HK40017638B - Plant growing system and methods of using the same - Google Patents

Description

Plant growing system and method employing said system

The application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent application No. 201380009713.8(PCT/US2013/026511) filed on 2013, 2, 15 and a year.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to the following provisional applications: (1) U.S. provisional application No.61/600,565, filed 2/17/2012; (2) U.S. provisional application No.61/637,193, filed 4/23/2012; (3) U.S. provisional application No.61/648,982, filed on day 5, month 18, 2012; and (4) U.S. provisional application No. 61/715,088, filed on day 17, month 10, 2012. The entire disclosures of these provisional applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

The present application also claims priority from the following design applications: (1) U.S. application No.29/418,920, delivered on day 23, 4/2012; (2) U.S. application No.29/422,347, filed on day 5, month 18, 2012; (3) U.S. application No.29/428,679, filed on 8/2/2012; and (4) U.S. application No.29/434,848, filed on day 17, month 10, 2012. The entire disclosures of these provisional applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

This application is related to U.S. application No.29/413,720 (now U.S. patent No. d71,028), filed 2, month 17, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

Exemplary embodiments relate to a seed planting system employing a housing, a plant growing or rooting medium, seeds, fertilizer, and a cover, and methods employing the plant growing system. Exemplary embodiments are also directed to an indoor growth unit with integrated water and light sources. The indoor growth unit is configured for use with a seed planting system.

Disclosure of Invention

Illustrative embodiments provide a pod, a seed cone mount, a planting cone mount, and/or a planting system that simplifies the seed planting process.

The illustrative embodiments provide a seed pod, a seed cone, a planting cone, and/or a planting system that includes the necessary components for growing plants at minimal expense.

Illustrative embodiments include that when the pods, seed cones, planting cones, and/or planting systems are planted and watered, no additional nutrients, fertilizers, or plant treatments are required for successful growth of the plants.

The illustrative embodiments provide that when pods, seed cones, planting cones, and/or planting systems are planted, there is no need to determine an appropriate depth for seed planting nor an appropriate planting distance between each pod, seed cone, planting cone, and/or planting system.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a pod, a seed cone, a planting cone and/or a planting system having a housing, a plant growing or rooting medium, seeds, fertilizer and/or nutrients, and a lid.

Another illustrative embodiment provides an enclosure made of composted, formed, shaped, and/or formable materials.

Another embodiment provides the housing shaped to provide maximum stiffness for penetration into a surface. Additionally, the shell should be of sufficient size and circumference to support the early stages of implant growth.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a housing with a flange to aid in proper depth placement, thus allowing the end user to position the pod, seed cone, planting cone, and/or planting system at a proper and optimal growth depth.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a plant growth or rooting medium inserted into or in the enclosure.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a plant growing or rooting medium that is shaped or configured to fit integrally within the enclosure.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a plant growth or rooting medium having outer ribs and gaps between the outer ribs such that the gaps form one or more channels between the inner wall of the enclosure and the plant growth or rooting medium. In one embodiment, the channel formed by the gap is open and extends throughout the length of the inner wall of the housing so that water flows freely to the pod, seed cone, planting cone and/or bottom of the planting system. In another exemplary embodiment, one or more of the gaps are closed such that one or more of the channels are formed below the upper surface of the rooting media (i.e., the channels do not extend throughout the length of the inner wall of the housing) such that water flow to the seed pod, the seed cone, the planting cone, and/or the bottom of the planting system can be reduced. In another exemplary embodiment, each gap forms a closed channel that is open at the top and continuous for only a portion of the length of the inner wall of the housing.

Another illustrative embodiment provides external ribs on the plant growing or rooting media that allow water to flow under the plant growing or rooting media to access fertilizer located in and at the bottom of the enclosure. The outer ribs also allow water to collect at the bottom of the enclosure and eventually act capillary back up to provide moisture to the seeds by absorption by the rooting media.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a plant growth medium or rooting medium having a hole, recess, concave surface or aperture for positioning or receiving a seed. One or more holes, recesses, concavities, or apertures are provided in the plant growth medium or rooting medium. After the seed is placed into the shaped hole, recess, concavity, or aperture, the seed may be covered or capped with a plug or cap to seal the seed within the medium.

Another illustrative embodiment provides that the plant growth medium or rooting medium comprises a slot for placing seeds. In another illustrative embodiment, fertilizer may be mixed into or integrated into the plant growth medium or rooting medium.

Illustrative embodiments provide a quantity of fertilizer or nutrients in the bottom of the housing to help support the growth and/or yield of the seeds.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a fertilizer or a nutrient as a controlled release nutrient. These nutrients may include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, co-nutrients, and/or micronutrients.

Another exemplary embodiment is where the seed pod, seed cone, planting cone and/or planting system includes a lid that seals the contents within the housing.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a cap made of a biodegradable material. The cover may be configured to fit onto the housing, fit within the housing, or may be adhered to the housing.

Additional exemplary embodiments are pods comprising seeds of a plant, seed cones, planting cones and/or planting systems. These plants may include vegetables, flowers, fruits, herbs, grasses, trees, or perennial plant parts (e.g., bulbs, roots, crowns, stems, tubers, etc.).

Another illustrative embodiment provides a seed pod, a seed cone, a planting cone and/or a planting system that can be configured as a single unit or assembled into a stack of different units including the same or different seed pods, seed cones, planting cones and/or planting systems. The cap assembly may be packaged into a holder.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a pod, a seed cone, a planting cone, and/or a planting system that may be employed in a method of planting seeds.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a method of growing a plant using a pod, a seed cone, a planting cone, and/or a planting system.

Another illustrative embodiment is a pod, seed cone, planting cone, and/or planting system that is integrated, adapted, and/or packaged with an indoor growing unit such that the indoor growing unit readily houses the pod, seed cone, planting cone, and/or planting system to provide sufficient light and water sources for the plant stock. The indoor growth unit is configured to include an adjustable light source and an integrated water source. The seed pod, seed cone, planting cone, and/or planting system may be placed into a holder contained within the indoor growth unit to facilitate growth of the seeds.

Illustrative embodiments include a plant growing system comprising a biodegradable enclosure, a rooting media, fertilizer or nutrients, seeds, and a removable lid. The housing is formed from a shaped material, a composted material, a shaped material, or a combination thereof; and the rooting medium comprises soil, coconut fiber, vermiculite, fertile soil, perlite, bark powder, peat, wood chips, humus soil or a combination thereof.

Another illustrative embodiment is a system comprising a substrate; an adjustable light fixture depending from the substrate; one or more growth vessels fitted within the base plate; and a water reservoir that automatically dispenses water to the one or more growth containers via the base plate. Additionally, the system may include one or more pods for use with the growth vessel.

Another exemplary embodiment includes a method of using an indoor growth unit. A pod or seed is implanted in the indoor growth unit. The seed pod is placed in a pod holder within the growth container. The seeds are directly implanted into the growth vessel into a suitable growth medium contained within the growth vessel. The pods or seeds germinate as a result of the light and water provided by the unit. Plants that begin to grow within the unit may be transplanted outdoors or may grow directly to harvest. Alternatively, the rack and light fixture may be removed and the base plate, water reservoir and growth container may be transported outward for continuous growth.

Another illustrative embodiment is a system comprising a substrate; an adjustable light fixture depending from the substrate; one or more growth vessels fitted within the base plate; and a water reservoir that automatically dispenses water to one or more growth containers via the base plate. Additionally, the system may include one or more pods for use with the growth vessel. The system also includes one or more capillary pads in the bottom of the growth container to facilitate wicking or transport of water from the base plate to one or more seed pods located within the pod holder, wherein the pod holder sits within the growth container. The capillary pad may be held in place using a securing mechanism that mates with the growth vessel. An optional bridge may be used as an interface between the capillary pad and the pod holder to further facilitate water transport to the seed pod in the pod holder.

Illustrative embodiments include a plant system having a biodegradable housing, a rooting media, fertilizer or nutrient, seeds, and a removable cover, the housing formed of a shaped material, a composted material, a shaped material, or a combination thereof; and the rooting medium comprises soil, coconut fiber, vermiculite, fertile soil, perlite, bark powder, peat, wood chips, humus soil or a combination thereof.

Another illustrative embodiment includes a system comprising a substrate; a support; an adjustable light fixture depending from the substrate and attached to a support; one or more growth vessels fitted within the base plate.

Another illustrative embodiment includes a method of planting seeds comprising advancing a planting system into a planting surface; and watering the plant growing system, the growing system being pushed into a prepared surface, into a surface adapted to receive the growing system, or into an unprepared surface.

Another illustrative embodiment includes a method of growing a garden comprising planting a plant growing system and watering the plant growing system.

The advantages of these and other embodiments, as well as preferred embodiments not specifically described above, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon review of the drawings, the specification, and the claims. It is intended that all such additional embodiments and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the disclosure, and be protected by the preferred embodiments.

Drawings

Fig. 1 shows an exploded view of components of a planting system according to an exemplary embodiment;

fig. 2 shows an exploded view of a kick-angle embodiment of a planting system according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a planting system according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a front view;

FIG. 5 is a rear view;

FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view;

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a planting system showing a layer with a cap pulled back in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a growing system according to an exemplary embodiment showing the layers with the cap pulled back;

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a planting system having a top cap and a removed inner plug, according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the planting system according to an exemplary embodiment with the top cap removed and shown with an internal plug;

FIG. 11 is a top plan view;

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the inner plug removed from the planting system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a front view;

FIG. 14 is a top plan view;

FIG. 15 is a bottom plan view;

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the planting system with the cap removed and the plug of the second embodiment;

FIG. 17 shows a top view;

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of the second embodiment of the inner plug removed from the planting system;

FIG. 19 is a rear view;

FIG. 20 is a top plan view;

FIG. 21 is a bottom plan view;

FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of the third embodiment of the inner plug removed from the planting system;

FIG. 23 is a rear view;

FIG. 24 shows a cross-sectional view;

FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the inner plug removed from the planting system;

FIG. 26 shows a cross-sectional view;

FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of the planting system within a carrying rack in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of the planting system in a second carrier bracket according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 29 shows a perspective view of the planting system in a third carrier carriage according to an exemplary embodiment;

figure 30 shows a perspective view of the planting system in a fourth carrying tray according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 31 shows a perspective view of the planting system in a fifth load carrying tray in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 32 shows a perspective view of the planting system in a sixth carrier bracket according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 33 shows an exploded view of an indoor growth unit in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 34 shows a front perspective view;

FIG. 35 shows a rear perspective view;

FIG. 36 shows a perspective view of a bell (clock) in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 37 shows a perspective view of a pod tray (pod tray) according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 38 shows a perspective view of a growth vessel according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 39 shows a perspective view of a substrate according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of a bracket according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 41 illustrates a perspective view of a water reservoir in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 42 shows a front perspective view of a second embodiment of an indoor growth unit in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 43 shows a front perspective view of a third embodiment of an indoor growth unit in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 44 shows a front perspective view of a fourth embodiment of an indoor growth unit in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 45 is an exploded partial view showing components of a fifth embodiment of an indoor growth unit in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 46 is a front perspective view;

FIG. 47 is a rear perspective view;

FIG. 48 is a front perspective view with the pod holders and growth carriers removed;

FIG. 49 is a front perspective view with the growth carrier removed and the pod carrier removed;

FIG. 50 is a front perspective view of a sixth embodiment of an indoor growth unit in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of a growth tray and pod tray with a capillary pad according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 52 is an exploded partial view of components in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 53 is a sectional view;

FIG. 54 is an exploded partial view of another embodiment of the components of a growth carriage in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 55 is a schematic view illustrating germination of basil in seed pods comprising either (i) loose coconut coir or (ii) a molded plug, at different planting depths in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 56 is a schematic view illustrating germination of basil within a seed pod comprising either (i) loose coconut coir or (ii) a molded plug, at different planting depths in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 57 is a comparison of wicking capillary action of seed pods according to an exemplary embodiment at different planting depths;

FIG. 58 is a graph comparing the germination rate of pod rooting media over time;

FIG. 59 is a front perspective view of a seventh embodiment of an indoor growth unit in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 60 is an exploded fragmentary view;

FIG. 61 is a cut-away view of a growth carrier with one growth carrier removed; and is

FIG. 62 is a second cut-away view of a growth carrier with one growth carrier and pods removed.

Detailed Description

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the preferred embodiments described herein are susceptible to a wide variety of inventions and applications. Accordingly, only the exemplary embodiments described in detail herein relate to the exemplary embodiments, but it should be understood that such disclosure is illustrative and exemplary embodiments and provides a conditional disclosure of the exemplary embodiments. This disclosure is not intended to be construed as limiting the implementations or otherwise to exclude any other such embodiments, adaptations, modifications, improvements, and equivalent structures.

The figures illustrate various functions and features associated with the illustrative embodiments. The neck shows a single exemplary structure, device or component, but these exemplary structures, devices or components may be combined with one another for different applications or different applications. In addition, the structures, devices or components may further be combined into combined units or divided into sub-units. Further, the neck shows a particular configuration or type of structure, device or component, but this configuration is meant to be illustrative and not limiting as other structures may be substituted to achieve the described functionality.

It has been found, according to exemplary embodiments, that a pod, seed cone, planting cone and/or planting system provides an easy, productive and efficient means for growing plants. Upon insertion into a surface, the pod, seed cone, planting cone, and/or planting system can produce plants without the difficulty, confusion, and inconvenience of planting individual seeds into a planting surface.

The illustrative embodiments simplify and eliminate the common difficulties experienced by novice and sophisticated horticulturists. These difficulties may include the depth of seed placement, the distance between seeds, the type of fertilizer or nutrients needed to suit plant growth, the amount of nutrients needed for plant growth, the amount of water needed for plant growth, and common errors and mistakes associated with gardening. The seed pod, seed cone seat, planting cone seat and/or planting system removes guesswork from gardening and only the seed pod, seed cone seat, planting cone seat and/or planting system need be inserted into the surface and watered.

A. Definition of

"pod," "seed cone," "planting cone," and "planting system" (hereinafter collectively "pod") refer to an assembly or system according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the assembly or system includes a housing, a plant growing or rooting medium contained within the housing, seeds, fertilizer or nutrients for the plant, and a cover. The seed pod may be a plant growing system. Illustrative examples of seed pods according to illustrative embodiments are shown, for example, in fig. 1-11 and 16, 17.

"outer shell" refers to an outer layer having an apex at the bottom and an opening at the top to allow insertion of a plant growing or rooting medium. Illustrative examples of the housing are shown, for example, in fig. 1 and 2.

The "acorn triangle shape" is the shape taken by the seed pod, seed cone, planting cone and/or planting system and is shown, for example, in fig. 1-10.

"plant growth medium", "rooting medium" or "inner plug" (hereinafter collectively referred to as "rooting medium" refers to a medium into which seeds are placed and allowed to germinate into plants and which is contained within a housing.

"cavities," "recesses," "concavities," or "holes" (hereinafter collectively referred to as "cavities") refer to depressions formed in a surface that have shallow to moderate depths. Illustrative examples of holes are visible, for example, on top of the rooting media in figures 1,2, 12, 18 and 26.

An "indoor growing unit", and the like, refers to a unit and/or system configured for use indoors to germinate and/or grow plants. The unit is designed to be modular, self-contained, and to accommodate or provide the necessary growing conditions for the plants (e.g., fiber optics, water, fertilizer, soil, etc.), for example by using a pod or planting system as defined above. However, the use of seed pods is not necessary as the planting may be directly into the growth media contained in the indoor growth unit. Exemplary embodiments of the indoor growth unit are shown, for example, in fig. 33, 42, 43, 44, 46, 50 and 59.

Figures 1 through 11 illustrate a pod 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Pod 100 may have a cover 102, rooting media 106, and a housing 114. The cover 102 may be made of one or more layers 104, e.g., 104A and 104B. The cover 102 seals the contents of the pod 100 within the housing 114. The cover 102 may be made of a biodegradable material and configured to fit onto the housing 114, fit into the housing 114, or adhere to a flange 116 of the housing 114. The top of the cap layer 104 may be configured such that the top layer 104A may be peeled back to reveal the second layer 104B. The second layer 104B may have printed instructions thereon or other information relating to the pod 100 and its use. The use of multiple layers according to the exemplary embodiment allows the consumer to review information about the seed pod 100 while the seed pod 100 remains sealed. According to an exemplary embodiment, the seed pod 100 may be 94% biodegradable.

The housing 114 provides a protective containment unit for the root media 106, seeds 112, and fertilizer 118 and/or nutrients 118 from the external environment surrounding the pod 100.

Rooting media 106 has one or more holes 110 and outer ribs 108. Between each outer rib 108 is a gap 109. Rooting media 106 can be shaped or formed into a cone, spike, acorn, triangular acorn, or flowerpot shape. Illustrative embodiments of rooting media 106A, 106B, 106C, and 106D can be seen in fig. 12-15, 18-26, respectively.

B. Outer casing

The housing 114 of the pod 100 provides a protective containment unit for the root media 106, seeds 112, and fertilizer 118 and/or nutrients 118 from the external environment surrounding the pod 100. During the early stages of plant growth, the seed pod 100 creates a microenvironment with sufficient nutrients to allow successful germination of the plant. Additionally, the housing 114 is configured to provide a mechanism or platform for inserting the seeds 112 into the planting surface. However, after the initial germination process, the outer shell 114 should be adapted to allow the growing plant to root in the surrounding external environment. Thus, the enclosure 114 may be sufficiently robust and also sufficiently permeable for initial insertion and protection of the young seed 112 to allow the growing plant to root in the surrounding environment.

As mentioned above, the housing 114 should be sufficiently strong and also biodegradable to allow penetration of the root. Materials suitable for this purpose may include shaped, formable, compostable and/or shapeable materials. Such materials may include manure, peat moss, red sugar cane fiber (brown sugar cane fiber), coconut fiber, corn stover, sunflower stalk, white sugar cane fiber (white sugar cane fiber), or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the housing 114 is formed from a molded, formed, and/or composted material. This may include composted as well as shaped, or shaped, peat moss. In another embodiment, the housing 114 is formed from shaped or formed fecal matter. The faeces may be from any animal, but in one embodiment the faeces are from a cow, bull or horse, preferably from a cow. In another embodiment, the enclosure 114 is formed from material derived from poultry feathers. It should be appreciated that the materials used in fabricating the housing 114 may also be derived from organic and/or natural sources. As such, plants or vegetables that germinate from the pods 100 may be classified and rated as organic.

The housing 114 of the pod 100 is designed to be inserted into a surface. For example, the surface may be soil. In general, the gardener desires to pre-dig holes in the planting surface to accommodate the plants or seeds 112. In some cases, the housing 114 eliminates the need for pre-cut holes to receive the seed pods 100. This is accomplished by forming the housing 114 into a particular shape that optimizes penetration into surfaces such as, but not limited to, dirt, soil, containers, raised beds, clays, rock, gravel, sand, or carriers particularly adapted to receive seed pods 100. As such, various shapes of the housing 114 may be used to achieve this function.

In one embodiment, the housing 114 is shaped like a cone, acorn, or a combination thereof. It has been found that when the housing 114 is shaped as a conical seat, the conical seat provides optimal penetration of the pod 100 into the planting surface. It has also been found that when the shell 114 of the pod 100 is shaped like an acorn, it provides an optimal surface area for germinating the plant. Thus, the illustrative embodiments are directed to combining the advantages of both the cone base shape and the acorn shape. Thus, in one embodiment, the seed pod 100 is shaped into a triangular acorn shape.

The overall thickness of the shell 114 provides an important function to the growth and/or growth of the seeds 112 within the pod 100. To optimize the environment of the housing 114 while also allowing the roots to penetrate from the growing plant, the housing 114 may have a particular thickness that withstands insertion into the planting surface and allows the roots to penetrate. In one embodiment, the thickness of the housing 114 is maintained throughout the housing 114. The thickness may be in the range of about 0.025 inches to 0.25 inches, more preferably in the range of about 0.05 to about 0.15 inches, and even more preferably in the range of about 0.09 to about 0.13 inches. In another embodiment, the thickness of the housing 114 may also be in the range of about 0.08 to about 0.11 inches. In another embodiment, the thickness of the housing 114 is 0.11 inches.

Insertion of the seed pod 110 into the planting surface may cause the outer shell 114 to collapse or rupture upon insertion, as the soil or dirt areas differ. Thus, the top or apex 115 of the housing 114 may be reinforced. One type of reinforcement is to provide a thickened apex or top 115 so that when the top 115 of the housing 114 is inserted into the planting surface, it is more robust and adapted to withstand greater impact forces than the rest of the housing 114. Thus, in one embodiment, the top 115 of the enclosure 114 is manufactured or shaped by merely thickening the top of the enclosure 114 and tapering the sides of the enclosure, such that the enclosure retains the ability of the plant to extend its root system. Alternatively, the top 115 may be reinforced with a thickener or curing agent so that the top is sufficiently strong after drying but biodegradable after sufficient hydration or wetting.

The seed pod 100 may have virtually any periphery. It should be appreciated that the potential size of the plant grown from the seed 112, as well as the nutrient requirements of the seed, may dictate the overall peripheral size of the pod 100. Thus, some factors that may dictate the periphery of the pod 100 include, for example, the amount of fertilizer 118 or nutrient 118 supply provided within the pod 100, the type of seed 112 planted, the type of plant that germinates from the pod 100. The foregoing list of factors is not the only listed factor, but rather a representation of some of the factors that may dictate the peripheral dimensions of the housing 114.

Proper deep placement also plays an important role for successful germination of seeds. To assist in this process, the pod 100 integrates a seed depth indicator into the housing 114. In one embodiment, the seed depth indicator is a flange 116 that is located at the top of the pod 100. The flange 116 forms a lip that guides the user to insert the pod 100 to the proper depth of the seed 112. By inserting the pod 100 until the flange 116 is in the same horizontal position as the surrounding soil or dust, the user will be indicated that the seeds 112 have been properly positioned for optimal seed germination and growth. Thus, in one embodiment, the flange 116 extends along the top of the entire perimeter of the housing 114. The flange 116 may also serve as an area or surface to which the cover 102 is fastened, secured, or adhered.

C. Rooting medium

Figures 12 to 15 and 18 to 26 showAn exemplary embodiment of a rooting media 106. Rooting media 106, which provides a substrate in which seeds will grow, is located and contained within enclosure 114. Rooting media 106 can be made from a variety of materials. These materials may include, for example, coir (compressed, uncompressed, screened, coconut coir and/or coir), peat moss (e.g., peat moss), peat humus, vermiculite, perlite compost, bark meal, composted bark meal, wood chips, sawdust, mulch, modified corn starch, corn stover, sunflower stems, composted rice hulls, reed sedge peat, composted manure, composted forest products, coffee grounds, composted paper fibers, digested manure fibers, composted tea leaves, bagasse, yard waste compost, cotton derivatives, wood ash, bark ash, botanical byproducts, agricultural byproducts, or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the rooting medium may comprise a fertilizer or a fertilising agent. These materials may also be shaped and/or formed into solid form. In one embodiment, the rooting media 106 is shaped as a cone, acorn, triangular acorn, flowerpot, or spike. In other embodiments, rooting media 106 is manufactured and sold by International Horticultural Technologies, Inc. Hollister, CA 95024OrIn other embodiments of the present invention, the,orIs shaped and formed into a cone, acorn, triangular acorn, flowerpot, or spike shape. In another embodiment, shaped and/or shaped rooting media 106 is adapted to completely or partially fill the interior space defined by outer shell 114. Thus, in one embodiment, rooting media 106 can be shaped or formed as a frustum, spike, acorn, triangleAcorn, or flowerpot, such that it flows out of the cavity at the bottom interior space of the housing 114. Like outer shell 114, portions of rooting media 106 can be derived from natural or organic sources. As such, plants or vegetables produced from the pods 100 may be classified and rated as organic.

The illustrative embodiment includes a rooting media 106 within which a molded or shaped shape provides a means to control and maintain water for an extended period of time. Rooting media 106 has been shaped and configured to include external ribs that create pockets or channels between the inner wall of shell 114 and rooting media 106. In one embodiment, enclosure 108 is adapted to frictionally engage the inner walls of enclosure 114, thereby holding rooting media 106 in place and/or allowing water to migrate into the lower interior compartment formed by truncated rooting media 106. In another embodiment, the housing 108 forms an open channel or gap 109 that allows water to flow to the bottom of the pod 100. In another embodiment, the outer ribs 108 form closed channels that reduce water flow to the bottom of the seed pod 100. In another embodiment, the outer ribs 108 form a closed channel that is open at the top and continuous for only a portion of the length of the inner wall of the housing 114.

Without being bound by any particular theory, the channels created by outer ribs 108 allow water to flow to rooting media 106 and outer shell 114. This provides accelerated hydration of the entire pod 100 allowing improved or rapid germination of the seeds 112. In one embodiment, shaped and contoured rooting media 106 comprises between 1,2, 3,4, 5, 6,7, 8,9, 10,11,12,13,14, 15, and 16 outer ribs 108 or gaps 109. In another embodiment, shaped and contoured rooting media 106 can comprise 4 outer ribs 108 or gaps 109.

The outer ribs 108 and gaps 109 may also provide other functions. First, outer ribs 108 can serve as friction points with outer shell 114 to prevent rooting media 106 from falling out after it has dried. Second, gap 109 may provide a water passage and hold water in the passage during the watering and growth stages of the seed. When the user waters the pod 100, water will travel through the channel and fill the fertilizer area below the rooting media 106 in the location of the apex 115 of the pod 100. As the water accumulates, it will travel back through the channels and may accumulate within these channels until it is further absorbed or diffused out of the seed pod 100 by the seeds, rooting media 106, or by fertilizer 118. In this regard, the outer ribs provide a functional role by preventing the buoyancy of rooting media 106 from rising beyond outer shell 114. Gap 109 acts as an air release valve that allows the pressure within the fertilizer chamber to be released.

In another embodiment, rooting media 106 can be recessed from top edge 116 of enclosure 114 to provide a reservoir for retaining water. While not being bound by any particular theory, the recessed area may hold an additional amount of water that will flow through the channels created by the outer ribs 108 molded into the rooting media when the pod 100 is watered by the user. The reservoir provides for prolonged hydration of the seeds 112 within the pod 100. In another embodiment, rooting media 106 can comprise a water-absorbing polymer to aid in retaining water for an extended period of time.

According to an exemplary embodiment, rooting media 106 can include holes 110 that provide an area for seeds to be positioned, received, or received. It should be appreciated that the number of holes 110 made in rooting media 106 will depend on the type of seed 112 being planted. In one embodiment, for example as shown in FIG. 1, there are three holes 110 in the surface of rooting media 106. In another embodiment, such as shown in FIG. 22, there may be two holes 110 in the surface. Other numbers and configurations of holes are possible. In another embodiment, rooting media 106 can include slots for positioning, containing, or receiving seeds 112. In another embodiment, rooting media 106 can include up to four slits.

After the seeds 112 are positioned within the holes 110, the seeds may be covered or masked with a variety of materials to prevent the seeds 112 from falling out of the holes 110. In one embodiment, the cover for the aperture 110 may be a biodegradable plug, a biodegradable capWater-permeable adhesives, coconut coir mixed with adhesive materials (e.g. coconut huskPolyvinyl acetate coating, starch hard base), or combinations thereof. The schematic cover 105A is shown in fig. 1 in the form of a cylindrical plug. This is illustrative and not limiting, as various cover types and shapes may be used herein as described. For example, the cover 105A may be tapered or flat. Further, a single cover 105A is shown. It should be appreciated that each aperture 110 may have a cover 105A. In certain embodiments, the cover 105A overlapping each hole 110 may be inserted into the hole 110 to be tucked in a bottle stopper and held in place by friction. In another embodiment, the hole filler, cap or cover 105A may be held in place by an adhesive substance made of a polymer or from a natural product.

In another exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the cover for the holes may be made of coconut flour. The adhesive may be applied using a nozzle such that the coconut powder is penetrated by the adhesive and thereby held in place. The adhesive may be transparent. Cover 105B as shown in fig. 2 can cover a substantial portion of the upper surface of rooting media 106B. Thus, the coconut flour comprising cover 105B may be applied in bulk during assembly of planting system 100. In some embodiments, cover 105B may be applied to each hole 110 individually and then held in place by an adhesive. It should be clear that in fig. 2 only a single seed 112 is shown for illustrative purposes, but like fig. 1 there may be one seed per hole 110. In other embodiments, the cover 105B for the hole 110 may be held in place by mechanical means. In one embodiment, the cover 105B may be a biodegradable plug made from peat, coconut fiber (compressed, uncompressed, screened, coconut chaff and/or coir), peat moss (e.g., peat moss), peat humus, vermiculite, compost, perlite, bark dust, composted bark dust, wood chips, sawdust, mulch, modified corn starch, corn stover, sunflower stems, composted rice hulls, reed sedge peat, composted manure, composted forest products, coffee grounds, composted paper fibers, digested manure fibers, composted tea leaves, bagasse, court compost waste, cotton derivatives, wood ash, bark ash, or biofoam, cookie pellets, botanical byproducts, agricultural byproducts, or combinations thereof, the plug is inserted into a hole 110 having a seed 112. In another embodiment, the aperture cover may be a biodegradable cap made of biofoam, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the aperture cover is made of a natural or synthetic adhesive. Such materials include, for example, guar gum, pine tar, seed flour based, starch based adhesives, biofoam, polyvinyl alcohol, cookie meal, molasses, natural rubber latex, vegetable oil (e.g., neem oil), gelatin, or combinations thereof. As described above, the rooting media 102, cover 102 and/or binder can be composed of and composed of natural or organic materials, such that the final plant or vegetable product made from the pods 100 can be referred to as an organic product. It should be clear that the material and type of covering for the holes 110 may vary and be freely replaced by any material compatible with the basic contents described herein. Thus, the type and composition of the covering used to make the hole should not be limited to that specifically described above.

D. Seeds and other plant parts

It should be clear that the seed pod 100 may be used to grow and germinate a wide range of plants. These plants include, for example, flowers, vegetables, fruits, herbs, grasses, trees, or perennial plant parts (e.g., bulbs, tubers, roots, flowers, stems, etc.) in general. Of course, any plant conceivable by a horticulture engineer may be employed within the seed pod 100 according to the illustrative embodiment. Although not specifically listed, the types of plant seeds 112 that may be contained within the pod 100 are tomatoes spheroids, tomatoes cherries, tomatoes in roman, melons, honeydew, peppers, sweet peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, cucumber, squash, pumpkin, basil, caraway, dill, thyme, wild soybean, loose-leaf lettuce, shea butter, lettuce, spinach, garden spinach, pea trap, oregano, thyme, mint, white radish, eggplant, cauliflower, kale, bok choy, leek, zinnia, sunflower, tagetes, red radish, corn, beets, burdock, white radish, swiss chard, fennel, marjoram, or combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, each pod 100 may include one or more seeds. As described herein, seeds 112 are placed into holes 110 of rooting media 106. According to an exemplary embodiment, one seed 112 may be placed within each hole 110.

In another embodiment, the seeds 112 may be coated with various pesticides that can help prolong the life of the seeds 112. These coatings may help prevent dehydration of the seeds 112 and/or provide protection from various other negative effects. These coatings may include, for example, bactericides, insecticides, biocides, coatings that promote water absorption and retention, or any other pesticide generally known in the art. In one embodiment, the pesticide may be an organic or naturally derived formulation that is safe to the environment and helps to obtain organic product certification. In one embodiment, the seeds may be coated with a fertilizer or a fertilizer application agent. One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that a variety of different types of fertilizers or fertilisers may be applied to the seeds and their types are generally known in the art. In another embodiment, the seeds may be coated with a formulation that aids in seed pelleting (e.g., limestone, talc, clay, cellulose, or starch), which results in a more consistent seed product.

Seed depth can be a key factor for optimal seed germination. The illustrative embodiments simplify this process by providing a pod 100 that positions the seeds 112 at the proper depth for consistent seed germination. Thus, in one embodiment, the seeds 112 are located at a depth of about 0.125 inches to about 3 inches below the planting surface. In another embodiment, the seeds 112 are located at a depth of about 0.125 inches to about 3 inches below the top of the pod 100. In another embodiment, the seeds 112 are positioned at a depth of about 0.125 inches to about 0.750 inches below the top of the rooting media 106. As described above, the flange 116 may provide assistance in properly inserting the pod 100 to the correct depth within the surface.

E. Fertilisers and nutrients

It should be appreciated that any type of fertilizer 118 may be used in the illustrative embodiments. It is generally understood that fertilizers, fertilizer ingredients, nutrients and/or micronutrients are ingredients that include food for plants. Common components in fertilizer 118 include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (also known as NPK), but the fertilizer is not limited to the foregoing. Other components that may be included in the fertilizer 118 include anhydrous ammonia, urea, methylene urea, IBDU, ammonium nitrate, calcium sulfate, ammonium sulfate, diammonium phosphate (also known as DAP), monoammonium phosphate (MAP), tetrapotassium pyrophosphate (TKPP), potassium chloride, potassium nitrate, potassium carbonate dried over magnesium sulfate, triple superphosphate, or combinations or derivatives thereof. Other supplementary nutrients may also be included, such as iron, copper, zinc, manganese, boron, molybdenum. These fertilizers 118 can be from a variety of commercial suppliers. Like other portions of the pod 100, the fertilizer 118 may be derived from natural or organic sources, such that products created and/or produced from the pod 100 may be identified and/or classified as organic materials.

The fertilizer or nutrient 118 may also be coated with various coating materials that affect the release rate of the fertilizer or nutrient. They are generally referred to as "controlled release" nutrients. Common types include, in general, Osmocote. Methods of making different types of controlled release nutrients are described in, for example, U.S. patent 3,223,518; 3,576,613, respectively; 4,019,890, respectively; 4,549,897 and 5,186,732 are known in the art and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

In another embodiment, seed pod 100 may additionally include other bioactive components. These active ingredients may be added to control pests or diseases and/or to promote plant growth. As such, the pod 100 may include bioactive components in addition to the fertilizer 118. These bioactive components may include cytokines, natural hormones, bactericides, insecticides, pheromones, biostimulants, acaricides, miticides, nematicides, or combinations thereof. It should be clear that the possible list of cytokines, natural hormones, bactericides, insecticides, pheromones, biostimulants, acaricides, scabicides, nematicides, or combinations thereof presented herein is not exclusive and other ingredients generally known in the art may be freely added to the seed pod 100.

In one embodiment, the insecticide may include one or more of the following: permethrin, bifenthrin, acetamiprid, carbaryl, imidacloprid, acephate, resmethrin and dimethyl acetyl; acetamidine, N- { (6-chloro-3-pyridyl) methyl } -N' -cyano-N-methyl-, (E) - (9Cl) (CA index name); hydrazinecarboxylic acid, 2- (4-methoxy {1,1' -biphenyl } -3-yl) -, 1-methylethyl ester (9Cl) (CA index name); methyl {1,1' -biphenyl } -3-YL) methyl 3- (2-chloro-3, 3, 3-trifluoro-1-propenyl) -2, 2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid, [1a,3a- (Z) ] - (+/-) -2-methyl [1,1' -biphenyl ] -3-yl) methyl 3 (2-chloro-3, 3, 3-trifluoro-1-propenyl) -2, 2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid naphthyl-N-methylcarbamic acid, pyrrole-3-carbonitrile, 4-bromo-2- (4-chlorophenyl) -1- (ethoxymethyl) -5- (trifluoromethyl); chloro- α - (1-methylethyl) phenylacetic acid, cyano (3-phenoxyphenyl) methyl ester amino-1- (2, 6-dichloro-4- (trifluoromethyl) phenyl) -4- (1, R, S) - (trifluoromethyl) sulfinyl) -1H-pyrazole-3-carbonitrile; benzoic acid, 4-chloro-, 2-benzoyl-2- (1, 1-dimethylethyl) hydrazine (9Cl) (CA index name); pyrethrin; deoxy-2, 3, 4-tri-o-methyl- α -L-mannopyranose) oxy) -13- { {5- (dimethylamino) tetrahydro-methyl-2H-pyran-2-YL } oxy } -9-ethyl-2, 3,3A, 5B,6,9,10,11,12,13,14,16A, 16B-tetradecahydro-14-methyl-1H-as-indaceno {3,2-D } oxocyclododecacin-7, 15-dione; oxadiazine-4-imine, 3 (2-chloro-5-thiazolyl) methyltetrahydro-5-methyl-N-nitro- (9Cl), and the like.

In another embodiment, the germicides used may include chlorothalonil, azinam, triticonazole, azoxystrobin, mancozeb, tetrachloro; ethoxy-3 (trichloromethyl) -1,2, 4-thiadiazole; diclorophenyl) -4-propyl-1, 3-dioxolan-2-yl) methyl) 1,2, 4-triazole; a carbamic acid; 2-1- (4-chlorophenyl) -1H-pyrazol-3-ylmethyl-phenylmethoxy-methyl ester (CAS name); dimethyl ((1, 2-phenylene) bis (iminothiocarbonyl)) bis (benzylcarbamate), and the like.

In another example, the plant growth regulator used may include 1RS,3RS) -1- (4-chlorophenyl) -4, 4-dimethyl-2- (1H-1,2, 4-triazol-1-YL) pentan-3-OL; cyclohexane carboxylic acid; 4- (cyclopropylhydroxymethylene) -3, 5-dioxo-ethyl ester.

In another embodiment, other exemplary bioactive components may be utilized in seed pod 100, including 3-indoleacetic acid; abamectin; acephate; acetamiprid; alpha-cypermethrin; an auxin; (ii) azaconazole; azoxystrobin; beauveria bassiana; benomyl; beta-cyfluthrin; bifenthrin; a borate; borax; boric acid; captan; carbaryl; chlorothalonil; (ii) a Cyhalothrin; deltamethrin; dichlobenil; a phenylate ring; (ii) a Epoxiconazole; fipronil; fosetyl-aluminum; gibberellins; red mould; imidacloprid; indoxacarb; imidazopyr; isosaliphos; lambda-cyhalothrin; lindane; malathion; mancozeb; maneb; metalaxyl; metalaxyl-M; metaldehyde; myclobutanil; paclobutrazol; permethrin; picoxystrobin; pyraclostrobin (ll); pyrethrin; a spinosyn; streptomycete griseoviridin; sulfur; tebuconazole; tefluthrin; (ii) a Trichoderma harzianum; trifloxystrobin; trinexapac-ethyl; a urea herbicide; verticillium dahliae; verticillium lecanii; a cycloheximide; hydrogen peroxide; silver thiosulfate; zineb; zinc oxide, and the like. Like other components of the pod 100, the fertilizer, nutrient, additive, or bioactive component may be derived from natural or organic sources, such that products created and/or produced from the pod 100 may be identified and/or classified as organic materials.

According to an exemplary embodiment, fertilizer or nutrients 118 may be placed on the bottom of the housing 114 within the housing. It should be clear that fertilizer 118 will provide nutrients to the seeds through absorption through rooting media 106. Various different types of fertilizer 118 may be used at the bottom of seed pod 100. These fertilizers may include controlled release fertilizers, timed release fertilizers, water soluble fertilizers, coated fertilizers, uncoated fertilizers, or no fertilizers at all. In one embodiment, fertilizer 118 is moldedShaped or formed particles, loose particles, or combinations thereof. In another embodiment, fertilizer 118 may be moldedOr looseIn one embodiment, fertilizer or nutrient may be applied directly to the seed.

In another embodiment, fertilizer 118 located within pod 100 may be located at the bottom of shell 114, mixed with rooting media 106, or a combination of such arrangements. In another embodiment, fertilizer 118 may additionally include supplemental nutrients (e.g., sulfur, calcium, or magnesium) and/or micronutrients, wherein such nutrients are common and generally known and understood in the art. In another embodiment, fertilizer 118 may be incorporated and inserted into the housing 114 of the seed pod 100. In another embodiment, fertilizer 118 may be located within housing 114 of pod 100. In another embodiment, fertilizer 118 may be attached to the exterior of housing 114.

Is a mixture of NPK. In one embodiment, the NPK is placed in the bottom of the seed pod 100. NPK may be in any proportion. In one embodiment, the nitrogen in the NPK may be in the range of 1 to 18, the phosphorus in the NPK may be in the range of 1 to 6, and the potassium in the NPK may be in the range of 1 to 12, or they may be in any fractional or integer range. In other embodiments, the ratio of NPK may be 1-1-1, 3-1-2, 1-2-1, 1-3-1, 4-1-2, 2-1-1, or 18-6-12. In another embodiment, the ratio of NPK is 3-1-2. It will be appreciated that other ratios of NPK may be substituted depending on the nutrient requirements of the particular plant being grown. The total amount of fertilizer 118 located at the bottom of the seed pod 100 may be in the range of about 1 to 5 grams. In one embodiment, fertilizer 118 is 3 grams of Osmocote 18-6-12. In another embodiment, fertilizer 118 is located within seed pod 100 andand/or the nutrient 118 is supplied for a period of time sufficient to last from about 1 to 100 days. In one embodiment, the amount of fertilizer 118 and/or nutrient 118 present is sufficient for a period of about 30 days.

F. Cover

The contents of the seed pod 100 should be protected during storage and transport of the seed pod 100. This may be accomplished by employing a cap or cover 102, as shown, for example, in fig. 7 and 8. Various embodiments of the cover 102 are possible. For example, the cover 102 may be a removable cover that the end user may remove before or after implanting the pod 100. In another embodiment, the cover 102 may be a biodegradable cover that may or may not be removed after the pod 100 is placed into the planting surface. The cover 102 may be a flange 16 secured to the housing 114 by an adhesive. The adhesive may be a natural or synthetic adhesive. In one embodiment, if the cover 102 is removed from the seed pod 100, the act of removing the cover 102 will cause all or most of the adhesive material to be removed.

Various materials may be used to fabricate the cover 102. In one embodiment, the cover 102 is a removable or biodegradable cover. The cover 102 may be made of a material including, but not limited to, paper, cardboard, a fibrous matrix, a biofilm, a polymeric matrix, a plastic, aluminum, polyvinyl alcohol, polypropylene, starch, a paraffin-based material, or a combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the cover 102 provides printed instructions to the user for implanting the pod 100. In another embodiment, the cover 102 provides a plant identification indicia such that when the seed pod 100 is implanted, the indicia indicates the type of seed pod 112 that is implanted. In another embodiment, one or more covers 102 may be provided on the pod 100.

In another embodiment, the cover 102 may include a layer structure 104 that allows a user to peel back one layer 104A while keeping the seed pod 100 sealed to reveal a second layer 104B that contains printed instructions or plant identification indicia for implanting the seed pod 100.

G. Seed pod external member

Fig. 27 to 32 show exemplary embodiments 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E and 120F of the carrier bracket 120. The carrier 120 provides for the proper placement of the pods 100 in the planting surface at a prescribed or predetermined distance. According to an exemplary embodiment, the seed pods 100 may be sold and packaged individually or combined into a pod kit that includes a plurality of same or different types of seed pods (e.g., including different seed types). The kit or package may include templates, trays, carrier trays, or folds to generally provide for the placement of a pod at a suitable distance within the planting surface. The carrier tray may be made of cardboard or other suitable material. Thus, in one embodiment, the carrier tray holding the seed pods is particularly adapted to hold one or more seed pods 100. The carrier bracket may also include a handle, a guide, and/or a measuring device or scale. In one embodiment, the carrier tray may be mounted to a surface to provide guidance for the placement of the pod 100. In fig. 27 to 32, schematic views of the carrier brackets 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E and 120F can be seen. The measuring device or scale may provide a suitable distance between the seed pods 100 to be pushed into the surface. The measuring device may be incorporated into a carrying bracket.

H. Method for planting and growing seeds

The illustrative embodiments envision various methods of utilizing the pod 100. In one embodiment, a method of growing a plant is used that includes growing a plant growing system and watering the plant growing system. This approach contemplates growing the seeds 112 so that the germinated seeds can be subsequently transplanted. In another embodiment, a method of planting includes pressing plant pods 100 into a surface without digging holes and watering the pressed plant pods 100. In another embodiment, planting the seed pod 100 requires preparing a surface suitable for receiving the seed pod 100.

I. Indoor growth unit

The seed pod may also be paired with an indoor growth unit according to the description above and shown in fig. 33, 42, 43, 44, 46, 50 and 59, for example.

The indoor growth unit 300 may have a rack 304, a light source 302, a base plate 308, one or more growth containers 310, one or more bells or lids 312 for covering the growth containers 310, one or more pods 314 fitted within the growth containers 310, and a water reservoir 318. The unit is designed to incorporate these elements into a compact structure suitable for placement on a kitchen counter. For example, the system may be placed on a kitchen counter below the top counter so that the most accessible work surface is not available.

The indoor growing unit 300 is designed to grow from seeds indoors, for example, in a consumer's house. The plants may begin growing within the unit 300 and then be transplanted outdoors, or may grow directly into harvest. For example, plants suitable for transplantation include tomatoes and peppers, while plants that can be grown for harvest include green leaf vegetables for salads and herbs. The cell 300 is designed to function with a pod 100 as described above, and according to an exemplary embodiment may also be used with seeds 112, such as common vegetable seeds, which may also be planted directly within the cell into a suitable growth medium of a growth vessel 310. The indoor growing unit 300 is configured such that the pods 100 described above can be placed into the pod holders 314 or the seeds 112 can be placed in the growth containers 310 directly into a suitable growing medium, such as soil, and then the plant seeds 112 can be germinated and grown using the integrated light source 302 and water reservoir 318. It should be appreciated that the pods 100 or seeds 112 may be placed directly into the growth medium 310.

The indoor growing unit 300 is designed to be modular and transportable. For example, the base plate 308, along with the water reservoir 318, growth container 310, and pod 314, may be removed from the rack 304 and lighting unit 302 for shipping and/or use. For example, the substrate 308 may be used outdoors as a self-watering growth unit. In outdoor use, the light source 302 is not required. Additionally, the base plate 308 and/or growth container 310 may be employed externally with or without the pod 314 to condition the freshly germinated seedling to temperature and sunlight for transplantation. In addition, this modularity allows for removal of either substrate 308 or individual growth containers 310 for easy access to the harvested plants. For example, easier access to harvested plants such as lettuce and herbs can be provided by such modularity. Each growth vessel 310 is covered with a bell jar or cover 312. According to an exemplary embodiment, the bell jar 312 is transparent and provides a means to retain moisture (e.g., maintain humidity) and heat within the growth container 310 to facilitate a favorable growing environment for the seeds 112 within the seed pod 100 or implanted directly into the growth container 310.

The unit 300 has a light emitting unit 302 attached to a bracket 304 by a stud assembly 306. The light emitting unit 302 is removably mounted to the post assembly 306. The post assembly 306 is removably matable with the bracket 304. The holder 304 may have a channel 326 that may be used to contain decorative elements or to provide additional storage space. For example, the groove 326 may be filled with rocks or other items such as extra pods or harvest shears. Alternatively, the bracket 304 may be devoid of the groove 326. The channel 326 may have a closed configuration that precludes the placement of rocks or other items therein. The unit 300 may be made primarily of plastic such as ABS. Alternative embodiments may be made of other durable materials such as metal or combinations of materials such as metal and plastic.

The support or base 304 of the in-house growth unit includes a base plate 308, a water reservoir 318, one or more growth containers 310, and one or more pods 308 within the growth containers 310. Growth vessel 310 and reservoir 318 may be closely fitted to base plate 308 to further minimize light exposure to the water within base plate 308 to help prevent algae growth. For example, three growth vessels 310 are provided. Each growth container 310 may be configured to contain a plurality of seed pods 100 utilizing pod holders 314. For example, the pod holder 314 may be configured to contain up to six pods 100. Both the growth container 310 and the pod holder 314 are removable. A moisture indicator may be used. A moisture indicator may be placed into one or more seed pods or soil of growth vessel 310 (depending on the manner in which the cell is constructed) to indicate the degree of moisture that may provide the water status of the cell.

The indoor growth unit 300 may be configured to be assembled without tools and the parts are easily snapped together and separated from each other. After the transplant or harvest has been completed, the entire system can be disassembled for cleaning. For example, the substrate 308, pod 314, and growth vessel 310 may be cleaned and reused for the next growth cycle to prevent contamination. Portions of the indoor growth unit 310, such as the base 308, pod holders 314, and growth container 310, may be dishwasher safe.

The in-chamber growth unit 310 has a substrate 308. The base 308 is configured to fit over the inner two tabs 324 of the bracket 304 as shown in fig. 39, which fig. 33 shows this overall configuration and fig. 34 shows the bracket 304 with the inner two tabs 324. Base plate 308 is configured to receive at least one growth vessel 310. According to an exemplary embodiment, three growth vessels 310 may be used with substrate 308. Each growth vessel 310 may have a lid or growth cap 312. As shown in fig. 36, cover 312 may be transparent. Cover 312 may be made of plastic or other suitable material. A pod tray 314 may be disposed within each growth vessel 310. The pod holder 314 may be configured to hold a plurality of seed pods. For example, each pod tray may hold up to six seed pods 100. The base 308 has a water reservoir or reservoir 318. It should be appreciated that each growth vessel 310, each lid 312, each pod 314, and the water reservoir 318 may be removed from the base plate 308.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the indoor growth unit 300 is designed to meet plant physiological requirements and may have two T-5 light fixtures located within the light emitting unit 302 that provide suitable light quality and amount for optimal plant growth. The light fixture is programmable to operate for a specific length of time without the need to manually turn the light fixture on/off. For example, the light fixture may be operated for 16 hours per day with a period of rest at night to support the need for plant photosynthesis and respiration. The light shade is adjustable to allow the light fixture to be easily moved into position over the growing part or plant crown to create optimal growing conditions.

The light emitting unit 302 can be moved on the post assembly 306 so that the vertical height of the light emitting unit 302 is adjustable. For example, the lighting unit 302 may be adjusted using a ratchet-type system. Furthermore, the light emitting unit 302 may be moved along other axes to allow positioning of the light emitting unit 302. The light emitting unit 302 has one or more light sources on its lower side. The light source may be a light bulb or tube, as will occur to those skilled in the art. The lighting unit 302 may accommodate different types of light sources such as fluorescent lamps, LEDs, halogen lamps, and incandescent lamps. Specialized agricultural and/or horticultural light fixtures may be used. For example, the lighting unit may have two luminaires that are growth luminaires that provide full spectrum illumination at appropriate temperatures to support plant growth. The two light fixtures may have a suitable color temperature for plant growth. For example, the light fixture may be a T5HO light fixture from sunblast, inc. According to an exemplary embodiment, the luminaire may be 24 watt and have a color temperature of 6400K. In some embodiments, other types of light fixtures operating at other wattages and color temperatures may be used. For example, lamps of type 2700K or 10000K T5 may be used. The light used in the lighting unit 302 may be a white light lamp, but it should be clear that other colored lamps may be used as desired.

The light emitting unit 302 may have one or more reflective mirrors. The mirrors may be made of plastic and may be lined with a reflective material such as a Mylar material. The reflector may be configured to mimic the curvature of a T-5 bulb, efficiently reflecting the light of the lamp down toward the growth vessel. For example, the light emitting unit 302 may have two mirrors, one mirror for each of the two bulbs. For example, a T5HO nanotech mirror from sunblast, inc. It should be clear that other types of mirrors may be used.

The light emitting unit 302 may be energized by a power source. For example, the lighting unit 302 may have a power cord (not shown) that may be contained within a cradle and/or post assembly for plugging into an outlet. The lighting unit may employ a mechanism such as an electronic or mechanical timer to automatically program the on/off illumination time.

The light emitting unit 302 has a cover portion 303 enclosing the luminaire. The hood portion 303 may be adjusted by tilting the hood 303 up and sliding it up and down along the neck 306. Neck 306 has a groove that allows shroud 303 to be secured in place at a desired height. Alternatively, a different adjustment mechanism may be used. For example, friction pads may use gravity to hold the cover 302 at a desired height. Alternatively, tightening screws or knobs or series of pegs and holes may be used to fix the light fixture at a desired height.

The in-growth unit 300 also has a water reservoir 318 that provides a constant water level for moisture wicking from the growth medium or seed pod 100. The water reservoir 318 is included to provide a barrier isolating the light source and is positioned away from the light source for added safety. The reservoir 318 is designed to contain a quantity of water that is dispensed from the reservoir through a cap (not shown) that covers the opening 319. The cap may have a spring-loaded outlet or valve that is actuated when the water reservoir is placed into the base. Water is dispensed directly into the substrate. The reservoir 318 is configured to flow water from the reservoir 318 to maintain a particular water depth in the base of the indoor growing unit. For example, the water depth may be located at 1/2 inches. This water level allows moisture to be drawn up when the growing medium or seed pod requires it, helping to address the problem of over or under watering consumers. The water reservoir 318 also allows the consumer to spend less time watering and have a longer amount of time between each watering. The reservoir 318 can be removed from the unit 300 and refilled by the user and then placed back into the unit without the consumer having to move the entire unit or bring water to the unit to refill the reservoir 318. To refill the reservoir 318, water is filled through a removable cap and then water can be filled into the opening 319. The reservoir 318 is also designed not to leak or spill after filling, and water will only drain from the reservoir after the reservoir is placed in the growth cell and the cap is actuated. The water reservoir 318 may be opaque (e.g., as shown in FIG. 50 (water reservoir 2119) or the material of the water reservoir may contain additives that block or minimize light from reaching the water, thus helping to prevent algae growth. the water reservoir 318 may be transparent (water reservoir 2118), e.g., as shown in FIG. 49. the water reservoir 318 may employ a visual water level indicator to allow visual inspection of the water reservoir's water level.

The water reservoir 318 may have an opening or inlet 319 (see, e.g., fig. 41). A cap (not shown) may be used to close the opening 319 and provide flow control for water draining from the reservoir. The cap may have a spring-loaded valve to allow water to drain from the reservoir 318 into the base plate 308. The spring loaded valve may provide flow metering for water discharge. The spring-loaded valve may be actuated by contact with a circular protrusion 332 on the base plate 308. The cap may be attached to the water reservoir 318 by a threaded connection as shown.

The indoor growth unit is designed to be modular and has a specific number of growth containers 310. For example, the indoor growth unit may have a maximum of three growth containers 310. It should be clear that other numbers of growth vessels 310 are possible. It should be clear that these growth vessels 310 may alternatively be growth carriers. Each growth vessel 310 may contain a pod holder 314. This modular design provides flexibility for different growth structures. For example, one growth container 310 may be used to initiate a transplant with a pod while the other two growth containers 310 may be used to grow the herbs to be harvested within the growth medium using the seed pod or seed. The growth container 310 is deep enough in size to provide sufficient growth media for healthy root growth and development and the growth space is optimized for growing plants for harvesting or transport. Growth vessel 310 is rectangular with two hollow pedestals 332. According to an exemplary embodiment, each growth vessel 310 may have six hollow holders 332 with holes in their bottom that allow water to enter the holders. Through these holes, the water is allowed to come into direct contact with the seed pod or growth medium. By this contact, capillary action may be established to allow water to provide moisture to the seed pod or growth medium supporting the germination and growth of the plant. It should be appreciated that each of the six hollow standoffs 322 may be covered by a permeable or semi-permeable mesh to prevent the growth medium from exiting through the openings, but still allow water to wick from the base plate 308 to the growth medium within the growth vessel 310.

To support graft growth, a pod 314 may be employed, wherein the pod simplifies the grafting experience. The pod holder 314 is designed to receive and hold a plurality of seed pods. For example, each tray may hold up to six seed pods. The pod holder 314 suspends the seed pod without growth media within the growth container 310 and allows the top of the pod to contact the water located at the bottom of the growth container 310 through the holes in the bottom of the cradle foot 322, as described above. The pod holder 314 is supported within the growth vessel 310 by a flange 336 configured to seat against an inner lip 338 of the growth vessel 310. In order for the top of the pod to be properly exposed to water, the pod holder 314 is thus suspended at a predetermined height by resting on an internal lip 338 around the inner periphery of the growth container 310. In addition, the opening in the bottom of the pod allows for proper water uptake and root growth, while the tray itself maintains the pod shape. The seed pod can be easily pushed out of the holes in the base by the pod holder to release the seed pod for transplantation in another container or garden.

To support growth for harvesting, growth vessel 310 may be used without pod 314 and filled with growth medium. Growth medium fills growth vessel 310 and the growth medium communicates with the water in base plate 308 through holes in the bottom of each holder. The seed pod may be implanted directly into the growth medium. Alternatively, the seeds may also be implanted directly into the growth medium within growth vessel 310.

Each growth vessel 310 has a cover or bell 312. Cover 312 is designed to maintain heat and moisture within growth vessel 310, as having a warm and humid environment can increase the speed of germination. Cover 312 has a plurality of vents along the sides and top that allow for the venting of excess heat and moisture.

The base 308 has a set of raised projections 328. These raised projections 328 support the underside of the growth containers 310 to provide proper placement of each growth container, and may be used to support the bottom surface of the growth container, suspending the growth container at an optimal height for the soil or seed pod top to interact with the water contained within the base plate 308.

Alternatively, raised projections 328 may mate with standoffs 322 of each growth vessel 310 to provide proper placement and secure growth vessels 310. The base 308 may also have a raised portion 330 that receives the inner protrusion 324 of the bracket 304. The base plate 308 has a circular protrusion 332 configured to actuate a valve in the cap of the reservoir as described above.

It should be clear that the unit may be portable and may be moved without disassembly. Alternatively, the base plate 308, along with any growth vessels 310 and water reservoir 318, may be moved. For example, the substrate 308 and its contents may be moved to an external location where the holder and light emitting unit are not needed.

It will also be understood that the positioning and construction of the various components are schematic. Variations in structure, size, shape, and positioning are possible. In some embodiments, the indoor growing unit 300 may be devoid of the water reservoir 318, the pod 314, and the cover 312. In these embodiments, for example, water may be added directly to the substrate 308.

For example, fig. 42 shows an indoor unit 1800 according to an exemplary embodiment having a different structure than the unit 300, e.g., having a water reservoir 1818 located at the rear of the unit. This and other differences can also be seen in fig. 42. Unit 1800 is also shown without cover 312 (although such a cover may be included). Fig. 43 shows another illustrative embodiment 1990 with a transparent water reservoir 1918 located at the rear of the unit. It should be appreciated that the reservoir 318 may be transparent, as described above. Unit 1900 is also shown without cover 312 (although such a cover may be included). Fig. 44 shows another illustrative embodiment 2000 having similar parts as the other embodiments. Fig. 45-54 illustrate another exemplary embodiment 2100 that employs a capillary pad structure to provide capillary action of water between the base unit and the seed pod. Figures 59 through 62 illustrate another exemplary embodiment without a separate water tank and with a partition structure for supporting seed pods within the growth vessel.

It should be clear, however, that the various embodiments of the indoor growth units shown herein may also include different features as described above for the indoor unit 300, such that such features are not described below. The description of the various embodiments of the indoor growth unit can focus on the differences and other features of each embodiment. For example, each of the different indoor growth unit embodiments may include a light fixture and associated reflector as described above. In some embodiments, the features may be modified or structurally different, but perform the same or similar functions as described above for the indoor unit 300. For example, different types of lights and/or reflectors may be used or different types of watering systems may be used.

Fig. 42 shows an indoor growth unit 1800 according to an exemplary embodiment. Unit 1800 has a light emitting unit 1802 attached to a bracket 1804 by a post assembly 1806. Light emitting unit 1802 is removably mounted to upright assembly 1806. Post assembly 1806 is removably mated with bracket 1804. The bracket 1804 may have channels 1805 that may be used to contain decorative elements or to provide increased storage space. For example, the trench 1805 may be filled with rocks or other items such as extra pods or harvest shears. Alternatively, the bracket 1804 may lack the channel 1805.

The chamber growth unit 1800 has a substrate 1808. The substrate 1808 is configured to receive at least one growth vessel 1810. According to an exemplary embodiment, three growth vessels 1810 may be used with substrate 1808. Each growth vessel 1810 may have a cover or growth cap (not shown). A pod tray may be located within each growth vessel 1810. The pod holder may be configured to hold a plurality of seed pods as described above. For example, each pod tray may hold up to six seed pods. The base plate 1808 has a water reservoir or reservoir 1818. It should be clear that each growth container 1810, each lid, each pod, and each water reservoir 1818 can be removed from the base plate 1808.

The water reservoir 1818 may have a water level indicator (not shown). The water level indicator indicates the water level within the water reservoir. The water level indicator may be transparent or opaque. The indicator may be a float type indicator. It should be clear that other water level indicators may be used.

Additional exemplary embodiments of indoor units such as indoor units 1900 and 2000, as described above, are shown in fig. 43 through 44. These indoor units have similar features to the indoor unit 1800, and similar structure is identified by similar reference numerals, with the prefix "18" replaced by "19" or "20".

Fig. 45 to 54 show an indoor unit 2100. The indoor unit 2100 is shown with a capillary pad 2122 that is held in place in the bottom of the growth vessel 2110 by a holding bar 2124. The capillary pads 2122 and securing posts 2124 may be located in each growth vessel 2110 or in a group of growth vessels. Capillary pad 2122 may be made of a material suitable for absorbing and wicking water. The capillary pad 2122 may be reused for multiple growing seasons or using the unit 2100. Capillary pad 2122 may have a certain lifetime after which it needs to be replaced. Capillary pad 2122 may be rectangular in shape, configured such that a middle portion is depressed or folded downward. This fold allows a securing bar 2124 to be placed into the fold to secure and press the capillary pad down into growth vessel 2110. Growth container 2110 can have a slot or other opening in its base to allow capillary pad 2122 with securing stem 2124 to extend through the base of the growth container. In this way, capillary pad 2122 may be placed in contact with the water within base 2108. Through this contact, water can be wicked or otherwise caused to migrate from the base 2108, through the capillary pad 2122, to the growth medium or seed pod holder 314 in which the seed pods or seeds are implanted within the growth container 2110. The seed pod 2114 may rest on the capillary pad 2122 while the capillary pad is in the growth container 2110. The pod 100 located in the pod holder 2114 may then access the water through this contact. The seed pod sits within the seed pod holder 2114 and its bottom may allow for such contact. The unit 2100 may have a water reservoir 2118. The water reservoir 2118 may be transparent. In some embodiments, the reservoir 2119 may be opaque as shown in fig. 50. The reservoir may have an opening 2121. Opening 2121 may contain a cap or valve (not shown). The cap or valve may be removed to facilitate filling of the reservoir. The cap or valve may be a one-way flow device to allow water to drain from the opening 2121. The water reservoir 2118 or 2119 may have a visual indicator 2120 to visually indicate the water level in the reservoir. The visual indicator 2120 may be a float-type indicator. It should be clear that other types of indicators may be used.

Fig. 51 shows a cross-sectional view of growth container 2110 and pod 2114. Capillary pad 2122 is shown with a stationary stem 2124. An opening or slot 2126 is shown through which capillary pad 2122 and fixation rod 2124 extend into base 2108. An opening 2128 at the base of the pod tray 2124 contacts the capillary pad 2124. A seed pod (not shown) may be placed within the pod holder. According to an exemplary embodiment, the bottom of the seed pod cone seat may extend into the opening 2128 and contact the capillary pad. Fig. 52 provides another view of the components shown in fig. 51. The capillary pad 2122 is shown in an expanded state 2122'.

Fig. 49 and 50 illustrate another embodiment for use with a growth carrier 2100. A seed pod 100 (shown only with the housing 114 in cross-section) is located within the pod 2114. As shown in FIG. 51, the bottom conical seat portion of the pod extends into the opening 2128. The bridge 2132 is located in the opening 2128 between the top of the cone seat and the capillary pad 2122. The bridge 2132 helps to wick water from the capillary pad 2122 to the pod 2130. Bridge 2132 may be made of a suitable material that aids in water wicking. Water can wick through the bridge 2132 to the pod 2130. The bridge 2132 may have an open central portion, as shown in fig. 53, or the bridge 2132 may be a closed structure. As shown in fig. 53, a plurality of bridges 2132 may be used under each opening of the pod 2114.

Fig. 59 to 62 illustrate an indoor growth unit 2200 according to an exemplary embodiment. Unit 2200 has a light emitting unit 2202 attached to a support 2204 by a post assembly 2206. The light unit 2202 is removably mounted to the column assembly 2206. Upright assembly 2206 is removably mated with bracket 2204. The mount 2204 may be closed and free of any channel structure.

The indoor growth unit 2200 has a substrate 2208. The base plate 2208 removably mates with the mount 2204. The substrate 2208 is configured to receive at least one growth vessel 2210. According to an exemplary embodiment, three growth vessels 2210 may be used for the substrate 2208 as shown. Within each growth vessel 2210 may be structures that accommodate a plurality of seed pods 2216. For example, up to six seed pods may be contained within each growth vessel. Pod 2216 may be any embodiment of a pod as depicted in the figures. For example, seed pod 2216 may be seed pod 100 as described above. Each growth vessel 2210 may be removed from substrate 2208.

Within each growth vessel 2210 may be a plurality of pod-holding elements. Such a structure may include a top 2112 and a pod divider 2214. The pod dividers 2214 may provide support for the top 2212 and may serve as dividers for each variety of pods 2216. In fig. 60, it should be clear that only the housing portion of the seed pod 2126 is shown. The top 2212 is removed and a seed pod is placed into the pod divider 2214. According to an exemplary embodiment, growth media, such as, but not limited to, soil, may be added to the contents of growth container 2210, which is done before pod 2216 is placed and after top cap 2212 is removed. After the growth medium has been filled, one or more seed pods 2216 may be inserted into the growth medium. Pod dividers 2214 may be used to provide dividers for seed pods 2216 to provide suitable spacing and placement of each seed pod 2216. The growth media may provide support for each seed pod 2216. The top cap 2212 may be replaced after pod insertion. The top cap 2212 may be used to protect the seed pods and prevent foreign objects or materials from entering the growth container 2210.

In some embodiments, the top portion 2212 can have an opening 2228 through which each seed pod 2216 can be inserted without removing the top portion 2212. In other embodiments, the growth medium may be filled through these openings.

The top portion 2212 may have two halves 2220A and 2220B, as shown in fig. 61. The two halves may be divided along section 2222. For example, the top portion 2212 may be perforated to allow moisture and air to permeate through the upper surface of the top portion. The top portion 2212 may be made of a suitable material. For example, top 2212 may be made of plastic. The two halves 2220A and 2220B may allow removal of the top cap 2212 when any plants have germinated and grown and need to be removed from the growth container 2210. The halves allow such removal without damaging or interfering with any plant growth.

For example, the growth vessel 2210 may have a bottom structure as shown in FIG. 38. Thus, the bottom structure of the growth container 2210 may have a hollow seat 322. Each growth container 2210 may have six hollow seats 322 with holes in their bottom that allow water to enter the seats. Through these holes, the water is allowed to come into direct contact with the seed pod or the growth medium. By this contact, capillary action may be established to allow the water tank to seed the pods or growth media supporting the germination and growth of the plants to provide moisture. According to an exemplary embodiment, as described above, growth container 2210 may be filled with a growth medium such as, but not limited to, soil. The growth media may fill the volume of the growth container 2210 including each hollow seat 322. The water in the internal volume 2209 of the base unit 2208 is then wicked into the growth vessel and eventually into contact with each seed pod 2216.

The in-growth unit 2200 may not have a separate water reservoir. The water required for pod growth may be provided by the internal volume 2209 of the base unit 2208. For example, water may be added directly to the inner volume 2209. Water may be added through the scalloped portion 2224. Two scalloped portions 2224 may be provided according to an exemplary embodiment. The two raised projections 2226 may serve as water level indicators to provide a visual reference with respect to the water level in the interior volume 2209. For example, as shown in fig. 62, the raised projections 2226 may be seen from the exterior of the unit 2200 when the growth container 2210 is in place.

In some embodiments, water may be added through one or more openings 2228 through the top cap 2212. The water may then flow downward and excess water may collect in the interior volume 2209. The water level in the inner volume can be observed as indicated above.

A moisture indicator may be used. Moisture indicators may be placed into one or more seed pods 2216 within growth vessel 2210 or into the soil (depending on the manner in which the cell is constructed) to indicate the degree of moisture that may provide an indication of the water status of cell 2200.

The following examples do not limit the illustrative embodiments in any way.

Examples of the invention

A. Example 1

Early experiments found that large, thin-walled nails made from composted and formed cow dung could successfully mature and harvest vegetable plants. In this experiment, the inventors determined that various plant species can also successfully grow in the trigonal acorn seed pods described and shown herein. The inventors have also determined that thicker walled trigonal acorn shaped pods improve the ability of the pod to be pushed into the planting surface.

B. Example 2

In this experiment, the inventors determined that dried compressed cow dung, peat moss, and sugar cane are useful as the outer shell. Lima beans and zucchini grow successfully in each of these materials, and these husks are easily penetrated by the plant root system.

C. Example 3

Early experiments showed that sugarcane-shaped seed pods work well for pumpkin squash, in a coconut fiber filled and controlled release fertilizer (e.g., fertilizer)) Realized when fertilizing. In this experiment, the inventors evaluated the growth of corn, tomatoes, and green plants in a loose medium such as coconut fiber, at various depths of implantation (e.g., fertilizer located under the seed, fertilizer located in the bottom of the conical seat, and fertilizer adjacent to the seed).

The inventors determined the shapeThe placement of the tomato plant does not influence the growth and development of the tomato plant. In beansWith a shape in the base of the conical seatIt is more advantageous for germination in time. For experimental purposes, all treatments were similar in their plant size and amount.

Corn is variable in performance. Shaped under the seed over timeShaped in the base of the conical seatAnd adjacent to the seedSimilar in plant size and mass.

In any case, will be shapedIncluding successful delivery of appropriate nutrients to vegetable plants within cones. The placement in the bottom of the conical seat proves that the germination time is faster.

D. Example 4

This experiment investigated different planting depths in loose media such as coconut coir. Corn, tomato, and mung bean seeds were planted at four depths, including 1/4 inches, 1.5 inches, 3 inches, and the seed supplier's recommended seed depth.

Differences were observed for the first days after germination of legumes and corn, but treatment was immediately attenuated, and differences were statistically the same for the remainder of the trial. The tomato treatment was the same for the entire duration of the trial. A depth of 2 to 3 inches is not detrimental to seed growth and development and gives more flexibility in seed placement. This study demonstrated that a universal seeding depth can be used for vegetable species.

E. Example 5

This experiment investigated the use of shredded coconut fiber or Q-Plug (from IHORT) as a rooting medium for the interior of acorn seed pods.

Germination was statistically equivalent for all treatments and in all species. Only a single lettuce treatment indicated no germination. Other treatments for all species germinated with an average of at least 58%. The differences in plant quality were evident throughout the experiment, increasedIs significantly better than non-fertilization treatments.

F. Example 6

This experiment investigated how the compressed cow dung cone and the rooting media would interact to pull water and the external growth media to provide the appropriate depth of moisture for the benefit of germinating seeds. Each cone was rated in a three depth open tray format using an external growth medium outside the cone. The rooting media in each cone is loose coconut coir or a shaped plug having external ribs and shaped to fit within the cone and comprising shredded coconut coir and bark powder. Bottom only watering is accomplished using the features of the Misco pot with an external water port and an internal doorway for soil to receive water for purposes of capillarity.

1. Materials and methods

As shown in fig. 57, three miscco pots measuring 6 inches by 24 inches by 5 inches deep were filled with shredded coconut coir at different depths. The bottom of the cone base was 0.25, 1.25, and 2.25 inches above the doorway in the bottom of the Misco basin. Two types of seeds are sown into each conical seat; three basils to the left of the awl seat and three pumpkin seeds to the right — both 1/4 inches deep. As a control, the same seed type was implanted directly into the coconut coir base, without the seed pod, at the same depth and stand-off distance as identified by the size of the conical seat. During planting, the prepared conical seat is arranged in a straight line mode to penetrate through the middle of the Misco pot. Each Misco pot contained three conical seats formed by composted and formed cow dung. Three of these seats are filled with loose coir and three are filled with the shaped plug. The three conical seats of each substrate represent three replicates. The direct seeded seed is implanted into the cavity around the conical seat but at least one inch away from the conical seat so that any capillary action caused by the conical seat does not affect the adjacent direct seeded seed. After the cones were seeded and implanted into shredded coconut fiber in the Misco pots, where the final pots would be bottom watered only. In this test, there was no top watering. The basin was monitored daily to confirm that the water level was maintained, particularly when the coconut coir base was being wetted. Throughout the experiment, the germination and development of seedlings were monitored. In particular, triplicate seedlings were counted at emergence and the number counted was divided by 3 to obtain the germination percentage. This ratio was periodically taken during the first few weeks of the test in order to monitor the germination rate due to changing moisture conditions.

As seedlings emerged, they were counted. The counted number was divided by 3 to obtain the% germination. This ratio was taken periodically during the first few weeks of the test, in order to monitor the germination rate due to changing moisture conditions.

Fig. 55 and 56 illustrate sprouting of basil at different planting depths in seed pods comprising loose coconut coir or shaped plugs according to an exemplary embodiment.

Table 1 provides an illustration of the different planting systems used in this experiment

Data from these nine processes were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using ARM version 8.0 (gyling Data Management). If the processing possibilities are significant, measures are isolated with Student Newman-Keuls with P0.05.

2. Results

In a shallowly planted Misco pot, the coconut coir matrix soil was 3.0 inches deep in total, while the bottom of the conical seat was elevated 0.25 inches above the water level. It was observed that the surface of the coconut coir matrix at this 3.0 inch depth continuously had a wetting phenomenon that demonstrated its capillary properties. The exposed edge of the conical seat is also significantly wetter (see fig. 57).

The coconut coir matrix was effectively wicked with moisture by its 3.0 inch profile and provided sufficient moisture for the seeds in the two versions of the conical seat (loose coconut coir filled and formed plug filled) to germinate and for the direct seeded seeds to sprout 7 days post-emergence (DAS). The model remains true for both species in all three ratio data (see fig. 55 and 56).

In a Misco basin of moderate depth, the coconut coir matrix was 4.0 inches deep, with the bottom of the conical seat raised 1.25 inches above the moisture. Unlike the surface of a 3.0 inch deep coconut coir matrix, the 4.0 inch depth does not wet the surface. However, the exposed edges of the cone base indicate that most cone bases are properly wetted due to capillary action (see fig. 57).

At 7DAS, the shaped plug cone seat is the only setting for the basil plant to receive the proper moisture for germination. Basil seeds did not germinate in coconut fiber filled cones or in direct sowing. At 13 and 20 days basil seed germination occurred in the coconut fiber filled conical seat, but not in the direct seeding setting (see fig. 55).

Pumpkin is similar to basil in its response, but the conical seats of both versions provide sufficient moisture to begin pumpkin seed germination at an earlier 7 day schedule. The directly sown plants did not germinate (see fig. 56). This demonstrates the high efficiency of the conical seat to move water against gravity for successful germination of the two species, which cannot be germinated using the traditional direct seeding and seedling method. In this case, the moisture was moved 3.75 inches from the doorway to the seed.

In the deep Misco basin, the coconut coir matrix was 5.0 inches deep, with the bottom of the conical seat raised 2.25 inches above the water level. At this depth, no moisture was visible on the surface of the coconut coir matrix (see FIG. 57). Most of the cones were also wetted based on the appearance of the exposed edges (as in a medium depth Misco pot, one of the three coconut fiber filled cones was free of capillary service water and thus no seeds germinated).

Like the medium depth Misco pots, most basil and squash germinate only if they are contained in the awl holder setting (see FIGS. 56 and 57). Direct seeded planting does not receive the proper moisture for germination. In this case, the appropriate moisture is pulled 4.75 inches to the seed by the benefits of the conical seat and/or loose coconut fiber and/or shaped plug material.

F. Example 7

Various other herbs and vegetables were tested using a similar method as described above. In this example, the nutrient mixture was tested for germination, overall growth, rooting rate, and dry weight of the produced product. The nutrient mixtures tested for NPK were NPK-0.0075-0.0032-0.015 (i.e., F1) and NPK-0.0045-0.0025-0.013 (i.e., F2). These plants include basil, caraway, thyme, dill, dwarf beans, sweet hollandia, spinach, lettuce (scattered leaf lettuce, shea butter lettuce and long leaf lettuce), watermelon, cucumber, zucchini, pumpkin, sweet pepper, (ball and cherry) tomato. The following table provides a summary of the use of pods of the order of F1 and F2NPK in the pods with seeds planted directly into the native soil. The outer shell of the pod was a compressed cow dung cone and the rooting media was a shaped plug comprising shredded coconut coir and bark dust and either F1 or F2 NPK. The following table summarizes the results for the percentage germination (table 2), overall growth (table 3), rooting rate (table 4) and dry weight (table 5) for different seeds.

10 days #

12 days

1. Basil herb

Ocimum basilicum grown in pods produced better emergence 7 days after seedling than when seedlings were grown directly into conditioned local soil. This is possible due to the difficulty of basil seedlings emerging through clay-type soil with high bulk density and the tendency of the surface to encrust after watering. Germination at 19 days indicated no statistical difference between treatments. The dry weight at 6 weeks, growth index and rooting rate indicate that plants grown within the seed pods grew significantly more than those grown directly. In this study, the seed pods provided germination advantages and advantages in terms of overall growth, dry weight accumulation and rooting growth for basil compared to directly planted seeds.

2. Caraway

Vanilla planting behaves similarly when grown from seed pods or when sown directly. The percentage of germination at 7 and 19 days did not differ statistically between treatments. The final dry weight and rooting rate were not statistically different. However, the growth index indicates that the pods grown coriander was significantly larger than the directly sown plants. In summary, vanilla growth was comparable when grown from seeds within the pods or directly sown into local soil.

3. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.)

Thyme responds similarly to three treatments. The 7 and 19 day sprouts did not differ statistically between treatments. The dry weight, rooting rate and growth index also did not differ statistically between treatments. Thyme germination, growth and development are comparable when grown from seeds within a pod or directly sown into local soil.

4. Dill

The dill seed germination was statistically similar for all three treatments at days 10 and 19 post-sowing. Even though the overall growth of the pod dill was significantly greater than that directly sown into the local soil, the dry weights of the three treatments did not differ significantly after two weeks (at the end of the trial). Seed pods tend to have better rooting rates than direct seeding treatments. In summary, the performance of the in-pod dill demonstrated improved growth and development tendencies compared to direct seeding.

5. Short kidney bean

Dwarf beans grown in pods or sown directly had comparable germination rates at 7 and 19 days. Growth indices taken at 4 weeks indicate that significantly larger plants were produced in the middle of F-2 compared to direct seeding control. The F-1 pods did not differ from the direct seeding control. However, by 6 weeks, dry weight and rooting rate showed no significant difference between the three treatments. In summary, legumes grown in pods or local soil have similar germination, dry weight yield, and root growth.

6. Sweet broad pea

Sweet peas within the pods had a better germination propensity than plants sown directly into the local soil. Pods with F-2 fertilizer produced sweet Dutch beans plants with significantly greater dry weight accumulation than pods with F-1 fertilizer or directly sown seeds. The overall growth rooting rates measured at 4 and 6 weeks were statistically similar for all treatments. Overall, sweet pea germination tended to be better within the seed pod, but the subsequent vegetative growth and root growth were quite similar for each of the three treatments.

7. Spinach

Spinach plants had similar germination at 7 and 19 days for all treatments. The growth index taken at 4 weeks indicated that spinach plants grown by direct sowing in the soil tend to have a greater growth rate than those grown in seed pods. However, by 6 weeks, the dry weight and rooting rate shown did not differ significantly between the three treatments. In summary, spinach behaves similarly when grown in seed pods or sown directly into local soil.

8. Lettuce

A number of different lettuce plants were tested in these studies, including loose leaf lettuce, tallowy lettuce and long leaf lettuce. All three varieties of lettuce grown from the seed pod had statistically similar germination results at 7 and 19 days compared to those planted directly into the local soil. The overall growth of lettuce plants for each variety was similar for each treatment, at four weeks. At six weeks, the dry weights for loose leaf and long leaf lettuce showed that the three treatments were not statistically different from each other. However, the dry weight of the beef tallow lettuce showed that the native soil as well as the seed pod with F2 nutrient rating had significantly greater growth results than the plants grown within the seed pod with F1. The rooting rates of loose leaf lettuce, beef tallow lettuce and long leaf lettuce showed no statistical difference between treatments. In summary, all three lettuce plants grown from seeds within the seed pod performed similarly compared to lettuce plants grown in the local soil. One parameter (dry weight of beef tallow lettuce) indicates that F-1 pods are inferior to F-2 pods and local soil control. However, all other beef tallow lettuce evaluations showed no statistical differences between the three treatments.

9. Watermelon

Watermelons behave similarly in both the pod and in the case of direct seeding into local soil. The germination rates were statistically similar for all treatments at 7 and 19 days. The dry weight, rooting rate and overall growth did not differ statistically between treatments. In summary, watermelon planting can start with a pod or direct seed to obtain the same germination rate and plant growth results 6 weeks after seedling.

10. Cucumber

Cucumbers behave similarly in both the pod and the case of direct seeding into local soil. The germination rates were statistically similar for all treatments at 7 and 12 days. There was no statistical difference between treatments in dry weight, rooting rate, and overall growth. In summary, the success rate of growing cucumbers planted in pods or directly sown is very similar.

11. Summer pumpkin (pumpkin)

Zucchini behaves similarly both in the case of pod planting and in the case of direct seeding into local soil. The germination rates were statistically similar for all treatments at 7 and 12 days. The dry weight, rooting rate and overall growth did not differ statistically between treatments. In conclusion, zucchini can grow equally well from seeds using seed pods or when sown directly into local soil.

12. Pumpkin (pumpkin)

Pumpkins behave similarly in both pod and direct seeding to local soil. The germination rates were statistically similar for all treatments at 7 and 12 days. The dry weight, rooting rate and overall growth did not differ statistically between treatments. In summary, pumpkins can grow equally well from seeds using seed pods or when sown directly into local soil.

13. Sweet pepper

Sweet peppers behave similarly in both the pod-planting and direct-seeding into local soil. The germination rates were statistically similar for all treatments at 10 and 19 days. The dry weight, rooting rate and overall growth did not differ statistically between treatments. In summary, sweet peppers perform equally well when planted with the pod system or when sown directly into local soil.

14. Tomato fruit

Two types (cherry and ball) of tomatoes were evaluated in this test. Cherry tomatoes have statistically similar germination rates for all three treatments at 7 and 19 days. Spherical tomatoes sown directly into local soil have better germination results 7 days after sowing than seed pods, but by 19 days there was no statistical difference between treatments. The delay in germination of the spherical tomatoes within the pods cannot be explained. At 4 weeks, the overall growth of the cherry and ball tomato plants was not statistically different compared to the directly sown plants. However, at 6 weeks, the cherry tomato plants within the pods had significantly greater dry weight accumulation than were sown directly into the soil. This is possible because of the increased nutrients in the growth medium within the seed pod. Interestingly, this nutrient advantage is not reflected in the spherical tomato plant. The rooting rates for the two tomato types did not show differences between the treatments. In summary, cherry tomatoes and ball tomatoes behave similarly when grown from seed pods or when sown directly.

While the foregoing description contains details and specific examples, it is understood that they have been included for the purpose of illustration only and are not to be construed as limiting the preferred embodiments. It should be apparent that those skilled in the art can make changes and modifications without departing from the scope of the preferred embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods and systems are not necessarily limited to the specific embodiments described herein. Other embodiments, combinations of these embodiments, and uses and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be regarded in an illustrative manner.

G. Example 8

Such experiments were conducted to determine whether the rooting media and/or the content of the technique in making the rooting media affected the germination of various types of seeds. Seed pods were tested by affecting the type of rooting media in the following manner, (1) coconut shell fiber only; (2) coconut shell fiber and bark powder; (3) coir and peat moss held in place by an x-tack agent (x-tack) and subjected to heat drying; or (4) seeds were placed directly into the planting surface (i.e., without pods) (see table below):

the plug manufacturing process may require the use of a special adhesive known as an x-tack and drying the seed pod in a dryer at high temperatures to remove moisture. The seed pod is seeded with two or three seeds (depending on the seed type and size). Each seed was placed at a depth of 0.25 inches below the surface of the planting area (measured from the top of the seed). As a control, the same number of seeds will be sown directly into the growing area without using a seed pod. All pods and seeds were planted into Fafard 3B professional potting mix (i.e., soil) and placed into 4 "plastic pots filled with the soil, with the edges of all pods level with the surface of the soil. The final pot was watered to allow the soil to settle and establish a water level for seed germination. Observations were made as the seeds germinated and grew. The experiment was terminated at the end of the germination period, which was approximately 3 to 4 weeks after the start. The following species of vegetables/herbs were tested: ocimum basilicum (Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese'), caraway (Coriandrum sativum 'Santo'), dill (Anethum graveolens 'Fernleaf'), beans (Phaseolus vulgaris 'Jade'), Sweet beans (Pisum sativum 'Sugar Bon'), spinach (Spinacia oleracea 'Baker'), loosestrife (Lactuca sativa 'Lola Rosa'), shea Butter (Lactuca sativa 'Butter Crunch'), long-leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa 'Winter', watermelon (Cituus lanatus var. lancifolium ') Sugar' Babyy '), cucumber' savity cherry tomato 'tomato fruit', cucumber 'tomato fruit', cucumber 'tomato fruit', cucumber 'Green', cucumber 'tomato fruit'.

After an experimental period of 3 to 4 weeks, the germination rates for the planted species were compared. The results of the experiment are provided in fig. 58. Seed pods comprising only coir germinate at the same rate as seeds directly placed in the soil. Depending on the seed type, a pod comprising only coconut coir performs similarly or better than a pod comprising both coconut coir and bark powder, with or without an x-tack agent and heat treatment process. Lettuce cultivars have better germination initiation rates in coconut fiber seed pods than coconut fiber and bark meal, with or without x-tack and heat treatment processes.

H. Example 9

Seed pods were used to perform field trials in five locations around the world, including ohio, oregon, florida, france and england. The main objective of this trial was to determine the viability of horticultural vegetables and herbs of different seed types/cultivars in the seed pod system. Germination and early growth are the main parameters evaluated in this test. The success of the pods was based on the comparison of the pod germination rate with that of seeds planted directly into the local soil.

Materials and methods

Each experiment was conducted in a 4.0 foot wide garden row and divided into 4.0 inch sections, where each section equates to one replicate. Each replicate was divided into four 2 foot by 2 foot squares-each square taking one of the four treatments (according to the ground plan in the appendix). Each species will occupy a total of 16 linear feet of the nursery row. A total of 288 linear feet of garden rows would be required for 18 seed types.

Prior to planting, each nursery row (Marysville only) was topped with 3.0 inch Miracle Gro Flower and Vegetable Garden Soil for each nursery and tilled to a depth of 6 inches using a tractor-type roller tiller or similar facility. The pods and seeds are planted in the center of their 2 feet by 2 feet foundation. The pods are planted according to the instructions of the tag so that the pods are pressed into the soil up to the flange. Direct seed control treatments are directly implanted into prepared soil. Large seed species were planted at 0.75 inches depth, and small seed species would be at 0.25 inches depth. Table 6 below provides a list of species used to determine large and small seed type species.

After planting and fertilizing, the foundations are watered until the area shows thorough wetting as the private person does and applies as equally as possible to all foundations. The water is applied on a daily basis. At 30 days, additional fertilizer was applied to treatments 2 and 4 (see table below), applied to a 1 foot square area of soil around the seedling using a vibrating tank and raked slightly into the soil. Each treatment was monitored for germination starting 4 days after planting. The number of shoots and the number of seeds germinated per plot were recorded.

Results

The results were recorded as a percentage of the number of germinated plants to the number of seeds planted (i.e., if one of the three seeds germinated, the field had a 33% germination rate). The control (i.e., seeds planted directly into the soil) are sown at the same depth and spacing as the pods. In many cases, the seed pod has a germination percentage of greater than 100%. This is because: 1) some small seed pods were produced with more than a specified number of 3 seeds; or 2) some species such as caraway and dill sometimes appear to have two seedlings that shoot from the same seed. It will also be noted that the germination rate occasionally decreases over time. Seedlings may die or be eaten and when a "blind" assessment is carried out, this may not be noticed until the data is analyzed. The structure from each location is summarized below.

Results in ohio:

TABLE 8

Significantly improved germination

Results of oregon:

TABLE 9

Significantly improved germination

Results for florida:

watch 10

Significantly improved germination

Results in France:

TABLE 11

Significantly improved germination

England results:

TABLE 12

Significantly improved germination

Conclusion

The results from the five locations provided a sharp insight despite the changing weather conditions of the pod test. In general, seeds planted within pods perform as well or better than seeds planted directly. At cooling in ohio, the seeds germinated better and would even outperform the directly planted seeds, indicating a possible effect of temperature on the lettuce seed pods. Previous studies have shown that at different times of the day, no large temperature differences occur in the seed pods when compared to native ohio soil.

Claims (64)

1. A plant growing system comprising a biodegradable housing, a rooting media, a cover, a fertilizer or nutrient, a seed, and a removable lid, wherein:

the housing comprises a shaped material, a composted material, or a combination thereof;

the rooting medium comprises soil, coconut fiber, vermiculite, perlite, bark powder, peat, wood chips or a combination of the soil, the coconut fiber, the vermiculite, the perlite and the bark powder;

the rooting media further comprises holes for positioning, containing or receiving seeds; and is

The covering comprises a biodegradable plug, a biodegradable cover, a water permeable adhesive, coir dust, vermiculite, compost, perlite bark powder, peat, wood chips, humus, or combinations thereof, which cover or fill the hole.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is a composted material.

3. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing is a shaped manure, peat moss, sugar cane fiber material or a combination thereof.

4. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the shell is a shaped fecal material.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the manure is cow manure.

6. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing is cone-shaped, acorn-shaped, flowerpot-shaped, or spike-shaped.

7. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing is triangular acorn shaped.

8. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the enclosure comprises reinforcement apexes to aid penetration into elevated beds, containers, rocks, sand, clay, ground earth or pallets.

9. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing further comprises a flange disposed on a top of the housing.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the flange extends along a top of an entire perimeter of the housing.

11. The system of claim 9, wherein the flange is adapted to act as a guide for a correct planting depth.

12. The system of claim 9, wherein the flange comprises a surface area for attachment of the removable cover.

13. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing has a thickness in the range of 0.025 to 0.25 inches.

14. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing has a thickness in the range of 0.05 to 0.15 inches.

15. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing has a thickness in the range of 0.08 to 0.11 inches.

16. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing has a thickness in the range of 0.09 to 0.13 inches.

17. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing has a thickness of about 0.11 inches.

18. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the cap comprises a biodegradable material.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the biodegradable material of the cap comprises a fiber-based material, a biofilm, a polymer-based film, a starch-based material, or a combination thereof.

20. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media is cone-shaped, acorn-shaped, flowerpot-shaped, or spike-shaped.

21. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media is truncated conical, acorn, flowerpot, or spike shaped.

22. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media is adapted to partially fill an interior space defined by said enclosure.

23. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media is a shaped material.

24. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media is a shaped conical seat.

25. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media comprises between 1 and 3 holes for positioning, containing or receiving seeds.

26. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the biodegradable plug comprises coir, vermiculite, compost, perlite bark powder, peat, wood chips, humus, modified corn starch plugs, cooking plugs, or combinations thereof.

27. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the hole comprises a biodegradable plug and a seed, the biodegradable plug being held in place by mechanical means.

28. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the biodegradable lid for covering the aperture comprises a corn starch based lid, a polyvinyl alcohol based lid, a polyvinyl acetate based lid, or a combination thereof.

29. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the water-permeable adhesive comprises a natural adhesive or a synthetic adhesive.

30. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the water-permeable adhesive comprises guar gum, pine tar, starch based, molasses, rubber latex, vegetable oil, gelatin, polyvinyl alcohol, wax, or combinations thereof.

31. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the biodegradable cover for covering the hole comprises coconut coir.

32. The system of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a polyvinyl alcohol-based binder mixed with coconut coir.

33. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media comprises a slot for placing seeds.

34. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media comprises between 1 and 3 slots for placing seeds.

35. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media comprises external ribs adapted to allow water migration, frictionally engage said outer shell, or a combination thereof.

36. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media comprises external ribs adapted to allow water to migrate to the bottom of said enclosure.

37. The system of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a controlled release nutrient.

38. The system of claim 37, wherein the controlled release nutrient is formed from controlled release fertilizer granules or loose granules.

39. The system of claim 38, wherein the loose granules are Osmocote granules.

40. The system of claim 37 wherein the controlled release nutrient is Osmocote, time release fertilizer, water soluble fertilizer, coated fertilizer, or uncoated fertilizer.

41. The system of claim 40, wherein the Osmocote comprises a ratio of N-P-K of 1-1-1, 3-1-2, 1-2-1, 1-3-1, 4-1-2, 2-1-2, or 2-1-1.

42. The system of claim 40, wherein the Osmocote comprises a ratio of NPK of 3-1-2.

43. The system of claim 37, wherein the controlled release nutrients are disposed throughout the rooting media, below the rooting media, at the bottom of the enclosure, or a combination thereof.

44. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein 1 or more seeds are located within the rooting media.

45. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the system comprises a plurality of seeds.

46. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the system comprises a range of 1 to 12 seeds.

47. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the seeds are located at a depth of 0.125 inches to 3 inches below the top of the rooting media.

48. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said seeds are located at a depth of about 0.25 inches below the top of said rooting media.

49. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the seed is a vegetable, herb, flower, or perennial plant part.

50. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the seed is a spherical tomato, cherry tomato, sweet pepper, straight cucumber, zucchini, yellow pumpkin, watermelon, pumpkin, basil, caraway, dill, thyme, dwarf bean, loose leaf lettuce, shea butter lettuce, long leaf lettuce, spinach, sweet pea or a combination thereof.

51. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media further comprises a water-absorbing polymer.

52. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media comprises fertile soil, humus soil, or a combination thereof.

53. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing comprises a reinforcing apex to assist penetration into an indoor planter or planter.

54. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media is in the form of a truncated triangle acorn.

55. The system of claim 18, wherein the biodegradable material of the cover comprises paper.

56. The system of claim 18, wherein the biodegradable material of the lid comprises cardboard.

57. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said rooting media is in the form of a truncated cone.

58. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the biodegradable cover for covering the aperture comprises uncompressed coir or screened coir.

59. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the hole comprises a biodegradable plug held in place by friction or adhesive and a seed.

60. The system of claim 37, wherein said controlled release nutrient is located within said rooting media.

61. The system of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises a biodegradable plug or a biodegradable cap such that after a seed is placed in the hole, the seed can be covered or covered by the biodegradable plug or biodegradable cap to seal the seed within the rooting media.

62. A carrier comprising one or more plant growing systems according to any preceding claim.

63. The tray of claim 62, further comprising one or more apertures to carry the plant growing system.

64. A method of growing a garden comprising growing a plant growth system according to any preceding claim and watering said plant growth system.