Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for a shooting target mounting bracket with improved portability, versatility, and safety over existing devices. The mounting bracket is easily adjustable for height, compactable for transportation, and compatible with existing target posts and existing target shapes.

Abstract: Banner supports and processes for making and using same. In some examples, a banner support can include at least one end connector having body which defines an aperture that is sized to allow a t-post to extend through the aperture, the end connector including at least one tab and an elongate support structure configured for connecting to a top edge of a banner and having a strength capable at least of supporting the banner, the support structure having an end with an end opening that is configured to selectively receive the end connector tab for attaching the end connector to the support structure in a locked position, and configured to selectively release the tab to at least partially detach the end connector from the support structure.

Abstract: A tree stand includes a housing dimensioned for holding electronic components used in providing electricity in support of decorative lighting for the tree. The tree stand removes heat from the housing without the use moving parts. Floor vents enable cool air to enter the housing; upper vents enable that air, warmed by the electrical components, to escape to the housing and into a heat riser housing as part of a growing, circular heat thermal. The heat follows a spiral ramp in the heat riser housing exiting vents at the top where additional heat is conducted into the tree itself, radiated into the air. Tree legs can be increased in number or replaced with longer legged trees without tools by insertion of the side wall into a slot formed in the legs and then slid around the circular slide wall from the notch where each leg is inserted.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to device and method for promoting plant growth. The device is a plant spacing member that has a body and a first end and a second end. The first end and second end have openings for receiving at least one plant limb therein to create a space between the limbs of the plant. An increased flow of air and light then flow through the created space to the interior of the plant to stimulate the growth of the plant. In addition, the increase flow of air and light dries the plant to reduce the accumulation of mold and mildew.

Abstract: A self-adjusting, self-actuating and clamping apparatus employing only non-elastic material parts for vertically or approximately vertically and also downwardly securing Christmas trees or, more generically, other items configured similar to the Christmas tree trunk, to be secured vertically or approximately vertically and downwardly such that in the specific case of the Christmas tree the apparatus can accommodate various sized tree trunks as well as various peripherally/externally configured tree trunks. More specifically, when the apparatus is employed to secure a Christmas tree, or other items configured similar to the Christmas tree trunk, the stability of the Christmas tree, or other items configured similar to the Christmas tree trunk, is increased. In addition, the apparatus can be mounted on a turn-table so as to facilitate the process of decorating the Christmas tree.

Abstract: Devices are provided for guiding the growth of scaffold branches, and in particular, devices for training scaffold branches to form wide crotch angles with main trunk of a tree.

Abstract: A stable cable wire is disclosed. The stable cable wire comprises a wire and at least one loop formed within the wire. In one embodiment, the wire is a stranded wire that includes a plurality of wires wound up together during a stranding process. Prior to the stranding process, at least one of the plurality of wires is looped with one or more loops during a looping process. After the looping process, the plurality of wires are stranded together and coiled upon a wire spool to create the stable cable wire.

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

Abstract: A tree slide facilitating movement of a Christmas tree via sliding along a support surface without damage to the surface is described. The tree slide includes a central region of substantially planar extent and an arcuate perimeter which surrounds and extends from the central region. The arcuate perimeter forms a cavity along one side of the tree slide. In some embodiments, a rim is provided which extends from the arcuate perimeter opposite of the central region. In other embodiments, the tree slide could also include a cover, composed of a stretchable and conformable material, which conceals a tree stand and the tree slide.

Abstract: Devices are provided for guiding the growth of scaffold branches, and in particular, devices for training scaffold branches to form wide crotch angles with main trunk of a tree.

Abstract: A tree slide facilitating movement of a Christmas tree via sliding along a support surface without damage to the surface is described. The tree slide includes a central region of substantially planar extent and an arcuate perimeter which surrounds and extends from the central region. The arcuate perimeter forms a cavity along one side of the tree slide. In some embodiments, a rim is provided which extends from the arcuate perimeter opposite of the central region. In other embodiments, the tree slide could also include a cover, composed of a stretchable and conformable material, which conceals a tree stand and the tree slide.

Abstract: A stable cable system and method are disclosed. The stable cable system comprises at least two stakes, at least one cable, wherein the at least one cable is coupled to the at least two stakes, wherein the at least one cable has at least one loop and at least one connector, wherein the at least one connector is inserted through the at least one loop and around an object.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are directed to a support device for a decorative tree, for example a natural Christmas tree. The support device includes an arcuate member and a cylindrical portion extending substantially perpendicular to the arcuate member. The arcuate member includes at least one elongated gripping tooth positioned on a concave surface of the arcuate member opposite the surface of the arcuate member from which the cylindrical portion extends from. The support device is configured and dimensioned for use with conventional tree stands in order to produce a substantial clamping action around the trunk of the decorative tree in order to hold the decorative tree in a substantially upright position.

Abstract: A tree planting support system that mounts onto a tree trunk to stabilize a recently planted tree in a substantially vertical position until its root system can hold it in that orientation without the need for additional support. It has a housing assembly with a top wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall, first and second sidewalls, an angled front wall extending between first and second front walls, and at least one slot. The housing assembly further has a first interior base wall defining an angled cavity section, and a second interior base wall defining another angled cavity section. At least one band is secured through the at least one slot and at least one support post has first and second ends. A stake assembly also has two angled cavity sections.

Abstract: A tree tie and method of use is disclosed. The tree tie comprises a member. The tie member including a first end portion; a first tab coupled to the first end portion; a middle portion and one end of a middle portion coupled to the first tab. The tie member also includes an opposite end of the middle portion coupled to a second tab, a second end portion coupled to the second tab and a head portion coupled to the second end portion. The tree tie including a flexible hose surrounding the middle portion of the first member and being substantially held in place by the first and second tabs. Only flexible hose contacts the tree when the first member surrounds the tree.

Abstract: A deep root watering and stabilization assembly and method for supporting, irrigating, and fertilizing plantings, such as trees, shrubs, or root balls is described herein. The assembly can include a harness disposed around the planting and a perforated tube adapted to receive water and nutrients from above the surface and pass the water and nutrients to the roots or root ball. The assembly can include an attachment assembly with adjustable engagement locations and a fastener affixed to the attachment assembly. The fastener can be structured to tighten or loosen a first connector as it engages one of a plurality of positions between the harness and the perforated tube.

Abstract: A system for stabilizing a plant comprises a plurality of stakes and a plurality of horizontal stabilization members, wherein the stakes are inserted through a root ball of the plant into undisturbed soil, and wherein the horizontal stabilization members resist lateral movement of at least one of the stakes.

Abstract: A cable wedge assembly that can streamline installation of cabling assemblies upon trees and other structures is provided. For example, the cable wedge assembly need not require specialized tools for installation. Rather, the unique features and functions of the assembly attach to a cable merely by inserting a cable through the assembly, tightening a portion of the connector upon another and establishing tension in the cable. Once cable tension is established, the integral wedges seat causing attachment to and retention of the cable. This attachment and retention is effected by way of split conical inserts disposed within the housing of the assembly.

Abstract: There is provided a tree anchor system kit.

Abstract: The invention provides a tree stand comprising a fluid reservoir about a tree retaining member including tree gripping means, wherein the tree gripping means comprise at least one projection. The invention further provides a tree stand comprising a fluid reservoir about a tree retaining member, wherein strengthening means are provided between the fluid reservoir and the tree retaining member. The invention further provides a tree stand comprising a fluid reservoir about a tree retaining member including use, to maintain separation between at least part of the end of the tree retained by the tree retaining member and (20) a base portion of the tree retaining member.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for supporting newly planted trees or other upright for use with a plurality of stakes that have been positioned adjacent and around the tree to be supported. In one aspect of the invention, the individual stakes are rigidly secured together by elements which are vertically movable along the stakes and releasably secured to the stakes at desired vertical positions. In another aspect of the invention, flexible tie members interconnect the tree trunk with a vertical stake. The connection between the tie member and its associated stake is such that the connection may be releasably locked to the stake at different vertical positions along the stake.

Abstract: A stand for a tree comprises a base for receiving a trunk of the tree, wherein the base provides a top portion, and a plurality of attachment points positioned along a periphery of the top portion. The stand further comprises a plurality of bracing supports. Each bracing support comprises a first end, wherein said first end is coupled to one of the plurality of attachment points, and a second end, wherein said second end is equipped to engage the trunk of the tree.

Abstract: A tree tie and method of use is disclosed. The tree tie comprises a member. The tie member including a first end portion; a first tab coupled to the first end portion; a middle portion and one end of a middle portion coupled to the first tab. The tie member also includes an opposite end of the middle portion coupled to a second tab, a second end portion coupled to the second tab and a head portion coupled to the second end portion. The tree tie including a flexible hose surrounding the middle portion of the first member and being substantially held in place by the first and second tabs. Only flexible hose contacts the tree when the first member surrounds the tree.

Abstract: A tree tie and method of use is disclosed. The tree tie comprises a member. The tie member including a first end portion; a first tab coupled to the first end portion; a middle portion and one end of a middle portion coupled to the first tab. The tie member also includes an opposite end of the middle portion coupled to a second tab, a second end portion coupled to the second tab and a head portion coupled to the second end portion. The tree tie including a flexible hose surrounding the middle portion of the first member and being substantially held in place by the first and second tabs. Only flexible hose contacts the tree when the first member surrounds the tree.

Abstract: The invention as presently conceived discloses a unique system and method that incorporates a self-watering tree stand that is an improvement on a conventional floor-standing holiday tree stand and watering system. The design of this novel tree stand is that it supports the tree from the tree's midsection that allows gravity to self-level the tree held within the stand. The stand comprises a large circular base for stability as well as adjustable height watering cup that can be brought up to the bottom of the tree and is fed from a water reservoir located on the vertical section of the stand at the outside perimeter of the tree. Also integral to the system and apparatus is a power receptacle fed from a power cord located near the top of the stand in order to power decorative lights or other electric tree decorations.

Abstract: A tree slide facilitating movement of a Christmas tree via sliding along a support surface without damage to the surface is described. The tree slide includes a central region of substantially planar extent and an arcuate perimeter which surrounds and extends from the central region. The arcuate perimeter forms a cavity along one side of the tree slide. In some embodiments, a rim is provided which extends from the arcuate perimeter opposite of the central region. In other embodiments, the tree slide could also include a cover, composed of a stretchable and conformable material, which conceals a tree stand and the tree slide.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for supporting newly planted trees in which a plurality of stakes are positioned adjacent and around a supported tree. In one aspect of the invention, the individual stakes are rigidly secured together by elements which are vertically movable along the stakes and releasably secured to the stakes at desired vertical positions. In another aspect of the invention, flexible tie members interconnect the tree trunk with the stake. The connection between the tie member and its associated stake is such that the connection may be releasably locked to the stake at different vertical positions along the stake.

Abstract: A belt device for arrangements which are put under tensile load, particularly for systems for the securing of tree crowns, having a belt (10) with a loop at each end (12, 12?) which is formed by turning over the end parts of the belt (10) and fastening the ends to the belt, wherein the fastenings (14, 14?) and the belt (10) are adapted to withstand a pre-determined minimum tensile force. In order to guarantee a good visibility of the indicating element even from greater distances, it is proposed by the invention that the belt (10) is overlapped by an indicating element (16) in the vicinity of at least one of the loops (12), which indicating element shortens the belt (10) and is fastened with two end portions on the belt (10) such that one of the fastenings (18) gives way when a pre-determined tensile force acts on the belt (10), the tensile force being smaller than the minimum tensile force which the loop fastenings (14, 14?) and the belt withstand.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tree support and cover system. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a tree stand configured for efficient transportation of a tree. The tree stand includes two sets of wheels for use in translating the tree. A first set of wheels is disposed below the tree stand and allows for conventional translation with an erect tree. A second set of wheels is disposed on the side of the tree stand and allows for tipped translation. The tree stand may also include an optional electrical system with one or more electrical items including a timer, a Ground Fault Interrupter outlet, a remote controlled positioning system, etc. A second embodiment of the present invention relates to a collapsible tree cover that can be used to efficiently transport and store the tree. The collapsible tree cover can be concealed within a tree stand or used as a skirt when it is collapsed below the tree.

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: A device for supporting a tree limb. The device includes a base having top and bottom surfaces for situating the device proximate to said tree limb. A telescoping pole having a longitudinal axis and first and second ends is provided, the first end being rotatably secured to the base. A coupling is included for varying the length of the telescoping pole. A support rod is affixed to the second end of the telescoping pole, the support rod being rotatable about the longitudinal axis. A U-shaped limb support member is fixedly appended to the support rod.

Abstract: A method and device are described for protecting structures having a central longitudinal portion and radially extending arms, including plants such as palm trees from wind damage. The device may be positioned around a structure and includes a flexible material configured to wrap around a central longitudinal portion and radially extending arms, such that a lower edge of the flexible material is positioned near a lower portion of the radially extending arms and when wrapped around the structure, a portion of the radially extending arms is pushed toward the central longitudinal portion of the structure and two side edges of the flexible material are proximate one another. The device fastens around the structure and is configured to secure the radially extending arms against the central longitudinal portion of the structure and to reinforce the central longitudinal portion of the structure thereby protecting the structure against wind damage.

Abstract: An embodiment of a tree support device comprising a first strap and a second strap. The first strap of one embodiment having a first bore, a second bore, a proximal end, and a distal end. The second strap in one variation also having a proximal end and a distal end. In a variation, the second strap proximal end is coupled to the first strap distal with a grommet at the second bore. The longitudinal axis of the two straps may be generally parallel. The first strap is adapted to wrap around the trunk of a newly planted tree. The distal end of the second strap is adapted to thread through the first strap bores and toutly couple to a device such as a stake substantially fixed to the ground.

Abstract: A temporary apparatus to prevent damage to structures such as screen enclosures during high winds. The apparatus uses a proprietary bracket specifically designed for target structure members that is permanently attached to the structural member, a ground anchor, which may be any permanent or temporary fixture that may be used as a ground anchor; and any tie-down material or method that may be used to temporarily tie said bracket to said ground anchor. Alternatively, a temporary apparatus to prevent damage to trees or poles during high winds or other vulnerable times. The apparatus uses a proprietary bracket specifically designed for structural members that may be permanently or temporarily attached, and the whole is secured with similar anchors and temporary tie-down materials. The bracket is so designed that it increases its grip on the structural member as wind loading increases.

Abstract: A tree stand assembly including a container defining a basin and a plurality of securement assemblies attached to the container. The securement assemblies are spaced from each other and define a space within the container for receiving the base of a tree trunk. Each securement assembly has a support member having a passageway in an upper portion thereof and a fast-acting screw assembly. Each fast-acting screw assembly includes an engager having a threaded recess portion, and a bolt having a threaded shank designed to threadedly engage the recess portion threads when the bolt extends through the passageway. The engager has a normal or biased condition allowing the bolt to slide in a first axial direction in the passageway while preventing the bolt from sliding in an opposing second axial direction.

Abstract: A Christmas tree support assembly includes a base that includes a pair of legs and a central member that is attached to and extends between the legs. The legs are orientated parallel to each other. A post is attached to and extends upwardly from the central member. A sleeve is attached to an upper end of the post. The sleeve has an opening extending therethrough. The opening has an axis that is orientated parallel to a longitudinal axis of a first of the legs. A rod is positioned in the sleeve and has a proximal end and a distal end with respect to the sleeve. A hook is attached to the rod and extends downwardly from the rod. The hook may be secured to a coupler attached to an upper end of a pine tree.

Abstract: A stake for supporting a newly planted tree or other plant. The stake has an elongated portion with a lower end which may be secured in the ground and an upper portion that is tied to the plant. At least one secondary support member is pivotally attached to the lower end of the elongated portion. The secondary support member extends in an approximately perpendicular manner from the elongated member. The secondary support member may be pivotally adjusted as desired for support.

Abstract: An arrangement for supporting a tree comprising a bracket and a pair of elongate bands each including a plurality of circular openings. The bands being extendable in loops from the bracket around a tree. The bracket has a pair of band receiving openings to receive free ends of the respective bands. A respective mounting opening is provided a short distance from each of the receiving openings. A pair of tangentially extending housings are respectively adjacent each of the openings to receive anchored ends of the respective bands. Inclined projections extend into each housing from an upper wall thereof to retain the band by engagement of the projections through respective retention openings in the bands. Bands can be tightened by location of a tool extending through a retention opening towards the anchored end of the respective band extending from the housing and also through a retention opening in the free end of the band through the respective mounting, such that a lever action can be applied with the tool.

Abstract: An assembly includes a plurality of elongated and rectilinear support posts having opposed end portions. The assembly further includes a plurality of U-shaped fastening members removably positional through a primary support member. The primary support member is provided with first and second pairs of arcuate indentations formed along the front face of the primary support member. A bracket including attachable first and second sections is medially situated between the support posts. The first section has opposed end portions conjoined to the front face of the primary support member, and the second section has opposed end portions conjoined to the first section end portions wherein the second section protrudes forwardly of the first section. The first and second pair of indentations are juxtaposed side-by-side and are laterally opposed from the end portions of the first and second sections such that the support posts can abut the bracket during operating conditions.

Abstract: A tree support stake having a base and a trunk. The base includes a plurality of tines extending horizontally and radially from a center of the base. Each of the tines includes a vertical portion extending downwardly at a periphery of the base. One end of the trunk is connected to the base and the other end extends upwardly to a predetermined height. The trunk comprises a plurality of upward vertical extensions joined together and extending upwardly at various elevations along the predetermined height, and a plurality of horizontal bars protruding perpendicularly from terminuses of the upward vertical extensions.

Abstract: A unitary device for securing the root ball of newly planted trees and/or shrubs into proper position, for stabilizing the trees and/or shrubs to prevent shifting or toppling while the tree and/or shrub root systems are first developing. The device includes a horizontal cross member, and a couple of prongs perpendicularly depending from the horizontal cross member, all formed from a single piece of rod or tubing material. At the time of planting, after the root ball of the tree is set into an appropriate hole and the tree is in proper position, the free ends of the prongs of the device are driven into the ground such that the outer prong is retained in the firm portion of the soil, and the inner prong engages the root ball. The outer prong is of a sufficient length to be held securely in the soil, and the inner prong is both arranged in position and sized in length to engage the root ball securely.

Abstract: Described is a tree or shrub shaping guide comprising at least one elongated support positionable adjacent an object to be shaped; at least one shaped guide; and a connection mechanism connecting the shaped guide to the at least one elongated support, which comprises movement elements to allow the shaped guide to move relative to the at least one elongated support; wherein the at least one shaped guide allows movement along a shaped path and enables a user to operate a cutting mechanism to shape an object such as a tree or shrub.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tree stabilizing assembly and method for using same, wherein the stabilizing assembly is designed to support or provide supplementary bracing to a tree so as to maintain it in a substantially upright or other predetermined position when the tree is planted or replanted. More specifically, the subject tree staking assembly comprises at least one, but preferably two, or a plurality of support members. A V-strap assembly is used to removably, but securely, position the support members in spaced relation to one another about the circumference of a trunk of the tree being supported without actually encircling or girdling the tree. Consequently, the tree is not blemished or scarred. Advantageously, the assembly affords a system by which a tree can be supported in a predetermined, upright position by a single worker without the need for specialized parts or tools.

Abstract: An adjustable-length shaft implanted in the ground for supporting trees. A helical screw is mounted on the lower end of the shaft. A lever arm, passed into a lever fitting attached to the shaft, is rotated about the shaft, causing the helical screw to penetrate and lodge in the ground. An anchoring bracket is attached to a portion of the shaft immediately above the ground. An anchoring rod is driven through the bracket into the ground, preventing further rotation of the shaft. A rigid fastening arm extends outwardly from the upper end of the shaft. The outer end of the fastening arm has a flexible strap with a free end. After adjusting and securing the shaft at the desired height, the free end of the strap is looped around the tree trunk and back through a ratchet mechanism in the fastening arm, which holds the free end fast.

Abstract: A self-clamping Christmas tree stand provides a stable platform for a Christmas tree that allows simple installation and adjustment of the tree angle without having to be positioned under the tree to perform the adjustments. The tree stand uses the weight of the tree to firmly clamp the tree's trunk. A clamping mechanism provides a constant grip that will not loosen unless an upward force is provided by the user. The adjustment range of the tree trunk angle with respect to the vertical plane may be varied to accommodate tree trunks of different shapes. Lastly, the tree stand includes a large liquid reservoir to maintain the tree's moisture content.

Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a tree or shrub, comprises a plurality of stakes each including first and second ends, respectively, the first ends being adapted for permitting the stakes to be driven into the ground, a plurality of straps, and attachment means located on the plurality of stakes, respectively, for securely attaching a portion of selected ones of the plurality of straps thereto, respectively, wherein the plurality of stakes are arranged in a desired spaced apart configuration around the root ball, and driven via their respective first ends at least partly into the ground, each of the plurality of straps being individually connected via the attachment means to and between a selected pair of the plurality of stakes, respectively, for providing a desired configuration of a single layer or multiple overlying layers of the plurality of straps, whereby the plurality of straps are positioned over and against the root ball to provide a downward force thereagainst and to secure the root ball in place.

Abstract: A unitary device for securing the root ball of newly planted trees and/or shrubs into proper position, for stabilizing the trees and/or shrubs to prevent shifting or toppling while the tree and/or shrub root systems are first developing. The device includes a horizontal cross member, and a couple of prongs perpendicularly depending from the horizontal cross member, all formed from a single piece of rod or tubing material. At the time of planting, after the root ball of the tree is set into an appropriate hole and the tree is in proper position, the free ends of the prongs of the device are driven into the ground such that the outer prong is retained in the firm portion of the soil, and the inner prong engages the root ball. The outer prong is of a sufficient length to be held securely in the soil, and the inner prong is both arranged in position and sized in length to engage the root ball securely.

Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a tree or shrub, comprises a plurality of stakes each including first and second ends, respectively, the first ends being adapted for permitting the stakes to be driven into the ground, a plurality of straps, and attachment hooks located on the plurality of stakes, respectively, for securely attaching a portion of selected ones of the plurality of straps thereto, respectively, wherein the plurality of stakes are arranged in a desired spaced apart configuration around the root ball, and driven via their respective first ends at least partly into the ground, each of the plurality of straps being individually connected via the attachment hooks to and between a selected pair of the plurality of stakes, respectively, for providing a desired configuration of a single layer or multiple overlying layers of the plurality of straps, whereby the plurality of straps are positioned over and against the root ball to provide a downward force thereagainst and to secure the root ball in place.

Abstract: A system and method for anchoring a tree is disclosed. A free end of an anchored guyline is looped around a tree. The guyline has been received through openings in the tension bar such that the tension bar is located between the anchored end of the guyline and tree. Tension is created within the guyline by pulling the tension bar. The tension bar and guyline are squeezed together and the guyline tied off at the tension bar.

Abstract: A support apparatus (10) for trees (12) comprising a mounting part (14) in the form of a plurality of brackets (16) interconnected by ties (24), engageable around the tree (12), and a ground engaging member (32) extendible from each bracket (16) at an inclination to the tree (12).