Receptacle For Growing Medium Patents (Class 47/65.5)
  • Publication number: 20100325951
    Abstract: Root Orb displays and contains a plant or plants in an Organic Moss
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: Renee Molina
    Inventor: Renee L. Molina
  • Publication number: 20100275513
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an aerial vegetation cover architectonic system (1) comprising one column (2), one vase (3), arms (4) and tie rods (5). The vase (3) comprises, inside itself, a substrate and fertilizer for plants and vegetables cultivation, which, when grown, will cover the system arms and tie rods (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Paulo Andre De Miranda Macdowell
  • Patent number: 7805886
    Abstract: Plant pot arrangement comprising an over pot, an insert container positioned in the over pot and removable therefrom, for receiving a plant, the insert container defining a space for a plant, and being open at an upper container edge, and at least one handle being movable in a guided manner in a handle guide in a pull-out direction and being positioned in the region of the container edge (16; 16a), for removing the insert container from the over pot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Geobra Brandstatter GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Horst Brandstätter
  • Publication number: 20100236144
    Abstract: A container for seedlings to be grown by the air root pruning method is moulded as a flat plastic blank with walls hinged for folding and base hinged to one of the walls permitting the container to be erected by engaging the walls and the base and attaching one wall to another. The erected containers stand in a tray like carrier and are connected together by a tie which overlies the containers. A handle extends through the tie to engage the carrier allowing a group of containers to be handled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: TRENTCOM APS PTY. LTD.
    Inventor: Peter Lawton
  • Publication number: 20100236148
    Abstract: A floating island comprising a combination-cell thermoplastic foam. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising at least a first portion that comprises a combination-cell thermoplastic foam and having a cavity; and a bedding material that is disposed in said cavity; wherein said combination-cell thermoplastic foam is buoyant in water and permeable to gas and water. In another embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising a first matrix layer, a second matrix layer and a third matrix layer; and a gas-trapping insert that is disposed between two of said layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: Fountainhead LLC
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Frank M. Stewart
  • Patent number: 7784218
    Abstract: A floating island comprising a combination-cell thermoplastic foam. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising at least a first portion that comprises a combination-cell thermoplastic foam and having a cavity; and a bedding material that is disposed in said cavity; wherein said combination-cell thermoplastic foam is buoyant in water and permeable to gas and water. In another embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising a first matrix layer, a second matrix layer and a third matrix layer; and a gas-trapping insert that is disposed between two of said layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Fountainhead LLC
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Frank M. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20100199554
    Abstract: A pot assembly for cultivating sprawling plants, such as orchids and Phalaenopsis includes an inner pot and an outer pot. It is proposed to fit an outer pot at the point in time when such plants are being placed in the inner pot. All this is carried out in such a manner that plant parts which project from the inner pot cannot extend into the space between the inner pot and outer pot, while the outer pot ensures that the plant parts do not extend outside the outer pot in an uncontrolled manner. Cultivation takes place in the pot assembly consisting of inner pot and outer pot and, at the end of the growing phase, the inner pot and outer pot are separated and the outer pot is preferably re-used. The assembly makes it possible to automate the cultivation and/or influence the development of the plant in a positive manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: SO GENERATION B.V.
    Inventor: Johannes Pieter Jan Smaal
  • Publication number: 20100192458
    Abstract: Method and device for growing a plant. In particular, a device intended for accommodating the quick-growing stem of tomato, cucumber and sweet pepper plants. It is proposed to wind up the stem from the bottom in such a manner that the plant continuously extends in the cultivation space at the same height. Winding up of the stem in a simple manner is possible, as a result of which the latter extends about the winding point in a coiled manner. The end of the stem is arranged in a substrate carrier, such as a gutter, which also rotates. According to another variant, the stem is pressed into substrate material during winding up, resulting in the plant forming roots, so that the part of the stem which is already developed can be cut off.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Fred Van Zijl
  • Publication number: 20100192460
    Abstract: An economical self supporting structure for holding soil or other growing medium above ground level that allows the user to cultivate plants for consumption or decorative purposes. This design is based on the engineering principle that a circular thin wall structure can contain fluid media without external supports. The outward pressure of the growing medium (soil) inside the circular structure holds the walls vertical and round thus enabling a minimum amount of structural material making this garden design less costly and easier to construct than traditional rectangular box structures made from wood or similar straight construction materials. Because stakes or other support systems are not required, the self supporting circular design is superior for soil containment and superior for the many accessories which can be added including bean pole “tee pees”, hoop structure for plant support or tents (bird net, shade net or plastic for frost protection), and irrigation systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventors: DAVID D. HART, Kenneth Sheppard, Ernie Abdon
  • Publication number: 20100170154
    Abstract: A stable flowerpot system for holding at least one plant comprising a pot supporter (22), a corresponding pot (23), and a corresponding saucer (24). The pot supporter comprises a hollow shell (22D) whose bottom portion is significantly broader than the top portion of the shell. The top portion of the shell extends in-and-downwardly into the interior region of the hollow shell (22D) to form a pot receiver (22C) into which the corresponding pot (23) is removably secured. The corresponding saucer (24) is removably secured in the predetermined position in the interior region of the shell (22D) by a plurality of saucer-holders (22F) formed on the wall of the shell (22D). The stable flowerpot system further includes a decorative skirt (26) to be clad on the outside of the shell (22D) of the pot supporter (22) and a cushion (27) to be placed under the pot supporter (22) for the decoration of the pot (23) being held in the pot supporter (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventor: Byoungha Ahn
  • Publication number: 20100154301
    Abstract: Provided is a vegetation box which enables oxygen to be smoothly supplied for roots of plants so that the plants to grow well even through the side portions of the vegetation box, and a gardening method using a number of vegetation boxes which are arranged to achieve a landscape architecture in a desired form. The vegetation box includes a lowermost module having a baseplate, at least one intermediate module, and an uppermost module. The lowermost module, the at least one intermediate module and the uppermost module are assembled with one another to be maintained at certain intervals to thereby form an inner space containing culture soil, and inclined surfaces are formed toward the lower portion of the inner space along circumferential edges of portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Woong Ho Song
  • Publication number: 20100139160
    Abstract: A plant pot having a built-in soil moisture audio alarm that provides a caretaker of the plant pot with an audio alarm when the moisture in the soil in the plant pot falls below a prescribed level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: Richard A. Hirsh, Lai Sheung Shiu
  • Patent number: 7730666
    Abstract: A double walled plant container wherein the two walls or shells form a space for holding water. The outer wall may include a window for viewing water level. The container includes a combination watering funnel and handle arrangement at the top of the container. The watering funnel protrudes or extends from the outer perimeter of the characteristic shape of the container to allow grip of the container for carrying. Preferably two watering funnel and handle structures are included, one each on opposite sides of the container. The rim arrangement allows for convenient carrying without separating the container components. The bottom of the inner shell includes holes for conducting water from the water reservoir into the soil and may include a fiber wick and soil stop barrier to prevent entry of soil into the space between the two walls and to allow water to conduct by capillary action or otherwise into the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Inventor: David Allen Spray
  • Publication number: 20100115834
    Abstract: In a germination/growing apparatus having: a heat shield chamber that can be opened and closed; an illuminator for illuminating the inside of the heat shield chamber; a temperature regulator for heating and/or cooling the inside of the heat shield chamber; and a controller for controlling the temperature regulator, whereby seeds or plants are contained in the germination/growing apparatus for germinating or growing in the heat shield chamber, a breath inspirer for inspiring a human breath to the heat shield chamber is provided. With this configuration, the concentration of the carbon dioxide in the heat shield chamber can be increased, and the growth of the plant can be promoted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: ELM INC.
    Inventor: Takakazu Miyahara
  • Publication number: 20100115836
    Abstract: An agricultural growth management tool can include a biodegradable polymer body having a synthetic polymer and an optional biodegradability enhancement additive. The biodegradability enhancement additive can include a microbial attractant. The biodegradable polymer body can be configured as a plant stake, branch tag, blister pack, plantable container, agrifilm, drip tubing, drip tubing connectors, drip tubing accessories, market trays, plug and propagation trays, flats and inserts, transfer pots, transfer trays, landscape ribbon, landscape twine/rope, landscaping bags, pot wraps, floral wraps, hanging basket assemblies, greenhouse films/sheets or the like. The synthetic polymer can be a biodegradable polymer, inherently non-biodegradable polymer, or a combination of the two.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Brandon J. Julian
  • Publication number: 20100101143
    Abstract: An apparatus designed to securely hang any size pot to all types of fences, for the purpose of growing flowers or various vegetable plants off the ground and in confined areas. The fence pot hanger can be manufactured to a preset pot size with no adjustments, or can be manufactured with an adjustable spring rim holder that fits and slides over the top hanger main body and locks at a desired height to accommodate larger or small pots. By pushing the spring lever back, causes the pot rim holder to move up or down and firmly secures the rim holder inside the pot. There are additional holes in the main fence pot hanger to provide secure anchor by way of securing the pot to the hanger main body using nylon straps or other means while providing additional drain holes to the pot. This can prevent accidental mishaps when accidentally nudged or possibly strong winds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventors: R. Giovanni Fima, Antony C. Tangorra
  • Patent number: 7703240
    Abstract: An automatic watering system for a plant growing in a growth medium, wherein the system comprises a water storage reservoir substantially filled with water and an air-tight closure that substantially seals a fill aperture. Water flows out of a reservoir drain opening through a water drain conduit and air in a water feed reservoir escapes through an air return conduit and into the water storage reservoir until a float valve seals the lower end of the air return conduit. Water thereafter flows into a growth medium through water feed apertures until the water level in a water feed reservoir drops below a water drain conduit and air is allowed to escape into the water storage reservoir therethrough. Thereafter the pressure differential between the water storage reservoir and the water feed reservoir is equalized, releasing the float valve to repeat the cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventors: Milton Watson, Chad Collins
  • Publication number: 20100095586
    Abstract: A plant propagation and display panel includes a plant growth substrate housing, a back plate coupled to the plant growth substrate housing, the back plate and the plant growth substrate housing providing an opening for receiving a plant growth substrate and a plant tray coupled to the plant growth substrate housing, the plant tray including a container for receiving a plant plug, the container being at least partly received in the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: ECO INNOVATIONS INC.
    Inventor: Chad Sichello
  • Publication number: 20100088955
    Abstract: A buoyant walkway or island and its method of manufacture. In a preferred embodiment, the buoyant walkway comprising: an internal frame comprising semi-rigid members that are attached to one another, said internal semi-rigid frame having openings; an internal block disposed in each of said openings, said internal blocks being spaced apart from one another by gaps and forming a top surface and a bottom surface; cured thermoplastic foam disposed in said gaps that attach said internal blocks to said semi-rigid internal frame and to one another; a permeable top layer that is attached to said top surface; and a bottom layer that is attached to said bottom surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: FOUNTAINHEAD, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Frank M. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20100088956
    Abstract: A floating island comprising a combination-cell thermoplastic foam. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising at least a first portion that comprises a combination-cell thermoplastic foam and having a cavity; and a bedding material that is disposed in said cavity; wherein said combination-cell thermoplastic foam is buoyant in water and permeable to gas and water. In another embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising a first matrix layer, a second matrix layer and a third matrix layer; and a gas-trapping insert that is disposed between two of said layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: Fountainhead L.L.C.
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Frank M. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20100077660
    Abstract: A planting system is provided including a plant container having a depth and a top rim defining a top opening and a planting platform configured for insertion within the top opening of the plant container. In one embodiment, the planting platform includes a base having a perimeter, a sidewall having a bottom portion connected to the perimeter of the base, the sidewall having a top portion and including a lip protruding radially outwards from the top portion thereof. The lip includes a barrier edge extending upwards from an outer perimeter of the lip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventor: Laura Messano
  • Publication number: 20100058660
    Abstract: The invention relates to a utility pedestal cover which may be used to encapsulate and conceal a utility pedestal. The material of the sleeve member may be of a weatherproof material, and may include a fastening system to allow the sleeve to be selectively opened and closed along at least a portion of its length or height, or to attach sections of the cover. The invention also relates to a planter arrangement for concealment of a utility pedestal, wherein the planter includes at least one housing section with at least one planting well. The housing may have a height such that upon introducing plants in the planting medium, the plantings and the housing effectively conceal the utility pedestal. The planting well may have at least one drain hole therein. The housing may be formed in at least two sections, which may be selectively attached around the pedestal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: DOUGLAS FAYE ENTERPRISES
    Inventor: Carl D. WILLIAMS
  • Publication number: 20100037517
    Abstract: A plant cultivation apparatus includes a housing with at least one receptacle arranged to receive and support a corresponding number of plants and at least one conduit attached to the housing connecting each of the receptacles with a reservoir such that at least a portion of each conduit is open to the atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: CLEV-A-GARDEN PTY LTD
    Inventors: David Alexander James Copping, Christopher Neill Martin, Richard Hardman
  • Publication number: 20100011662
    Abstract: The present invention includes long-day onion plants comprising bulbs having low pungency and methods for obtaining such onions. The present invention also provides reagents and materials that can be used in the methods for obtaining such onions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Scott HENDRICKS
  • Publication number: 20100005718
    Abstract: A method of producing a horticultural display containing more than one variety of the same or different species of plant is disclosed. The plants are produced from unrooted cuttings that are rooted in a single growth cell and cultivated in a single container so that the final product includes more than one plant species or more than one plant variety or both. A plant growth cell having rooting media and more than one plant cutting from more than one plant species or plant variety or both rooted therein is also disclosed. Further, a horticultural display having more than one plant of more than one plant species or plant variety or both initially rooted together from unrooted plant cuttings in a single growth cell is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: Dümmen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Peter Theodorus Johannes Gerardus Wismans
  • Patent number: 7640695
    Abstract: A planter box for transplanting or removing trees, shrubs, or plant material. The planter box includes four corner members and a first and second channel arranged on each corner member. The box has a plurality of wall members arranged within the channels. A plurality of fastening members are arranged between the corner members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Arbor Pro Tree Service, Inc.
    Inventor: James G. Bonahoom
  • Publication number: 20090320363
    Abstract: Plant supporting apparatuses designed to hang a planter and plant at a variety of desired locations without lines for external electrical or water supply. Power is provided by solar cells. This construction allows the placement of plants almost anywhere and provides desired routine maintenance automatically. The apparatuses rotate the plant to grow uniformly even though incident light is non-uniform. There are two main assemblies which rotate relative to each other. A pump transfers liquids from a reservoir to a dispensing outlet onto a planter. The pump may be configured to move within the reservoir to stir the water, fertilizer or other liquids being fed to the planter. A planter is also shown which has solar cells and other parts mounted thereon. A control system is used to control operation and ambient light and reservoir liquid level are sensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: Darryl Matlen
  • Publication number: 20090320367
    Abstract: Embodiments provide methods and apparatuses for supporting various stages of plant growth through layered soils. In embodiments, a soil adapted for supporting a first plant growth phase (e.g. germination) may be proximal, adjacent, or partially surrounded by a second soil adapted for supporting a subsequent growth phase (e.g. a vegetative phase) such that the roots of the plant encounter the second soil as the plant progresses from the first growth phase to the second growth phase. Some embodiments may provide one or more additional soil layers positioned proximal to the second soil, with the additional soil layers adapted to support additional subsequent plant growth phases. Apparatuses suitable for practicing embodiments of such methods are further provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: Smith Herrick Engineering LLC
    Inventors: Mathew S. Smith, John Herrick
  • Patent number: 7634872
    Abstract: The growth container is formed of two pots that interfit within each other to define an enclosed space. A heater disposed in the space supplies heat via a reservoir of water for heating the inner pot and the soil in the inner pot to keep the roots of an aquatic plant embedded within the soil warm. A thermostat(s) is provided for maintaining the temperature of the soil at a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Inventor: Mark R. Prescott
  • Patent number: 7628950
    Abstract: An open-topped container has an outwardly turned rim extending around the open top a thermoformed body of the containers with the rim formed by a clamping ring which has one or more projections each forming an indentation into the rim. Trim tooling subsequently forms a slit through the bottom wall of each indentation able to receive a flat plastic display inserted therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventors: Ty A. Hansen, Michael P. Witer
  • Patent number: 7627983
    Abstract: A living wall comprises a plurality of planter tiles and base tiles configured to be joined in edge abutting fashion to tessellate a vertical surface. Planter tiles include a curved coffer wall extending from a front surface of the base panel to define an upwardly opening container for soil and plants. Base tiles and planter tiles may be fabricated from a porous material that allows a soaker supply at the top of the tile layout to water the entire vertical matrix by seepage through the tiles. In another embodiment, bio-blocks in stacked array having cavities for soil and water treatment media, and cladding panels are secured to one surface of the stacked array with openings for plants growing in the soil media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Elizabeth Devon Deutsch-Aboulmahassine
  • Patent number: 7624536
    Abstract: A plant container having a frustoconical sidewall extending outwardly and vertically from a bottom of the container to a top of the container, a lip positioned near the top of the container, and a tag-accepting slot formed in the lip. The container may also include a first nesting step located below the lip and extending circumferentially around the container, the nesting step extending outwardly to a maximum circumference and including a container-stacking stop surface extending between the sidewall and the maximum circumference and a extending vertically from the maximum circumference. Further, the slot may substantially be positioned above a slot area, the slot area being an area where the maximum circumference of the nesting step is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Landmark Plastic Corporation
    Inventor: Fred Schromm
  • Patent number: 7624535
    Abstract: A flowerpot 1 made of plastic, in particular in a deep-drawn embodiment having a bottom 7 that is provided with holes and hollow layer regions of the bottom 7 on the bottom side for connecting the holes to the environment on the bottom side is designed so that the holes 12, 13 are arranged at least partially in the bottom areas 8, 9, 10, 11 which sit without any spacers for distancing on a supporting surface and have channels 14, 15 in the form of a bottom channeling crisscrossing through the lower area in at least two directions and leading out to the edges. These channels ensure drainage of the flowerpot at the bottom and optionally watering of the pot without providing feet or edge webs on the bottom that would be susceptible entanglement when being shifted on working surfaces or in conveyance with the help of conveyor belts and which can lead to deformation and resilient recoil movements when work is done by machine, in particular when the pots are being placed on a substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Gebr. Poeppelmann Kunststoffwerk- Wekzeugbau
    Inventor: Guido Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7610717
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flower pot (1) made of deep drawn plastic material and provided for a hanging flower pot wherein a suspension part (2) comprises a plurality of strands (5) that are linked via hook clips (3) with the pot rim (4) that has an outer continuous contour. The aim of the invention is to provide a flower pot that, in accordance with the special technical conditions during the deep drawing, is provided with a fixation of the seat (7) of the hook clips (3), while maintaining a good distribution of suspension loads between the pot and the hook clips and safeguarding an appealing yet easy to handle shape. To achieve this aim, the pot rim (4) has tapered sections extending inwards towards a wall contiguous with the bottom. These tapered sections form a seat (7) for the hook clips (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Gebr. Poeppelmann Kunststoffwek-Werkzeugbau
    Inventors: Reinhard Lüken, Alfons Sieverding
  • Patent number: 7603808
    Abstract: A vegetation roofing tray comprising an interconnecting lip is provided. The interconnecting lip on the sidewall of a tray engages with a sidewall of an adjacent tray, securely interconnecting the adjacent trays side-by-side together. A securing device penetrating the sidewalls of adjacent trays may also be used to secure the adjacent trays together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Columbia Green Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark M. Carpenter, Raymond B. DuVal, III
  • Publication number: 20090241415
    Abstract: A vessel for planting plants or flowers has features particularly useful in the field of flower/plant-growing thanks to the advantages for the growth and vegetation of the plants as well as the savings in the transport and storage activities of the vessels themselves. The vessel provides, uniformly arranged in its lateral surface, a quantity of cavities and housings apt to promote the correct growth of the roots; it is made in plastic material through a manufacturing method whose output is preferably the planar development both of the lateral surface and of the base surface of the vessel. The planar development is so utilized during the phases of transport and storage of the vessel, which, in this case, is composed on site at the moment of its utilization, through simple assembling operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: BARGHINI PLAST 2 S.R.L.
    Inventor: Lido Barghini
  • Publication number: 20090241417
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and method for facilitating root growth and convenient planting. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system is provided with a plant pot and a cover, such as a tray, a shrink-wrap, a base, etc. The plant pot has a plant chamber for containing soil, a plant, etc. The plant pot has a pot bottom portion with at least one opening, and can be completely open, such that the bottom portion of the plant pot is at least substantially open to allow root growth from the plant chamber, through the at least one opening and into surrounding soil. The system can be provided with a tray, for example, that securingly receives the plant pot. As other examples, the system can be provided with plastic for wrapping the bottom portion and/or a cover for forming a friction fit with the plant pot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas J. Smith
  • Publication number: 20090223126
    Abstract: A vertical plant support includes a wall having a panel and an anchor layer, and a matrix of tubes being connected to the wall. The anchor layer is located intermediate the panel and the matrix of tubes. The panel can be liquid impermeable and the anchor layer can be liquid permeable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventors: Gregory Garner, Keith Ardron, Neil Sisler
  • Publication number: 20090199471
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a plant container (13) for the propagation and growth of plants. The plant container (13) comprises at least one section of material, which is configured to define a space having a plant receiving end (27). The at least one section of material has an inner surface and an outer surface, with the inner surface defining a plurality of recesses (19) and a plurality of protuberances (21). Each recess narrows towards an aperture (23), and each recess is defined in part by first (22) and second (24) substantially opposing surfaces such that the recess is asymmetric in form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventors: James Single, Peter Gordon
  • Publication number: 20090199472
    Abstract: The invention is to provide a planter that does not need to use a saucer or the like; said planter can be used as a planter after the content thereof is gone; the leakage of the content (soil and the like) at the distribution thereof is eliminated. The planter comprises a planter body including an air space capable of containing a plant cultivating material, wherein said planter body includes at least one drainage opening for draining a solution pored into said air space, said drainage opening being liquid tightly occluded by an occluding member, said occluding member being operatively provided for optionally opening or occluding said drainage opening from the outside of said planter, thereby realizing the planter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: MIEKO ITO
    Inventor: Mieko Ito
  • Patent number: 7565766
    Abstract: A transportable planter apparatus including a housing with a bottom and a sidewall having an edge opposite the bottom, an opening located at the edge adapted to receive a houseplant. A handle associated with the housing and fastened to an arm extends between the handle and the housing, where the arm travels between a recessed configuration and an extended configuration in which the handle extends upwardly from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Carrol J. Boylan
  • Patent number: 7555866
    Abstract: A floating habitat designed to be renewably buoyant, self-sustaining and optionally specialized for waterfowl nesting. The first embodiment comprises one or more flotation units and a source of compressed air that is connected to the flotation units. Each flotation unit comprises an individual supply hose, an inflatable bladder, a relief valve, a diffusing manifold, bottom mesh, top mesh, and buoyant growth medium. An alternative embodiment comprises a self compensating buoyancy system. In the waterfowl nesting embodiment, the floating habitat includes one or more waterfowl nesting structures and construction material selected to optimize the nesting habitat. The floating habitat can be comprised of scrap pieces or layers of polyester mesh material. The Boating habitats can be combined to provide safe habitat for juvenile waterfowl, encourage colony nesting, or allow a variety of waterfowl or shore bird species to enjoy suitable habitat on the same floating habitat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Fountainhead, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Frank M. Stewart, Russell F. Smith, Thomas N. Coleman, Alfred Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20090165374
    Abstract: A buoyant habitat system comprising an island body or submersible growing area, at least one solid elevated growing area and at least one hollowed-out elevated growing area. Preferably, the island body or submersible growing area has a top surface and is comprised of a nonwoven matrix that is injected with buoyant foam. Preferably, the at least one solid elevated growing area is attached to said top surface and is comprised of a nonwoven matrix that is injected with buoyant foam. Preferably, the at least one hollowed-out elevated growing area is attached to said top surface and is comprised of an outer ring of said nonwoven matrix that encircles a portion of growth medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: Fountainhead, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Frank M. Stewart
  • Patent number: 7533491
    Abstract: A garden bed assembly and extensions therefor is disclosed. The garden bed assembly includes at least one raised garden starter module containing suitable planting soil or other growing media for plants and may be extended using one or more extender modules, such as straight extender modules and/or corner extender modules. The assembly as disclosed herein includes one or more modules defining the planter. The front section of the starter module and the straight extender module may include a rotatable upper portion to provide convenient access to the plants. Each module section may have a substantially imperforate lower portion and a perforate upper portion prohibiting unwanted creatures such as gophers, rabbits and other animals from gaining access to the growing plants in the garden bed assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Modular Merchants, Inc.
    Inventors: Lisa R. Singer, Steven A. Singer
  • Publication number: 20090113794
    Abstract: The corner planter is a receptacle having rear walls configured to neatly fit in a corner. Pockets are provided on the rear walls of the planter for housing structure to affix the planter to the walls of the corner. The pockets are designed to allow the planter to fit flush with the walls of the corner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Claude R. Smith, Sherrie D. Smith
  • Publication number: 20090107039
    Abstract: A floating island comprising a combination-cell thermoplastic foam. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising at least a first portion that comprises a combination-cell thermoplastic foam and having a cavity; and a bedding material that is disposed in said cavity; wherein said combination-cell thermoplastic foam is buoyant in water and permeable to gas and water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: Fountainhead L.L.C.
    Inventors: Bruce G. Kania, Frank M. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20090107042
    Abstract: An at least partially open top container desirably functions as a planter and provides for effective yet aesthetic mounting of a number of like containers in a vertical array. The planter includes a hollow body having at least partially closed sides and bottom, including a back side. First surface manifestations, such as a pair of recessed keyhole-shaped openings, are associated with the back side to facilitate mounting to a wall. Second surface manifestations, such as a pair of recessed projections, are also associated with the back side to facilitate mounting to keyhole openings in another similar planter in a vertical array, interlocking the planters together. The planter may contain potting material and real or artificial plants, and a number of interlocked planters are typically provided in combination in a vertical array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: Brendon Nunes
  • Patent number: 7513611
    Abstract: A station for storing and refilling a cartridge of a printhead has a container in which a seat is arranged for accommodating the cartridge to be refilled; the ink for refilling being contained in a collection chamber located in the bottom part of the container. The collection chamber communicates freely with a back-flow compartment located at the top, surrounding the housing and in free communication with the chamber. The feeding is effected by means of a capillary element contained inside an impermeable sheath extending vertically into the collection chamber and arranged centrally in a symmetrical position with respect to the base of the container. The capillary element penetrates into the housing in contact with the sponge of the cartridge to transfer the ink through capillarity. Feeding takes place solely and exclusively with the container in the vertical position whereas in any other position the ink flows into the back-flow compartment and the capillary element is no longer lapped against by the ink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Telecom Italia S.p.A.
    Inventors: Mario Manzone, Paolo Poma
  • Patent number: 7503144
    Abstract: Containers for a plant and a method of constructing thereof. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a plant container includes (1) a pot and (2) a base, coupled to the pot, that is configured to (2A) conform to a surface where the container is placed and (2B) support the pot in a substantially upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventor: Vernon Lynn Barringer
  • Publication number: 20090064575
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of evaluating multiple plant individuals or plant lines for deep rooting property under the same culture medium moisture conditions. A method of the present invention is a method of evaluating multiple plant individuals for deep rooting property under the same culture medium moisture conditions, by planting multiple plant individuals together in a sufficiently deep culture vessel and lowering the culture medium moisture content gradually. The present invention also provides a method for evaluating plants for deep rooting property, wherein a culture vessel is installed in a water tank so that the culture medium moisture content can be readily adjusted, and thus management of cultivation conditions is facile and efficient. It is possible to select a plant which can grow in dry and low-groundwater level environment efficiently, by using the method of the present invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Applicant: Japan Tobacco Inc.
    Inventors: Ichiro Oka, Masakazu Kashihara