Abstract: A hollow elongated cylinder having a plurality of slots and holes through the side thereof is inserted into the soil of a potted plant. The cylinder is inserted adjacent to the plant stem and down into the soil so that it is proximate to the roots of the potted plant. Water and/or fertilizer poured into the hollow cylinder are introduced directly to the roots of the potted plant. The roots will naturally grow through the apertures in the cylinder to more directly access the fertilizer and/or water. The cylinder can be transferred with the plant and soil to a new pot as the plant grows, with additional cylinders inserted into the new soil.

Abstract: A plant and watering and feeding device (10) including an elongate tubular body having an upper portion (38) and a lower portion (16), said elongate tubular body having a hollow cavity for receiving water and feed therein, said upper portion (38) having an opening (14) in fluid communication with said hollow cavity for supplying said water and feed into said device (10), said lower portion (16) having a plurality of apertures (18) in fluid communication with said hollow cavity and the exterior of said device (10), wherein said device (10) is positionable relative to a plant such that said lower portion (16) of said device (10) is surrounded by soil proximate the roots of said plant, and wherein said water and feed may be introduced into said device (10) through said opening (14) and subsequently slowly released into said soil proximate said roots of said plant via said apertures (18).

Abstract: An automatic plant watering apparatus having a cavity for receiving a standard houseplant pot, a reservoir for holding water, a pump for removing water from the reservoir, a host for delivering water from the pump to a plant positioned in the cavity. The pump is operated by a microcontroller that is programmed to measure a first time period during which the pump is not operated, and a second time period during which the pump is operated. According, the apparatus can be programmed to automatically water a house plant at predetermined intervals, as well as deliver a predetermined amount of water.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for unattended watering of plants over an extended period of time utilizing a watering system that regulates a partial vacuum to control the discharge of water to the roots of the plants. A water reservoir is provided having an encapsulated interior cavity and an exterior exposed to ambient air, and having upper and lower ends. The reservoir is located above the root level of a plant to be watered. At least one drain opening is defined in the lower end of the reservoir. The upper end of the reservoir is closed and is provided with an adjustable valve, preferably a pinch valve, and an air conduit, preferably a flexible tube, that passes through the valve and extends between the interior and the exterior of the reservoir. The valve thereby interacts with the conduit to partially obstruct air flow through it, so as to maintain a partial vacuum in the upper end of the reservoir as water drains from the lower end of the reservoir.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for unattended watering of plants over an extended period of time utilizing a watering system that regulates a partial vacuum to control the discharge of water to the roots of the plants. A water reservoir is provided having an encapsulated interior cavity and an exterior exposed to ambient air, and having upper and lower ends. The reservoir is located above the root level of a plant to be watered. At least one drain opening is defined in the lower end of the reservoir. The upper end of the reservoir is closed and is provided with an adjustable valve, preferably a pinch valve, and an air conduit, preferably a flexible tube, that passes through the valve and extends between the interior and the exterior of the reservoir. The valve thereby interacts with the conduit to partially obstruct air flow through it, so as to maintain a partial vacuum in the upper end of the reservoir as water drains from the lower end of the reservoir.

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: An elastomeric mat is provided, which includes rubber buffings, a binder holding the buffings together, and a coloring agent. A portion of the rubber buffings is randomly and angularly oriented, relative to the lower surface of the mat, to provide a non-uniform upper surface and a non-uniform thickness of the mat. The irregular spacing of the rubber buffings and the irregular surface texture results in a mat resembling natural shredded wood mulch. Fertilizer may also be incorporated on, or within, the mat to nurture trees or other plants about which the mat is placed.

Abstract: A system, having three independent subsystems, each yielding useful products for society. The CBM produced water, starting ingredient for subsystem one, yields LNG, and useable water. Subsystem two produces syngas from agricultural products irrigated by subsystem one water. This syngas is used in subsystem three to produce more potable water at a second plant. CBM produced water is separated into two streams of methane, for distribution as LNG and for use in a fuel cell to power a first desalination plant that uses the CBM produced water to create potable water and irrigation water. Fast growing crops, are irrigated by water from subsystem one, to serve as a cost effective source of raw material for a gasification plant to produce syngas; which syngas can be publically distributed, or used as the fuel for the third subsystem; namely a seawater desalination plant to produce potable water at a second site.

Abstract: An automatic plant watering apparatus having a cavity for receiving a standard houseplant pot, a reservoir for holding water, a pump for removing water from the reservoir, a host for delivering water from the pump to a plant positioned in the cavity. The pump is operated by a microcontroller that is programmed to measure a first time period during which the pump is not operated, and a second time period during which the pump is operated. According, the apparatus can be programmed to automatically water a house plant at predetermined intervals, as well as deliver a predetermined amount of water.

Abstract: A fertilizer spike injection tool, specifically adapted with a ground-penetrating member end for forming a solid fertilizer spike-receiving cavity in the ground for tree and plant root nutrition with a tamper end adapted to set the fertilizer spike to the depth of the particularly dimensioned formed ground cavity so created by the ground forming member. The tool has a handle for placing the device on the ground, for standing operation, and a foot bar, for easing the tool into the ground using both feet.

Abstract: Drainage systems for plant gardening in flowerpots, specifically a shaped porous rock or perhaps even an enclosed pouch having soil preservation capability and filling inside the enclosed pouch. Embodiments may include a pot hole locator which may place an enclosed pouch in a bottom of a pot prior to adding soil and planting a plant in a flowerpot. Other embodiments may include the addition of soil amendments, water retention elements, drying elements and the like. Filling may include plastic, various rocks, various stones, pebbles, synthetic materials and the like.

Abstract: An automatic watering and fertilizing device in the form of a large watering can having a spout. The device incorporates a battery-powered timer dispenser that can be programmed to dispense a desired water fertilizer mixture. A plastic drum is housed in the watering can and contains the water fertilizer mixture. The drum contains enough mixture to feed the plants for approximately one week. A quick connect hose is utilized to refill the drum. Refilling the drum is the only regular maintenance required. A plant basket is suspended from the spout of the watering can. The device is adapted to be secured to a supporting object such as a post or a wall.

Abstract: A plant and watering and feeding device (10) including an elongate tubular body having an upper portion (38) and a lower portion (16), said elongate tubular body having a hollow cavity for receiving water and feed therein, said upper portion (38) having an opening (14) in fluid communication with said hollow cavity for supplying said water and feed into said device (10), said lower portion (16) having a plurality of apertures (18) in fluid communication with said hollow cavity and the exterior of said device (10), wherein said device (10) is positionable relative to a plant such that said lower portion (16) of said device (10) is surrounded by soil proximate the roots of said plant, and wherein said water and feed may be introduced into said device (10) through said opening (14) and subsequently slowly released into said soil proximate said roots of said plant via said apertures (18).

Abstract: A irrigation means from the irrigation of a vegetation substrate by capillary action comprises a flat, sheet-like substrate base able to impart water to the vegetation substrate and able to be supplied with water by way of a capillary irrigation structure and the substrate base and the irrigation structure are united as a uniform irrigation mat able to be handled as a single assembly bodily.

Abstract: Disclosed is a pneumatic liquid nutrient dispensing assembly for hydroponically cultivated plants. The assembly includes a reservoir and a liquid nutrient dispenser disposed within the reservoir. The liquid nutrient dispenser includes a substantially coaxial pump body with inner and outer tubes forming a distribution end having a distribution hub and an inlet end having a liquid intake structure. Airflow in an annular duct formed between the walls of the coaxial tubes enters the inner tube through an annular passage and carries liquid nutrient within the inner tube to the distribution hub. Distribution members fluidly connected to the distribution hub direct a flow of liquid nutrients and air to one or more plants.

Abstract: A plant care device includes an outer pot manufactured from a first predetermined material and having a first predetermined size and a first predetermined shape. Such outer pot further includes a first drainage aperture having a first predetermined diameter disposed through a bottom portion thereof for allowing liquid to pass therethrough. An inner pot is manufactured from a second predetermined material and has a second predetermined size and a second predetermined shape for holding at least one of soil, at least one plant, liquid, fertilizer, at least one seed, and a combination thereof, and fits releasably within such outer pot. Such inner pot further includes a second drainage aperture having a second predetermined diameter disposed through a bottom portion thereof for allowing liquid to pass therethrough.

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

Abstract: A watering and fertilizing device comprises at least one fertilizing column and a water supply system. The fertilizing columns are vertically inserted in soil, surrounding roots of a plant to be watered. Water from the water supply system enters the fertilizing columns, taking along fertilizer contained therein and further dripping into surrounding soil at a constant rate, so that the plant is effectively supplied with water and nutrients without waste of water. The water supply system optionally provides besides water water-soluble fertilizer, which flows into soil along with water.

Abstract: A material for maintaining hydration in plants, whether potted or in natural soils may include a substrate treated with a binder, securing a layer of hydrating particles thereto. Typical binders may include lignicite, or other naturally occurring materials such as sugars, molasses, corn syrup, gelatin, or the like. A byproduct of wood, lignicite has been found to be very effective. Various materials can serve as a hydrating, particulate coating. Polyacrylamide has been found to serve well and provide relief from the stress of dehydration that normally occurs in plants between waterings.

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: An apparatus and method are disclosed for applying fertilizer, weed killer, pesticides, and other botanical treatment liquids through an in-ground irrigation system using an inexpensive, easily installed apparatus with exchangeable treatment containers. An adaptor connects in series with an irrigation pipe and supports an inverted treatment container. Treatment liquid enters the irrigation system due to gravity, Venturi effect suction, a pressure differential caused by a constriction in the adaptor, and/or a diverter that diverts water into the container. Embodiments include a cap for sealing the adaptor, a barrier with a hole that controls treatment dispensing rate, a constriction for increased Venturi suction, and/or a protrusion that penetrates a membrane seal on a pre-filled container. Treatment liquid can be dispensed from a collapsible bag inside the treatment container. Embodiments with large containers include structural reinforcements or separate supporting stands.

Abstract: Method for improving plant growth by application of a mixture M comprising a component a) of a1) 20 to 96% by weight of sulfur, a2) 4 to 80% by weight of a complexing agent and, if appropriate, one or more crop protectants b) and/or additives c).

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: A system for raising and lowering a wide range of objects on an elongated tubular structure includes a carriage subsystem with a tubular body having an interior central channel an inner diameter greater than the outer diameter of the elongated tubular structure. Rollers facilitate linear translation of the tubular body along the elongated tubular structure. At least one hook is pivotally mounted on the tubular body and configured to controllably engage a means for locking the carriage in a raised position. The carriage subsystem also includes a flange for attaching an object to the carriage subsystem. A winch and cable control motion of the carriage system between a lowered position adjacent to the base and a raised position adjacent to the top of the tubular structure. A collar attached to the top of the tubular structure includes a tubular body with an outer diameter less than the inner diameter of the tubular body of the carriage subsystem.

Abstract: An irrigation device for delivering water to the roots of a plant include an elongated mass of capillary material bound together by an impermeable sheath with a pair of cone shaped ends. A sponge like filter covers an upper one of the cone shaped ends and a second porous filter covers the opposite end. A plurality of impermeable tapered rings are provided for blocking off one or more portions of the capillary material to prevent water from flowing through those portions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fertilization system that finds particular use within a paved surface. The invention allows the root structure of a plant or tree to be hydrated and fertilized by way of an expansible and configurable trough and grate assembly. The trough includes a number of different components that fit together with a tongue and groove interconnection. The trough includes drainage apertures that allow water to run through the grate and into an associated fertilization pit.

Abstract: The novel idea of using battery operated water-timer in this invention which is attached at the outlet of the up-side down water bottle (water-reservoir) and regulates the flow of water in a predictable manner. This water reservoir is independent, has no connection with the tap water, needs to be filled manually with water as per the need. As a normal course, the flow of water from an up-side down bottle will freely run down due to gravity but when the water-timer is attached at the outlet of the bottle, the flow of water is regulated. As a result, the desired amount of the water may be supplied to the plant at a desired interval by adjusting the frequency and run-time in the water timer.

Abstract: A system for automating the growing of crops, such as grapevines. Combinations of data from sensors local to a vineyard, and from optional remote stations and sensors, is combined with a control system to accurately control the dispensing of water and chemicals such as insecticides, disease prevention fungicides and fertilizers. The materials are dispensed through a multiple channel conduit which allows conflicting, or incompatible, types of materials to be transported through a common assembly. Sensors are attached to the conduit so that the placement of sensors can occur simultaneously with the laying of the conduit. This approach also ensures correct placement and spacing of the sensors with respect to each plant, or plant area, to be monitored and treated.

Abstract: The technology described herein provides systems and methods for rainwater collection, irrigation, and water conservation. This technology is ideal for use when municipal water reservoirs are low and outdoor watering is restricted or altogether banned. The system includes a water holding reservoir mounted vertically and inconspicuously adjacent to a dwelling, a reservoir connector fluidly connecting the water holding reservoir to a gutter to receive rainwater, a water level indicator and volumetric scale, a water spigot for a garden hose, and a cleanout drain. In an alternative embodiment, the system includes a plurality of adjacent water holding reservoirs each being filled by a single reservoir connector fluidly connected to and located between each of the plurality of water holding reservoirs and the gutter, to provide rainwater to each of the plurality of water holding reservoirs from a single point in the gutter.

Abstract: A root watering system has a porous body and an end assembly connected to the porous body. The end assembly has a fluid emitter and integrally defines an inlet passage for directing fluid to the fluid emitter for providing fluid to the porous body. The assembly also may be fitted with an integral valve.

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: Device (10, 110, 210, 310) for the cultivation of plants, of a type comprising at least one bag, (18) containing a drainage substance (20) and an absorbent substance (20a), able to retain and accumulate water; said bag (18) may also contain a fertilizing substance. The invention also refers to a bag (18) for the cultivation of plants of the aforesaid type, to be used with specifically designed containers, generic pots and planters, or in open ground.

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: The invention relates to a method and a device (30) for watering plants by means of an electronically operating control system. The substrate moisture is measured at time intervals, and the measured values of a plurality of measurements are stored. The measured values that have been stored are used to identify a trend in the moisture content of the substrate, and this trend is used to adjust a quantity of water to be applied. A number of measurement cycles taking place between two watering cycles is preferably used to readjust the quantity of water.

Abstract: Irrigation sheets are disclosed which include a base sheet and one or more tubes extending along the length of the base sheet. Methods of forming and using irrigation sheets are also disclosed.

Abstract: A nutrient supplying bag for plants includes an upper bag portion, a lower bag portion, and a receiving space. The upper bag portion defines a first surface of the nutrient supplying bag, and is formed with a liquid inlet. The lower bag portion defines a second surface of the nutrient supplying bag opposite to the first surface thereof. The lower bag portion has at least one side edge which is correspondingly seal-connected to at least one side edge of the upper bag portion, and further has at least one liquid outlet. The receiving space is formed between the upper bag portion and the lower bag portion for receiving a fertilizer. The liquid inlet is used to fill a liquid into the receiving space to dissolve nutrients of the fertilizer, and the liquid outlet is used to drain the nutrients of the dissolved fertilizer for fertilizing plants.

Abstract: A composite tube having alternating porous and non-porous sections for the purpose of conserving water and fertilizer. An easily-manufactured drip irrigation mat incorporating this composite tube so as to provide an irrigated, weed-free, highly-supportive growing environment for both commercial and residential plants as single units, or as one-dimensional rows. A patchwork assembly of multiple drip irrigation mats and non-irrigating mulch to treat two-dimensional beds.

Abstract: An irrigation system for watering a substrate, comprising a pipe having a longitudinal dimension. A hermetically closeable inlet portion is connected to a water supply. A passageway extends generally throughout the longitudinal dimension and is in fluid communication with the inlet portion such that water can fill the passageway. Openings are in fluid communication with the passageway such that water in the passageway can exit the pipe through the openings. The openings are distributed along the longitudinal dimension of the pipe, the pipe being adapted to be at least partially buried in the substrate with said longitudinal dimension being generally horizontal. Porous members are secured to an outer periphery of the pipe so as to each cover one of the openings and so as to be in contact with the substrate such that water flows out of the passageway through the openings and the porous member and into the substrate as a result of a capillary action of the substrate.

Abstract: A feeder tube and method for dispensing a selected compound to the roots of a specifically targeted plant. The feeder tube contains a tubular body having an open top end and an open bottom end. A plurality of perforations are formed through the tubular body that communicates with a central conduit. A penetration cap is provided that protrudes below the bottom end of the tubular body. The penetration cap has a pointed tip and a wide base that is wider than the tubular body. As the plant feeder tube is driven into the ground, the penetration cap advances into the ground and creates an opening in the ground that is wider than the tubular body. Consequently, dirt does not press against the perforations in the tubular body as it is driven below ground level.

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: A system that is gravity forced for distributing wastewater to plant material (107, 108), composing a water receiving means (105), a lint trapping means (508) within the receiving means (105), inlet and outlet devices of the receiving means (105) and an irrigation means (109, 110) for transporting water from the receiving means to specified parts of a garden as determined by an operator.

Abstract: A liquid storage means for the supply of plants, whose porous storage material is a hydrophilic foam, in particular formed from urea resin and a tenside, and having open pores.

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 gardening stake kit for plant training includes a plurality of shaft segments that are connectable end to end to form a shaft of variable lengths. A plurality of grooves or protrusions are formed in or on an outer periphery of each shaft segment. A pointed base is connectable to one end of a shaft segment, and a plurality of arms that are connectable to the grooves or protrusions formed in each shaft segment. Preferably, the grooves or protrusions are formed at more than one angle relative to the top and bottom of each shaft segment and, preferably, include horizontal grooves or protrusions as well as angular grooves.

Abstract: Disclosed is an aggregated body of vessels for plant food, in which a plurality of plant food vessels (1) is processed to be connected to each other, so that the resultant aggregated body (100) facilitates packing and storage of the plant food vessels, reduces distribution cost, can be produced at mass production volumes with high productivity, and allows a user to easily manage and use the plant food vessels after purchase. The aggregated body includes a plurality of the plant food vessels connected to each other, each plant food vessel including a main body (10), a tapered outlet (20) provided at an upper end portion of the main body, and a cover (30) provided on the top of the tapered outlet. The connection between the plant food vessels is made with connection strips through a blowing method, and thus the connection is easily broken.

Abstract: A plant management system allows a person to be able to swap plants out with ease whenever a new look is desired for a garden. The system uses a series of subterraneanly disposed receptors that each removably receive a plant pot therein. The receptors are fluid flow connected to one another and to a source of water such that water is introduced into the system and enters and fills each receptor in turn wherein the plant pot wicks the water to the plant the pot is holding. Each receptor has a well screen casing to channel out excess water out of the receptor and each pot is perforated to channel excess water out of the pot.

Abstract: Most mushroom farmhouses employ surface irrigation for watering, which causes brown spot on mushroom, making the mushroom die or get brown, so cultivated mycelia become broken, preventing continued mushroom farming. In a drip irrigation system, water is flowed through any or both ends of the rubber outer tube (7a), 11a doubly inserted into blade scar of the dripping nozzle (11) or hose (7) only during water dripping, and the rubber outer tube (7a), 11a prevents direct exposure of blade scar to the culture medium layer, not contacting water with external oxygen, thereby preventing mycelia from being coated in the blade scar to clog water hole. Various alien substances are not introduced through the blade scars 6 formed in the flexible soft rubber, and insect control liquid and water is ejected without any clogging by water pressure to ensure effective dripping of water, nutrition liquid and insect control liquid to the culture medium layer of a mushroom cultivating plate.

Abstract: A plant watering system comprising a sensor (20) buried in the soil (32) in the root region of a plant (40), the sensor (20) passing a low voltage current through the soil (32) to measure the moisture content of the soil (32) and with the sensor (20) being switched on and off in a pulse like manner. The detected moisture level is processed by the system and water supplied to the plant when said moisture level is below a predetermined moisture level for that particular plant or group of plants (40). The systems predetermined moisture level may be adjusted to account for different plants within the system and to stimulate different growth cycles of the plant. The sensor (20) may also determine when said predetermined moisture has been reached and then terminate said supply. The electric current stimulates plant growth and the intermittent operation of the sensor helps prevent corrosion of the sensor and reduces power consumption.

Abstract: An irrigation device for delivering water to the roots of a plant include an elongated mass of capillary material bound together by an impermeable sheath with a pair of cone shaped ends. A sponge like filter covers an upper one of the cone shaped ends and a second porous filter covers the opposite end. A plurality of impermeable tapered rings are provided for blocking off one or more portions of the capillary material to prevent water from flowing through those portions.

Abstract: A ornamental planting landscape irrigation distribution and reservoir product and method ecosystem employing a substantially continuous panel on the soil surface on which ornamental landscape plantings is placed or produced, the panel having a primary, lateral water distribution structure which distributes water from a water charging inlet through the lateral area to the panel periphery, where it is restrained, the primary water distribution structure being such that when filled with water or completely submerged in water air is trapped by the gaps and spaces of the material for ornamental landscape plant usage.