Abstract: Processes capable of producing bulk materials suitable for use by the horticulture industry, resulting bulk materials produced thereby, and applications for these processes and materials. Preferred bulk materials have physical properties similar to peat moss and comprise individual materials, each at least partially having a twisted, curled, clumped and rolled structure. The individual materials may further comprise small granular particles dispersed throughout the twisted, curled, clumped and rolled structure. The individual materials may be rolled fibers such that the bulk material has physical properties similar to Sphagnum peat moss so as to be particularly suitable as, for example, a soil conditioner, an absorbent material, a chemical carrier, or a filtering material. Alternatively, the individual materials may be rolled particles such that the bulk material has physical properties similar to milled peat moss so as to be particularly suitable as propagation media.

Abstract: A method for making a dyed mulch composition or a dyed growing medium, the method comprising combining tree bark including one or more pigments and/or pigment precursors and wood components together to form an initial composition; heating the initial composition at a temperature greater than about 149° C. under steam in a pressurized vessel; processing the initial composition through a refiner with a plurality of opposing disks, the refiner separating the tree bark and wood components into fibers and separating the fibers from each other; and dyeing the wood components by the one or more pigments and/or pigment precursors while the tree bark and the wood components are being separated into fibers in the refiner to obtain dyed fibers.

Abstract: The invention taught is a method and apparatus to mix a special polymer, hot water or other hot water material containing additives and a special mixture of dry growing substances mixed in a particular way so that they may be applied to structures such as to ceilings, walls, and any grade of vertical slants, commercial roofs, courtyards, indoor and outdoor applications. The purpose is to coat any surface and grow any plant for any reason be it erosion control, beautification of an area. The invention would help in reforestation after fires and such. This invention has a wide range of applications and so it is impossible to limit it to just one of these applications. Green parking lots and green areas that before could not be made green is just one area for the invention.

Abstract: The present application relates generally to filter media useful for manufacturing air filters for residential and commercial office's Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), particularly to filters and filter media comprising soybean-based materials. The present invention provides an inexpensive, effective, environmentally friendly, and sustainable media for manufacturing HVAC air filters for residential and commercial buildings.

Abstract: Lignin formulations for making light-selective mulch, methods of making such lignin formulations, light-selective mulches comprising substrates treated with lignin formulations, and methods of making such light-selective mulches. Some methods involve preparing aqueous lignin formulations that can be used as coatings that, in turn, can be applied to a substrate, such as a paper web, to form a biodegradable, light-selective mulch. Some such mulches blocks at least some light in the ultraviolet and blue/green ranges (350 nm to 500 nm) of the visible light spectrum to inhibit weed growth below the mulch, while also transmitting light in the red/infrared ranges to heat the soil below the mulch.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter include a litter scoop that will work with a pelleted cat litters made from various substances such as wood shavings, bamboo, paper, coir, etc.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides novel paper sheet mulch products having benefits over prior sheet mulches, which may include brown or recycled fibers, as well as additives, such as opacity, water-resistant, and strength additives, resulting in mulch products with an improved combination of basis weight, stretch, strength, opacity, and/or water-resistance characteristics.

Abstract: According to at least one embodiment, a growing medium and method of making said growing medium is shown and described. This medium may include at least a first and second component such that at least one of the first or second component is coconut coir and the other of the at least first or second component is a wood fiber. In one embodiment, the at least first and second component are combined and then compressed via heat and pressure resulting in a finished medium for an end user.

Abstract: An organic composition for decomposing bodily remains including a composite mixture of compost, peat, sulfur, and gypsum. The composite mixture is configured to combine with the bodily remains to decompose the bodily remains. The combined mixture has a reduced pH for reducing the detrimental effects of the bodily remains on the environment.

Abstract: A mulching machine comprising a machine body that includes a tilling unit performing tilling, a ridge forming unit forming a ridge with the tilled soil, a mulch film laying unit drawing a mulch film from a film roll and laying it over the ridge, and ground wheels supporting the machine body. The tilling unit and the ridge forming unit are arranged in this order from the front in the traveling direction of the mulching machine, and the film roll is positioned such that its center of gravity does not overlap the ground wheels and is located forward of the ground wheels in the traveling direction.

Abstract: A food recycler can include a case having a case volume between 8.79 liters and 35 liters, a control system, a user interface in electrical communication with the control system, and a bucket being configured with a bucket volume, wherein a ratio of the bucket volume to the case volume is between 0.0717 and 0.2857. The recycler can include a motor in communication with the control system, the motor being configured adjacent at least in part to the bucket, a gearbox configured below the bucket and in mechanical communication with the motor, a filter system and a drying component configured to remove water from waste food items.

Abstract: According to at least one embodiment, a growing medium and method of making said growing medium is shown and described. This medium may include at least a first and second component such that at least one of the first or second component is coconut coir and the other of the at least first or second component is a wood fiber. In one embodiment, the at least first and second component are combined and then compressed via heat and pressure resulting in a finished medium for an end user.

Abstract: A method for making a dyed mulch composition or a dyed growing medium, the method comprising combining tree bark including one or more pigments and/or pigment precursors and wood components together to form an initial composition; heating the initial composition at a temperature greater than about 149° C. under steam in a pressurized vessel; processing the initial composition through a refiner with a plurality of opposing disks, the refiner separating the tree bark and wood components into fibers and separating the fibers from each other; and dyeing the wood components by the one or more pigments and/or pigment precursors while the tree bark and the wood components are being separated into fibers in the refiner to obtain dyed fibers.

Abstract: Fabrics suitable for a wide variety of uses, including coverage of crops, crop planting sites, or both, are disclosed. The fabrics may comprise at least one spunbond layer comprising filaments including a filler. The at least one spunbond layer may comprise a basis weight of least about 12 grams-per-meter-squared and the at least one spunbond layer may comprise an average transmittance value within the photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) across wavelengths 400 nm to 700 nm comprising about 37% or less. Methods of enhancing crop growth are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for processing raw coconut coir pith into fine particles having a size range of from 0.001 mm to 7 mm and the use of such fine particles directly or in formulated form in agricultural, industrial and commercial applications.

Abstract: An organic composition for decomposing bodily remains including a composite mixture of compost, peat, sulfur, and gypsum. The composite mixture is configured to combine with the bodily remains to decompose the bodily remains. The combined mixture has a reduced pH for reducing the detrimental effects of the bodily remains on the environment.

Abstract: A mulch cutting and spreading machine is a machine that is designed to be able to suction mulch out of the bed of a vehicle that is towing the mulch cutting and spreading machine and to simultaneously suction and chop the mulch and discharge it through a discharge hose that is directed by the user. The mulch or other such material can be then blown or spread over an area quickly in one combined action.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of controlled release fertilizer technology, and in particular to a special film-coated controlled release fertilizer for peanut in saline-alkali soil, which comprises an outer layer, an intermediate layer and an inner layer, integrates the ingredients for salt resistance improvement, etiolated seedling prevention, disease and pest control, growth promotion and pod plumpness promotion, controls the release period, improves the fertilization efficiency without the need of top application throughout the growth period, and saves labor cost.

Abstract: A system for covering various types of ground where water and wind erosion protection are needed comprises a composite of at least one geotextile tufted or knitted with synthetic yarns (forming a synthetic turf), an open grid mesh, and a geo-filter (filter fabric). The filter fabric is positioned in direct contact with the ground surface, the open grid mesh is positioned over the filter fabric, and the synthetic turf is positioned over the open grid mesh. The system provides a beneficial erosion protection that does not require maintenance and can be used to cover slopes without requiring vegetative support and/or a topsoil layer. An optional sand layer can be placed atop the synthetic turf as desired as infill to ballast the material and protect the system against wind uplift.

Abstract: Fabrics suitable for a wide variety of uses, including coverage of crops, crop planting sites, or both, are disclosed. The fabrics may comprise at least one spunbond layer comprising filaments including a filler. The at least one spunbond layer may comprise a basis weight of least about 12 grams-per-meter-squared and the at least one spunbond layer may comprise an average transmittance value within the photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) across wavelengths 400 nm to 700 nm comprising about 37% or less. Methods of enhancing crop growth are also disclosed.

Abstract: A plant skirt provides a weed barrier system that is easy to construct and install, and virtually eliminates weed encroachment. The plant skirt comprises a barrier member having a substantially flat body constructed from landscaping material and having an outer rim edge. The body includes a weighted edge perimeter, wherein the perimeter is constructed having sand therein. At least one edge area of the body has a weighted edge perimeter including an elongated slit. The elongated slit extends to and terminates at a center aperture in the flat body. The elongated slit has overlapping capable sides, and the center aperture is a small opening appointed to surround a plant's stem so that the stem is flush against the center aperture and a weed cannot easily grow between the center aperture and the stem.

Abstract: Waterproof and UV (ultraviolet) radiation blocking protective cover (1) for hanging fruit, CHARACTERIZED by a sheet (10) made of an expanded polyethylene material that blocks ultraviolet radiation (EPE-UV), whose shape is a flat geometric figure, with a main straight cut (11) running from the midpoint to the edge of the sheet and an arrangement of cuts and grooves that make up the attachment system when the cover is fitted on the fruit.

Abstract: One embodiment provides a modular green roof tray, house plant growth media and horticulture growth media, and a tree protection mat for weed and moisture control made from recycled disposable diapers. The growth medium and tree protection mat contain superabsorbent materials from diaper that can absorb waters and greatly reduce irrigation so to provide a drought resistant feature. One embodiment also provides a manufacturing process to perform 100% recycling of disposed diapers.

Abstract: An improved soilless media composition including (a) green tuff; and (b) a substrate such as peat or bark. A method of enhancing the growth of plants including adding plant propagative material to a soilless media composition comprising (a) green tuff; and (b) a substrate.

Abstract: Silane-crosslinkable polymeric compositions comprising a polyolefin having hydrolyzable silane groups, an acidic silanol condensation catalyst, and a phenolic antioxidant having at least one ester-containing moiety. Such crosslinkable polymeric compositions can be employed in various articles of manufacture, such as in the wire and cable industry.

Abstract: Natural fiber mulch mats are prepared from natural fibers, bicomponent fibers, and optionally other synthetic fibers, and consolidated at a temperature sufficient to melt a lower melting polymer of the polymers used to prepare the bicomponent fiber. The mulch mat may be prepared without conventional binders and without a polymer netting, yet exhibits good handling properties and superior water holding properties as compared to melting-containing products, without the drawbacks of the latter.

Abstract: A method and system for processing whole hemp stalks is disclosed. The method and system use an entirety of the whole hemp stalks in producing the particulate hemp such that the particulate hemp comprises both bast fiber and shive of the original whole hemp stalks. Additionally, hemp crumbs or crumbles may be processed from whole hemp stalks, or from particulate hemp which is larger than the hemp crumbs such as hemp pellets. The hemp crumbs may be formed by crushing the hemp pellets.

Abstract: The composition of, and method of manufacturing and using a composite absorption material for solidifying a waste stream from oil and gas industry drilling operations. The waste stream has a liquid component and is solidified prior to transportation to a landfill. The absorption material is a pelletized composite blend of agricultural fibers and a superabsorbent polymer that has been specifically proportioned to solidify liquids in the waste stream for transport and disposal.

Abstract: An apparatus including an air blower; a rotary airlock; a receptacle having an inner chamber supplied with a plurality of colorant particles; a water supply; and a mixing chamber. The air blower blows air into a bottom section of the rotary airlock, and the rotary airlock receives colorant particles from an output of the receptacle. A rotor shaft of the rotary airlock rotates to cause colorant particles to be transported to the bottom section of the rotary airlock. Air blown into the bottom section of the rotary airlock mixes with colorant particles transported into the bottom section of the rotary airlock to form an air and colorant particles mixture, which is blown out of a first output of the rotary airlock and combined with water to form a water, air, and colorant particles mixture, which is mixed with material in a mixing chamber. The material may be natural mulch.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a biodegradable landscape fabric comprising spunlaced cellulosic fibers which comprise 0% to 75% wood pulp fibers and 25% to 100% regenerated cellulosic fibers without fiber binding materials and may further comprise a colorant.

Abstract: Additives for compost for ornamental plants and/or agricultural production plants in the form of granules comprising a) between 5 and 65% by weight on the total weight of the composition of a superabsorbent polymer, for agriculture (SAP), b) between 35 and 70% by weight on the total weight of the composition of a hygroscopic material essentially of vegetable origin; c) between 20 and 40% by weight on the total weight of the composition of a natural plasticizer of mineral or vegetable origin.

Abstract: A method for enhancing the growth of a horticultural plant comprising applying to the surface of the horticultural plant an effective amount of an ultrafine, dry ground calcite. The applied ultrafine, dry ground calcite transmits about 95% or greater, and reflects about 5% or less, of light in the PAR and UV wavelengths.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of treating mulch by applying an adhesive composition to bulk mulch and then bagging the treated mulch before the adhesive cures. The bagged mulch is later transported to a desired location and arranged into a mulch bed, and the adhesive cures by exposure to air and sunlight, thereby holding the mulch in place and preventing undesirable movement.

Abstract: A general purpose plant growth medium and planting methods incorporating shredded coastal redwood bark for use in planting. In some embodiments the shredded coastal redwood bark fibers vary in length from about 0.125-14 inches and comprise about 10-80 % of the plant growth medium volume. In some embodiments the plant growth medium is compacted to an approximate unhydrated density of about 200-400 pounds per cubic yard.

Abstract: Value-added compositions such as mulches, insulation, and animal bedding may be produced from cotton waste. These compositions are formed from mixtures of at least two cellulosic, biofiber components, wherein one or both of the components are fiberized. The compositions of this invention include mixtures of: a. a first cellulosic component of cotton byproducts, and b. a second cellulosic component which is visible to the naked eye, and which includes hay, grass, kenaf, straw, plant residue remaining following the harvest of crops such as cereal grains, rice, soybeans, and grass seed, wood, sawdust, wood pulp, paper, or mixtures of any of the above, wherein one or both of the first or second cellulosic component are fiberized and the fibers of the fiberized component are intermixed with and entangled about the other component in a 3-dimensional matrix.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for selection of constituents for a growth medium and mulch for varying types of soils. Also disclosed is a growth medium and mulch.

Abstract: A bag constructed of a weed suppression material for packaging a ground cover material. When the bag is in a closed configuration, the bag serves as a container for shipping, handling, and storage of the ground cover material. When the bag is opened and unfolded, and the ground cover material within the bag is spread over the opened and unfolded bag, the bag serves as a layer of weed suppression material on top of underlying soil and beneath the ground cover. In addition, the bag may be used for planting individual plants in a planting bed, for establishing a buffer zone around the foundation of a building, or for controlling erosion around a downspout of a building.

Abstract: A bag constructed of a weed suppression material for packaging a ground cover material. When the bag is in a closed configuration, the bag serves as a container for shipping, handling, and storage of the ground cover material. When the bag is opened and unfolded, and the ground cover material within the bag is spread over the opened and unfolded bag, the bag serves as a layer of weed suppression material on top of underlying soil and beneath the ground cover. In addition, the bag may be used for planting individual plants in a planting bed, for establishing a buffer zone around the foundation of a building, or for controlling erosion around a downspout of a building.

Abstract: The present invention relates to horticultural products and a method for making gardening products which have a dye or fragrance added to the products.

Abstract: Wood particles having fibers aligned in a grain, wherein: the wood particles are characterized by a length dimension (L) aligned substantially parallel to the grain, a width dimension (W) normal to L and aligned cross grain, and a height dimension (H) normal to W and L; the L×H dimensions define two side surfaces characterized by substantially intact longitudinally arrayed fibers; the W×H dimensions define two cross-grain end surfaces characterized individually as aligned either normal to the grain or oblique to the grain; the L×W dimensions define two substantially parallel top and bottom surfaces; and, a majority of the W×H surfaces in the mixture of wood particles have end checking.

Abstract: A weed guard which forms a barrier along the width and length of a fence line. The weed guard has a protective strip which is preferably flat. Each lateral edge of the protective strip has a plurality of anchoring segments, which resemble teeth, which extend downward and perpendicular to the protective strip. The protective strip has a plurality of perforations therein which form cut-outs which receive fence posts. In operation cut-outs are removed along the perforations and a fence post is received in the cutout. Next the anchoring segments are inserted into the ground. In this position, the protective strip prevents weeds from growing along the bottom edge of the fence line. In this way the aesthetic appearance of a fence line is improved.

Abstract: Plant biomass particles coated with a biological agent such as a bacterium or seed, characterized by a length dimension (L) aligned substantially parallel to a grain direction and defining a substantially uniform distance along the grain, a width dimension (W) normal to L and aligned cross grain, and a height dimension (H) normal to W and L. In particular, the L×H dimensions define a pair of substantially parallel side surfaces characterized by substantially intact longitudinally arrayed fibers, the W×H dimensions define a pair of substantially parallel end surfaces characterized by crosscut fibers and end checking between fibers, and the L×W dimensions define a pair of substantially parallel top and bottom surfaces.

Abstract: A sheet mulch assembly includes a sheet mulch; an irrigation conduit attached to and carried by the sheet mulch; and at least one carrier substrate coupled with the conduit. Each carrier substrate carries at least one seed.

Abstract: An all purpose ground cover is presented for use in a landscape, walk or pathway, driveway or roadway, or other application. The ground cover includes a plurality of particles of stone, gravel or aggregate material, mulch or wood chips, or other natural and/or artificial materials and combinations thereof, mixed with an adhesive or bonding agent to form a coated material that can be easily installed within a portion of an area of application. For example, the coated material, which is moist and pliable before curing, may be shoveled and then raked level in a desired position within the landscape, walk or pathway, driveway or roadway application. Once the adhesive agent cures and hardens the coated material including the plurality of particles is substantially fastened and held together to provide the ground cover.

Abstract: A bag constructed of a weed suppression material for packaging a ground cover material. When the bag is in a closed configuration, the bag serves as a container for shipping, handling, and storage of the ground cover material. When the bag is opened and unfolded, and the ground cover material within the bag is spread over the opened and unfolded bag, the bag serves as a layer of weed suppression material on top of underlying soil and beneath the ground cover.

Abstract: Natural fiber mulch mats are prepared from natural fibers, bicomponent fibers, and optionally other synthetic fibers, and consolidated at a temperature sufficient to melt a lower melting polymer of the polymers used to prepare the bicomponent fiber. The mulch mat may be prepared without conventional binders and without a polymer netting, yet exhibits good handling properties and superior water holding properties as compared to melting-containing products, without the drawbacks of the latter.

Abstract: Natural fiber mulch mats are prepared from natural fibers, bicomponent fibers, and optionally other synthetic fibers, and consolidated at a temperature sufficient to melt a lower melting polymer of the polymers used to prepare the bicomponent fiber. The mulch mat may be prepared without conventional binders and without a polymer netting, yet exhibits good handling properties and superior water holding properties as compared to melting-containing products, without the drawbacks of the latter.

Abstract: A formed densified organic material for use as landscape mulch and method of manufacture and application are disclosed. The formed densified organic material is made by drying a loose mixture of mulch material and compressing the loose mixture of mulch material into a formed densified organic material. The method of apply includes: placing formed densified organic mulch on the ground at spaced locations; adding moisture to the densified organic mulch, allowing the densified organic mulch to absorb the moisture, causing the densified organic mulch to expand and reconstitute back into its original state of loose mulch; and spreading the loose mulch as required. The formed densified organic material has a moisture content of less than approximately 20 percent, a density greater than approximately 40 pounds per cubic foot, and a weigh less than approximately 5 pounds.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention, a visual attenuation composition is provided to be applicable to a landscape to visually attenuate or camouflage the landscape to approximate color characteristics of the surrounding terrain. The visual attenuation composition includes a colorant selected from the group consisting of a pigment, a dye, and combinations thereof, and optionally an additive selected from the group consisting of a flocculent, a tackifier, a stabilizer, and combinations thereof. The visual attenuation composition can be formulated to impart colorfastness as applied for a period of up to 6 weeks or longer. The visual attenuation composition described herein can be premixed with an erosion control medium or a blended mulch product described herein to impart desirable color and colorfastness. Alternatively, the erosion control medium and the blended mulch product can be applied to a ground surface prior to coloring and or color reinforcement with the visual attenuation composition.

Abstract: A bag constructed of a weed suppression material for packaging a ground cover material. When the bag is in a closed configuration, the bag serves as a container for shipping, handling, and storage of the ground cover material. When the bag is opened and unfolded, and the ground cover material within the bag is spread over the opened and unfolded bag, the bag serves as a layer of weed suppression material on top of underlying soil and beneath the ground cover.