closure panel for converting the newspaper box to a planter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Home Impressions, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Lackey
  • Patent number: 7155860
    Abstract: An umbrella mountable flower pot apparatus includes a container that has a bottom wall and a perimeter wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the bottom wall. The container has a hemispherical shape. A dividing wall is attached to and extends across the container. An aperture extends upwardly through the bottom wall and through the dividing wall. The container has a break therein so that the first portion is separable from the second portion and a pair of dividing walls is defined. A coupling apparatus is attached to the first and second portions and is configured to secure the first and second portions together and to a post extending through the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: George W. Ferguson, III
  • Patent number: 7076900
    Abstract: A polymeric tag has a body and an integral insertion leg which is tapered to facilitate insertion either into the soil or into a slot formed in the edge of a pot. Spaced from the end on each edge of the leg and in alignment with one another along the longitudinal length of the leg are convex outwardly extending projections immediately adjacent a symmetrical concave indentation on a side proximate the tag body. The combination of the curvilinear convex projections and concave indentations provides an easily insertable mechanism for allowing the insertion of the tag into the slot of a pot, and, once the convex projection clears the edge of the slot, the tag is locked in position with the concave indentation engaging the edges of the slot and the convex projection extending beyond the edge of the slot and engaging the underside of the pot rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: The John Henry Company
    Inventor: Willard M. Faulkner
  • Patent number: 7024816
    Abstract: An improved plant container hanger for suspension from a support rail, such as a chain link fence, wherein the device may be partially inserted into the fence links to stabilize the container and position a plant container carried thereby in a stable, substantially horizontal, position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventors: Stephen Rickert Marks, Sona Bejdova
  • Patent number: 6964129
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multifunctional container (1) comprising two container sections (3, 4), each having a base (5) and at least two side walls (8, 9) to define an enclosed space (7) open at the top, one of said side walls (9) on each container section (3, 4) having magnetic means located on said side wall (9) of each of the container sections to permit the container sections to be easily joined and separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Dennison Associates
    Inventor: Roy Fenwick
  • Patent number: 6964130
    Abstract: A combination planter and step-light has a portable, open topped receptacle having a base and a plurality of sidewalls upstanding therefrom. The sidewalls are a minor rear end wall and major outer wall forming a corner seating adjacent a corner of a step and an outer end of the step, and joined at free ends by an inner facing wall which converges toward the major end wall as it extends outward and forwards toward a front of the step. A compartment in the receptacle receives a light detecting and illuminating module inserted into the compartment from below, is molded in the receptacle aligned with an aperture in the inner wall. The module has a lamp, a control circuit and a photosensitive device for detecting the ambient light level to switch the lamp on and off at dusk and dawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventor: Mark E. Hartelius
  • Patent number: 6862843
    Abstract: An umbrella planter having a snap-on lower water reservoir base member and a center sleeve tube for use with an umbrella-type patio table having a table top with a centrally located opening for receiving an umbrella pole of an umbrella assembly. The umbrella planter includes an upper planter member and a lower water reservoir base member. The lower water reservoir base member includes a side wall having an upper perimeter lip and a bottom base wall; and includes a hollow center sleeve connected to the bottom base wall and having a central sleeve opening for receiving the umbrella pole therethrough; and the bottom base wall also includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface of the bottom base wall of the lower base member includes first connecting means for connecting and mating the lower base member to the upper planter member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Misco Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Ezra Missry
  • Publication number: 20040237397
    Abstract: The invention provides a hydroponic planter which doubles as a cover for a common toilet tank. The planter includes reservoir for holding plants supported in a hydroponic growth medium. The reservoir has several openings through which wicks extend to bring water from the toilet tank to the interior of the reservoir. The openings are arranged so that the wicks do not interfere with the flush mechanism of the toilet tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Zintz
  • Publication number: 20040216376
    Abstract: An umbrella planter having a snap-on lower water reservoir base member and a center sleeve tube for use with an umbrella-type patio table having a table top with a centrally located opening for receiving an umbrella pole of an umbrella assembly. The umbrella planter includes an upper planter member and a lower water reservoir base member. The lower water reservoir base member includes a side wall having an upper perimeter lip and a bottom base wall; and includes a hollow center sleeve connected to the bottom base wall and having a central sleeve opening for receiving the umbrella pole therethrough; and the bottom base wall also includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface of the bottom base wall of the lower base member includes first connecting means for connecting and mating the lower base member to the upper planter member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Ezra Missry