Abstract: A modular weed barrier mat comprised of a double layer of tire tread sections cut from used tires arranged so that the lengths of the upper sections are perpendicular to those of the lower sections. A pair of upper sections are positioned in spaced apart relationship so as to form a gap, with a central slit array cut into two immediately adjacent lower sections accessible within the gap. A slit cut through a width of one lower section directly below one of the upper sections on either side of the central slit array allows a post to be moved into the slit and then positioned in the central slit array. Corrosion resistant fasteners are removed and replaced as needed to allow the mat to be installed or removed as desired. One embodiment features lower and upper lap portions on opposite sides of the mat for modular installation.

Abstract: A method and system for inhibiting the growth of unwanted plants at and about the base of trees, shrubs, and other ornamental and/or commercial plants; while providing protection to the trunk, stalk, root crown, and/or plant roots from damage inherently caused by mulching material itself, and from damage caused landscaping or cultivation techniques, while promoting the oxygenation of the plant, and additionally avoiding and/or treating pathogen infection or infestation of the plant.

Abstract: A weed barrier includes a rigid body defining a plurality of basins. The basins have bottoms with holes therethrough for planting garden plants. In a particular embodiment the bottom surface of the weed barrier includes a plurality of hose channels configured be positioned over a hose. Several example configurations of rigid weed barriers are disclosed.

Abstract: A plant edging is disclosed herein that has an inner side and an outer side and includes a sidewall having a top end and a bottom end with the bottom end configured to engage soil, a head connected to the top end of the sidewall, and a clip secured to the head for retaining an irrigation conduit in proximity to a plant. The plant edging is arranged to substantially seal an opening in a landscaping barrier film, and to define a partial enclosure that permits local irrigation of the plant in the partial enclosure while inhibiting ingrowth of invasive weeds.

Abstract: A substantially rectangular and open bottom shield configured to be fitted around an in-ground plant at ground level as enabled by an elongated slit and central aperture. A peripheral wall perpendicular to an opaque top panel extends downward around at least 75% of the perimeter of the top panel. The top panel is inclined toward the central aperture through which water and fertilizer can flow toward the plant root system.

Abstract: A plant edging is disclosed herein that has an inner side and an outer side and includes a sidewall having a top end and a bottom end with the bottom end configured to engage soil, a head connected to the top end of the sidewall, and a rib connected to and extending away from the outer side near the bottom end of the sidewall. The plant edging is arranged to substantially seal an opening in a landscaping barrier film, and to define a partial enclosure that inhibits ingrowth of invasive weeds.

Abstract: Described is a reflective ground cover sheet material (1) in which longitudinally extending opposite side margins (A) of the sheet material are stronger than a longitudinally extending center section between the side margins of the material. Also described is a reflective ground cover sheet material (1) having longitudinally extending opposite side margins (A) of the sheet material of lower porosity than a longitudinally extending center section between the side margins of the material.

Abstract: An animal deterrent spiked-strip assembly having a strip body that defines a plurality of substantially planar, unitary, and flexible body sections, wherein each body section hingedly couples to one another about a joint and includes an upper surface, a bottom surface opposing the upper surface, a front end, a rear end, a left side, and a right side. The strip assembly also includes a plurality of polymer-based spikes, each with a base coupled to the upper surface of each of the body sections, a rounded tip opposing the base, and of a conical shape, the plurality of polymer-based spikes arranged on the respective body sections in a uniform and tightly spaced configuration.

Abstract: An adjustable planter disk comprised of a circular disk constructed of a single resin composite sheet is disclosed. The sheet has a first terminating end that overlaps, or partially overlaps, a second terminating end. The sheet includes a peripheral edge and center hole. The first terminating end rotates overtop the second terminating end and latches thereto using a pair of hooks on the first terminating end and a series of corresponding holes on the second terminating end to create differing radii. The sheet is divided into a plurality of sectors, each sector including a living hinge that runs from the peripheral edge to the center that allows for the first terminating end to extend and contract. Additionally, along the peripheral edge of the circular are a plurality of water drainage holes.

Abstract: An aeroponic growth system comprising a plurality of modular aeroponic units each including at least one spray nozzle directed into a root zone; a lighting system associated with the plurality of the modular units and configured for emitting light in a vegetative zone; a pressurized reservoir configured for housing a nutrient containing fluid; and a nutrient feeding system configured for fluidly and selectively connecting each of the modular units to the pressurized reservoir in parallel, wherein the nutrient feeding system includes a pressure stop valve associated with each of the modular units. When one of the modular units are disconnected to the associated pressure stop valve, the pressure stop valve is configured for preventing the fluid from flowing from the pressurized reservoir through the pressure stop valve, and the other modular units connected to the nutrient feeding system remain fluidly connected to the pressure reservoir.

Abstract: An agricultural wrap includes a continuous planar main body formed of a flexible and permeable material, an amount of growing matter, and at least one irrigation tube. The body has first and second sides, first and second ends, an inner surface, an outer surface disposed against a base surface, and at least one aperture. With the growing matter disposed against the inner surface, the first and second sides are positioned around the growing matter to define a holding pocket. An irrigation tube being disposed against the main body and above the base surface leaks water that permeates through the main body and saturates the growing matter.

Abstract: Certain embodiments provide a variably-sized removable portion integrated into an object. The object may include a surface and a variably-sized removable portion that includes separation edges that define a shape of the variably-sized removable portion. In certain embodiments, each of the separation edges is a different size and is concentrically-aligned with each other. Certain embodiments provide that each of the separations edges is separable from the surface of the object such that a size of an opening left when one of the separation edges is separated from the surface is variable depending on the size of the separation edge selected to be separated from the surface.

Abstract: A landscaping post guard comprising a base, a lower collar and an upper collar is disclosed. The base comprises a side wall having an upper lip, a tray extending inwardly from the side wall below the upper lip, a central opening, and a raised lip around said central opening. The lower collar fits inside of the side wall, below the tray. The upper collar fits inside of said raised lip around said central opening. A guard comprising a planar sheet that connects a raised peripheral rim to a central upwardly extending wall is also disclosed. Tabs extend inwardly from an upper portion of the inner wall and a slit extends from the raised peripheral rim to the central wall. A spike band may be secured to the peripheral rim.

Abstract: A root ball including soil disposed in and around root system and a layer of agricultural polymer around the soil and root system. The agricultural polymer creates a root ball having a semi-permeable, solid outer layer, which provides protection for the root system and eliminates the need for a container.

Abstract: The belowground tree anchoring apparatus (10) includes a blanket (12), a plurality of stakes (16), and a plurality of ties (14). The blanket (12) fits over the root ball (B) at the base of the trunk (R) of the tree (T) and has a center opening and an elongated, radial slit (22) for facilitating this arrangement. The blanket (12) has a plurality of peripheral tie attachment holes, which may be reinforced with grommets. The stakes (16) are driven into the planting hole (H) at the bottom of the hole (H), and each stake (16) is connected to the blanket by a tie (14), and each tie (14) is attached to the blanket (12) at one of the peripheral grommets. When the ties (14) are fully tensioned, the blanket (12) holds the root ball (B) tightly to the ground.

Abstract: Disclosed is an exemplary landscape soil and moisture retaining device. The retaining device may include a wall having a first region and a second region adjacent the first region, the second region inclined relative to the first region, and a flange extending outward from the first region of the wall. The retaining device may further include a raised lip extending from the flange and defining an upper edge of the retaining device. The second region of the wall defining a bottom edge of the retaining device, such that the flange is arranged between the upper and bottom edges of the retaining device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for passively collecting water in an environment where dew forms are disclosed. The apparatus has a radial body which includes a hydrophobic surface that is supported at a slope of about 10 to 80 degrees from the direction of gravity. The apparatus may also include ridges which increase the surface area of the body thus increasing dew collection and provide shade which reduces the temperature increase of the body when the apparatus is exposed to sunlight. The method includes supporting a hydrophobic radial surface at a slope of about 10 to 80 degrees from the direction of gravity and waiting for dew or condensation to form on the hydrophobic surface and run down the hydrophobic surface to either a reservoir or a beneficiary of the passively collected water, such as the roots of a plant.

Abstract: An eco-safe plant protector, consisting of a top surface of highly reflective material, preferably silver, which repels aphids, white flies, and other plant pests. A copper material forms a barrier around the perimeter of the plant protector. This repels snails and kills certain micro organisms. An adhesive on the surface of the plant protector traps insects and other plant pests. An important aspect of the eco-safe plant protector is that it deters or kills plant pests by mechanical means rather than ecologically harmful chemicals, increases plant growth and yield and has a pleasant decorative appearance so that it can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for passively collecting water in an environment where dew forms are disclosed. The apparatus has a radial body which includes a hydrophobic surface that is supported at a slope of about 10 to 80 degrees from the direction of gravity. The apparatus may also include ridges which increase the surface area of the body thus increasing dew collection and provide shade which reduces the temperature increase of the body when the apparatus is exposed to sunlight. The method includes supporting a hydrophobic radial surface at a slope of about 10 to 80 degrees from the direction of gravity and waiting for dew or condensation to form on the hydrophobic surface and run down the hydrophobic surface to either a reservoir or a beneficiary of the passively collected water, such as the roots of a plant.

Abstract: An air rooting shell comprises a first shell half mateable with a second shell half to form a shell for enclosing around a branch. The shell comprises a reservoir for containing planting medium and an upper lipped opening that receives the branch and collects and funnels water to the reservoir. A bottom opening is provided through which the lower portion of the branch may exit. Side openings on the shell may be used to enclose a branch in a horizontal orientation, while the upper lipped opening remains vertically oriented to receive water.

Abstract: A street tree guard ensuring easy assembly work and having secure coupling strength is provided. The street tree guard includes an inner supporting member which is configured to be installed on a ground around a street tree, an outer supporting member which is configured to be disposed while being spaced apart from the inner supporting member outward, a covering member which configured to be disposed between the inner supporting member and the outer supporting member. Each of the inner supporting member and the outer supporting member includes a plurality of base members configured to be disposed at equal intervals and a plurality of connecting members configured to connect two facing ends of the base members to each other. If a part of the street tree guard is damage, only the damaged part is replaced for maintenance, thereby reducing the maintenance sot. The street tree guard ensures easy installation.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a flowerpot soil protection apparatus featuring a porous stretchable elastic fabric cylinder, wherein the fabric, while stretchable, is carefully chosen to prevent entanglement with fingers and paws. The upper edge of the cylinder features an elasticized sleeve containing a drawstring enabling the upper edge of the stretchable elastic fabric cylinder to be drawn snugly around the stem of a potted plant and secured to maintain the snug fit; the bottom edge of the cylinder features a closed elasticized sleeve containing a closed ring of elasticized cord enabling the bottom edge of the stretchable elastic fabric cylinder to be drawn and held snugly around the rim of a flowerpot containing a potted plant. The apparatus is reusable and easily installed and removed from a variety of flower pots.

Abstract: A walkway adjacent trees is made up of modular sections of perforated plates supported on hinged frames that are supported on spaced piers. Retaining edges of biodegradable material serve to maintain a shallow trench beneath the perforated plates into which leaves or mulch are periodically added. This provides a root-friendly zone under the walkway for tree roots that are watered through the perforated plates and may grow without damaging the walkway. A fringe of plantings maintains the trench level when the biodegradable material disintegrates.

Abstract: Methods of manufacturing multi-colored mulch pads include providing a mold; mixing together a rubber component, a binder and a first coloring agent to form a matrix having a first colored surface; and introducing a second coloring agent onto the matrix to create a multicolored skirt having a second colored surface opposite the first colored surface.

Abstract: A soil protection device for inhibiting access to soil surrounding a stem of a potted plant will now be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1a to 4 of the accompanying drawings. According to the now preferred embodiment, a soil protection device 10 includes a cover member 20 having a generally disk-shaped configuration for lying flat upon soil surrounding a potted plant. While the cover member 20 may include a one-piece construction, the now preferred embodiment includes having first portion 30 pivotally connected to a second portion 40 for relative movement between an open configuration (FIG. 1a) and a closed configuration (FIG. 1a). Each portion includes a generally hemispherical configuration such that the cover member 20 presents a disk-shaped configuration when the portions are at the closed configuration. Of course, other configurations would also be suitable depending on the geometry of plant receptacle with which it is being used, e.g. a square or rectangular configuration.

Abstract: A mulch mat made of recyclable material is provided having a mulch-appearing surface made of recycled material such as rubber and another surface made of a plant inhibiting fabric. The fabric extends beyond the mulch-appearing surface on at least one edge of the mat to provide an area upon which another of the mats may be positioned to prevent weed, grass and other plants from growing between the mats. In addition, the mulch mat may include fertilizer to nourish nearby trees, bushes and the like.

Abstract: A method of operating equipment around trees. The method includes the steps of: providing a plurality of modules; joining the plurality of modules to each other in an operative state at a site wherein the plurality of modules are placed against a ground surface over roots of at least one adjacent tree so that water can be directed at least one of (a) through at least one of the joined modules and (b) between the joined modules to be directed against, and evaporated from, the ground surface; moving equipment against the plurality of joined modules so that weight forces for the equipment are distributed through the plurality of modules over a substantial area of the ground surface to avoid application of concentrated forces that may inflict damage to the tree roots; and removing the plurality of modules from the site after moving the equipment against the plurality of joined modules.

Abstract: A tree root ball wrapping apparatus (100) includes a circular platform (109, 113) for supporting a separable, open-frame, root-containment structure (103, 105, 107) having an inverted conical shape. A group of pivot joints (201, 203, 205, 207) are located at an upper section of the root-containment structure for separating the root-containment structure into half sections. In practice, the group of pivot joints can be opened during tree transplantation for providing removal of a root ball from the wrapping apparatus by opening the sections at the group of pivot joints for easily facilitating removal of the wrapping apparatus (100) from within a transplantation hole.

Abstract: The tree ring is a one-piece device formed from a planar member shaped as an annulus that defines a central opening. Disposed along an outer edge of the planar member is a raised wall for retaining mulch, soil nutrients, and the like in the immediate region surrounding a tree. The raised wall extends to an upper portion to form an arcuate, inverted U-shaped lip directed away from the central opening. When the tree is disposed through the central opening, the wall and planar member cooperate to retain mulch material about the base of a tree. The upper portion lip limits encroachment of grass and weeds upon the tree while providing an esthetically pleasing appearance. The lip is designed to provide sufficient clearance so that a lawn mower, string trimmer, and the like, may be run proximate to the device without disturbing the tree or surrounding mulch.

Abstract: The invention relates to a set of components used for producing a load-bearing structure for gratings, comprising pillars and support beams which are removably connected to the pillars via couplings. Flat network-type supporting frames of variable sizes can be formed by using couplings that preferably comprise four connecting elements which are arranged in a cruciform manner for the corresponding connecting elements of the supporting beams. A vertical space can be created between two supporting frames by means of spacers that are disposed on the pillars.

Abstract: An expanding grass or weed inhibitor around a growing tree or shrub trunk with a series of overlapping, semi-circular wings (16) attached to the base (10), rotating via multiple pivot bolts (18). With an expanding trunk (14) diameter, the pressure of the trunk forces the semi-circular winds to move away from the trunk. Due to the overlapping of the semi-circular wings, their mutually-applied pressure blocks sturdier grass or weeds from uplifting the wings (16) or permeating the base (10). Along the perimeter of the base (10), a barrier wall (12) prevents the semi-circular wings from rotating too far respective to the trunk (14). For the purpose of mounting, base (10) pivots via a pivot bolt (18) while opening along slit at pivot side of base (26). On the opposite side of the base (10), slit at opening side of base (24) opens to account for a wide range of trunk diameters. To secure the base (10), lockable bolt (20) transects a hole connecting to lockable bolt (22).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rollable artificial mulch carpet that includes a permeable base upon which simulated wood chips have been adhered. In one embodiment, the rollable mulch carpet is manufactured on rolls of varying lengths that are placed onto the soil surfaces of gardening areas to provide a mulch-like surface that allows penetration of moisture and atmosphere to the plants in the garden and a mulch-like appearance that resists deterioration.

Abstract: A device for covering the space between a top container rim of an inner plant growing container and the inside wall of an outer decorative container in which the inner plant growing container is placed, includes a plurality of arcuate pieces pivotally joined end to end, the device having opposite unconnected ends. The arcuate pieces are joined in a manner so that the device can be adjustably moved into ring configurations of different diameters to approximately fit within the inner wall of the decorative outer container and rest on the top rim of the inner growing container. Clips or tabs extend downwardly from the device to cooperate with the top rim of the inner container to hold the pieces from moving inwardly, thereby maintaining the adjusted diameter of the device and holding the device in position on top of the inner container. The device can be produced in a plurality of sizes, each size adjustable over a range of diameters.

Abstract: A tree ring that inhibits and/or prevents vegetation growth around the trunks of trees. The tree ring comprises an elastic outer peripheral edge and an elastic inner peripheral edge. In between elastic outer peripheral edge and the elastic inner peripheral edge is a flexible sheet. The flexible sheet has a plurality of holes. The tree ring is removably secured onto a tree pot of any dimension, size, or shape. The elastic outer peripheral edge stretches around the rim of the tree pot, and the elastic inner peripheral edge snugly fits around a tree trunk. It is noted that the distance between the elastic outer peripheral edge and the elastic inner peripheral edge that makes up flexible sheet may vary.

Abstract: An outdoor planter system with a central opening through which a plant may grow. The planter portion surrounding the central opening is inwardly and downwardly sloped, generally impervious to liquid and light, and thereby directs liquid to the central opening while simultaneously preventing undesirable growth of weeds and the like about a central plant. The outer perimeter of the planter has several keyways for removably attachment of a planter cover. The keyways are also adapted to receive plant growing or animal protection cages.

Abstract: A weed guard that prevents weeds from growing along fences, buildings and other structures. The weed guard may be secured to the bottom of a fence, to vertically oriented structures, such as buildings or walls, or to horizontally oriented structures, such as sidewalks and driveways. The fence protecting weed guard has a plurality of linear guard links. The weed guard also has a plurality of post securing slots that secure adjacent linear guard links to one another while they are positioned around a fence post. The weed guard for building structures is a flexible, elongated body with a plurality of planar projection portions. One of the projection portions is mounted against the structure that is protected, one of the projection portions extends into the ground and one of the projection portions rests on top of the weeds.

Abstract: A flexible, porous and durable tree well skirt and a sidewalk structure are made of a cushion base of butadiene rubber and a wear layer of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). The butadiene rubber is mixed with an isocyanate polyurethane binder and spread on the ground around the tree to form the cushion base of the tree well skirt. The EPDM is mixed with an isocyanate polyurethane binder and spread over the cushion base to form the wear layer. The cushion base and wear layer structure used for a sidewalk is spread over a stabilized porous base.

Abstract: A shielding apparatus secured to landscaping material is disclosed for shielding a plant from weed growth. The apparatus includes an elongate plate having a first and a second edge, the plate defining an opening which is disposed between the edges of the plate for the growth therethrough of the plant. A first rail removably cooperates with the first edge of the plate such that the landscaping material is locked between the first rail and the first edge of the plate. Also, a second rail removably cooperates with the second edge of the plate such that the landscaping material is locked between the second rail and the second edge of the plate.

Abstract: Adjustable landscaping ergonomic pads of various shapes adapted for covering the soil around the trunks of shrubs, trees, and garden plants to completely eliminate and retard the growth of weeds and other undesirable plants.

Abstract: A shielding apparatus secured to landscaping material is disclosed for shielding a plant from weed growth. The apparatus includes an elongate plate having a first and a second edge, the plate defining an opening which is disposed between the edges of the plate for the growth therethrough of the plant. A first rail removably cooperates with the first edge of the plate such that the landscaping material is locked between the first rail and the first edge of the plate. Also, a second rail removably cooperates with the second edge of the plate such that the landscaping material is locked between the second rail and the second edge of the plate.

Abstract: A plant-protection mat, particularly in the form of a perforated disk which, in the use position above the root bale of a plant, is intended as soil covering. The perforated disk is formed from a coconut fiber nonwoven having coconut fibers bonded by latex. The coconut fibers of the perforated disk, on the one hand, are fixed by way of contour-forming stiffening edges and, on the other, the perforated disk in the region of the upper and lower covering zones, has pore structures with different opening widths.

Abstract: Adjustable landscaping ergonomic pads of various shapes adapted for covering the soil around the trunks of shrubs, trees, and garden plants to completely eliminate and retard the growth of weeds and other undesirable plants.

Abstract: A water permeable membrane capable of blocking the growth of plant and tree roots only in a mechanical way. This membrane comprises n layers of a non-woven material having a predetermined thickness and n+1 layers of an impermeable material perforated with holes to allow drainage of water, where n is an integer equal or greater than 1. The layers of non woven and impermeable material are in alternate position so that two layers of impermeable material form external layers of the water permeable membrane, and each layer of non-woven material is positioned between two layers of the impermeable material.

Abstract: A mating disruption method for the control of insect pests comprises releasing a sex pheromone in a field wherein an adsorption of the sex pheromone to a soil in the field is decreased.

Abstract: A slope guard device having one or more panels formed of impervious material, interlocking along their periphery to form a rigid annular unit capable of encircling a planted area on a slope. The panels define an inner side adjacent to roots, and an outer side remote from roots, said panels of varying heights to allow a user to customize a slope profile to a slope where taller panels support the slope above the planted area. Vanes extend from the panels and project inwardly from the inner side of the panels. The vanes direct root growth. Vents are attachable to some of the vanes each having an open upper end and open lower end, said vents providing additional structural support for the slope guard. The vents guide steel stakes that can be driven into the ground.

Abstract: An anti-vegetation system for retarding growth around a structure extending from the ground includes a plurality of mats. A first mat includes at least one predefined scoring pattern to accommodate the shape of the structure extending from the ground. A plurality of scoring patterns can be included to accommodate a variety of shapes and sizes. When a scoring pattern it utilized, and the corresponding portion optionally removed, the mat can be positioned on the ground and partially around the structure extending from the surface. A second mat is positioned adjacent to the first mat and effectively surrounds the structure extending from the ground. Additional mats can be placed adjacent to the first and the second mat to increase the size of the protected area. Adjacent edges can utilize corresponding outwardly extending lips to improve the sealing efficiency of the edge-to-edge regions.

Abstract: A mound-like tree skirt has a generally dome-shaped body and is designed for placement around a tree. The body has an apex with an approximately centered opening to accommodate the tree's trunk. It also has a peripheral edge with a substantially horizontal anchor lip extending circumferentially therefrom. A radial slit extending from the approximately centered opening to the peripheral edge allows the mound-like tree skirt to be slipped around a tree until the tree's trunk is in the centered opening. At least one hole in the anchor lip and a corresponding number of anchor stakes hold the tree skirt in position.

Abstract: A hollow, bottomless container for shipping and displaying plants. The container is formed of an elongate, rectangular strip of a resilient material that is folded into a triangular sleeve in which a seed ball is placed. The container is formed such that pressure exerted by the seed ball on the side walls of the container does not cause the container to open, but serves to hold the seed ball within the container, negating the need for a bottom surface on the container. The container may also include printed matter on the exterior of the container, as the resilient strip forming the container is also printable.

Abstract: A method for controlling plant growth by exposing plants to light passing through a covering material comprising a base material containing a colorant. The type and content of the colorant are chosen to provide a photosynthetically effective photon flux (PPF) transmittance of 50% or greater when light is passed through the covering material, and an A value suitable for the purpose of promoting or retarding the growth of plants irradiated with light transmitted by the covering material, the A value being defined by the following equation:A=R/Frwhere R is the photon flux of red light in the wavelength range of 600 to 700 nm and Fr is the photon flux of far red light in the wavelength range of 700 to 800 nm.

Abstract: A novel agricultural mulch and improved method of arranging the mulch on a growing field with furrows is disclosed wherein the mulch is made of an extensible paper substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface with side sections near the edges of the substrate capable of being turned up and bent back over the top surface of the paper substrate as the mulch is laid down over the growing field; the bottom surface of the paper substrate will be exposed for receiving soil from the field to anchor the mulch and protect it against the weathering of rain, sun and wind.