Abstract: A device and method for growing vegetation. The device and method can be used for repairing a divot in a grass lawn. The device includes a packet having a water-soluble film surface that contains a mixture of soil and seeds. An example device includes a water-containing device in the packet. When the packet is placed on the ground, such as the divot, and subjected to water, the film dissolves so that the mixture comes into contact with the ground and the seeds can begin to germinate and grow.

Abstract: The different illustrative embodiments provide a method and system for watering plants. A map of an area is received and a determination is made using a processing unit as to whether the area needs water. If the area needs water, current constraints are identified and a determination is made using the processing system as to whether the current constraints allow for watering. If the current constraints allow for watering, a watering solution application plan is generated using the processing system, and the watering solution application plan is executed using a mobile utility vehicle.

Abstract: A line, system, and method are provided for delivering a plurality of fluids to a target plant array at a plurality of pressures. The line comprises a plurality of tubes at least portions of which are hydrophilic. The tubes are connected together to form a co-extensive, multi-chambered delivery system. Each tube is connectable at a proximal end to a source of fluid, preferably comprising at least two different fluids. By having a unitary system positioned in the soil, redundancy of equipment, labor, and systems can be reduced, with the instant system able to perform the functions of multiple systems.

Abstract: A subsurface heat actuated evaporative irrigation system includes a receptacle defined by a porous outer wall. The receptacle includes a first inlet for receiving water and a second inlet for receiving air. The system further includes a heating unit for heating water received in the receptacle to form vapor, wherein the vapor and the air in the receptacle permeate through the porous outer wall of the receptacle into a planting medium.

Abstract: A device for delivery of water and at least one further compound which comprises at least one first part containing at least one first compound; at least one second part substantially surrounding said first part, the or each second part being at least partially permeable to water and to the or at least one first compound; and at least one third part substantially surrounding said second part, the or each third part including a water absorbent material.

Abstract: A system for dispersing water to the root zone of one or more plants beneath the soil's surface, comprising a perforated hollow cylindrical tube, ending in a spike, with an internal filter, which is driven into the ground to deliver water to the root zone of a plant or plants is disclosed.

Abstract: A root watering system for a tree or a shrub includes an outer container of a water-permeable, flexible material. A perforated, hollow inner support structure maintains the flexible material in an elongated shape between first and second ends. The outer container is positioned in the ground with the elongated shape proximate to the roots of the tree or shrub and with the first end proximate to the surface of the ground and with the second end near a lower end extending generally downward toward the lower portion of the root system of the tree or shrub. Water applied to the ground proximate the upper end of the outer container enters the first end and fills the outer container including the hollow inner support structure. Water within the outer container is released through the porous, flexible material to provide water to the root system of the tree or shrub.

Abstract: A gravity feed subterranean system for watering plants at their roots, comprising a vertically disposed reservoir buried at least partially in the ground, a water input line having positive water pressure connected to a float valve constructed and arranged within said reservoir such that when the liquid in the reservoir reaches a desired level, the float valve stops water flow from the input line, a buried output line connected to the reservoir below ground level on one end and plugged at the other, such that the water in the reservoir gravity pressurizes and fills the output line, and at least one hole through the output line.

Abstract: A growth-enhancing element for enhancing plant growth includes a substrate and a plurality of discrete portions of fertilizer. The substrate includes at least one first layer of polymer and at least one second layer of polymer disposed over the at least one first layer of polymer. The discrete portions of fertilizer are encapsulated in the substrate such that the plurality of discrete portions of fertilizer are disposed between the at least one first layer of polymer and the at least one second layer of polymer. The discrete portions of fertilizer each have a flat side that abuts the at least one first layer of polymer and a rounded side that abuts the at least one second layer of polymer. The substrate is configured and arranged to controllably release the fertilizer from the substrate over a period of time.

Abstract: A root feeder for watering feeding and enhancing the air flow to the roots of a plant when the root feeder is at least partially buried in soil adjacent to the root system, the feeder including body panels folded from flat stock and locked together to form a body having an interior volume and a plurality of apertures providing for circulation of air and/or water and nutrients through the body to the roots of the plant.

Abstract: There is provided an irrigation apparatus. The irrigation apparatus is used to water trees.

Abstract: A chemical dispenser 10 that is attached directly to a sprinkler system which includes a reservoir 20 with an open top spout 22, a cap 26, a water inlet opening 34, a solution outlet opening 36 and a basket 38 positioned between the spout and the cap. A saddle clamp member 44 is integrally formed with the reservoir attached to a mains utility water line 46. A reservoir water inlet line 74 interfaces with the mains utility water line 46 on one end the water inlet opening of the reservoir on the other end. A solution discharge line 76, having an outlet nozzle 78, extends into the mains water inlet line and is connected through the clamp and to the reservoir. Water enters the reservoir through water inlet line and leaches a solid chemical placed within the basket to form an aqueous solution. The solution is then drawn through the discharge line by the pressure differential in the mains utility water line flow created by the restriction of the nozzle in the mains utility water line.

Abstract: A delivery system for delivering condensed water obtained from a condensate disposal tube of an air conditioning system to a garden or lawn, the system features a main tube for fluidly connecting to the condensate disposal tube of the air conditioning system, the second end of the main tube is closed; a plurality of secondary tubes fluidly branching from the main tube; and a spike component fluidly attached on the second end of each secondary tube, the spike component has a pointed end for allowing a user to easily drive the spike component into the garden or lawn, the spike component comprises a valve system that can move between an open position and a closed, position to respectively allow and prevent the condensed water from exiting the spike component and flowing into the garden or lawn.

Abstract: A system and method for harvested water irrigation is provided. The irrigation system generally collects harvested water from a variety of sources and disperses it from a tank to a landscape for irrigation. The irrigation may be managed using a system controller. The system controller interacts with a variety of devices, including a level controller, a pump or valve, and at least one zone valve. The system may be configured to end irrigation cycles in response to certain events and to supplement harvested water irrigation with potable water as needed or selected.

Abstract: A plant watering device that includes a central reservoir and a number of valve-controlled outlet lines that allow an individual to individually control the outflow of water into one or more outlet lines.

Abstract: A hydro-thermo irrigation mat (10) is comprised of a base sheet (11), a water-permeable root-shielding top sheet (12), and a capillary mat (15) of absorbent material therebetween. One or more flat pliable drip tapes (18) are loosely disposed in spaced-apart relationship between the top sheet (12) and the capillary mat (15). Hot water convection tubes (25) are disposed co-axially with the drip tapes (18) but between the base sheet (11) and the capillary mat (15). The drip tapes (18) are connected to a water supply line (22) and the hot water convection tubes (25) are secured to a hot water supply line (28). Water within the mat is heated and distributes heat from the hot water convection tubes (25) substantially throughout the mat.

Abstract: A system for dispersing water to the root zone of one or more plants beneath the soil's surface, comprising a perforated hollow cylindrical tube, ending in a spike, with an internal filter, which is driven into the ground to deliver water to the root zone of a plant or plants is disclosed.

Abstract: A watering device for deployment within soil for watering vegetation by releasing water into the soil in which the vegetation is growing. The device includes a container that is shaped for being deployed at least partially within soil. The container has an inlet for receiving a flow of water into the container and a plurality of apertures through which water can flow from the container. A flow-control assembly is coupled to the inlet of the container for regulating the flow of water into the container in accordance with a demand for water from the soil. The assembly includes a float disposed for rising and falling in accordance with the level at which water accumulates within the container; and a valve coupled to the float for regulating the flow of water into the container through the inlet in accordance with the level of the float.

Abstract: A plant watering device comprises a pair of water absorbent shells made from natural coconut husks. Cotton pads are placed between the shells for further water storage and slow persistent release. An amount of plant nutrient and water filtering carbon material is placed within the cotton pads for disbursement to the root system of a plant. The husks and cotton pads are stacked and wrapped in a mesh material. The device is buried in a planter in close proximity to a root system of a plant.

Abstract: A method for efficiently delivering an aqueous solution to plants includes positioning a distal portion of a microporous hydrophobic tubing coated with a hydrophilic polymer adjacent a root system of a plant and channeling an aqueous solution from an inlet to the distal portion through a lumen. The tubing along the distal portion has a porosity adapted for permitting a flow of the aqueous solution therethrough when acted upon by a surfactant root exudate generated by the roots due to water stress. The aqueous solution is held in a reservoir, from which it can be channeled to the hydrophilic device's inlet. A nutrient solution can also be channeled to the plant roots via additional tubing.

Abstract: A rolling liquid herbicide applicator with an adjustable shield is attached to a hollow pole having an adjustable width protective shield mounted to one end weighted, textured wheels for rolling over most terrains are attached to the adjustable width protective shield. On the opposite end of the hollow pole handle is a trigger. When the trigger is activated, an internal trigger stick is moved down through the hollow pole, thereby causing a “C” shaped piece to move upward. This upward movement pushes on a hard flat disk. The movement of the hard flat disk causes pliable cap center to move. The gravity flow of liquid herbicide from a liquid herbicide container causes the liquid herbicide to move through a tube and nozzle assembly. The adjustable width protective shield over the nozzle prevents overspray and accidental contact of the liquid herbicide on healthy desired vegetation.

Abstract: A self watering system to water the roots of the vegetation with condensate from ground moisture collected within a condensate enclosure comprising an outer substantially vertical peripheral wall, an inner substantially vertical wall and an upper wall having at least two substantially flat sections inclined relative to each other and intersecting the upper portion of the outer substantially vertical wall and the upper portion of the inner substantially vertical wall at different angles each of less than ninety degrees to cooperatively form the condensate enclosure to collect moisture from the ground on the inner surface of the substantially flat sections to allow the moisture to condense into droplets to provide water to roots of the vegetation within the condensate enclosure.

Abstract: A system for dispersing water to the root zone of one or more trees beneath the soil's surface, comprising a perforated hollow cylindrical tube, ending in a spike, with an internal filter, which is driven into the ground to deliver water to the root zone a tree or trees.

Abstract: A tensiometer for use in determining matric potential of a soil comprising: a water inlet; a hydraulic coupler comprising a porous material for providing hydraulic coupling between water that enters the inlet and the soil; and a septum that seals water that enters the inlet against ingress of air via the porous material.

Abstract: Disclosed is a plant feeding apparatus for evenly discharging a feed solution. The plant feeding apparatus includes a feeding member having a downspout at a delivery end portion. The feeding member is capable of retaining the feed solution. Further, the plant feeding apparatus includes a tubular delivery member capable of transferring the feed solution therethrough the tubular delivery member includes a first end section removably configured to the downspout of the feeding member, and a second tapered end section is capable of penetrating into soil holding a plant. Further, the tubular delivery member includes a plurality of apertures configured proximal to the second tapered end section. The plurality of apertures is capable of evenly discharging the feed solution into the soil.

Abstract: The different illustrative embodiments provide a method and system for watering plants. A map of an area is received and a determination is made using a processing unit as to whether the area needs water. If the area needs water, current constraints are identified and a determination is made using the processing system as to whether the current constraints allow for watering. If the current constraints allow for watering, a watering solution application plan is generated using the processing system, and the watering solution application plan is executed using a mobile utility vehicle.

Abstract: The invention is a device and method for providing irrigation water to a plant that promotes the growth of the roots of the plant deep into the soil. The invention includes a tube, connector, and soaker hose that is buried next to a plant. The invention connects to an existing irrigation drip line system that previously provided water to the plant. The invention also repels the roots of the plant away from the apparatus so that the roots are hindered from destroying the apparatus.

Abstract: A fertilizer delivery device which includes a fertilizer chamber having an open top and an enclosed bottom having a plurality of openings, and a hollow compartment (having an open top and an opened bottom end) that is contained within, and completely surrounded by, the fertilizer chamber. A fertilizer delivery kit is also disclosed which includes the fertilizer delivery device and one or more containers that fit into the hollow compartment of the fertilizer delivery device. In addition, a method of for enhancing and accelerating the production of produce on produce bearing plants is disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for efficiently delivering an aqueous solution to plants includes a hydrophilic solution-channeling device having a delivery portion positionable adjacent a root system of a plant. The solution-channeling device has a lumen therethrough for channeling a solution from an inlet to the delivery portion. At least a portion of the delivery portion has a porosity adapted for permitting a flow of the solution therethrough when acted upon by at least one of a surfactant root exudate and negative root pressure generated by the plant roots, for example, when experiencing water stress and/or a need for nutrients. The system also includes a pressure regulating device for providing at least a minimum pressure value to permit fluid to flow through the lumen and at most a maximum pressure value above which fluid flows through the lumen even in the absence of surfactant root exudate or negative root pressure.

Abstract: A system and method for efficiently delivering an aqueous solution to plants includes a microporous hydrophobic tubing coated with a hydrophilic polymer that has a delivery portion positionable adjacent a root system of a plant and a lumen for channeling an aqueous solution from an inlet to the delivery portion. The tubing along the delivery portion has a porosity adapted for permitting a flow of the aqueous solution therethrough when acted upon by a surfactant root exudate generated by the roots due to water stress. A pressure regulating device is upstream of the tubing's inlet, and a reservoir adapted for holding the aqueous solution therein is situated in fluid communication with an upstream end of the pressure regulating device. Additional tubing can be provided for channeling a nutrient solution to the plant roots.

Abstract: The invention provides processes for coating the surface of substrates such as a sheet, film, foam, fiber, etc., with a curable liquid resin or solution of curable resin, then in one embodiment, stably attaching a superabsorbent polymeric powder to such resin, and then curing the resin to form a coated superabsorbent product. Such substrates may include polymeric materials. Other process embodiments utilizing curable and thermoplastic resinous powders may be used instead of curable liquid resins and resulting products are included in the invention. The coated product may be utilized for water and nutrient retention in combination with irrigation, erosion control, to direct plant root growth, and to clean up standing water and petroleum spills.

Abstract: A line, system, and method are provided for delivering a plurality of fluids to a target plant array at a plurality of pressures. The line comprises a plurality of tubes at least portions of which are hydrophilic. The tubes are connected together to form a co-extensive, multi-chambered delivery system. Each tube is connectable at a proximal end to a source of fluid, preferably comprising at least two different fluids. By having a unitary system positioned in the soil, redundancy of equipment, labor, and systems can be reduced, with the instant system able to perform the functions of multiple systems.

Abstract: A device and method for growing vegetation. The device and method can be used for repairing a divot in a grass lawn. The device includes a packet having a water-soluble film surface that contains a mixture of soil and seeds. An example device includes a water-containing device in the packet. When the packet is placed on the ground, such as the divot, and subjected to water, the film dissolves so that the mixture comes into contact with the ground and the seeds can begin to germinate and grow.

Abstract: A reduced water mist generating device (1) is provided with a water acquiring section (3) that acquires water for generating reduced water, a reduced water generating unit (U) that generates the reduced water from the acquired water, a reduced water atomizing section (6) that atomizes the generated reduced water, and a spraying section (7) that sprays the atomized water. With such a configuration, the reduced water can be generated from water, drifted in the form of a mist in a space, and caused to arrive at an object.

Abstract: Disclosed is an irrigation device for use with a drip irrigation conduit for providing water to individual plants planted in rows. The irrigation device includes a water distribution element configured with at least one support configuration for supporting the drip irrigation conduit, and a plurality of water direction elements. Water emitted by the drip irrigation conduit is collected by said water distribution element and each of said plurality of water direction elements directs said water to a different delivery point that corresponds to the location of a plant. The water distribution element of the present invention is provided in at least three variations.

Abstract: The plant watering trellis apparatus provides both a trellis for plant support and a plant watering means. The collection tray is sized with a width about equal to the top width of the apparatus so that rain collection is also an option, as well as hand or automated filling from another source. Transparency of the vertical supply tubes allows a user to visually determine the water level within the apparatus. Legs are inserted into a given soil for apparatus support. The valves in the delivery tubes control drip and rate of drip from the delivery block orifices so that monitoring water supply to plants is needed only at the outset in determining best plant water supply. After setting, the apparatus can be conveniently left unattended. The delivery blocks are relatively heavy so the delivery tubes are downwardly extended. The planar apparatus is easily located and used.

Abstract: A system and a method of computer controlled irrigation and fertigation composed of one or more sensors positioned in order to quantify the amount of water and/or nutrients that a plant is consuming. By controlling the fertigation, the plant or a part thereof, has improved yield and quality.

Abstract: A system and method for harvested water irrigation is provided. The irrigation system generally collects harvested water from a variety of sources and disperses it from a tank to a landscape for irrigation. The irrigation may be managed using a system controller. The system controller interacts with a variety of devices, including a level controller, a pump or valve, and at least one zone valve. The system may be configured to end irrigation cycles in response to certain events and to supplement harvested water irrigation with potable water as needed or selected.

Abstract: A chemical application line is provided having a core chemical application carrier to dispense a desired chemical into a target environment over a period of time. The chemical application line includes a degradable film or paper covering the carrier to provide protection from the chemical when handling. The chemical application line also includes a degradable rope surrounding the carrier to provide strength and durability to the line.

Abstract: The invention concerns an exclusively mechanical stand-alone device for controlled watering by sprinkling, wherein a soil simulating member, having an absorbent body associated with a reclinable cup arranged beneath, contributes to determination of the interval between two watering operations. A balance arm, bearing the absorbent body and an annular magnet, is mounted and balanced by a compressed spring, contributing to the determination of the opening and closing times of a valve. The valve includes a hydraulic relay with a nozzle triggering its opening or closure, in response to the displacement of the magnet field. An impermeable sleeve encloses the core and the nozzle. A sliding canopy enables one of the parameters determining the duration of the watering operation to be adjusted. A thermostatic element has an adjustable position preventing watering in sunshine. The device is mounted rotating on a pivot including the base of the sleeve and a tail unit.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to a fluid mixer, a system for mixing fluids utilizing the fluid mixer, and a method of mixing fluids using the fluid mixer or the system for mixing fluids, and more specifically, to a compact static mixing device with no moving parts and capable of mixing any fluid, such as air, nitrogen gas, water, oil, polluted water, and the like. A first pressurized, incoming fluid is accelerated locally by a section reduction, is split into streams, and then is released into a second fluid found in a closed volume or an open volume after a period of stabilization. The directed and controlled first fluid slides along an insert up to directional and angled fins at a vortex creator where suction forces from a self-initiating vortex in an internal cavity draws in at least part of the first fluid to fuel the vortex.

Abstract: A system for dispersing water to the root zone of one or more plants beneath the soil's surface, comprising a perforated hollow cylindrical tube, ending in a spike, with an internal filter, which is driven into the ground to deliver water to the root zone of a plant or plants is disclosed.

Abstract: An irrigation system includes an activator that increases or decreases its weight respectively in response to an increase or decrease of pressure in the system. The activator biases a valve that controls the fluid pressure in the system.

Abstract: An agricultural method is provided for reducing the amount of fertilizer needed to effectively grow various plants as well as reducing fertilizer run-off, therefore minimizing fertilizer contamination of groundwater. A composition and/or material are also provided to facilitate the agricultural method. The material may include a semi-permeable or selectively permeable membrane made out of, for example, activated charcoal. An apparatus is also provided that incorporates the composition and/or material.

Abstract: A plant watering system for providing water to any type of plant as the water is needed by the plant and which is interconnected to any standard water supply includes a water reservoir placed about ten inches from the plant's root system having an internal float system for regulating the amount of water contained within the water reservoir and the reservoir having a downwardly projecting discharge tube completely buried in the soil and the discharge tube having an aperture at its lower end through which water is automatically dispersed for permeation through the soil to the root system controlled and regulated by the float system whereby the float system keeps the reservoir full without wasting water.

Abstract: A chemical application line is provided having a core chemical application carrier to dispense a desired chemical into a target environment over a period of time. The chemical application line includes a degradable film or paper covering the carrier to provide protection from the chemical when handling. The chemical application line also includes a degradable rope surrounding the carrier to provide strength and durability to the line.

Abstract: Disclosed are an even-irrigation apparatus for an underground root zone and an even-irrigation method using the same for evenly supplying water into the root zone of a variety of crops. The even-irrigation apparatus includes a plurality of irrigators buried in the entire underground root zone, to directly and evenly supply water into the root zone. Once water is introduced into a pressure-reduction valve after passing through a main pipe, limb pipe and capillary pipe connected in sequence, the water is supplied to the irrigators by way of a plurality of diverged-capillary pipes. With this even-irrigation of water, unnecessary consumption of water due to adsorption of the water into the surrounding soil except for the root zone is minimized, enabling effective irrigation of water and even growth of roots of crops. Further, even nutrition throughout the roots enables balanced growth of crops.

Abstract: A hydroponic liquid nutrient circulation system which includes a plurality of liquid reservoirs, each with a sidewall opening that receives the shank of a split tee device that has separate liquid inlet and outlet passages for flow of liquids into, and out of, the internal space of the reservoirs. The system may include a controller reservoir connected to one or more of these liquid reservoirs.

Abstract: Two designs for rooftop irrigation apparatus are provided. The apparatus employ sub-irrigation and wicking technology to nourish vegetation supported by the apparatus. The apparatus may be placed on outdoor surfaces such as roofs. The first apparatus comprises interlocking modules. The use of sub-irrigation technology enables the modules to sustain a wide variety of plant-life. In addition, the plants may be removed and replaced easily by other plants, including hydroponic plants and vegetables. The second apparatus is a tray that contains an array of wicked protrusions that may hold plant roots and nourish the plants through sub-irrigation. Both apparatus may utilize control systems to control the level of water underneath the vegetation. Excess water may be stored in an auxiliary tank for later use or discharged from the system to decrease apparatus load.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for the production and application of a cyanobacteria based biological soil crust inoculant for soil fertilization, soil stabilization and the drawing down and sequestering of atmospheric carbon. Inoculant is generated as a dry granulate that can be stockpiled and spread onto soils using standard agricultural spreading practices employing aircraft, ground equipment and irrigation systems. This inoculant will have particular application in stabilizing agricultural and arid land soils to limit their erosion, increasing soil fertility by fixing atmospheric nitrogen and providing nutrients, and drawing down atmospheric carbon dioxide by stimulating the growth and propagation of these biological soil crusts and their associated microorganisms and vascular plants.