Transparent Or Translucent Patents (Class 47/29.1)
  • Patent number: 11832558
    Abstract: The present invention concerns an elongated sheet (1) for covering cultivated plants (2), with a basic film (3) of plastic, wherein a ventilation area (5) extending in the longitudinal sheet direction (L) and having a plurality of ventilation openings (6) is provided in the central area (4) of the basic film (3), wherein at least one ventilation opening (6) comprises two opposite corners (29, 20) of the ventilation opening (6) in a cross direction (Q) of the sheet (1) extending at least substantially orthogonally to the longitudinal sheet direction (L).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Inventor: Asterios Daios
  • Patent number: 11700799
    Abstract: A polytunnel structure is described having a plurality of cover support members supported upon respective pairs of legs, a cover member supported by the cover support members, an edge of the cover member being secured to a rotatable beam, and an anchor rope, strap or the like extending over the cover member to anchor the cover member in position, wherein the cover support members are each shaped to define a step between a first section and a second section, wherein when the rotatable beam is supported upon the second section, the anchor rope, strap or the like provides a reduced resistance to movement thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: HAYGROVE LIMITED
    Inventor: Angus Davison
  • Patent number: 11684019
    Abstract: A vertical farming layer structure comprising: an underlying support for supporting a plurality of farmed plants; a light-reflective upper surface positioned above and facing the underlying support, the light-reflective upper surface being adapted to reflect light by diffuse reflection; and a plurality of light-emitting devices positioned between the underlying support and the light-reflective upper surface, each light-emitting device being positioned to emit light along a respective optical axis oriented towards the light-reflective upper surface such that light emitted from the light-emitting device is at least partially diffusely reflected off of the light-reflective upper surface to reach the plants supported on the underlying support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: INNO-3B INC.
    Inventors: Martin Brault, Éric Dubé, Samuel Faucher, David Brault
  • Patent number: 11582968
    Abstract: A variety of agricultural spacer fabrics/textiles are provided that protect plants from insect penetration while allowing for light and air penetration, and methods of use. The textiles can be used alone or in conjunction with agents such as insecticides, insect repellants, and fungicides. The agricultural textile can have an outermost fabric layer, an innermost fabric layer, and a plurality of filaments connecting the outermost fabric layer and the innermost fabric layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: North Carolina State University
    Inventors: Andre J. West, Marian G. McCord, Richard Michael Roe, James Brian Davis, Jiwei Zhu
  • Patent number: 11503780
    Abstract: A plant container conditioning system is provided including a growing pot having a top, bottom, sides and inner volume enabled to support and grow a plant. A cover is provided and enabled to completely contain a plant growing pot. A growing medium is contained within the pot and at least one layer of mulch, at least one layer of fertilizer and at least one layer of compost is applied on top of the growing medium in the pot, wherein at the end of a growing cycle of the plant, the at least one layers of the mulch, fertilizer and compost is applied on top of 10 the growing medium, the cover is placed over the pot and secured around the bottom surface, the pot and cover then remains outdoors for a time period between three and seven months.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Inventor: Corey Sangiacomo
  • Patent number: 11277962
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cultivating vegetation at an arid location includes rooting immature vegetation in a mat combined with a super absorbent polymer (“SAP”) and, in embodiments, fertilizer, sand, and/or soil; placing the mat at the arid location; and covering the mat with a perforated, transparent or semi-transparent cover. Most or all of the apparatus can be biodegradable or removable, and the sand or soil can be similar to indigenous sand or soil. A water barrier can be placed below the mat. The cover can be placed on or suspended above the mat. SAP, seeds, and/or additional water barriers can be placed between mats in a stack. The opacity of the cover can be increased to emulate shade from natural vegetation. A water distribution system can be included for continued support of the vegetation, and can include a water reservoir and/or at least one solar still.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Inventor: Gary E Abeles
  • Patent number: 11266084
    Abstract: A method for planting crops that involves covering the planted seeds of the crop with an elongate sheet of mulch. The elongate sheet of mulch has lateral edges that determine its width. A combustible cord that is affixed to it between the lateral edges. The combustible cord may be formed within plies of the mulch or adhered thereto. The mulch is placed over the planted crop and held in place over the crop. This may be done by burying lateral edges of the mulch. When a user of the mulch wishes to remove the mulch, he will burn the combustible cord and that will separate the mulch along the cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Inventor: Michael Groff
  • Patent number: 11026380
    Abstract: A device for growing plants is provided. The device has a panel assembly on which a one or a plurality of nutrient flow channels is supported to provide nutrient flow passages from an inlet at an upper region to an outlet at a lower region of the support panel. A plurality of grow pockets is supported on an opposite side face of the support panel, the grow pockets in alignment with the nutrient flow channels. Each grow pocket has a plant access opening. A fluid aperture in the support panel is disposed at a lower region of each grow pocket for fluid communication between an interior of the grow pocket and the aligned nutrient flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: FREIGHT FARMS, INC.
    Inventor: Jon Friedman
  • Patent number: 11019764
    Abstract: A seed germinating container allowing germination of seeds under controlled circumstances. The container may make use of a lid containing an opening covered by a mesh strainer allowing for easy removal of water during washing of seeds. The opening is sealable with a cover which may be opened to a variable degree. A seed elevating mesh may support the seeds at a controlled height above the bottom of the container. A porous seed bag containing a measured portion of seeds may be inserted into the germinator for further precision and cleanliness of the germination container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Inventors: Alexander Vladimir Prokhorov, Alexandra Andrejevna Volguina, Andrei Yurievitch Volgin, Irina Vasilievna Volguina, Kirill Andrejevitch Volguin
  • Patent number: 11006585
    Abstract: Automated terrariums and methods of using the terrariums are disclosed. The automated terrarium comprises a housing having a base and a lid, wherein the lid is supported by at least two support pillars. The terrarium also comprises at least two transparent side panels supported by the at least two support pillars and positioned between the base and the lid, an irrigation system within the base, a lighting system within the lid, and a control unit. The control unit is adapted to monitor growth of the plant and adjust the irrigation system, heating system, airflow system, and/or lighting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: Grow Op, LLC
    Inventor: Jesse Jordan Croteau
  • Patent number: 10750678
    Abstract: A system for protecting from bad weather plants seedlings arranged in rows, wherein the system includes: at least one body configured to be positioned nearby at least one row of plants seedlings; at least one first protection member configured to be deployed above the plants seedlings in at least one first position so as to cover at least partially the plants seedlings of the row and to be retracted in at least one second position so as to uncover the plants seedlings of the row, the first protection member being fastened to said body; and at least one control device configured to enable the deployment and retraction of the first protection member, the body including at least one first receiving chamber extending at least partially at a first longitudinal side of said body, the first receiving chamber configured to receive the at least one protection member in the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: OENOPROTECH
    Inventor: Antonio Marques
  • Patent number: 10660264
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cultivating vegetation at an arid location includes rooting immature vegetation in a mat combined with a super absorbent polymer (“SAP”) and, in embodiments, fertilizer, sand, and/or soil; placing the mat at the arid location; and covering the mat with a perforated, transparent or semi-transparent cover. Most or all of the apparatus can be biodegradable or removable, and the sand or soil can be similar to indigenous sand or soil. A water barrier can be placed below the mat. The cover can be placed on or suspended above the mat. SAP, seeds, and/or additional water barriers can be placed between mats in a stack. The opacity of the cover can be increased to emulate shade from natural vegetation. A water distribution system can be included for continued support of the vegetation, and can include a water reservoir and/or at least one solar still.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Inventor: Gary E Abeles
  • Patent number: 10232065
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrochemical device which simultaneously carries out the production of an oxidising solution at controlled composition containing hypochlorous acid and the sprinkling thereof in a continuous process, useful for biocide treatments in agricultural fields. The device can be installed on motor vehicles or mobile means in general.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: INDUSTRIE DE NORA S.P.A.
    Inventors: Paolo Rossi, Mariachiara Benedetto, Luca Buonerba, Achille De Battisti, Sergio Ferro, Fabio Galli
  • Patent number: 10051796
    Abstract: The embodied invention is a framework and expanding cover for a crop row that is designed to provide an enhanced crop growing environment. The framework design utilizes a top and bottom cover with affordable materials that are suitable for large scale production. The design also includes an irrigation, fertilizer, and CO2 injection system that provide an enhanced environment for plants to grow. The entire system is reducible to a small package to better facilitate use in a broad variety of environmental and personal situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Inventor: Gerald R. Palmer
  • Patent number: 9637946
    Abstract: A tethermast and frag wall includes a fabric device having a fill volume fillable with a fill material on a flexible or compliant mast system. The fill volume may be a chambered curtain. The tethermast and frag wall is self supporting, easily deployed, and may be used in connection with a structure or may be deployed stand-alone. A tether system for an air beam structure utilizing a flexible tethermast, an external frag wall or frag curtain, soft couplings, air beam slings, or combinations thereof to reduce the effects of pressure waves, such as blast waves, onto and into an air beam structure and any inhabitants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Dynamic Shelters Inc.
    Inventors: Harold Warner, David Ritzel
  • Publication number: 20150113869
    Abstract: A plant growing system protects plants during spring, for early and/or fast growth, and supports the plants later in the growing season. Frames hold panels that protect the plants by enclosing, shielding, and/or shading the interior growing space, and upon removal of the panels, the frames may support the larger plants and their fruit/vegetables. Multiple cooperating frames pivotally connect to form modular units of various sizes and shapes, and a latching/locking feature may stabilize the unit by preventing accidental disconnection of the frames. The frames may include feature(s) that allow, and stabilize, stacking of multiple units for accommodating taller plants. The panels held by the frames may be translucent/transparent, opaque, or a combination of the two, for customizing the interior environment inside each modular unit to the plant(s), the time of year, and/or the location and climate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Gregory H. Brown
  • Patent number: 8980400
    Abstract: The present invention provide a light-scattering fluororesin film for agricultural applications which can be used as a covering material for an agricultural house or the like, is excellent in uniformity of color or the like of crops cultivated, can reduce the occurrence of leaf scorch, seedling blight or the like, and can cultivate the crops at high productivity. Specifically, the invention provides a light-scattering fluororesin film for agricultural applications that gives a ratio of scattered light with a scattering angle of 5.5 to 10° being 5% or higher relative to the total transmitted light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Asahi Glass Company, Limited
    Inventors: Yasuko Shimoi, Hiroshi Aruga
  • Publication number: 20140366435
    Abstract: A device for protecting a plant including: a caged frame, where the caged frame includes spikes; a series of horizontal rods extending across a back side and a front side of the frame; a series horizontal rods extending the sides of the frame; a vertical rods extending vertically up each of the frame; and a plastic wrap, where the wrap fits around the caged frame. The spikes provide a mechanism to penetrate the ground and to secure the frame around a plant. The present invention further includes a method of protecting a plant including the steps of: placing frame around a plant; securing the frame around the plant by inserting spikes into a ground surface around the plant where the spikes extend from the frame; and placing a plastic wrap around the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: Julie Hewitt
  • Publication number: 20140196364
    Abstract: A kit is provided that protects vegetation from external elements by turning any pot or planter into a greenhouse so that a person can grow fruit, vegetables, or flowers on a deck, patio, rooftop or yard. The kit provides a frame structure and a transparent cover supported by the frame structure that covers the plant. Plants can be started early in the season to extend the growing period. Plants can be grown even when the weather is still cool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Jonathan E. Mayner
  • Patent number: 8756858
    Abstract: A process to accelerate growth and regenerate lawns whereby the lawn (2) is at least partially surrounded on the top by a space (4) that is open downward and surrounded on all sides and whereby CO2 is fed into the space (4) and the space (4) covered by the lawn (2) is outfitted with a lighting system (14) and is subjected to light and a device for executing this process are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Linde AG
    Inventors: Peter Krabbendam, Felix Pieter Oudshoorn
  • Patent number: 8683741
    Abstract: Described are devices and methods for providing protection to plants from cold and other weather. A plant cover or protector is constructed of a translucent or other material, a flexible or bendable material, cut into a two-dimensional blank or shape and provides an easily assembled, self-supporting structure to be placed over one or more plants or a location. The plant protector is erected without the use of tools or need for a separate frame or support. The plant protector may be used with stakes or spikes. The plant protector may be collapsed to a planar configuration. The plant protector may be easily and inexpensively manufactured. The plant protector may be repeatedly used from season to season. A top portion of each plant protector may be easily and quickly closed or opened such as by manual manipulation. The plant protector comprises one or more supports or feet for increased contact with the ground and resilience against wind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventors: Leo Castagno, Trevor Butchart
  • Publication number: 20140041291
    Abstract: The invention relates to a growth container (1) comprising: a receptacle (2) with a bottom part (3) having a plant receiving area (4), and a light source (6) for providing light to the plant receiving area (4). In order to obtain conditions optimal for growth, the light source (6) is elongated and arranged centrally in the plant receiving area (4) for being surrounded by plants (5) in the plant receiving area, and for producing light (18) to the growth container (1) at a plurality of different heights (h) above the bottom part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Inventors: Jouni Salojärvi, Mika Sokka, Petteri Masalin
  • Publication number: 20140007500
    Abstract: A culture container includes a container and a cover. The container forms an opening at the top and an external threaded portion around the opening. The cover includes a main body and a flange extending from the main body. An internal threaded portion corresponding to the external threaded portion is formed on the internal surface of the flange. The cover forms a ventilation passage having an opening formed at a free end of the flange facing away from the main body. When the internal threaded portion is threaded with the external threaded portion so as to close the opening of the bottle, the interior of the bottle communicates with exterior via the ventilation passage. Thus, dust is prevented from falling into the bottle via the ventilation passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Bing-Mao LI
  • Patent number: 8333032
    Abstract: Cylindrical encasement devices and methods for planting mangrove propagules or seedlings along shorelines and non-native environments. The devices can use interior (or exterior) longitudinal grooves or thinned channels or lines of holes that hinge the device along the longitudinal axis to facilitate increases in displacement which results in acceleration of plant development and adaptation, improving survivability and reproductive maturity to establish self-sustaining mangrove trees and forests. A manufacturing enables control of the structure, color and opacity, to facilitate applications in habitat creation, restoration, shoreline stabilization, erosion control, and environmental remediation. Safe and easy removal of the device from the environment occurs without harm and damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Robert W. Riley, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120291344
    Abstract: Described are devices and methods for providing protection to plants from cold and other weather. A plant cover or protector is constructed of a translucent or other material, a flexible or bendable material, cut into a two-dimensional blank or shape and provides an easily assembled, self-supporting structure to be placed over one or more plants or a location. The plant protector is erected without the use of tools or need for a separate frame or support. The plant protector may be used with stakes or spikes. The plant protector may be collapsed to a planar configuration. The plant protector may be easily and inexpensively manufactured. The plant protector may be repeatedly used from season to season. A top portion of each plant protector may be easily and quickly closed or opened such as by manual manipulation. The plant protector comprises one or more supports or feet for increased contact with the ground and resilience against wind.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Leo Castagno, Trevor Butchart
  • Patent number: 8307580
    Abstract: A biodegradable spectrally selective grow tube or tree shelter that improves the establishment of woody plant forms by reduction and/or elimination of certain biotic and abiotic stress factors. The grow tube may provide an enhanced micro climate that is humid, CO2-replenished and promotes photosynthesis by selectively propagating photosynthetically active radiation. In addition to providing a physical barrier to wind and herbivores, certain embodiments of the grow tube can also provide protection from chemical sprays while permitting ventilation of the grow tube. Various embodiments of the spectrally selective grow tube may comprise separate interior and exterior members for enhancement of the interior and exterior surface functions and that may be constructed from a biodegradeable polymer or paper-based material. The interior member can be dyed or pigmented to selectively transmit wavelengths of the visible spectrum known to promote photosynthesis, such as red light and/or blue light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Plantra, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph F. Lais, Christian E. Siems, Stephen J. Tillmann
  • Publication number: 20120247010
    Abstract: A handing garden planter apparatus includes a backing having a top portion adapted to hang from a vertical surface, a plurality of planter pockets vertically aligned and integral with the backing, each planter pocket of the plurality of planter pockets defining an interior space adapted to house soil and plant matter therein, a drainage trough integral with the backing, the drainage tough being positioned below the plurality of planter pockets, and an integrated drainage system. The integrated drainage system is adapted to allow excess water to drain from the plurality of planter pockets to the drainage trough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Eric W. HUBER
  • Patent number: 8181386
    Abstract: Cylindrical type encasement devices and method for planting mangrove propagules or seedlings along high-energy shorelines and in non-native environments. The devices can use interior (or exterior) longitudinal grooves or thinned channels or lines of holes that hinge the device along the longitudinal axis to facilitate increases in the displacement. This displacement results in acceleration of both plant development and the adaptation process, thereby improving long-term survivability and promoting reproductive maturity in order to establish self-sustaining mangrove trees and forests. The device facilitates forced adaptation, that is, induced changes in morphology and structure in order to habituate the developing mangrove tree to environments where natural recruitment cannot occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Robert W. Riley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8171668
    Abstract: A spectrally selective grow tube or tree shelter that improves the establishment of woody plant forms by reduction and/or elimination of certain biotic and abiotic stress factors. The grow tube may provide an enhanced micro climate that is humid and rich in CO2 and promotes photosynthesis by selectively propagating photosynthetically active radiation. In addition to providing a physical barrier to wind and herbivores, certain embodiments of the grow tube can also provide protection from chemical sprays while permitting ventilation of the grow tube. Various embodiments of the spectrally selective grow tube may comprise separate interior and exterior members for enhancement of the interior and exterior surface functions and that may be co-extruded. The interior member may be dyed or pigmented to selectively transmit wavelengths of the visible spectrum known to promote photosynthesis, such as red light and/or blue light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Plantra, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph F. Lais, Christian E. Siems, Stephen J. Tillmann
  • Publication number: 20120005952
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a plant-protecting device which is commonly known as a protective cold frame. While this description seems to indicate a frame-like device, the described device is intended to refer not only to the frame but also to a wind and thermal protective covering generally configured to hold heat therein to protect a plant therein from cold, wind, and the combination. In general, the disclosed device comprises a plurality of rod members that may be bendable, which are inserted into a coupler at the apex of the dome-shaped frame to provide a support structure for a cylindrical covering to be placed thereupon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventors: James R. Lohse, Zackary Marr
  • Patent number: 8061077
    Abstract: A cover element for greenhouses or the like is formed as a panel-like element that includes a first substantially transparent layer having alternate strips with optical means for deviating and concentrating light that are alternated with optically neutral strips, and a second partially opaque layer having optically neutral and substantially transparent strips that are alternated with opaque strips and that include a photovoltaic element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Giacomo Roccaforte
  • Publication number: 20100299993
    Abstract: A biodegradable spectrally selective grow tube or tree shelter that improves the establishment of woody plant forms by reduction and/or elimination of certain biotic and abiotic stress factors. The grow tube may provide an enhanced micro climate that is humid, CO2-replenished and promotes photosynthesis by selectively propagating photosynthetically active radiation. In addition to providing a physical barrier to wind and herbivores, certain embodiments of the grow tube can also provide protection from chemical sprays while permitting ventilation of the grow tube. Various embodiments of the spectrally selective grow tube may comprise separate interior and exterior members for enhancement of the interior and exterior surface functions and that may be constructed from a biodegradeable polymer or paper-based material. The interior member can be dyed or pigmented to selectively transmit wavelengths of the visible spectrum known to promote photosynthesis, such as red light and/or blue light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventors: Joseph F. Lais, Christian E. Siems, Stephen J. Tillmann
  • Publication number: 20100236142
    Abstract: A home garden planter system is shown that can be assembled or disassembled for movement from one location to another. A frame with quick connecting corners is provided. A hose connects passages in a portion of the frame to a source of pressurized water. Opposite ends of the passages connect to irrigation devices for watering said soil within the frame. A translucent cover is supported above the frame. Also, a bed may be included that fits snuggly within the frame and holds the soil in which the plants will grow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Michael S. Drewry
  • Patent number: 7762019
    Abstract: This invention relates to a plant protective cover of a translucent polymeric material including at least one transmission spectrum modifier for minimizing the transmission in the ultraviolet range up to 350 nm; and for adjusting the transmission in the visible light range between 350 nm and 750 nm in accordance with photosynthetic and photomorphogenic requirements of plants to be cultivated underneath the plant protective cover, to enhance the growth conditions of such plants. The cover further includes a transmission spectrum modifier for minimizing the transmission in the infrared range above 750 nm. The transmission in the visible light range between 350 nm and 750 nm is adjusted by decreasing the transmitted green and yellow wavelengths and by changing the ratio of blue to red wavelengths transmitted towards a 2:3 ratio. The cover optimises growing conditions for plants cultivated underneath the cover thus providing relatively enhanced plant growth and performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: North-West University
    Inventors: Leon Van Rensburg, Tjaart Andries Du Plessis, Horst Seute
  • Publication number: 20100132255
    Abstract: An eco-friendly vertical planter apparatus, system, and method that allow a user to grow vegetative plant matter with minimal water and soil. The vertical planter apparatus includes a base and at least one central planting unit having its own base and at a least one sidewall to form a container for holding plant matter and soil. The vertical planter also includes a moisture-retentive wick, such as a cotton-woven braid, having at least two ends. One end of the moisture-retentive wick is placed within the container. In use, soil is placed within the container atop at least one end of the wick and plant matter is planted within the soil substantially adjacent the moisture-retentive wick. Optional features include modular central planting units, multiple external planting tubes, a thermal mass to retain heat to plant matter roots, a water reservoir, a cloche/cover to simulate green-house effect, and dark or light colored central planting units or tubes depending on the type of plant matter being grown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Deloss WEBBER
  • Patent number: 7716872
    Abstract: A greenhouse comprising: a substantially transparent surface; a protective coating comprising a pigment and a binder. The binder comprises a vinyl polymer based on one or more of the monomers selected from the group consisting of methyl methacrylate, butyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, styrene, methacrylic acid and acrylic acid, having a weight-average molecular weight of 10,000-100,000 and an acid value of 40-250. The binder has a polydispersity of 2-6 and a glass transition temperature of 10 to 60° C. The protective coating is on said substantially transparent surface and the protective coating is removable with a removing agent comprising a base and a complex former.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: RSB Laboratorium B.V.
    Inventors: Antoon Johannes Gerardus Van Rossum, Antonius Franciscus Maria Bertels
  • Patent number: 7703237
    Abstract: An apparatus for cultivating a cucumber, eggplant or the like includes a fastening element for allowing an opened cover body to be fastened into a closed state or a closed cover body to be separated into an opened state by causing a catching protrusion opened along the longitudinal direction of the cover body, and a plurality of catching steps to allow the cover body to be coupled and fastened when catching steps are hooked on a catching protrusion, and a cover body distortion prevention projection formed protruding from the catching protrusion to fix opposite sides of each of the catching steps when each catching step is hooked on the catching protrusion. Cover body separation/opening supports are formed, respectively, on the top of each catching step and on the catching protrusion such that the fastened cover body can be unfastened and opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Sung-rae Cho
  • Publication number: 20100024294
    Abstract: An enclosure for acclimatizing a micro-propagated plantlet includes a sealed growing chamber for the plantlet. The enclosure has a closable opening for providing nutrients to the plantlet and a humidity control to selectively reduce the humidity within the chamber over time to acclimatize the plantlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: CONLEY ROSE, P. C.
    Inventor: Malcolm Glen Kertz
  • Publication number: 20090293350
    Abstract: A raised bed planter comprising a porous and permeable load-bearing exoskeleton comprised of nonwoven polymer matting and a spray-on polymer coating; a core section comprised of hydrophilic bedding fill material; and a bottom layer that serves as a weed barrier. The planter optionally incorporates multiple bedding levels and/or a wicking system or wicking components. In an alternate embodiment, the exoskeleton is comprised of a layer of outdoor carpet, a layer of fencing material, and a layer of nonwoven polymer matting. The planter optionally comprises one or more wings and a removable greenhouse cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: Fountainhead, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Frank M. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20090272031
    Abstract: A spectrally selective grow tube or tree shelter that improves the establishment of woody plant forms by reduction and/or elimination of certain biotic and abiotic stress factors. The grow tube may provide an enhanced micro climate that is humid and rich in CO2 and promotes photosynthesis by selectively propagating photosynthetically active radiation. In addition to providing a physical barrier to wind and herbivores, certain embodiments of the grow tube can also provide protection from chemical sprays while permitting ventilation of the grow tube. Various embodiments of the spectrally selective grow tube may comprise separate interior and exterior members for enhancement of the interior and exterior surface functions and that may be co-extruded. The interior member may be dyed or pigmented to selectively transmit wavelengths of the visible spectrum known to promote photosynthesis, such as red light and/or blue light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph F. Lais, Christian E. Siems, Stephen J. Tillmann
  • Publication number: 20090205248
    Abstract: A frost guard that is light weight, transparent and easily compacted facilitating storage and transport. The frost guard has an inverted U-shaped frame and a transparent, flexible plastic sheet over the frame, wherein the sheet protects plants under the frost guard from excessive wind and moisture, thereby preventing frost damage to the plants. The frame is placed over the plants to be protected, such that only slight air flow occurs through C-shaped apertures in the plastic sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Charles C. Phelps
  • Patent number: 7523584
    Abstract: A weather protection device for the protection of moisture or sunlight sensitive specialized cultures of plant cultivation is proposed, with at least a largely watertight protective skin that is attached to a carrier unit, which safely ensures an effective protection, especially of plants from weather influences, even over longer periods of time at comparably low effort, and which is economically inexpensive to produce, especially for very large-scale applications, such as for areas of several acres of size: This is achieved according to the invention in that the protective skin is attached at least partially pivoting on the carrier unit for swiveling out by means of wind force from an idle position, and that at least one of a net, meshwork, and screen is provided, on which the protective skin rests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Inventor: Reinhard Voehringer
  • Patent number: 7497048
    Abstract: A plant protector includes a flexible cover having an apex, a base, plural sides and plural vertices defining intersections between adjacent sides, together with plural elongated frame members each respectively attached to the cover at one of the vertices. The frame members each have a first end proximate to the cover apex and a second end proximate to the cover base. The frame member first ends are mutually interconnected for pivoting at or below the cover apex. The pivotal interconnection may be provided by hinge connector hardware, but is more preferably provided by the cover itself functioning as a living hinge. The frame members are pivotable from an open position wherein the frame members are angled relative to each other to a collapsed position wherein the frame members are substantially parallel to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventor: Steven M. Bakowski
  • Publication number: 20080312086
    Abstract: A sheet for pest control, wherein said sheet is of polymeric material and comprises at least two layers; a top layer and a bottom layer, wherein the bottom layer contains a herbicide and one or more pesticides selected from among fungicides and insecticides, and the top layer optionally containing an insecticide and/or fungicide. Other aspects of the invention include a polymeric composition used in the preparation of the sheets and a method for pest control in agriculture, horticulture and gardens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: MAKHTESHIM CHEMICAL WORKS LTD.
    Inventor: Avner Barazani
  • Patent number: 7169222
    Abstract: Multilayer interference pigment consisting of a transparent carrier material coated with alternating layers of metal oxides of low and high refractive index, the difference in the refractive indices being at least 0.1, which is obtainable by alternate coating of the transparent carrier material with a metal oxide of high refractive index and with a metal oxide of low refractive index in a wet process by hydrolysis of the corresponding water-soluble metal compounds, separation, drying and, if desired, calcination of the resulting pigment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Merck Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Dieter Brückner, Andrea Heyland, Christoph Schmidt, Christina Schank, Claudia Seibel
  • Patent number: 6976334
    Abstract: An outdoor planter system with a central opening through which a plant may grow. The planter portion surrounding the central opening is inwardly and downwardly sloped, generally impervious to liquid and light, and thereby directs liquid to the central opening while simultaneously preventing undesirable growth of weeds and the like about a central plant. The outer perimeter of the planter has several keyways for removably attachment of a planter cover. The keyways are also adapted to receive plant growing or animal protection cages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: Mark L. Bowditch
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20040144022
    Abstract: The present invention provides a retractable material forming a protective barrier that can be deployed in furled condition in temperate weather and quickly unfurled during or before or after inclement weather arrives. The retractable material provided by the present invention can be utilized to protect fruits, plants, animals, and tender vegetation from cold weather by forming a thermal insulating barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: Marcia Mink Roebuck
  • Patent number: 6651381
    Abstract: A synthetic resin molded material characterized in that a thin film made of an oxide of at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Zr, Ti, Ta, Hf, Mo, W, Nb, Sn, In, Al and Zn, is formed by a dry method on a synthetic resin substrate having hydrophobicity, and a method for its production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Asahi Glass Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuo Harada, Atsushi Hayashi, Tatsuo Momii, Teruo Takakura, Seitoku Kaya
  • Patent number: 6588143
    Abstract: A cone shaped, multi-use garden accessory, consisting of a single unit. The cone body is open at each end. The base, or larger end, is formed by a rounded rim. The neck, or smaller end, has a tubular extension with prongs affixed. Stiffeners are arrayed within the cone and extend through the tubular neck and along the prongs. The entire structure is composed of translucent, semi-rigid or rigid material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Elizabeth K. Merrell