Abstract: Disclosed herein is a supporting bracket component of a support system for temporarily supporting a plant via a fixed a fixed structure of vertical poles which support at least one substantially horizontal support cord, the support system comprising: a substantially vertical alignment wire having a top end and a bottom end; a curve greater than 180° in the top end of the vertical alignment wire forming a hanging hook portion configured to be selectively supported by one of the support cords; at least one supporting bracket coupled to one of the substantially horizontal support cords and capturing the alignment wire and the plant; wherein the alignment wire maintains vertical orientation of the plant substantially above the point at which the plane protrudes from the ground.

Abstract: A method and system for managing bearing plants so that their belowground root-zones are clustered together to improve water-use effectiveness; and training their aboveground structures such that their aboveground structures have the wider spacing they require. It is applicable to plants (e.g., vine-like plants including wine grapes) whose trunks can be oriented at an angle other than vertical or which can be otherwise shaped so that their canopies are not centered above their root-zones but rather are horizontally offset from the root-zones.

Abstract: A support device, or hook, for removably securing movable wires on a row of plants, such as for example a vineyard or an orchard, on a support pole. In particular, the support device is made up of an elastically deformable filiform body, shaped in such a manner as to have at least engagement elements adapted to elastically cooperate with an opening provided on the support pole to removably secure the support device on the support pole, and support elements, adapted to elastically cooperate with the external surface of the support pole to removably receive the wire, wherein the engagement elements and the support elements are formed by portions of the filiform body lying on planes essentially orthogonal to each other.

Abstract: A flexible trellis net can be used for growing plants in a grow tent having a series of tent poles. The flexible trellis net includes a trellis that has a mesh lower netting, joined to the series of tent poles, and further has lower netting latitudinal ropes knotted to lower netting longitudinal ropes creating a mesh lower netting plurality of rectangles that are configured for supporting and training the plants within the grow tent. A mesh upper netting is joined to the series of tent poles, and further has upper netting latitudinal ropes knotted to upper netting longitudinal ropes creating a mesh upper netting plurality of rectangles that are configured for supporting fruiting plants and flowers within the grow tent.

Abstract: A method for growing grapevines in a root inhibiting vessel permanently planted in previously existing solid waste landfill mounds is disclosed. The vessel or container is a porous polymeric bag or fabric sleeve liner closely received in the container. A fabric disc is positioned in the bottom of an excavated hole in the cover layer of a landfill. The fabric liner is needle-punched to create a rough surface capable of trapping the roots of the growing grapevine and direct the roots into the side of the container such that the apical dominance of the root is stopped to restrict growth and promote root branching on the inside of the container to create a fibrous root system within the container.

Abstract: A trellis support system comprises a vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wall portions, the front portion comprising an aperture, the aperture comprising a first portion and a second portion adjacent the first portion, and a horizontal cross arm perpendicular to the vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wall portions dimensioned to match the front and side wall portions of the post, the front portion comprising a tab member dimensioned to engage the first portion of the aperture and a lock member positioned adjacent the tab member and dimensioned to engage the second portion of the aperture.

Abstract: A trellis support system comprises a vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wall portions, the front portion comprising an aperture, the aperture comprising a first portion and a second portion adjacent the first portion, and a horizontal cross arm perpendicular to the vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wail portions dimensioned to match the front and side wall portions of the post, the front portion comprising a tab member dimensioned to engage the first portion of the aperture and a lock member positioned adjacent the tab member and dimensioned to engage the second portion of the aperture.

Abstract: A vine support system includes support posts adjacent each vine trunk with support wires suspended between the support posts. Positioning shafts are mounted vertically extending from the support wires. Pedistular supports are engaged on the positioning shafts for releasably supporting canes extending from each vine trunk, with the pedistular supports vertically positioned on the positioning shafts for pronation by the canes to suspend new growth from the canes in a fruiting zone.

Abstract: A support for plants formed of an elongated member having coils at or adjacent to first and second ends which provide for engagement to one or a plurality of support posts in an elevated position to support plants or a growing structure roof. The supports and coils are formed as a unitary structure and can also include a centrally located coil to provide support for watering and other components for supported plants. A plurality of supports are engageable to form a greenhouse type structure which may be covered with polymeric, shade, or woven material and which may be elevated to provide access to underlying plants.

Abstract: An apparatus for displaying a plant is described. The apparatus includes a first substantially horizontal member that engages a first surface of a structure at a first vertical position. A second substantially horizontal member engages a second surface of the structure at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position. The first surface is opposite to the second surface. A frame is coupled to the second substantially horizontal member and is shaped to support a pot containing the plant. The weight of the supported plant urges the first substantially horizontal member against the first surface of the structure and urges the second substantially horizontal member against the second surface of the structure, thereby securing the apparatus to the structure.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for easy removal of potted and trained plants from a plant container. The apparatus includes an elongated support member configured to assist plant training, and an elliptical-shaped support base connected to the elongated support member and configured to removably support a plant. Embodiments of the apparatus include support arms asymmetrically disposed on the elongated support member to upwardly support a plant.

Abstract: A trellis support system comprises a vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wall portions, the front portion comprising an aperture, the aperture comprising a first portion and a second portion adjacent the first portion, and a horizontal cross arm perpendicular to the vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wall portions dimensioned to match the front and side wall portions of the post, the front portion comprising a tab member dimensioned to engage the first portion of the aperture and a lock member positioned adjacent the tab member and dimensioned to engage the second portion of the aperture.

Abstract: An adjustable garden stake having a central stake. A T-structure having a vertical cylinder attached to a horizontal cylinder is disposed around the central stake. A thumbscrew is screwed into the vertical cylinder which is capable of holding the T-structure in a fixed position along the length of the central stake. A retainer ring is disposed about the central stake and is attached to each end of the horizontal cylinder of the T-structure.

Abstract: A vine training system is disclosed, including an improved vineyard stake. The system includes a vineyard stake, a training wire, and end posts for holding tension in the wire. A plurality of vineyard stakes are positioned between the end posts to keep the wire a desired distance above the ground. The stake engages the wire via openings in the tube wall. The openings include a central horizontal leg and oppositely disposed vertical legs, such that the legs form a tab therebetween. The wire is receivable in the opening, and the tab retains the wire to fix it to the stake. This engagement is achieved without the use of clips. The stake can include a plurality of openings so that the wire can be positioned and repositioned at any of a variety of distances above the ground, to accommodate vine growth. Other embodiments are disclosed and claimed.

Abstract: A trellis support system comprises a vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wall portions, the front portion comprising an aperture, the aperture comprising a first portion and a second portion adjacent the first portion, and a horizontal cross arm perpendicular to the vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wall portions dimensioned to match the front and side wall portions of the post, the front portion comprising a tab member dimensioned to engage the first portion of the aperture and a lock member positioned adjacent the tab member and dimensioned to engage the second portion of the aperture.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for fastening movable wires on a row of plants, in particular grape vines. A fastening device for movable wires (F?, F?) of a row of plants according to the invention includes connecting means (1, 201, 301, 401) suitable to arrange said device in proximity of a head pole (PE) of said row, guide means (2) and a plurality of mounting means (3) of a wire slidingly connected to said guide means (2). The device is characterized in that said guide means (2) include a plurality of guide portions (4A, 4B, 4C, 4D) that define a corresponding plurality of displacement paths of said movable wires (F?, F?) distributed on opposite sides of the row, said displacement paths being oriented transversally relative to the direction of extension of said movable wires (F?, F?), and in that said mounting means (3) are designed to receive a single movable wire (F?, F?) so that each one of said movable wires (F?, F?) is independently displaceable along one of said displacement paths.

Abstract: A post for retaining wires in wine and fruit growing includes a basic body with first and second limbs made of sheet metal, on which there is disposed at least one transverse extension arm running substantially at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the basic body and having a multiplicity of hooks and/or eyelets for retaining the wires. The first and second limbs each contain an opening with a shape adapted to the cross-sectional shape of the transverse extension arm, and through which the transverse extension arm can be pushed into the basic body, substantially at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the basic body, into a locking position. A quick-acting closure produces a form-locking connection between the basic body and the transverse extension arm, in the locking position.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to device and method for promoting plant growth. The device is a plant spacing member that has a body and a first end and a second end. The first end and second end have openings for receiving at least one plant limb therein to create a space between the limbs of the plant. An increased flow of air and light then flow through the created space to the interior of the plant to stimulate the growth of the plant. In addition, the increase flow of air and light dries the plant to reduce the accumulation of mold and mildew.

Abstract: A plant training structure is used for training a plant to grow in a direction other than vertically. The plant training structure has a central pillar, a spine, at least one lateral frame arm, and a mesh. The spine is supported by the central pillar and extends in at least two directions away from the central pillar. The at least one lateral frame arm is carried by the spine and disposed on at least two opposing sides of the central pillar. The mesh is attached to and suspended between the lateral frame arms over at least a portion of the central pillar. A plant growing under the plant training structure is restrained from growing vertically by the mesh.

Abstract: Vine plants are layered along a row of vine plants supported in growing media in a vine crop by a vine planet supporting system suspended from an overhead building structure locating the vine crop therein. The system includes a track extending in a longitudinal direction along the row of vine plants spaced above the growing media. A spool body supporting a string wound thereon is associated with each vine plant to support the vine plant extending along the string. A carrier body slidable along the track supports each spool body on the track. The spool bodies are coupled to the track such that the spool bodies are each arranged to unwind the string therefrom responsive to displacement of the spool body with the respective carrier body in the direction of the row of vine plants.

Abstract: A process for controlling grapevine ripening comprises a step, to be implemented between the birth of the rachis (R) and harvesting of the bunch (G), in which rachis (R) supporting means (1) are applied, designed to at least counterbalance the weight of the flowers and fruit developing on the rachis (R), allowing the rachis (R) to grow according to its original direction. A piece of equipment for controlling grapevine ripening, in accordance with the above-mentioned process, comprises a structure (2) fixed to the ground and rachis (R) supporting means (1) which can be connected to the fixed structure (2).

Abstract: A plant support device (1) having a horizontal support (3) with vertical stakes (10) extending downward therefrom. The stakes may be height adjustable to accommodate various heights of different plants (2) and to allow a user to increase the height of the plant support device as a plant grows. The horizontal support is preferably made of a flexible material that allows a user to curve it around an entire plant to create a ring (13) that encircles the entire plant or to create a partial ring (21) that supports only one side of the plant. The diameter of the ring may be adjusted to accommodate various widths of different plants and to allow a user to increase the diameter of the ring as a plant grows. Multiple plant support devices may also be attached to one another to enlarge the diameter of the ring.

Abstract: Disclosed is a framework for supporting plants. The framework consists of at least two building units. Each of the building units includes a ferrule-forming segment and posts. The ferrule-forming segment includes a bow, a boss formed at an end of the bow, a boss-receiving ring formed at another end of the bow, post-receiving rings formed on the bow, and anchors formed on the bow. Each of the posts is fit in a related one of the post-receiving rings.

Abstract: A system for growing crops on a surface of water may comprise a plurality of growth platforms floating on a body of water; cables for pulling the growth platforms; and rails for guiding the growth platforms as they are pulled in and out of the building. To facilitate planting and harvesting, the platforms may be moved into a building that overlies a portion of a body of water on which the platforms float.

Abstract: An improved plant harvesting system of aerating pots, aerating pot supports and multi-tiered horizontal trellis plates that are spatially configured for maximum growth in a two month harvesting schedule of annual dioecious flowering herbs. This system is optimized to allow sufficient air to the plant roots, enhanced drainage of water from the potting media and to allow sufficient light to reach heavily shaded areas so as to spur on new shoot growth.

Abstract: A plant air purifier and associated method for purifying air, comprising: at least one grow container; a filter bed comprising a surface which is horizontal within 20 degrees of a horizontal plane; at least one plant which grows within the filter bed; a reservoir for containing water for watering the at least one plant; a mechanical watering device which waters the filter bed from the top down; a pump for pumping water from the reservoir to and through the mechanical watering device; and an air propulsion mechanism for propelling air through the filter bed.

Abstract: A trellis support system comprises a vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wall portions, the front portion comprising an aperture, the aperture comprising a first portion and a second portion adjacent the first portion, and a horizontal cross arm perpendicular to the vertical post comprising a front portion and first and second opposing side wall portions dimensioned to match the front and side wall portions of the post, the front portion comprising a tab member dimensioned to engage the first portion of the aperture and a lock member positioned adjacent the tab member and dimensioned to engage the second portion of the aperture.

Abstract: A vineyard trellis system that includes a ground anchored upright post, at least one foliage wire passing by the post and having a supporting interengagement with the post, and lifting means arranged to effect a lifting or lowering of the wire in relation to the post where said lifting means include a support member slidably engaging with the post and engaging with the foliage wire, and a winch arrangement adapted to assist in a lifting or lowering of the support member to effect a change in height of the foliage wire with respect to the post.

Abstract: A trellis system of the invention comprises a trellis and tool in combination. The trellis includes multiple legs and one or more horizontal supports. The tool includes a tray and a coning tool. The tray is adapted to slidably engage the legs by way of engagement means. The coning tool is adapted to engage the ends of the legs to facilitate shaping the trellis into a conical or pyramidal frame if desired. The trellis system can be used as a plant growth support and/or to hold potted plants. It can be installed into the ground or an existing potted plant. The trellis can be inverted position, the trellis can be used as a frame to build ornamental Christmas trees. The trellis can be a break down type of trellis including at least two horizontal supports and at least three segmented legs, wherein the segmented legs can each be made from two or more extended leg segments.

Abstract: A plant support is assembled from a plurality of interchangeable parts that can be readily assembled together to form a complete plant assembly having a desired size, in either an open or closed configuration, and to readily permit disassembly for storage or reconfiguration of the support, The plant support may be made up of various horizontal and vertical members that are configured to readily attach and detach from one another in order to form supports in various shapes and sizes such as enclosures or trellis-type supports,

Abstract: A plant tie and a chain of plant ties are disclosed. The plant tie can include an expandable portion, such as a length of tape, and two twistable portions, such as two lengths of wire. The expandable portion can span a gap between the twistable portions. The plant tie can be wrapped around a portion of a plant and secured in place by twisting the twistable portions. Once in place, the plant tie can expand to accommodate movement and/or growth of the plant to which it is attached. The disclosed chain of plant ties can include multiple individual plant ties linked in series for ease of manufacture and use.

Abstract: A plant support is assembled from a plurality of interchangeable parts that can be readily assembled together to form a complete plant assembly having a desired size, in either an open or closed configuration, and to readily permit disassembly for storage or reconfiguration of the support. The plant support may be made up of various horizontal and vertical members that are configured to readily attach and detach from one another in order to form supports in various shapes and sizes such as enclosures or trellis-type supports.

Abstract: The present invention is in the area of agriculture and more specifically is directed to a method for improving the culture of the edible fig (Ficus carica). As currently grown in California, the fig tends to have a rather short season so that fresh fruit is available only sporadically. The present invention provides a comprehensive method for improved culture of edible figs to provide fresh fruit throughout the year. The method specifies optimum methods for establishing and maintaining orchards. The method includes steps for extending fruit production into the winter. The method includes steps for enhancing fruit quality especially antioxidant compounds which are believed to be beneficial to human health. The method includes steps ensuring that fresh fruit will have an extended storage life. All of these factors contribute to higher yield and higher overall profitability.

Abstract: Vine plants are layered along a row of vine plants supported in growing media in a vine crop by a vine planet supporting system suspended from an overhead building structure locating the vine crop therein. The system includes a track extending in a longitudinal direction along the row of vine plants spaced above the growing media. A spool body supporting a string wound thereon is associated with each vine plant to support the vine plant extending along the string. A carrier body slidable along the track supports each spool body on the track. The spool bodies are coupled to the track such that the spool bodies are each arranged to unwind the string therefrom responsive to displacement of the spool body with the respective carrier body in the direction of the row of vine plants.

Abstract: A process for controlling grapevine ripening comprises a step, to be implemented between the birth of the rachis (R) and harvesting of the bunch (G), in which rachis (R) supporting means (1) are applied, designed to at least counterbalance the weight of the flowers and fruit developing on the rachis (R), allowing the rachis (R) to grow according to its original direction. A piece of equipment for controlling grapevine ripening, in accordance with the above-mentioned process, comprises a structure (2) fixed to the ground and rachis (R) supporting means (1) which can be connected to the fixed structure (2).

Abstract: An adjustable plant stake assembly having cross braces, stake anchors and couplers is provided that can be used with conventional plant stakes. The cross braces extend between two adjacent plant stakes and are adjustable in length to adjust the spacing between the stakes. The stake anchors support the stakes and include a step portion that enables the anchor to be driven into the ground by stepping on the step. As the plant grows in height, each plant stake can be lengthened by connecting an additional plant stake to the top of the existing stake using one of the couplers. A kit including the plant stakes, cross braces, stake anchors and couplers is also included.

Abstract: A guide and fastening element is used to draw together and keep joined together the cables which guide the stocks and which force their vertical growth. The stocks may be confined to the space between said cables, and that it is formed by a warped structure made with wire in a rigid material which has two branches in the common vertex whereof an elastic element is disposed, each branch being bent by one or more points forming different stretches and the free end of each branch having a hooking element in order to hold the cable of the opposite side of a post of the vine.

Abstract: Ecopots having a large number of holes permeable to the culture solution and air are used for disposing seeding and seedling pots or for planting seedlings and are hung in the space in a house, a bucket for collecting the drips of the culture solution is placed below each pot for collecting the residual solution to thereby prevent the infection by pathogens, and a balancing toy-like hanger hung vertically from a hook hung movably from a shelf pole in the house via a loop clutch, an ecopot hanging chain, a main melon stem attracting cord, a melon fruit hanging cord and so forth are used to render the ecopot hung from the ecopot hanging chain orientation-variable in all directions so that oxygen may be fed abundantly to the rooting zone of the horticultural plant and the plant may receive the sunshine with ease.

Abstract: A plant support system that is self-adjusting in height to accommodate growth of a plant, and a method of using such a system. The system includes a pole assembly having a base and first and second pole sections. The base is sized to be received in a container, the first pole section is coupled to the base of the pole assembly, and the second pole section is coupled to the first pole section so as to enable the second pole section to longitudinally extend and retract relative to the first pole section while remaining coupled to the first pole section. Features are disposed on at least the second pole section for releasably securing portions of a plant longitudinally extending alongside the pole assembly. The container is preferably supported by a turntable to rotate about its axis of symmetry.

Abstract: A trellis is disclosed. The trellis has a base, spaced flexible arms rising generally vertically upwardly and outwardly from the base to free ends, and two spacers. There are openings in each of the spacers in which the arms of the trellis are slidable. The walls of the openings in the spacers engage the flexible arms frictionally, exerting a force which opposes sliding movement of the spacers relative to the flexible arms.

Abstract: A modular structural system including a plurality of elongate structural members. The structural members are formed of a fiber-reinforced polymeric material and have a common cross sectional configuration with a circular outer perimeter and two oppositely disposed T-shaped grooves. A central opening is disposed between the first and second grooves. A reinforcement member can be positioned in the central opening for additional strength. Bracket members having first and second flanged edges. The flanged edges can be securely engaged with the T-shaped grooves disposed on the structural members to secure two of the structural members together at an angle. The system may be used as a trellis and wire stays securable in the T-shaped grooves and a pivot bracket are also disclosed. The wire stays include a base positionable in the T-shaped groove and a shaft that extends outwardly. The pivot bracket pivotally joins together two of the elongate structural members.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a landscaper trellis that would feature basket hangers and a solar light incorporated into its design. The trellis would measure roughly 8 feet long and 8 feet high. The curved framework would consist of two lattice panels stretching between three support poles, and be made of a material comprising treated lumber, durable plastic, or a metal. The invention provides an attractive setting with the ability to hold planters, and provide lighting when necessary anywhere without requiring an external electrical source.

Abstract: Resiliently compensated wire tensioner which can be used especially in the field of vine growing to tension “moving wires” of vine supports. It comprises a wire tensioner, a suitable helical spring located between a first hooking member capable of securing it to a corresponding end post of a support for vines or other plants and a second hooking member suitable for securing it to a winding member to which the ends of the pair of “moving wires” normally used in the construction of the supports are secured and which when suitably operated in rotation by a suitable tool causes winding and consequent tensioning of the same, the helical spring having turns at some distance from each other, so that it can be operated under compression and the corresponding first hooking member and the second hooking member being applied thereto in such a way as to stress it only by shortening; a suitable immobilizing member capable of securing the winding member in the appropriate tensioning position being also provided.

Abstract: A device for training creeping plants by means of a substantially vertical, flexible support wire comprises a reel with quick attach means to effect attachment to a carrying cable. A winding spool for the support wire is mounted so that it is able to rotate. The reel comprises: an immobilizing lever (33) mounted pivotably about a pivot axis between a position of clamping the support wire and a position of releasing it, the support wire being disposed, in the clamping position, between a first jaw (39), which is integral to the immobilizing lever (33), and a fixed second jaw (27) opposite the first jaw (39); and automatic return means (36) that return the immobilizing lever (33) toward the clamping position.

Abstract: The present invention features a plant widget comprising a holding plate, a first supporting member attached to the holding plate, and a second supporting member attached to the first supporting member. In some embodiments, the holding plate comprises at least one aperture. In some embodiments, the holding plate comprises a variety of sizes and shapes.

Abstract: A lifting device for positioning an item on a location includes a support which in use applies a lifting force to lift the item, and securing means for securing the item to the support.

Abstract: A plant protection system which is economical, and quickly installed and removed and which can be used on row crops such as strawberries to protect against frost, freezing, and insects. The system includes a series of frames placed along a crop row wherein each frame has at least one twine engaging loop on the upper portion of the frame. Twine is tensioned along the upper sides of the frames by drawing the twine into an open end of the loop, looping the twine completely around the loop and proceeding to the next frame with the twine held in tension at the loop. A protective cover is draped over the frames and tensioned twine and anchored in the crop furrows. The tension of the twine between the frames prevents the cover from sagging and touching the crops.

Abstract: A trellis wire support apparatus and a trellis system and method for use in vineyards and the like. The trellis wire support comprises a body having at least one a fold configured to releasibly engage a corresponding slot in a support element, and at least one clip or hook configured to releasibly engage a trellis wire. The trellis systems comprise at least one support element having a slot therein, and at least one trellis wire support comprising at least one clip configured to releasibly engage a trellis wire and a fold configured to releasibly engage the slot in the support element. The trellis system may additionally comprise a cross arm, with the support element configured to couple to the cross arm. The cross arm may include parallel ridges extending along its length, and the support element may have notches adjacent each end thereof that are configured to engage the ridges on the cross arm.

Abstract: A clip device is used in a kit, system and method for supporting plants during growth. The clip includes an elongated beam portion with clamp portions on each end. The clamp portions are made of a stiff, resilient material, and each includes a stationary jaw and a flexing jaw that define a bay sized to engage an elongated pole so that a pair of poles may be interconnected in spaced apart relation. The beam portion can be reinforced with flanges and/or gussets. The clamp portions may have cylindrical sidewalls and be in a C-shaped configuration. As a kit, a plurality of clip devices and a plurality of poles are provided in order to create a framework to support a plant. The method contemplates erecting poles at the vertices of a regular geometric polygon and releasably interconnecting them with these clip devices.

Abstract: A trellis assembly including a first trellis section having a plurality of vertical rods connected to at least one horizontal rod and a second trellis section having a plurality of connected horizontal and vertical rods. The second trellis section includes a plurality of tubes connected to an outside of the vertical rods at upper ends thereof configured to accept lower ends of the vertical rods of the first trellis section to connect the first trellis section to the second trellis section.