Abstract: A system and method for using indoor vertical farming for cultivating tubers. The method and system include a wheeled framework with tiered platforms, the platforms forming multiple growing spaces for growing portions of a tuber crop and soil where the growing spaces are provided with irrigation and illumination. Each growing space has a paneled wheeled planter tray which rests on a platform and each portion of the tuber crop and soil can be extracted from each paneled wheeled planter tray by a lifting action to fall into a mesh covered container, used to separate the soil from the tuber crop.

Abstract: A flexible growcenter includes a mobile container, a behind-the-meter power input system, a power distribution system, a growcenter control system, a climate control system, a lighting system, and an irrigation system. The growcenter control system modulates power delivery to one or more components of the climate control system, the lighting system, and the irrigation system based on unutilized behind-the-meter power availability or an operational directive. A method of dynamic power delivery to a flexible growcenter using unutilized behind-the-meter power includes monitoring unutilized behind-the-meter power availability, determining when a growcenter ramp-up condition is met, and enabling behind-the-meter power delivery to one or more computing systems when the growcenter ramp-up condition is met.

Abstract: A growing system includes a tub having a lid attached thereto, the tub having an interior area; a tubing system secured within the interior area of the tub; a fluid reservoir housing a fluid pump, the fluid pump in fluid communication with the tubing system; a water tank positioned within the interior area of the tub and having a water level sensor therein; one or more lights configured to emit light into the interior area; a heat pump to emit heat into the interior area; a thermocouple and hygrometer to measure temperature and humidity within the interior area of the tub; and a controller having one or more controls to receive user commands to operate the fluid pump, the one or more lights, and the heat pump; the controller operates to control a microclimate within the interior area of the tub based on user preferences.

Abstract: Growing systems may include a number of modular growing chambers adapted to be configured in a stacked arrangement with each growing chamber surrounding a corresponding portion of the plant. The grow chambers may be selectively added or removed during plant growth, such that different sections of the growing plant may be influenced differently using aeroponic, hydroponic or other growing techniques. The grow chamber stack may be portable and provided with integrated or independent lifting devices to assist an operator in adding or removing chambers from the stack. Three growing processes may be facilitated using such systems. These include a process for producing assorted product from a single plant for simultaneous harvest, a process for producing an extended harvest of a desired size product from a single plant, and a process for extending the productive life of a plant and provide for multiple, continued, and perpetual harvest.

Abstract: A phytotoxicological device is provided comprising: a delivery chamber for insertion into a sample-containing medium, said delivery chamber comprising an upper end, a lower end and one or more apertures to permit moisture to enter the delivery chamber; an exposure chamber in communication with the upper end of the delivery chamber and adapted to receive a cartridge that houses a biological plant material; a locking cap to enclose the exposure chamber; and a base to enclose the lower end of the delivery chamber. This device allows for an investigation of the effects of waterborne contaminants on growth of wetland plants in situ as opposed to currently employed laboratory based methods.

Abstract: An aquaponics system including a rearing tank of a rearing system and cultivation beds of a cultivation system, wherein the cultivation beds are arranged vertically in two or more stages. The system includes a rearing and cultivation circulating system in which liquid in the rearing tank is supplied to each of the cultivation beds, and the liquid in each bed is returned to the tank, to thereby circulate through the tank, beds, and tank. Fish and shellfish can be reared in the rearing tank and a plant can be cultivated in the cultivation beds, with the liquid circulating through the circulating path. Both a cultivation circulating system in which the liquid circulates through the water storage tank, the cultivation beds, and the water storage tank, and a rearing circulating system in which the liquid circulates through the rearing tank, the water storage tank, and the rearing tank may be arranged.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for extracting latex from a plant of the Asteraceae family and a method for cultivating a plant of the Asteraceae family, which allow such plants to be reused. The present invention relates to a method for extracting latex including a cutting step of cutting roots of a plant of the Asteraceae family in such a manner that the roots are partly left on the plant.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the regeneration, acclimation and conditioning of in vitro derived plant propagules is presented. The apparatus comprises a regulated chamber, a laminar flow work station coupled to the regulated environment, and a supply compartment. A process control system regulates the chamber to sterile or near sterile conditions. The process control system monitors and modulates the microenvironment, nutritional profile and frequency of fertigation, atmospheric composition, as well as the quality and quantity of irradiance incident on propagules in the sterile chamber. This controlled environ optimizes propagules regeneration, and facilitates the establishment of photoautotrophism and homeostatic capacity of plant tissues.

Abstract: A horticulture growth medium includes a base organic soil, a soft rock phosphate component, a limestone component, a hydrated magnesium sulfate salt, volcanic dust comprising trace mineral nutrients, one or more humic acids, a shell source of calcium, a bone or blood meal component selected from fish bone meal, blood meal, steamed bone meal, and/or combinations thereof, bat guano, and worm castings. A method of growing a plant using the horticulture growth medium of includes planting a plant with the horticulture growth medium and providing periodic water to the plant, the horticulture growth medium being sufficient for plant growth during a complete cycle without the use of additional fertilizing agents. A kit includes the horticulture growth medium along with instructions for using the horticulture growth medium to grow plants.

Abstract: A method and container for developing seedlings includes germinating the seeds and air pruning the seedlings to a depth of about 3 inches.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system and method of aggregating different flowers or plants in a single container. Different plant types (species, colors, sizes, shapes, etc.) are grown in individual smaller pots having particular horizontal cross-sections. A plurality of the individual smaller pots are then closely fit into an outer plant pot to result in substantially no gaps between either the individual plant pots or between the individual plant pots and the outer plant pot. A method of retail marketing of the varieties of different types in the individual smaller pots includes permitting the consumer to mix and match the different types into outer plant pots. A cultivation method involves segregating the different types prior to becoming seedlings to facilitate their unique growing needs, and then providing the consumer access to the varieties at the retail level.

Abstract: The present invention provides a mixture based on at least one organic waste component having particles that are equal to or smaller than 2 mm., at least one organic adhesive component and at least one organic plasticizer or emulsifying agent, for the manufacture of biodegradable planting pots. The invention also provides a method for automatically planting a plant, by using a container fitted for automatic planting, filled with the biodegradable planting pots of the invention.

Abstract: A plant air purifying enclosure, or “PAPE,” contained within an unconditioned space, either within or outside a building, containing therein a plant air purifier, which is used to purify air using plants and microbes growing therein. The PAPE enclosure itself receives poor indoor quality air from within structure where the PAPE is located or from a structure close by along with thermal energy which keeps the plant air purifier enclosure at a suitable temperature for the plants and air cleaning microbes within the air purifier. Poor air enters the enclosure, is purified by the plants and microbes, and returns in purified form back to the habitable space from which it was taken. This lowers the amount of outside air needed for ventilation purposes and so lessens a building's overall energy consumption while providing efficiently for naturally purified air.

Abstract: A plant container assembly, method, and kit include a plant container with a sidewall having first and second sidewall portions, an open top, and an open bottom. A hinge member is on the sidewall between the open top and the open bottom and pivotally connects the first and second sidewall portions for movement between an open position of the plant container, and a closed position of the plant container forming an interior space capable of containing plant growing medium. A closure portion extends along the sidewall between the open top and the open bottom. A plant support cooperatively engages the closure portion and selectively holds the plant container in the closed position. A planar member is configured to be selectively placed within the plant container and supported on a ledge member on each of the first and second sidewall portions to selectively form a bottom closure for the plant container.

Abstract: Turf (1) for sports, recreational activities and/or for ornamental purposes comprising a mat of flexible material (10) equipped with a first face (11) and a second face (12) opposite to each other. To the mat (10) a plurality of fibers (20) are connected of an artificial material in such a way that it forms an artificial turf (50) that protrudes from the first face (11). The turf (1) comprises, furthermore, a measured amount of a loose infill material (50), for example of granular type, distributed on the face (11) of the mat (10). The turf (1) comprises, furthermore, natural vegetable material, i.e. plants, belonging to one, or more plant species (30) put in the loose infill material (50) by means of sowing, transplantation of portions of plants, or a combination of the two solutions. The fibers of artificial material (20) have a profiled shape comprising a main blade (21) and at least one side wing (22).

Abstract: A method for introducing a substance into a plant, in particular a pot plant, includes forming a hole into a stem of the plant to get access to a transportation system of the plant; arranging a container around the stem of the plant, such that substances held by the container are able to enter the transportation system of the plant through the hole in the stem; and filling the container with the substance. A container, the combination of a plant and container, and a container fabrication method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A horticultural system having a horticultural grow gutter produced from a single sheet of material and including an upper bridge a length, a bottom surface, and two side edges. Two upwardly facing upper channel sections are each individually integral with one of the two side edges along the length of the upper bridge section. The upwardly facing channel sections have a channel bottom having a plurality of apertures configured to allow a liquid to pass through the apertures by gravity. Two side panels are each individually integral with one of the top edges and extend downward from the top edge. An inwardly bent and upwardly facing lower channel section is integral with each side panel and the upwardly facing lower channel section is sized and positioned to receive the liquid passing through the apertures disposed below the upper channel section.

Abstract: A method for controlling soil moisture to perform water deficit experiments on a plurality of plants located in soil contained within a plurality of pots supported in a plurality of openings of a stationary platform includes lifting the plurality of pots with a plurality of load cell modules and weighing each of the plurality of pots with the load cell modules. The method also includes determining whether each pot needs to be watered based on the weight of the pot and the water deficit experiment, watering the pots through the load cell modules, if necessary, and lowering the plurality of load cell modules so that the plurality of pots are supported by the platform.

Abstract: The invention claim is a garden tool to assist in the removal of planting medium and plant from a planting container. The garden tool comprises a handle having a first end and a second end, a base, and a planting container. The handle and the base are connected forming a L-shape body. The base is placed inside the planting container, and the handle extends above the top of the planting container. The connection between the handle and base may be reinforced by an angle brace. The connection between the handle and base may be hinged. If the connection is hinged, the angle brace prevents the hinge movement. Located on one end of the angle brace is a hook, that connects to the base. In addition, the base has weeping holes to allow the drainage of water. The base also has raised ridges to contain the growing medium when removed.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a container for storing and planting seeds, bulbs or tubers, the container comprising a housing made of a non-water soluble material, wherein the housing comprises a first compartment for receiving a seed, bulb or tuber, wherein the first compartment is essentially free of water, and a second compartment arranged below the first compartment, for receiving nutrients promoting growth of the seed, bulb or tuber. Still in accordance with the present invention, the container comprises a separation layer between the first and the second compartments, wherein the housing has a rounded shape at its bottom and the container has a center of gravity arranged such that the container is adapted to erect itself when it is deposited on a supporting surface in a tilted manner.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices and related methods for using those devices in the planting and/or placing of plants, flowers, and/or other vegetation in specific and defined shapes. The devices and methods for using those devices are related to carpet bedding, gardens, home gardening, gardening kits, floating plant shapes and designs, and others.

Abstract: A holder for producing a plant of any one of lettuce, sprout and herbs, having a container and a semi-permeable filter, for defining a closed space for wholly accommodating the plant; a reservoir for holding an amount of liquid in the close space; and a passage which is open during use for supplying the liquid to the plant, wherein the reservoir, the container and the semi-permeable filter are arranged to allow the whole plant to grow in the closed space, wherein the semi-permeable filter has a vapour permeation capacity related to a type of the plant and the content of the reservoir, and wherein the amount of liquid is pre-determined corresponding to the vapour permeation capacity, such that the amount of liquid is sufficient for the plant to be isolated in the closed space from cultivation through to offering for sale.

Abstract: A process and system for growing produce decouples farming from the unpredictability of the external environment by moving the farm into a highly-controlled enclosed environment in which all variables are optimized to grow produce of exceptional quality in a consistent, predictable manner, while minimizing or eliminating deleterious environmental impacts. A filtered, positive-pressure environment greatly reduces particulate contamination and pest infiltration from the outside. Seedlings are planted in containers of an organic soil mix engineered to deliver optimal amounts of water, nutrients, fiber and organic matter. The containers advance along a production line, in the process being given controlled exposure to light of predetermined intensity and wavelength, optimized to produce a desired growth pattern. Water is given at regular intervals in amounts calculated to produce optimal growth without waste.

Abstract: A method and container for developing seedlings includes germinating the seeds and air pruning the seedlings to a depth of about 3 inches.

Abstract: A decorative plant stand that allows the caretaker to remove collected water from the plant without having to lift or remove the plant from the floor or the plant stand. The plant stand comprises a platform comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, and a thickness therebetween, the platform at least one opening in the top surface extending through the entire thickness; a rail assembly positioned below the bottom surface of the platform and fixedly attached to the platform, the rail assembly comprising at least one channel; and a removable tray slidably disposed within the at least one channel, wherein any plant water and other debris that leak from the pot through the opening in the top surface are collected within the removable tray for disposal. A method for draining water from the plant, which is collected in the tray, is also provided.

Abstract: A plant trellis system for growing plants on hard surfaces such as patios or decks is disclosed. The system comprises a trellis base having a plurality of cutouts, a pot having a plurality of legs protruding from the bottom surface, and a plurality of wire mesh panels supported on the trellis base. The plurality of legs is inserted into the plurality of cutouts forming a firm connection between the trellis base and the pot. The trellis base further comprises a groove on each side where a base wire of the plurality of wire mesh panels is inserted. The trellis base also comprises a plurality of notches on each side to receive the vertical wires coming from the base wire. Clips are used to attach each wire mesh panel to the adjacent wire mesh panel. The system is portable and stable beyond the boundaries of the pot to support larger plants.

Abstract: A method for growing herbs includes planting a herb and allowing the herb to germinate, becoming a herb seedling and either transplanting to or maintaining the herb seedling in a restrictive container, where the herb seedling is held for a predetermined period of time before transplanting the herb seedling to a second stage, where the seedling is held in order to grow and develop a larger root system. Maintaining the herb seedling in a restrictive container has the effect that the herb's root system will be prevented from growing, in comparison to a herb planted in a nursery. The herb will essentially stop growing while the root system is restricted. Meanwhile the herb will continue maturing, developing oils which are more elastic. Herbs with more elastic oils will be significantly more resistant to cold temperatures at a harvesting size, compared to herbs that have not been transplanted to restrictive containers.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for vertical hanging plant container according to various aspects of the present invention comprise a container comprising a moisture impermeable reservoir and at least one breathable zone positioned above the reservoir. The reservoir may be disposed along a bottom section of the container to serve as a moisture storage region allowing moisture to be wicked upwards by the soil in the container. A first breathable zone may be located above the reservoir in at least one sidewall of the container and allow for the transfer of air and moisture between the soil and an exterior environment surrounding the container. A second breathable zone may be located above the reservoir in an interior divider separating two interior portions of the container.

Abstract: This disclosure teaches an apparatus for cultivating plants that reduces the amount of lost water and increases the amount of water in the soil.

Abstract: A method and system for continuous automated growing of plants utilizes production lines each comprising a number of growth sections, each growth section comprising multiple horizontal transport levels, each level of each section having a source of light and liquid nutrient, and plant growing trays which move horizontally into, along and out of each transport level; whereby each subsequent growth section has a greater length than the previous section to receive a greater number of growing trays than the previous section so that as plants grow, the number of plants per growing tray is decreased but the number of plants per growth section remains constant. A group of plants is thereby broken out into an ever greater number of trays as it proceeds through the growing sections from germination to harvest, with the ability to simultaneously start the growth cycle for additional crops.

Abstract: A floatable plant growth system is provided. The system comprises an upper tray (10) and a lower tray (20). The upper tray has a plurality of downwardly tapering cells (11) for receiving plant growth material, with each of the plant cells having an opening (13) at its bottom. The lower tray has a plurality of upwardly tapering cells (21) that trap air, enabling the system to float in use. The upper tray is removably mateable with the lower tray such that the plant cells of the upper tray are located in the space (27) between the air cells of the lower tray. The lower tray is provided with a plurality of openings (26). When the upper and lower trays are mated together and placed in a body of liquid, liquid enters the mated tray configuration (10, 20) through the openings (26) of the lower tray, fills the space (27) that is below the plant cells (11) between the air cells (21) of the lower tray, and in use may be taken up through the bottom opening (13) of each upper tray plant cell.

Abstract: A planter box for holding planting soil includes a box body having a bottom wall, a sidewall and an open top. An anti-clog drainage and irrigation pipe is mounted across and above the bottom wall. The pipe includes a water inflow and outflow opening formed at a lower portion and extending along the length of the pipe. Two flow-guiding plates extend from two longitudinal sides of the water inflow and outflow opening towards an interior of the pipe body to form two overflow troughs in the pipe. During rainy day, the pipe is used for drainage. During sunny days, water can be supplied to the pipe for irrigation. A method for soil drainage and irrigation is also disclosed.

Abstract: A kit for cultivating a plant having at least one seed of said plant, an amount of a compressed growing medium for germination and growth of said seed or seeds upon the absorption of water into said compressed medium, said growing medium comprising at least one growing composition; a collapsible container for containing said growing medium and said at least one seed, in which said plaint is to be initially cultivated, said collapsible container being sized so as to snugly accommodate the compressed growing medium when said growing medium has been expanded by the addition of water, wherein during said initial cultivation of said peat, and seed are arranged in said container; and a tray for supporting said collapsible container, wherein the tray includes at least one hole for allowing water to escape from the tray.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an apparatus and method for repelling flying insects. In particular, the present apparatus and method is effective at repelling mosquitoes via the mechanical movement of air in a space that is subject to mosquito presence. The mechanical movement of air is achieved via the utilization of a centrifugal fan system contained in the disclosed apparatus. The present apparatus also comprises a compartment suitable for containing a substrate that may be utilized as a habitat for plants.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a container for propagating growth of seedlings, having a main body comprising a base, a central wall extending vertically from the base. A first wall section and a second wall section are arranged to the main body. The first wall section and the second wall section are hingeably connected to the main body. The base, the central wall, the wall sections forms in the closed condition at least two cells being open at top. The base comprises a sup-porting structure at the lower part of the main body, wherein the main body is provided with supporting means for holding an irrigation mat. The present invention also relates to a tray designed for receive and carry one or more of said containers, a greenhouse including the tray and one or more of the mentioned containers, and a method for propagating growth of seedlings.

Abstract: A method for cultivating one or more plants in an apparatus which has at least one first chamber and at least one second chamber which are separated from one another by a first partition wall, wherein the first partition wall has one or more communication openings which connect the inner space of the first chamber to the inner space of the second chamber, wherein the method includes the step that the plant and/or the first partition wall are displaced so that an area of the plant which was initially located in the second chamber is located in the first chamber after the displacement of the plant and/or of the first partition wall, and/or wherein the method includes the step that the plant is offset relative to the apparatus such that a region of the plant which was initially not located in the second chamber is located in the second chamber after the displacement of the plant relative to the apparatus.

Abstract: The invention relates to a container with cells for plant material, and/or systems and methods involving the transfer of cells containing plant material to larger cells (e.g., without removing the plant material from the cells being transferred to larger cells). The container can be used to transport plant material. The container has cells formed from biodegradable material. The cell itself can hereby be gripped by a transfer unit during a transfer method and this cell can be placed in a larger cell. In addition, the cells of the container can be separated from the rest of the container before the cell is transferred.

Abstract: A plant growing, transportation, display, and maintenance system including a plant pot and corresponding container having a selectable valve that controls the flow of liquid into and out of the container. In the “open” position, the valve allows water to pass into and out of the container in order to provide water to the contents of the plant pot resting in the container. In the “closed” position, the valve prevents any water flow into or out of the container.

Abstract: A modular planting system for at least one plant including a support frame having an inner volume within which can be supported at least one root ball of a plant, and an inner support provided within the inner volume for supporting the root ball therein; wherein the root ball is locatable at an optimal position for growth of the plant when the modular planting system is placed within a hole dug to at least substantially accommodate the modular planting system.

Abstract: Vegetative systems are described. In one embodiment, a vegetative system has substantially distinct or separate zones or layers in which each zone or layer performs primarily one of the functions of water retention, a growth medium for vegetation, and weed suppression. An upper may comprise coarse aggregate and serve the primary function of weed suppression; a middle layer may comprise a mixture of coarse aggregate, fine aggregate, and fine organic material and serve primarily as a growth medium for vegetation; and a lower layer may comprise high-density hygroscopic material and serve the primary function of water retention.

Abstract: A self-mulching planter bag that is tapered such that the diameter is larger at the top providing for easy removal of the bag from the root mass. It can be used for transplantation where a user can place a planter bag into a larger planter bag as the plant grows. The larger planter bag has space for the smaller bag through the use of a core feed plug which, when removed from the larger bag, leaves a void that is equal or greater to the size of the smaller bag. The larger bag can be pre-filled with designer soils especially suited for the particular plant. The planter bag also incorporates attachment points that can be used to train the plant or to attach the bags to surfaces or even to each other. Interconnected planter bag configurations can be used in a variety of applications including erosion control and environmental restoration.

Abstract: The invention claim is a garden tool to assist in the removal of planting medium and plant from a planting container. The garden tool comprises a handle having a first end and a second end, a base, and a planting container. The handle and the base are connected forming a L-shape body. The base is placed inside the planting container, and the handle extends above the top of the planting container. The connection between the handle and base may be reinforced by an angle brace. The connection between the handle and base may be hinged. If the connection is hinged, the angle brace prevents the hinge movement. Located on one end of the angle brace is a hook, that connects to the base. In addition, the base has weeping holes to allow the drainage of water. The base also has raised ridges to contain the growing medium when removed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a plurality of at least 1000 plant pots for use in cultivating plants. Each plant pot has a side wall and bottom which delimit an interior space for substrate which is open at the top, in which the bottom has a bottom side which is turned away from the interior space. Each plant pot is provided with a tag which has an optically readable code. The tag is arranged on the bottom side of the bottom, and the optically readable code is turned away from the bottom so that it can read from below when the plant pot is upright. The invention furthermore relates to an assembly with these plant pots as well as to a method for cultivating plants.

Abstract: Methods to grow, provide and plant a young tree using a novel removable tubular container are disclosed. The container promotes the growth of a well formed protected root structure that minimizes transplant shock at the time the young tree is moved and permanently planted. The removable container and methods described provide for a fast growing inexpensive tree that is easily planted by a single person.

Abstract: A tower planter growth arrangement comprising towers (2) allowing plant/crop production to be commercially competitive with commonly-used field cultivation for selected crops and ornamental plants. It has risers (12) of different lengths that permit a variable number of growing pots (4) in stacked array on a center support pipe (6), a new pot (4) design configured for improved drainage and reduced shipping damage, modified tower rotation plates (8) adapted to accommodate the new pot (4) drainage design, optional protective sleeves (20) for pots (4) that extend their useful life, an optional ground pot (18) that can collect excess water/nutrient drip for growing bonus plants/crops, an optional weighted support pot (52), an optional overhead nutrient distribution system (24), optional internal ground supports/stakes (14), optional support plates (10), and optional use of a nutrient distribution pot (22) above the top growing pot (4) in each tower (2).

Abstract: A green roof planter module includes a planter including a bottom wall, a plurality of sidewalls each including an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the bottom wall and the plurality of sidewalls cooperate with one another to form an interior space, and a biodegradable collar member extending upwardly from at least a select one of the biodegradable sidewalls, wherein at least a portion of the collar member is in-molded within the upper portion of at least one of the sidewalls, and wherein the collar member is adapted to retain a plant matter that extends above the plurality of sidewalls.

Abstract: An agricultural system includes a container containing a medium and a plant source. The medium may be a binder, and the container may further contain an additive bound to the binder. The medium may be pollen. Agricultural methods are also included.

Abstract: A purpose of the present invention is to provide a plant cultivation method with which the growth of plants can be promoted by adjusting the environment within a culture medium, and to provide a plant cultivation container with which this cultivation method can be easily and effectively performed. The present invention provides a plant cultivation method for plants which are raised in a culture medium, which cultivation method is characterized in that water is only supplied to the plants from the side of the culture medium, and provides a plant cultivation container and a plant cultivation device used therefor.

Abstract: 1.

Abstract: A vegetation growth bag comprising a casing, where the casing is made from a biodegradable material; a mixture of organic matter within the casing; where the mixture of organic matter includes a plurality of plant seeds, where as the plant seeds grow they erupt through the casing; and a pair of closures at each end of the casing; where the pair of closures prevent the mixture of organic matter from spilling from the casing. During use the vegetation growth bags are arranged along a barren land area, and left to allow rain and sunlight to promote growth of the seeds within the casing. Eventually the vegetation growth bags incorporate themselves into the barren land area by allowing the roots to anchor the casing to the ground.