Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide techniques, including systems and methods, for planting using planting pods. A planting system can be configured to deliver pods including a payload (e.g., seeds, cuttings, or other planting materials) into or onto the ground at a predetermined location. In some embodiments, the automated planting system can include a mapping system that receives various sensor inputs and generates a map of a planting area. A pod planting system may use the map of the planting area to deliver pods to the planting area. The pod planting system may be executed automatically using the maps generated by the mapping system and/or manually by a remote operator. Each pod can include a payload to be planted on or in the ground by the pod planting system. Pods may be customized depending on the types of plants being planted, the terrain, prior planting results, etc.

Abstract: Disclosed is a vehicle comprising a wheel with an associated air-cooled motor, and a ventilation path for passing outside air from outside the vehicle into the motor. An electrostatic device is disposed proximate to the ventilation path. When the electrostatic device is energized, particles or debris in the outside air are attracted toward or repelled from the electrostatic device, such that the particles or debris are removed from the outside air before the outside air enters the motor.

Abstract: A container for growing plants includes a bottom wall, a first side wall extending perpendicular to the bottom wall, and a second side wall extending perpendicular to the bottom wall and parallel to the first side wall such that the bottom wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall at least partially define a plant growing chamber. Furthermore, the container includes a lid configured to selectively occlude access to the plant growing chamber. Additionally, the container includes a carrier assembly positioned with the plant growing chamber and movably coupled to the first side wall and the second side wall. Moreover, the container includes a tool coupled to the carrier assembly such that movement of the carrier assembly relative to the first side wall and the second side wall moves the tool within the plant growing chamber.

Abstract: The present invention is a shade apparatus with central hub an shade components.

Abstract: A system to manufacture a plurality of dies may include an etching tool, an electrically-conductive-adhesive-composition, a heat-applying-extraction-tool and a porous substrate cooperating with an evacuation component. The etching tool uses an ion beam that is configured to singulate a plurality of dies on a wafer with an ion etching process. The electrically-conductive-adhesive-composition is located between the wafer and a porous substrate carrying the wafer during the ion etching process. The electrically-conductive-adhesive-composition adheres the wafer to the porous substrate to keep the dies in place during the ion etching process. The electrically-conductive-adhesive-composition also aids in conducting electrons away from the wafer as a drain during the ion etching process.

Abstract: A method for naturally culling mussel population on a mussel-culture rope, comprising the steps of installing a predator guard around the mussel-culture rope; and during the step of installing, adjusting a degree of mussel protection of that predator guard. In one aspect, the step of adjusting comprises the steps of opening and adjusting a size of a breach in the predator guard. In another aspect, the predator guard is made of an elongated hemicylindroidal mesh-like element with an open side. The hemicylindroidal element has flaps bordering the open side. The flaps constitute duck-mobility impediments for limiting without completely precluding predation by diving ducks.

Abstract: A scalable, hydroponic plant cultivation system that incorporates top-down drip technology, a root misting spray, and a closed loop, lotic nutrient-rich, water-based solution circulation system in a highly oxygenated environment using aeration technology. The hydroponic system starts with a reservoir that is connected at its base to a series of plant containers which is in a closed loop system that pumps nutrient rich solution out from the reservoir to each plant container via an elevated, acequia drip system that provides the nutrient rich solution to the base of the plants, which is then circulated passively down through the root basket and then through the entire system of networked containers and back to the main reservoir. The next element of the hydroponic system has the reservoir connected to a series of pipes and manifolds that run through the upper interior of each plant container to deliver an aerated spray directed at the plant's upper roots.

Abstract: Air-cleaning control is performed in accordance with a situation of motion of a person and brightness in a room.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for plants, said apparatus that features a planter with a closed bottom, sidewalls, and an open top, wherein a protruding lip is defined on an exterior surface of the sidewalls in proximity to the open top; and a first cover with an open bottom, sidewalls, and a closed top, wherein a set of clasping mechanisms are located on two opposing sidewalls in proximity to the open bottom, and wherein the clasping mechanism reversibly attaches the cover to the lip of the planter. The invention further provides a second, insulating cover with an open bottom, sidewalls, and a closed top, wherein the second cover is received by the first cover after the first cover is reversibly attached to the planter.

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.

Abstract: An enhanced ground cover whereby voids in the bodies are created for reception of material that exceeds the density of water that is placed in the voids for stable engagement by adhesive, fixing agents or by puncturing the material and inserting high density material or by embedding into the ground cover by high speed projectiles. The material may be covered in a sealant or UV inhibitor. A method includes flooding a reaction vessel with at least. two reactants, allowing reaction by product to settle fixably onto ground cover article. There is shown a method for treating ground cover adding a first substance to an article of ground cover, adding a second substance to the article, reacting the first and second substances to form a higher than water density third substance fixedly attached thereby making the ground cover of a higher than water density.

Abstract: A multi-faceted multi-task system for horticultural adaptations including water dispersion and irrigation, animal and plant/crop protection, and plant shading, which includes a multipurpose head that allows a user to operate an irrigation system or a radial misting apparatus while using a tarp for shade and construct a fence using the fence hooks to create an animal control zone. The present device features a telescoping main pole that can be adjusted to different heights to fit any situation. A PVC extension device is also included which allows the different system heads to be hoisted to additional heights not achievable by the stand alone. The device is highly portable as it can be folded up onto itself and carried to a destination by hand and provides water dispersion for irrigation and temperature control, while offering users the opportunity to construct a shade and/or animal control zone.

Abstract: The Flower Pot Protector provides flowerpots protection from the harsh outdoor elements. It also provides a decorative esthetics whether being used indoors or outdoors. A disc is used and inserted into the underside of the fabric/vinyl covered pot eliminating moisture from entering into the cavity of the flowerpot. By covering the flowerpot and eliminating moisture from entering into the pot, minimal expansion of moisture keeps the pot from cracking and breaking during the freezing outdoor elements.

Abstract: A reflective ground cover sheet material for agricultural use woven from warp and weft tapes of a plastics film material has an average gap g between edges of adjacent tapes in both the warp and the weft direction in the range about 0.1 mm to about 1.2 mm. The tapes may be of width w in the range 2 to 7 mm. The materials may optimise air, water, solar transmission, long wave radiation or heat and dirt/soil movement through the material, and sufficient coverage and reflectivity, and physical material construction strength.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed towards methods, systems and apparatuses for preventing plastic out-gassing in plant tunnels. The methods, systems and apparatuses utilize various sensors and elements to maintain a proper plant growth environment while minimizing the outgassing.

Abstract: A method of protecting plants from underground dwelling mammals provides for the insertion of devices having pointed elongated members adjacent the root systems of the plants. A device for this purpose has a plurality of pointed elongated members joined by a handle section.

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.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a grass protection mat which can be used in golf courses, grass fields, lawns and the like to protect grass while enduring pressure from being stepped on by people and loads from objects. The grass protection mat comprises: networked main body portions (10) in which hexagons are continuously repeated; a tetragonal border (11) finishing the edge; columns (20) vertically formed at each hexagonal corner of the main body portions; wall support bodies (30) formed on the upper surface of the networked main body portions (10) so as to be lower than the columns; upper protrusions (40) formed on the upper surface of the networked main body portions (10) so as to be higher than the columns; and Y-shaped lower connectors (50) for connecting three columns (20) among six columns forming a hexagon at the lower ends of the columns (20) so as to meet at the center of the hexagon.

Abstract: A shading device for potted plants has a plurality of stakes planted in the soil of a flower pot. The stakes can be telescoping in nature so as to be adjustable lengthwise. A piece of shading material preferably made of canvas is stretched across the stakes by way of grommets.

Abstract: An example plant protector includes a planar body having a top surface and a bottom surface defined within a major edge, a minor edge, a left edge and a right edge. A decorative pattern is formed on the planar body, and a plurality of highly reflective materials are configured for removable coupling to the planar body to reflect different wavelengths of light. The planar body surface is configured to assume a hollow, conical shape when portions of the top and bottom surfaces are overlapped at the left and right edges.

Abstract: A method of modulating the development stage of strobili growing on a gymnosperm tree comprises: (a) installing a protective covering over one or more strobili bud(s), wherein the type of protective covering is selected to delay or advance strobili development; and (b) maintaining the protective covering over the strobili bud(s) for a time period sufficient to delay or advance the development stage of the covered strobili buds in comparison to the development stage of naturally growing, uncovered, control strobili.

Abstract: A device for protecting the contents of plant containers comprising a top portion, a cut-out with a semi-circular interior portion, and a channel portion. The interior portion and channel portion are shaped to provide clearance and receive the base or stem of a plant. Embodiments of the device may include grooves and apertures to provide flexibility and drainage and the device also includes the capability to accommodate different styles and sizes of containers along with various plants and shrubs.

Abstract: A vine support system includes a multiple vine stakes, each vine stake adjacent and supporting a vine trunk. A plurality of shade hotels are removably mounted to the vine stakes, each shade hotel incorporating a securing bail. A shade element is removably supported by each shade hotel and restrained by the securing bail.

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.

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.

Abstract: A crop protection system can include a housing that houses at least one roller mechanism to carry a roll of material, a vault configured to receive the housing, and a lift mechanism configured to vertically position the housing with respect to the vault. In such a system the housing may include three roller mechanisms where each roller mechanism is configured to carry a roll of material and also include a wire roller mechanism configured to carry a roll of wire. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.

Abstract: A horticultural therapy apparatus is accessible to a practitioner who occupies a wheelchair. The horticultural therapy apparatus presents a raised and stable working surface that can be easily accessed by a person in a wheelchair or by a person otherwise operating with impaired or limited mobility.

Abstract: A tent pole anchor apparatus that includes a barrel member and a cover disposed on the barrel member. The barrel member and cover together form an internal chamber that is filled with water so as to provide a significant weight for anchoring the barrel member. The barrel member has at least one drain to enable liquid to be removed from the barrel member. At least one of the barrel member and cover has a passage for receiving an adjustment strap that interconnects the barrel member with the tent pole.

Abstract: A cover for a crop, wherein the cover includes a framework and a flexible cover supported by the framework. The framework includes side members provided with a first part of a Velcro fastening, and the flexible cover is divided into sections with edge areas that follow the first part of the Velcro fastening and are provided with an interacting second part of a Velcro fastening for attaching the edge area of the section on the side member.

Abstract: An insulation system for installation between a floor and a roof of a greenhouse includes an insulation module with insulating panels shiftable between an open position and a closed position for controlling air flow and heat flow in the greenhouse.

Abstract: The present invention relates to multilayer films made of fluoro polymers, which have properties that make them suitable for use in the agricultural field, especially as greenhouse covering films. According to a first aspect, the invention relates to multilayer fluorinated films comprising at least three layers, including a layer A made of a first vinylidene fluoride copolymer with a crystallization temperature TcA, and a layer B made of a second vinylidene fluoride copolymer with a crystallization temperature TcB, TcA being greater than TcB, layers A and B being alternating, layer A being placed to the exterior and layer B between two layers A. Another subject of the invention relates to the use of the film according to the invention as an agricultural covering material, especially as a greenhouse covering.

Abstract: Planting structures including a container including a base and defining a container opening opposite the base, a first bulb support structure supported within the container, the first bulb support structure defines a first bulb compartment located proximate the container opening, and a first bulb support structure height selected to position the first bulb compartment a first selected distance from the container opening, and a second bulb support structure supported within the container, the second bulb support structure defines a second bulb compartment located proximate the container opening, and a second bulb support structure height selected to position the second bulb compartment a second selected distance from the container opening. In some examples, the planting structure includes a varmint resistant enclosure extending from the base around an entire periphery of the base, the lateral enclosure terminating opposite the base defining a lateral enclosure opening opposite the base.

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.

Abstract: A water-saving device includes a frusto-conical housing having a wide lower end that overlies a ground surface. A lip is integrally formed at the upper end, extending radially inwardly. A vertical cut is formed in the housing with a flange adjoining each edge of the cut. The flanges are spaced apart to admit a tree trunk into the hollow interior of the housing and are attachable to one another to enclose a tree trunk. A first pair of apertures is formed in the lip. A conduit has a first end in fluid communication with a row hose and extends upwardly from the row hose, through a first aperture, and downwardly through the second aperture. A water emitter is in fluid communication with a second end of the conduit and is positioned within the hollow interior of the housing below the lip and above the ground surface.

Abstract: An enclosure for plants that protects plants against pests and other living organisms that may be harmful to plants. In one embodiment, a pot includes a first open-top container and a second open-top container. The first open-top container forms a first open space for housing a plant and includes an open top and an enclosed wall portion that forms a lateral perimeter of the first open-top container. The second open-top container forms a second open space for housing a pest-controlling substance that deters or attracts and traps pests. The second open-top container is coupled to the first open-top container along the lateral perimeter of the first open-top container. Additionally, the first open space is isolated from the second open space to prevent contents in the first open space from mixing with contents from the second open space.

Abstract: A method for improving seed germination efficiency by reducing seedling loss caused by desiccation, temperature extremes, wind and water displacement, and consumption by animal and insect predators. The method comprises covering the medium for the seed growth with a layer of material which allows light transmission and provides a thermal barrier, and in addition applies a compacting force which brings the seed in better contact with the growing medium. The material also provides a barrier to protect the seed from animal and insect predators. The layer of material used preferably consists of a clear plastic membrane supporting the presence of a sufficient amount of water to allow the transmission of light, provide a thermal barrier, compact the seeds to the growing medium, and deter access from animals and airborne insects. The technique is applicable to all forms and seed germination including grass and vegetable gardens.

Abstract: A water retention device is used in conjunction with a plant container. The water retention device comprises a resilient plate structure forming a central cover, a sidewall extending from a perimeter of the central cover, and a slot extending through the sidewall and a portion of the central cover. The sidewall engages an inner surface of the plant container and supports the central cover at a spaced distance above a growth medium. The resilient plate structure is manually configurable to open the slot for receiving a plant stem so that the plant stem extends through the central cover. Water may be supplied to the plant container using either a spray stake disposed under the central cover or using a trough formed in the central cover. Where a spray stake is used, the inner surfaces of the sidewall and central cover may include ribs that deflect water.

Abstract: A shaft in a cylindrical configuration has upper and lower ends and a cylindrical passageway. A housing forms a chamber with an open top and an open bottom. The chamber is in operative communication with the passageway. A sheet has a center, a periphery and a central extent. The sheet has a deployed orientation. The deployed orientation is in a generally hemispherical configuration. The center of the sheet is supported by the housing. The periphery of the sheet is provided adjacent to ground around the shaft. In this manner the plant is covered. The sheet has a stored orientation. The center of the sheet in the passageway is provided adjacent to the lower end. The central extent of the sheet is provided there above.

Abstract: This invention takes into consideration the severe weather that plants have to endure during the winter months. Home owners and owners of large complexes such as subdivision landscapes, and botanical parks tend to encounter huge expenses to replace plants that have been destroyed during the severe winter months. The plant winter blanket based on its construction allows plant material to withstand severe winter temperatures well below freezing without the freezer burn or damage that is normally associated with plant winter damage. The plant winter blanket consists of various levels of insulation quilted together. The outer layer is both moisture resistant and sun light reflective, the middle layers consist of insulative material, and the inner layers remove excess moisture from foliage that may result in freezer burn. The capabilities mentioned above renders the plant winter blanket a vital step in preserving the environment, as well as saving thousands of dollars in plant replacement.

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.

Abstract: An improved ornamental container for gardening and the like is provided. The container, which is made of an artificial material of a desired shape and size, includes soil or some other growing medium, perennial bulbs or plants, a positioning device and individual containers or planting pots made from peat moss or some other growing medium for containing the bulbs. The container of the invention includes a large opening along the top surface thereof through which the planted bulbs or flowers will grow; this opening is covered with a seal comprised of removable plastic or other material. Also provided is a plurality of holes formed along the bottom of the container for ensuring proper drainage.

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.

Abstract: An enhanced-stability, A-frame-shaped plant support for the support of plants such as tomato vines, or other fruits and vegetables growing in soil which, while supporting plants laden with heavy fruits or vegetables, is stable and greenhouse tent wind-sail resistant, in part because of a readily usable starting width gauge indicator on detent latch members operable to controlling the ultimate width between pivotable opposing halves of the plant support during installation to a desired depth in the soil. After use, when removed from the soil, the A-frame-shaped plant support collapses, pivoting about preferably hog-ring type interconnection rings between the opposing halves of the plant support for facilitating easy removal from the ground and folding flat for easy storage.

Abstract: A device for preventing plant growth around a post, comprising an opaque sheet, an opening in the sheet, and a slit extending entirely from the opening to the perimetric edge. A fastener structure is arranged to fasten one of the edge portions to an other of the edge portions in a relationship wherein the edge portions overlap thereby effecting a slope of the sheet downwardly from the opening to the perimetric edge and wherein the opening is shaped to have a first shape when the edge portions are not overlapping and to have a second shape to conform to the post when the edge portions are fastened in the overlapping relationship.

Abstract: A raised bed garden assembly, kit, and method are provided. The garden assembly comprises a prefabricated enclosure along with additional components useful for creating a raised bed garden or similar growing enclosure, such as an irrigation system and greenhouse covering. The garden assembly can be provided in a kit for easily establishing a garden and growing fruits and vegetables at home, along with soil and plants. The garden enclosure can be a monolithic, self-sustaining body that is unitarily formed, or it can be modular. The modular enclosure comprises sidewalls and corner members, which are unitarily formed modular pieces that can be detachably-connected to define the enclosure shape. Advantageously, the enclosure is devoid of any non-integral attachment elements.

Abstract: The Plant Growing System “PGS” is a convenient and easy way to grow a high yield plant/vegetable/herb garden in a limited space within a self-contained watering and fertilization system. The PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM design allows plants to receive essential and critical nutrients through a self-contained irrigation and natural (worm) cultivating root system. With the PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM you can grow plants, herbs or vegetables indoor with UV lamps or outdoor in direct sunlight using either soil based growing methods or hydroponic growing methods. The PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM has built in pest deterrence techniques to keep unwanted animals from attacking the plants, herbs and vegetables. The PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM can be restricted to confined areas and used on apartment patios, small backyards, basements or small area with a yield of greater than 10 times of that of traditional gardening methods.

Abstract: An insulated plant housing is a device extends the growing season for a plant by protecting the plant from frost damage at the beginning or end of the growing season. The device is partially filled with water to insulate the air and soil surrounding the plant from freezing temperatures at night. The device also allows the user to shroud the plant in order to protect the plant from harsh weather conditions.

Abstract: A garden enclosure apparatus and means for assembling the same is set forth, including a circular base frame, a dome topped superstructure having a removable hatch, the superstructure resting upon the circular base frame, and in the preferred embodiment, the removable hatch is hinged to the base frame, and benefits from a spring lift assist means to open and close the removable hatch providing access to the protected area within.

Abstract: Provided is a two-sided attraction structure that can be used repeatedly with remarkable ease, thereby being free from the problem of material wasting or the like, is free from the problem of energy, and can be employed for various uses including an exhibition/information apparatus and a dust collecting apparatus.

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.