Abstract: A method of applying a selected first combination of application rates of each of a plurality of crop inputs on a first zone in a field and applying a selected second combination of application rates of each of the crop inputs on a second zone in the field. The method comprises towing a seeding implement through the first zone in the field with metering devices adjusted to apply the first combination of application rates; visually judging when the seeding implement crosses a first boundary from the first zone to the second zone; and, by performing a single action, adjusting the metering devices to apply the second combination of application rates on the second zone.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlled delivery of seeds between the seed meter of an agricultural planter to an open seed furrow. Seeds are received individually and in a sequence from a seed meter into a housing. The seeds are conveyed in sequence through the housing by a conveyor at a controlled speed to a location proximate the open furrow, then gently released into the open furrow as the agricultural planter moves forward. The controlled delivery of the seed to the furrow ensures more accurate seed placement within the furrow at the desired seed spacing, thereby improving crop yield potential.

Abstract: A seeding device for tilling the ground and distributing seed. The device includes a handle having a bracket with a seed container, the tilling plate and tilling tines mounted on the bracket. A seed distributor is provided to distribute seed over the ground. The seed distributor includes a plunger with a distribution plate. To use the seeding device, the user first inserts the tilling tines into the ground which moves the plunger upward toward the seed container and then removes the seeding device from the ground. The down and up movement moves seed from the seed container to the ground or the distribution plate. Seed on the distribution plate is moved off of the plate then moves the plunger into the extended position.

Abstract: Inhibition of forest damage exerts by ultraviolet rays. By selecting species having triploid or tetraploid of chromosomes and afforestating to form the ultraviolet resistant forest by forming the artificial forest.

Abstract: A transplanter is provided a single centralized pneumatic feeder which will feed anywhere from 2 to 10 or more rows of seedlings at one time. The centralized pneumatic feeder concept allows the transplanter to operate with low velocity movement and still plant large numbers of seedlings. The seedlings are initially in plant trays designed so that the seedlings can be extracted from the bottom of the trays. To simplify seedling transfer, the pneumatic feeder includes an impulse-type extraction system and a pneumatic seedling transfer system is employed. This new system is simple in concept and has only two moving parts per row. This concept makes the transplanter system extremely adaptable to almost any configuration, for example 2-10 or more rows, bare ground fields, mulch covered beds, and even other manufacturer's planters.

Abstract: A novel method of producing maize grain with desirable functionality has been developed involving planting two different maize hybrids within the same field. The two maize hybrids are planted in alternating blocks of rows. One hybrid is male sterile such that the second hybrid provides pollen for the entire field. This leads to blocks of two separate types of grain which may be harvested and processed separately.

Abstract: An improved method of cultivating kava plants is disclosed in which a growth medium is formed form a mound formed over a leveled bed of porous rocks, such as volcanic cinders. The bed material is substantially free of organic matter. The mound material is comprised of gravel smaller than the bed material, such as volcanic gravel, and includes organic matter. The kava plants are grown in the mound material. The plants can be harvested by lifting the plant from the mound using a modified forklift assembly. Relatively high mounded rows of other material can alternatively be used. An improved method of producing kava seedlings is also disclosed in which the apical tips of kava plant stems are cut. After buds develop along the stems, the stems are harvested, sectioned, and used to generate a large number of seedlings. Harvesting of remaining rootstock from the parent plant is delayed after harvesting of the stems to promote an increase in kavalactone concentration.

Abstract: A planter apparatus includes a seed meter including a housing assembly with a cover releasably connected to a shell. The housing assembly includes at least one opening formed therein adjacent a seed discharge area to promote the release of seeds from a disc rotatably attached to the housing assembly. The disc divides an interior of the housing assembly to include a vacuum chamber and a seed chamber. The disc including a plurality of openings formed adjacent a periphery of the disc. The planter apparatus may also include a singulator assembly having rotatably spools, a rotatable chute door, a disc having clusters of openings for simultaneous release, and a one-piece baffle.

Abstract: Methods for planting sugarcane seed are provided to achieve high sugarcane plant densities per unit area. The methods include providing sugarcane seed pieces in an appropriate length, preparing the soil for planting the sugarcane seed by creating rows of wide furrows or wide seedbeds, placing the sugarcane seed on the prepared soil in a random orientation to form a layer of sugarcane seed or in an orientation perpendicular to the direction of the furrows or seedbeds, and covering the sugarcane pieces with soil. Soil preparation includes creation of wide rows of furrows, flat seedbeds or raised seedbeds, with each row ranging in width from about 0.5 meters to about 3.1 meters.

Abstract: A method of applying a selected first combination of application rates of each of a plurality of crop inputs on a first zone in a field and applying a selected second combination of application rates of each of the crop inputs on a second zone in the field. The method comprises towing a seeding implement through the first zone in the field with metering devices adjusted to apply the first combination of application rates; visually judging when the seeding implement crosses a first boundary from the first zone to the second zone; and, by performing a single action, adjusting the metering devices to apply the second combination of application rates on the second zone.

Abstract: Methods for planting sugarcane seed are provided to achieve high sugarcane plant densities per unit area. The methods include providing sugarcane seed pieces in an appropriate length, preparing the soil for planting the sugarcane seed by creating rows of wide furrows or wide seedbeds, placing the sugarcane seed on the prepared soil in a random orientation to form a layer of sugarcane seed or in an orientation perpendicular to the direction of the furrows or seedbeds, and covering the sugarcane pieces with soil. Soil preparation includes creation of wide rows of furrows, flat seedbeds or raised seedbeds, with each row ranging in width from about 0.5 meters to about 3.1 meters.

Abstract: A seed firming and furrow closing system for no-till agricultural seeders has a smooth in-furrow firming device that gauges the depth and limits penetration of the closing wheel(s). The firming device is mounted behind a seed furrow opener, and one or more spoked closing wheels are rotatably mounted behind the firming device. Each closing wheel is mounted to a support member for the firming device. An adjustable stop is provided to control the operating depth of the closing wheel relative to the firming device. During operation, the firming device moves along the bottom of the furrow to firm the seeds, and the adjustable stop maintains a selected depth of the closing wheel relative to the firming device and the bottom of the furrow. A swivel assembly allows the firming device and closing wheels to swivel from side-to-side to better track the furrow when planting around a curve.

Abstract: Treatment agents are provided for cell seedlings. Each treatment agent comprises water, a dispersant, and activated carbon finely dispersed with the dispersant in the water. Potted seedlings can be treated by dipping them in the treatment agent and/or by irrigating them with the treatment agent. In this manner, cell seedlings can be pre-treated before planting. The thus-planted seedlings may be irrigated with the treatment agent.

Abstract: A precision air planter for plot planting includes a metering unit with separate seed systems which may be selectively activated to allow alternately planting various seed types from one plot to the next. A rotary encoder provides location information which is used by a microprocessor to calibrate the system, control seed planting and spacing, control plot length and spacing and record data related to the planted plots.

Abstract: A seedling-growing sheet (1) is in the form of a laminate body (2) consisting of a band-like support member (3) and a porous sheet body (4) laminated on said support member (3). A large number of receptacles (6) for housing rice seeds (15) are formed in the sheet body (4) of the laminate body (2). These receptacles (6) are arranged apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the support member (3). Formed in the laminate body (2) are cutting perforations (8) consisting of a large number of cut lines (9) along which planting pieces (10) each having at least one receptacle (6) are cut away from the laminate body (2). These cutting perforations (8) are arranged apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the laminate body (2).

Abstract: A birdseed mixture and method of reestablishing native wildflowers, woodland plants, and native shrubs within a predetermined geographical region by mixing a predetermined blend of seeds such that the mix of seeds is ingested by birds and other native animals and thereby spread across a region when deposited through the animal's excrement.

Abstract: Inhibition of forest damage exerts by ultraviolet rays. By selecting species having triploid or tetraploid of chromosomes and afforestating to form the ultraviolet resistant forest by forming the artificial forest.

Abstract: A planter apparatus includes a seed meter including a housing assembly with a cover releasably connected to a shell. The housing assembly includes at least one opening formed therein adjacent a seed discharge area to promote the release of seeds from a disc rotatably attached to the housing assembly. The disc divides an interior of the housing assembly to include a vacuum chamber and a seed chamber. The disc including a plurality of openings formed adjacent a periphery of the disc. The planter apparatus may also include a singulator assembly having rotatably spools, a rotatable chute door, a disc having clusters of openings for simultaneous release, and a one-piece baffle.

Abstract: A vacuum seed planter uses a single seed plate for planting multiple plots of seeds. The seed plate rotates through a seed chamber and uses vacuum pressure to pick up seeds to be planted, the seed chamber having an inlet passage for receiving seeds. A singulator dislodges excess seeds from the seed plate, and the excess seeds fall into an excess-seed compartment adjacent the seed chamber, the compartment having an outlet passage for evacuation of the excess seeds. A valve is movable between an operating position, in which the inlet passage communicates with a supply of seed and the outlet passage communicates with a vacuum source for evacuating excess seeds, and an evacuation position, in which the vacuum source is in communication with the inlet passage for evacuating the seeds in the seed chamber. Vacuum pressure on the seed plate can be maintained during evacuation of the seed chamber and excess-seed compartment.

Abstract: A surface engaging implement having a surface penetrating member, a depth regulation member, a pressure sensor, a processor, and a variable controllable downpressure source is disclosed. The pressure sensor is disposed to detect loads upon the depth regulation member and to communicate load information to the processor. Through the processor, the controllable downpressure source may dynamically alter the pressure applied through the depth control structure to cause a desired excess downpressure and prevent an undesirably large or small amount of downpressure upon the depth regulation member. In this manner, a generally desired amount of excess downpressure may be dynamically maintained to maintain the ground penetrating member at a generally desired penetration depth.

Abstract: A seed planting system providing optimal seed spacing in an agricultural field. The seed planting system includes a mobile seed planter having one or more planting shoes, or members being adapted for towing by a farm vehicle or being self-propelled. Sensors, disposed proximate to respective planting shoes, detect seed planting events and send corresponding signals to a computer. Contemporaneously, a geospatial locator acquires, and transmits to the computer, the geospatial location of each planted seed. The computer correlates the geospatial location data with the seed deposition data and generates a seed distribution profile indicating the location of each seed planted in a zone of interest to enable the control of speed spacing.

Abstract: A planter apparatus includes a seed meter including a housing assembly with a cover releasably connected to a shell. The housing assembly includes at least one opening formed therein adjacent a seed discharge area to promote the release of seeds from a disc rotatably attached to the housing assembly. The disc divides an interior of the housing assembly to include a vacuum chamber and a seed chamber. The disc including a plurality of openings formed adjacent a periphery of the disc. The planter apparatus may also include a singulator assembly having rotatably spools, a rotatable chute door, a disc having clusters of openings for simultaneous release, and a one-piece baffle.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus including a seed carrier of a fibrous material, and at least one seed embedded within the seed carrier. The seed(s) and seed carrier are integrally formed with one another. The invention is also a method of planting, including the steps of providing at least one seed, and creating a seed carrier composed of a fibrous matter. Additionally, the inventive method includes the steps of embedding the seed(s) within the seed carrier such that the seeds become integrally formed into the seed carrier.

Abstract: A planter apparatus includes a seed meter including a housing assembly with a cover releasably connected to a shell. The housing assembly includes at least one opening formed therein adjacent a seed discharge area to promote the release of seeds from a disc rotatably attached to the housing assembly. The disc divides an interior of the housing assembly to include a vacuum chamber and a seed chamber. The disc including a plurality of openings formed adjacent a periphery of the disc. The planter apparatus may also include a singulator assembly having rotatably spools, a rotatable chute door, a disc having clusters of openings for simultaneous release, and a one-piece baffle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of cultivating corn (maize) and analogous crops of similar morphology, the method being of the type in which grains are sown in parallel rows. Along each row, groups of two grains (10-11, 12-13, 14-15) that are spaced apart by a small distance are sown at regular intervals, thereby improving the yield and the early ripening of the harvest.

Abstract: The present invention provides for methods for fumigating soil containing deleterious organisms such as nematodes. The methods utilize an effective amount of acrolein over sole demand for acrolein which when added to the soil will control the organisms but will not exhibit phytotoxicity towards the existing or future plant life.

Abstract: A nurse inductor mechanism for an agricultural seeding implement converts an air seeder meter box into a nurse inductor box to convey seed particles to the singulator of a planting mechanism. The nurse inductor mechanism is detachably mounted on the meter box of the air seeder to receive a supply of seed particles therefrom. The nurse induction mechanism intercepts the normal air flow for the metering mechanism to divert the stream of air into engagement with a pile of seed particles and induce the entrainment of the seed particles for conveyance thereof to the remote planting mechanism. A partition wall divides the nurse induction mechanism into a seed side and an air side. The seed side receives the supply of seed particles from the hopper and allows the seed to pass through a passageway into the air side for engagement by the stream of air.

Abstract: A method of applying liquid anhydrous ammonia to soil is disclosed as including the step of pressurizing anhydrous ammonia received from a source. The pressurized anhydrous ammonia is conducted to a plurality of terminal outlets, wherein each of the outlets is configured to maintain a back pressure and thereby the liquid state of the anhydrous ammonia. The anhydrous ammonia is discharged from the plurality of terminal outlets to thereby contact the soil.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering agricultural fertilizer, such as anhydrous ammonia, uniformly into the soil includes an applicator frame on which a plurality of soil-cutting knives are suspended, a supply tank of the fertilizer, a heat exchanger for cooling the fertilizer to a predetermined temperature, with the coolant being delivered to the heat exchanger from an externally powered refrigeration unit, a distribution manifold for receiving the cooled fertilizer from the heat exchanger and a plurality of distribution hoses connecting the distributor individually to the knife blades and the emission nozzles associated therewith.

Abstract: A method of planting tubers including filling or part-filling elongate tubes with soil lifted from a planting area. Seed tubers, preferably of mini-tuber size, are inserted into the soil-filled tubes after placing the tubes onto the planting area. Also claimed is a method of harvesting tubers by lifting the tubing from the planting area, removing the haulm from the tuber plants and gaining access to the tuber crop growing within the tubing by cutting/splitting away the tubing. The tuber crop is separated from the soil and collected. Machinery for performing the above planting and harvesting methods is also claimed.

Abstract: A method of naturally removing or inhibiting pollutants. Tree stems are planted adjacent to or intersecting near surface ground water supply or adjacent a contaminated air source. The trees and rooted soil serve as a sponge and a pump to remove pollutants from water sources and serve as a buffer system to remove contaminants from air and polluted water sources. The system can also be used as a cap over landfills and brown fields to manage water.

Abstract: A crop input applicator system for controlling the application of crop inputs from each dispensing point. The applicator is equipped with a locating system and an on-board computer. The on-board computer uses location data collected from the locating system, along with machine signature data, and application maps to create status maps indicating the area treated by crop inputs. The computer compares the status map to the current location of the applicator and based on the comparison automatically controls dispensing points so that those dispensing points over an area previously treated are deactivated, while dispensing points over an area not yet treated remain active.

Abstract: A method of controlling noxious weeds, particularly nutsedge (Cyperus spp) by soil solarization, comprising covering the soil with an effective thickness of a transparent, thermoplastic IR retentive film for a sufficient period of time to either kill or suppress the weeds. Also a field management method for the growing of cash crops susceptible to interference by noxious weeds comprising the steps of forming planting beds of soil; subjecting the soil to soil solarization; painting the film to terminate the solarization period; and transplanting cash crop.

Abstract: When planting plants and similar objects a forest vehicle (1) is used which is provided with automatic planting assemblies (13) mounted at hydraulically controlled arms (11). The vehicle (1) moves slowly forwards and the absolute geographic position thereof is determined by means of satellite signals received on the antenna (15). At the frontmost portion of the vehicle (1), on a movable arm (3) scanning device such as a georadar screen (5) is provided, which transmits radar waves having a suitable wavelength and scans the ground area in front of the vehicle (1). The georadar determines the depth of soil and obstacles to planting such as stones and stumps. From the determinations of the georadar also suitable planting places are determined and the positions thereof are stored. The planting arms (11) and their assemblies (13) are then controlled, so that during the continuous movement of the vehicle forwards the planting assemblies stand still at the determined planting places and there perform planting.

Abstract: A planter apparatus includes a seed meter including a housing assembly with a cover releasably connected to a shell. The housing assembly includes at least one opening formed therein adjacent a seed discharge area to promote the release of seeds from a disc rotatably attached to the housing assembly. The disc divides an interior of the housing assembly to include a vacuum chamber and a seed chamber. The disc including a plurality of openings formed adjacent a periphery of the disc. The planter apparatus may also include a singulator assembly having rotatably spools, a rotatable chute door, a disc having clusters of openings for simultaneous release, and a one-piece baffle.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for planting aquatic plants underwater on the bottom of estuaries whereby an aquatic plant which is ready for transplanting is positioned in a planting nipple having an angular groove in its upper portion. When the planting nipple is brought into contact with the estuary bottom, sea grass plants which are positioned on the angular groove, are planted on the estuary bottom. A plurality of planting nipples are incorporated on the periphery of a planting wheel. A watercraft is used to position the planting wheel with its planting nipples over an area to be planted is provided for. With the process and apparatus of this invention, sea grass plants can be planted on the bottom of an estuary in a semiautomated fashion.

Abstract: A process for planting aquatic plants underwater on the bottom of estuarys where an aquatic plant which is ready for transplanting is positioned in a holder having a device for retaining the transplantable plant and a thin base. When the holder is brought into contact with the underwater bottom the thin base engages the underwater bottom and secures the holder including the plant in underwater bottom. A watercraft having apparatus for positioning the holder incorporating the aquatic plant on the bottom of an estuary is also provided for. With this apparatus and the holder of this invention aquatic plants can be planted on the bottom of estuary in a semiautomated fashion. The holder also incorporates an organic buttom which retains the aquatic plant during the planting process.

Abstract: The seeder apparatus includes a first hopper for dispensing seeds onto a conveyor mechanism to be moved thereby to an entry nip between a rotary brush and the conveyor mechanism for propelling the seed downwardly at the discharge end of the frame on which the hopper is mounted. A shield assembly is mounted to the frame discharge end portion to minimize the effects of wind on the trajectory of seed or other material being propelled to the ground by a brush and conveyor mechanism. In one embodiment, a metering gate extends vertically in its closed position relative to the conveyor mechanism, the metering gate controlling the rate of dispensation of seed being moved to the entry nip.

Abstract: A method and apparatus 10 for restoring the pH balance of a patch of contaminated hyper acidic soil 100 by creating a series of core holes 101 in the contaminated soil 100 with a core removal tool 20 having a hollow stem element 21 to captively engage a plug of contaminated soil 100 and then refilling the core holes 101 with a substitute soil compound 14 including a mixture of pH balanced soil 50 and a plurality of biodegradable capsules 51 containing a mixture of water and nitrate ions.

Abstract: A germination promotor for promoting germination of plants, the germination promotor being adapted to hold seeds within a condition of high moisture percent in order to sprout the seeds promptly and uniformly without need for water irrigation, with the result that a high uniform germination and also a high germination percentage are obtained.

Abstract: A method of naturally removing or inhibiting pollutants is described. Tree stems from trees having preformed root initials and a perennial root system are planted adjacent to or intersecting near surface ground water supply, at the area where water is to be decontaminated or at the source of pollution. The stems are planted densely to achieve maximum pollution control and environmental affects. Row planting is used and the crop harvested on a rotating basis.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for planting runners enabling efficient and economical plantation of runners of summer lawngrass in a lawn of winter lawngrass. A plurality of longitudinal and parallel grooves having small width are formed in a ground surface and a runner net tape, prepared by dispersing runners between a pair of nets, is supplied to each groove. The net tape is forced into the ground from its central portion so that the net tape is buried in the grooves in twofold form. The net tape may also be dipped in water or a liquid for post-planting care before it is supplied to the groove.

Abstract: The present invention provides for methods for fumigating soil containing deleterious organisms such as nematodes. The methods utilize an effective amount of acrolein which when added to the soil will control the organisms but will not exhibit phytotoxicity towards the existing or future plant life and an effective amount of a detoxification compound such as for example: sulfites, bisulfites, ammonia or ammonium compounds.

Abstract: A method of planting gel-coated seeds comprising previously making the seeds sprout a root and then sowing the seeds with the tip of the root facing downward.

Abstract: A semifluid mix for environmental reclamation, comprising peat, a hydraulic binder, resins, seeds, lime, and manure, the mix being particularly adapted to restore a covering of vegetation on surfaces that have suffered environmental degradation, such as ski pistes, road slopes, landslide and quarry faces. The present invention furthermore relates to a method for preparing the mix and to a method for applying the semifluid mix on the surfaces that have suffered environmental degradation.

Abstract: A cannon (10) for applying synthetic roving materials (12) comprises feeder means (20) for receiving and delivering a plurality of strands of synthetic roving material; a barrel assembly (21) having a discharge opening (46) at one end (42); air chamber assembly (22) interposed between feeder means and the barrel assembly providing air under pressure, the roving material being directed therethrough to combine with the air, whereby the air and the roving material are forcibly expelled from the barrel assembly; a fluid housing (23) around the feeder means and carrying a volume of fluid (93); and means (24) for directing and controlling the passage of the fluid from the fluid housing into the feeder means into contact with the roving material as it passes therethrough.

Abstract: A no-till farming apparatus is provided for use with a planter unit which plants seeds as the planter unit is pulled along a predetermined path. The apparatus includes a hiller device coupled to the planter unit. The hiller device is configured to form an elevated ridge including a mixture of soil and a residue remaining from a previous crop in front of the planter unit so that the planter unit plants seeds a predetermined distance below a top surface of the elevated ridge formed by the hiller device. The apparatus also includes a residue cleaning implement located in front of the hiller device to clear at least a portion of the residue in front of the hiller device. In the illustrated embodiment, the residue cleaning implement is pivotably coupled to a support extending in front of the hiller device.

Abstract: Mulching system using opaque artificial mulching material (1) in perforated embodiments. Perforated embodiments have predetermined pattern of precisely spaced uniform holes (10) preperforated during manufacture. Preperforations allow pre-seeding before mulch is applied to effect weed prevention for densely planted wide row crops. Will also automatically provide proper spacing and eliminate need for thinning crop. Preperforation provides protection from root maggots. Some embodiments have abrasive substance (7) on top side, or abrasive substance (8) on bottom side, or on both sides to repel and destroy both slugs and snails. This is accomplished by abrasive substance (7 or 8) lacerating skin of slugs or destroying digestive tract through ingestion of abrasive substance (7 or 8), other embodiments can have weatherproof sticky substance-clear or insect attractant colored (11) applied to mulching material (1) and covered by removable protective film (9).

Abstract: A mechanical clutch for use in metering seeds in an agricultural planter unit allows for selecting the input drive from either a primary drive source operating at a first RPM or a secondary drive source operating at a second, reduced RPM for dispensing seed at two different speeds. A third mode of operation of the clutch may also be selected wherein the seed metering mechanism is disconnected from the two drive sources. This arrangement allows a ground driven implement such as a planter to either (1) plant at a first predetermined population per acre; (2) plant at a second, lower population per acre; or (3) not plant at all. The clutch is driven by a ground engaging wheel and drive wheel combination, with the two seed dispensing speeds as well as the planter by-pass mode on-the-go selectable by an operator via a suitable electrical switch and solenoid combination.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a flexible and resilient intermediate support member for supporting the grain box of a grain drill. The intermediate support member comprises a vertical frame member rigidly secured to the grain box and a horizontal frame member rigidly mounted to a transverse support frame. A guide pin projects upwardly through the horizontal frame member and engages the bottom of the vertical frame member. The guide pin is formed by a bolt and a spacer, that are slidably mounted to the horizontal frame member. An engagement nut is mounted to the threaded end of the bolt engages the bottom portion of the vertical frame member. A bearing washer is located between the engagement nut and the spacer. A spring is positioned between the bearing washer and the horizontal frame member. A trapping washer located between the head of the bolt and the spacer is used to trap the guide pin to the horizontal frame member.