Abstract: A sapling protector having a truncated cone-shaped metal tube formed from a flexible electrolytic tinplate and/or electrolytic chromium coated steel metal sheet is provided. The sapling protector also includes at least one fastener and is perforated with a plurality of holes. The truncated cone-shaped metal tube of the sapling protector also has a coating on the outer surface of the metal sheet and the edges of the metal sheet are hemmed so as to limit the presence of sharp edges and provide a safe device. The sapling is recyclable, ecofriendly, reusable, and safe; it may be used for multiple growing seasons; and may be transferable between new saplings over the course of multiple years. The corresponding method of protecting a tree sapling and sapling protector kit are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to hunting equipment, specifically hunting blinds. It is a hunting blind which is installed surrounding a tree trunk. The hunting blind has a hole in the top, where a tree trunk can fit, and has a split or opening extending from the hole on top to the bottom edge, which can be closed after the blind is placed around the tree trunk.

Abstract: A bug-catching curtain system includes a plurality of curtains composed of adhesive material suspended from rigid framing material. A drive shaft is supported by the support structure. A plurality of primary cables extending out from a plurality of spindles that are mounted on the drive shaft. A plurality of support cables are attached to the primary cable and to the rigid framing material. The plurality of support cables suspend the plurality of curtains between rows of plants. A height at which the plurality of curtains are suspended is varied by using the turning the drive shaft to let out and to wind in the plurality of primary cables.

Abstract: The present invention is a flexible container to house a root ball of a plant and method of using the same. The container comprises a fabric sack, a securing ring and draw string. The fabric sack has an enclosed base and an open top that is folded over forming a narrow tubular aperture. The sack is made of a fabric having a mesh that inhibits or interferes with the life cycle of pests that infect or attempt to infect the root ball of the plant. The securing ring has a central aperture able to receive the stalk of the plant, an outer edge having a groove, an inner edge and an opening extending from the outer edge to the inner edge. The draw string is fitted through the narrow tubular aperture of the sack to enable the sack to be closed about the securing ring's outer edge groove.

Abstract: A tree protection system including a flexible UV-stable first layer including a plurality of openings between about 5 mm and about 9 mm formed therein, the first layer configured to protectively surround at least a base of a tree, and a unitary fastener adapted to secure overlapping opposed portions of the first layer together during protectively surrounding the at least a base of a tree in response to application of a single force directed toward the opposed portions.

Abstract: A protector device includes a plurality of pairs of multi-pronged elements. Each pair of multi-pronged elements includes a first multi-pronged element having a first C-shaped element that has a first straight section, a first end forming a first end spike, and a second end forming a second end spike, and a first connecting element attached to and perpendicular to the first C-shaped element. Each pair of multi-pronged elements also includes a second multi-pronged element including a second C-shaped element connected to the first connecting element of the first multi-pronged element, the second C-shape element having a second straight section, a third end forming a third end spike, and a fourth end forming a fourth end spike, and a second connecting element attached to and perpendicular to the second C-shaped element.

Abstract: An enclosing plant sheath for encircling and protecting a plant stem or vine, which may be joined with other similar sheaths, to create a beneficial microenvironment for developing plants.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pot device having an external frame for holding a pot inside the frame. The frame has a lower end constituting a support base. The pot device includes connection means arranged for connecting the frame to the pot. The connection means has locking means arranged for locking the pot in an upright position. According to the invention, the extension of the frame in a horizontal plane is adjustable. The diameter of the frame in a horizontal plane is variably adjustable and the frame includes a plurality of circumferentially distributed sections. These sections are telescopically connected to each other in the circumferential direction.

Abstract: A container can be used for growing a plant having roots. The container can comprise a rectangular sheet having an upper edge, a lower edge, a first side edge and a second side edge. The first side edge and the second side edge are joined forming a cylinder. The upper edge is configured to rest above a ground surface such that vertical root growth is substantially uninhibited by the container above the ground surface. An inward contoured lip can be formed into the lower edge. The rectangular sheet from the upper edge to the inward contoured lip constrains lateral growth of the roots of the plant above the ground surface while vertical root growth is completely uninhibited by the container below the inward contoured lip.

Abstract: A protective and decorative system for trees, particularly holiday or Christmas trees, which segregates portions of the tree for safety reasons, by utilization of concentric ring mechanisms and a backing section. The versatile system includes fire retardant capabilities and includes demarcations on is fitted to any size of tree for ease of installation.

Abstract: An impermeable sectional apparatus for soil moisture retention has a frustoconical member separable along a medial longitudinal axis into a first section and a second section for connection around a plant to inhibit evaporation from the soil matrix. Securement of the first and second sections together is effective by mating engagement between each of a first male edge with a second female edge and a first female edge with a second male edge. A plurality of rectilinear insert sections is fittable in between each of the first and second sections engaged by edgewise interconnection therebetween, whereby the frustoconical member may be elongated to cover more ground surface. Additionally, a polychromic material is included devised to signal a color change to a user in response to an environmental stimulus.

Abstract: An embodiment of a plant manipulator is disclosed, which may have a flexible cylindrical member that is bent to hold a plant in a particular configuration to train the plant. The plant manipulator may include a first end and a second end, a long edge of the flexible cylindrical member, a length of the long edge of the flexible cylindrical member, and a slit along the length of the longest edge of the flexible cylindrical member. The plant manipulator may also have a malleable rigid member with a first and second end, a long edge of the flexible cylindrical member, and a length of the long edge of the malleable rigid member. The length of the long edge of the flexible cylindrical member may be coupled along the length of the long edge of the flexible cylindrical member.

Abstract: A trellis support device includes first and second subassemblies, and each subassembly having one or more elongate support members joining together a plurality of ring portions. The ring portions are configured to align and connect together adjacent first and second subassemblies. The first and second subassemblies are configured to engage an underlying support material and to provide a structurally supported growth area for plants.

Abstract: Various embodiments related to a tree guard are disclosed. One embodiment provides an L shaped breakaway bracket for use with a modular tree guard assembly. The L shaped breakaway bracket includes a horizontal member extending substantially perpendicularly from a vertical member, wherein the vertical member is thinner and longer than the horizontal member. At least one fastener hole is provided in the horizontal member for receiving a fastener for securing the horizontal member to a rail. At least one fastener hole is provided in the vertical member for receiving a fastener for securing the vertical member to a post. The breakaway bracket is adapted to break along the intersection of the horizontal member and the vertical member and separate the rail from the post when a force that would otherwise be sufficient to deform the rail is applied to the rail.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for inhibiting the uprooting and toppling of trees during storms, and tree-stabilizing apparatuses adapted for this purpose.

Abstract: Various embodiments related to a tree guard and tree guard anchoring systems are disclosed. One embodiment provides a modular tree guard assembly including an anchoring subsystem. One embodiment discloses an anchor plate that is moveably coupled to a post, the anchor plate being adapted for use in securing the post to a ground location. These and other embodiments are disclosed herein.

Abstract: A tree ring including a tube having an upper end, a lower end, and an outer wall; a ground flange having an outer end, the ground flange being fixedly attached to and extending outwardly from the tube's outer wall, the ground flange further extending annularly about the tube; a plurality of seams, each seam among the plurality of seams segmenting the tube and the ground flange; pairs of flanges connected operatively at the seams, the flange pairs being adapted for interconnecting the tube's segments and the ground flange's segments; and a plurality of “T” sleeves, each sleeve among the plurality of “T” sleeves being fitted for receiving and securing together one of the flange pairs and for securing the segments in a tree ringing pattern.

Abstract: Various embodiments related to a tree guard. One embodiment provides a modular tree guard assembly. Various other embodiments disclosed include one or more of the following: a multi-purpose top rail unit facilitating flexible installation of various side panel units and top rail accessories; modular side panel units including decorative units and urine guard units; corner and other post units; and various adjustable foot units. In one embodiment, a sign holder unit of the tree guard assembly is provided with different tamper proof bolts than are other elements of the assembly such that control over signage on the tree guard may be effectively given to a different entity than an entity with control over assembly of the rest of the tree guard unit. Various other embodiments related to tree guards are disclosed.

Abstract: A modulated cell adapted to form a structural frame of said cells for supporting a load bearing feature of a roadway, pavement or walkway while at the same time providing a rooting area within the structural frame for a tree root network. The cell has a main body with vertical integral legs with a top plate having regions upon its upper skirting for a snap fit fastening arrangement for receiving the ends of said legs of a resting cell thereupon said top plate to mount one cell vertically upon another and the top plate has its peripheral edge an interlocking means for laterally joining together with adjacent cells so the modulated cells can be mounted vertically and laterally one upon the other and side by side.

Abstract: A grow tube formed from a sheet of thermoform polymer to include a plurality of longitudinal ribs that protrude in a first direction normal to the plane of the sheet. When rolled into a grow tube, the ribs can extend radially inward and act as cushions that prevent the stem of the resident plant from colliding with or resting on the continuous rim of the grow tube. The ribs can also define vertically oriented channels that are open to the interior of the grow tube. Natural convection currents develop in the channels, promoting air exchange between the interior of the grow tube and the surroundings. The ribs can promote diffusion of the incoming sunlight. In one embodiment, the grow tube includes snap forms that overlap when the sheet is rolled into tubular form to provide a flangeless grow tube.

Abstract: A structure for creating housings for setting trees into the ground includes a plurality of modular elements (2), each one having an upper face (21) and support legs (22), the elements being associable with one another so as to obtain an upper surface (P, M), which is substantially continuous, and a lower volume (V), which is substantially empty. Tubular extensions (24), which at least partially cover the legs (22), according to their length determine the depth of the housing and hence the dimension of the volume (V). The tubular extensions are held in position, before the subsequent positioning of the modular elements, by a framework, which is provided with supports (32) adapted to be inserted into the upper mouth of the tubular extensions.

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 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: Various embodiments related to a tree guard are disclosed. One embodiment provides an L shaped breakaway bracket for use with a modular tree guard assembly. The L shaped breakaway bracket includes a horizontal member extending substantially perpendicularly from a vertical member, wherein the vertical member is thinner and longer than the horizontal member. At least one fastener hole is provided in the horizontal member for receiving a fastener for securing the horizontal member to a rail. At least one fastener hole is provided in the vertical member for receiving a fastener for securing the vertical member to a post. The breakaway bracket is adapted to break along the intersection of the horizontal member and the vertical member and separate the rail from the post when a force that would otherwise be sufficient to deform the rail is applied to the rail.

Abstract: Various embodiments related to a tree guard are disclosed. One embodiment provides a modular tree guard assembly. Various other embodiments disclosed include one or more of the following: a multi-purpose top rail unit facilitating flexible installation of various side panel units and top rail accessories; modular side panel units including decorative units and urine guard units; corner and other post units; and various adjustable foot units. In one embodiment, a sign holder unit of the tree guard assembly is provided with different tamper proof bolts than are other elements of the assembly such that control over signage on the tree guard may be effectively given to a different entity than an entity with control over assembly of the rest of the tree guard unit. Various other embodiments related to tree guards are disclosed.

Abstract: A pest control material (11), such as mosquito netting, has a surface (12) with abrasive/absorptive microprojections (13). Insect pests such as mosquitoes suffer damage to their cuticle, resulting in dehydration and/or invasion by microbial pathogens. The material is made by coating a fabric with abrasive and/or absorptive materials.

Abstract: A tree guard having an adjustable circumference is made up of a plurality of adjacent arcuate panels having opposite longitudinal edge portions adapted to receive fastener assemblies that connect the adjacent arcuate panels to one another. Each arcuate panel has an upstanding or upper portion that is positioned next to the tree trunk and a unitary, outwardly flared skirt portion that depends downwardly from the upper portion.

Abstract: A grow tube formed from a sheet of thermoform polymer to include a plurality of longitudinal ribs that protrude in a first direction normal to the plane of the sheet. When rolled into a grow tube, the ribs can extend radially inward and act as cushions that prevent the stem of the resident plant from colliding with or resting on the continuous rim of the grow tube. The ribs can also define vertically oriented channels that are open to the interior of the grow tube. Natural convection currents develop in the channels, promoting air exchange between the interior of the grow tube and the surroundings. The ribs can promote diffusion of the incoming sunlight. In one embodiment, the grow tube includes snap forms that overlap when the sheet is rolled into tubular form to provide a flangeless grow tube.

Abstract: The system for delivery of insecticide provides a portable enclosure for delivering insecticide to an infested tree trunk. The system includes an annular shell disposed around with the trunk of the tree that defines an annular tank. An annular base supports the wall(s) of the annular shell and has a liquid impermeable membrane attached thereto that can be wrapped around the base of the tree trunk to prevent pesticide seepage into the ground. A pump delivers insecticide into the annular tank at an upper end of the tank. A drain hose attached to the base of the tank returns insecticide to the pump for recirculation. The pump is actuated in pulsating mode to agitate insecticide in the tank, causing waves of sufficient pressure to induce the insecticide to penetrate deeply through any bores in the trunk to kill both adult insects and larvae.

Abstract: A trim guard, that surrounds wooden posts sunken into the ground, as well as other embedded structures is disclosed. The trim guard protects the posts or support structures from mechanical abrasion from devices such as rotary weed trimmers.

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 apparatus for shielding a fence post from foreign elements includes a collar section with integral sidewalls, one detachable sidewall, a base extending about a perimeter of the collar section, and a mechanism for preventing fluid from traveling distally and medially of an outer wall of the fence post and an inner perimeter of the collar. The detachable sidewall is provided with oppositely spaced tongue portion and the collar section has a pair of grooves formed therein. The tongue and groove portions are slidably engageable with each other so that the apparatus can be assembled and disassembled by moving the detachable sidewall along a substantially vertical plane. The fluid blocking mechanism preferably includes a rubber seal contiguously positioned medially of the fence post and collar section.

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: A refined holder structure is provided. The refined holder structure mainly includes a base having at lest one or more prop to surround thereof, wherein one of the prop is designed to be a socket with an extended line for supplying the power, and a hole mounted on a central portion thereof for mounting a sleeve, thereby through seting the sleeve, a Christmas tree can be inserted in the sleeve, and further through the socket mounted on the prop, the plugs of the decorated electric equipments (e.g. Christmas light decoration) on the tree can be put in the socket for conveniently supplying the power.

Abstract: A system and kit of components for winterizing plants and trees, where the invention comprises a skeletal frame formed by plural first tubular members, each having an upper end and a lower end. When assembled, the respective lower ends are spaced apart and positioned vertically and anchored within the ground surrounding the plant or tree. Joined between adjacent first tubular members are plural second tubular, horizontally oriented, members to form a generally square skeletal frame. About the skeletal frame is a light-transmitting plastic wrap. Overriding the skeletal frame is a top frame, preferably pivotal about a pair of upper ends, to allow access to the protected plant or tree. Additionally, the invention contemplates a cover, such as a plastic wrap or canvas-like material over the top frame to ensure complete protection of the plant or tree.

Abstract: A modular protection device for underpinning for protecting underpinning from lawn care equipment includes an elongated trough having a first end and a second end. The first and second ends are open. The elongated trough includes a bottom wall, a front wall and a back wall each extending between the first and second ends. The trough has an open top side and defines a channel for selectively receiving a bottom edge of the mobile home underpinning. A foot is attached to and extends outwardly from the front wall. A plurality of troughs is provided. A coupler assembly for selectively couples a pair of the troughs together.

Abstract: A cage for supporting a growing fruit or vegetable vine comprising a series of concentric rings of ever increasing diameter wherein the rings are secured to a pair of opposed continuous wire loops having legs at the free end to be pushed into the ground, and a handle at the upper extremity of each loop above the cage to facilitate handling.

Abstract: The invention is modular unit and the arrangement of several modular units to surround a tree so as to permit and invite several of bicycles to be secured to them. The modular units are arranged so as not to allow sufficient space for placement of a bicycle adjacent to a tree. Another function of an arrangement of several modular units surrounding a tree is to protect the tree from impact with motor vehicles or from open automobile doors. The modules are best utilized to protect urban planted trees, thereby enhancing and preserving urban environments.

Abstract: A method of providing a secure, theft-resistant bicycle parking facility in the vicinity of a tree that has been planted in an urban area while also protecting said tree from damage caused by parked bicycles, bicycle chains, or locking devices, comprising surrounding said tree by a plurality of rigid and immobile modular bicycle racks. This invention enhances and protects the environment by protecting urban planted trees. In addition this invention provides increased inexpensive parking for bicycles thereby promoting their use in cities in place of automobiles. The environment is further protected by decreasing air pollution caused by emissions from automobile exhausts.

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 shield for use in protecting plants from environmental hazard, most particularly herbicide sprays. The shield is a two-layered structure, comprising an inner layer of a non-abrasive or resilient material secured to an outer layer of a herbicide-impermeable material. The two-layered structure is preferably a flexible composite sheet having two ends coupled together to form a circumferential barrier around the plant stem. The two ends may be coupled together with various fasteners. When a black or dark-colored inner layer is bonded to a white or light colored reflective outer layer, the temperature of the plant inside the shield may be minimized.

Abstract: A protector for seedlings or small trees is provided having top and bottom protective covers that may be used individually or may be snap locked together in a plural format. Each cover is made of a sheet of moulded pliable polymer material, capable of being folded along its center to form a living hinge. A channel-like portion to each side of the hinge is formed by a plurality of stacked shell-form bodies, each with a poly hourglass shape. A bottom end has a hole, typically of a two inch diameter, for surrounding the seedling. The top protective cover formed by the channel-like portions consists of a roof member that is adapted to collect water internally in the form of condensation and externally in the form of rain, and to disperse the water onto the plant. The bottom protective cover is open at its top end and has one male snap on each sidewall for mating with respective female slots on the top protective cover when connecting both covers.

Abstract: A decorative tree protector which is positioned on the ground around a tree trunk to prevent grass from growing close to the tree trunk. The tree protector includes a round hollow body having a top wall, downwardly dependent sidewall, and a radially extending lower rim for ease of mowing around. A central hole through the top wall and a radial slit from the central hole allow the tree protector to be fit around the trunk of a tree. Opposing portions of the protector body at the slit are retained together after fitting around the tree by retaining screws and nuts. The tree protector can include a built-in seat formed into the top wall and sidewall thereof, being coverable by a pivoting seat cover. The tree protector can further include a decorative device such as a flower trough, a plurality of battery-powered light bulbs extending from the sidewall, a decorative metallic band, or external decorations such as bark, mulch, stones, bricks, sand, or plants, affixed to the protector body.

Abstract: A pest deterrent device having first and second mating sections forming a substantially cylindrically shaped body including a smooth outer surface. Each mating section has at least one latch and a plurality of alignment fingers disposed along a first vertical terminating edge of each mating section. Each mating section also has at least one loop aligned with the at least one latch along a second terminating edge side thereof. The first and second sections include a lip extending radially outward from said cylindrical body and a plurality of feet extending downwardly from a lower edge.

Abstract: A protective device for trees and plants, used in agricultural and tree plantings to protect the shoots of young trees or plants as they grow, composed of a sheet that is rolled onto itself and has openings through which there passes a metal bar (3) that is strong enough to be embedded in dirt. The sheet is smooth, has double-layer corrugation, or is made of mesh (1) and at its lateral ends has a series of central circular or oval openings which are preferably spaced at uniform intervals, whereby a sheet (1) is equipped with an additive that protects against ultraviolet rays.

Abstract: A mulching structure for covering the soil around the stem of a growing plant and over the roots thereof to screen sunlight from the adjacent soil and thus minimize the growth of weeds. The mulching structure also allows water from irrigation or rain to flow therethrough to the soil. The mulching structure includes a first wall made out of a substantially impermeable material. The first wall is provided with a first wall aperture extending therethrough. The mulching structure also includes a second wall made out of a substantially impermeable material. The second wall has a second wall aperture extending therethrough. A wall spacing structure extends between the first and second walls for maintaining the latter in a spaced relationship relative to each other. The mulching structure is so configured as to allow through flow of the water between the first and second wall apertures while preventing through passage of the light rays from the first wall outer surface to the second wall outer surface.