Abstract: Disclosed is a thermoplastic container formed from a flattened thermoplastic sleeve that is fabricated at a first manufacturing location. These flattened sleeves are conveniently transported to a second manufacturing location where they can be compactly stored. As containers are needed, the ends of the sleeve are stiffened by forming a flange or bead, thereby providing a tubular central section with a stable cross-sectional shape suitable for the application of conventional end closures.

Abstract: Disclosed is a tubular package for fragile objects having a central section formed from a semi-rigid thermoplastic material and end caps joined to each end of the tubular central section. The end caps have spacing means extending beyond the outer periphery of the central sections for preventing contact between central sections when a plurality of such packages are placed adjacent to each other. Openings in the end caps permit the fragile objects to protrude from the package.

Abstract: Disclosed is a rigid end plug snugly inserted into a tube formed from plastic sheet material. The tube has perforations near its open ends into which axially tapered radial protrusions from the end plug are inserted. The end plug has a beveled edge for ease of snug insertion into the tube and a rim on which the tube is seated.

Abstract: Disclosed is a package for shipping organic pellets for subsequent plant growth, the package being compactly collapsed during shipment and being openable into an enlarged chamber conducive to plant growth and having a pair of upwardly extending walls for supporting a transparent bag completing the enclosure of the enlarged chamber.