System and method for releasing a biological agent such as predatory mites in proximity of vegetation

Abstract

A biological agent releasing receptacle for releasing a biological agent in proximity of vegetation to be treated is provided. The biological agent releasing receptacle includes an elongated body with a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity configured to receive the biological agent therein. The elongated body includes a soil-contacting portion configured to be inserted into soil and a biological agent releasing portion located opposite the soil-contacting portion and configured to extend outwardly from the soil, away from the soil-contacting portion. One or more biological agent releasing opening is defined in the receptacle wall of the biological agent releasing portion to release the biological agent received in the receptacle cavity in proximity of the vegetation to be treated. Methods for preparing the biological agent releasing receptacle, as well as methods for installing the biological agent releasing receptacle, for instance in a crop, are also provided.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RELEASING A BIOLOGICAL AGENT SUCH AS PREDATORY MITES IN PROXIMITY OF VEGETATIONTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The technical field generally relates to pest control in agriculture and horticulture. In particular, the technical field relates to techniques for releasing a biological agent in proximity of vegetation.BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional methods for releasing predatory mites onto a plant host can typically involve releasing a loose product comprising predatory mites, their respective food sources, and filler substrates. However, the release of a loose product comprising predatory mites can leave the user with no control over the rate of release of the predatory mites.

[0003] Other techniques can involve the use of a sachet containing predatory mites, their respective food sources, and filler substrates. Such sachets include a hole enabling the release of predatory mites, and are provided above ground by placing the sachet directly onto the plant or in close proximity of the plant, for instance by mounting or suspending the sachet onto a stick. The release of the predatory mites can then contribute to control pests associated with the plant. This type of sachets, when in use, are thus not in contact with the soil, but rather remain entirely exposed to air. However, exposing all parts of the sachet to air can have various drawbacks, including drying out the content of the sachet which in turn can contribute to reducing the lifespan of the predatory mites and thus the duration of use and the effectiveness of the sachet.

[0004] In addition, the use of sachets for releasing predatory mites having hooks may not be appropriate for young plants or seedlings, as placing the sachet directly onto the plant with such hooks, and thus above ground, can result in damage to the plant or seedling. Young seedlings also have few leaves that can provide adequate shade for the sachets, whether they are directly placed onto the plant or suspended above ground nearby, such that the breeding system is prone to drying out under solar exposure. Long term solar exposure of these conventional breeding systems without sufficient leaf coverage is known to impair the effectiveness of the sachet.

[0005] Furthermore, the use of sachets, conventionally made of plastic covered paper, flexible plastic, or other non-biodegradable material is unaligned with the growing environmental and durable practices in the field of agriculture and the like and is an undesirable potential source of waste and pollution.

[0006] Another aspect to consider is that the application and removal of each single sachet, whether they are directly placed onto the plant or suspended above ground nearby, is time-consuming and tedious manual labour that requires fine manipulation of sachets and attachment and thus bearing non-negligible costs for the user.

[0007] In view of the above, there is a need for an improved system for releasing predatory mites in proximity of vegetation.SUMMARY

[0008] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided a biological agent releasing receptacle for releasing a biological agent in proximity of vegetation to be treated, the biological agent releasing receptacle comprising: an elongated body having a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity configured to receive the biological agent therein, the elongated body comprising: a soil-contacting portion configured to be inserted into soil surrounding the vegetation to be treated, the soil-contacting portion having a soil-contacting portion end; a biological agent releasing portion located opposite to the soil-contacting portion and having a biological agent releasing portion end, the biological agent releasing portion being configured to extend outwardly from the soil once the soil-contacting portion is inserted into the soil and away from the soil-contacting portion; and one or more biological agent releasing opening defined in the receptacle wall of the biological agent releasing portion to release the biological agent received in the receptacle cavity in proximity of the vegetation to be treated.

[0009] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle further comprises a crust provided within the soil-contacting portion.

[0010] In some implementations, the crust comprises a wet bottom.

[0011] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion extends approximately one-third of a total length of the elongated body.

[0012] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion extends approximately one-quarter of a total length of the elongated body.

[0013] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing portion end is configured to be closed once the biological agent is received into the receptacle cavity to form a biological agent releasing portion closed end.

[0014] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion end is configured to be closed prior to insertion of the soil-contacting portion into the soil to form a soil-contacting portion closed end.

[0015] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion closed end is tapered to define a sharp edge to facilitate entry of the soil-contacting portion into the soil.

[0016] In some implementations, the elongated body is substantially cylindrical, thereby defining an elongated tubular body.

[0017] In some implementations, the elongated body is shaped as an elongated prism.

[0018] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion has a soil-contacting portion width that is smaller than a biological agent releasing portion width of the biological agent releasing portion.

[0019] In some implementations, the elongated body is substantially conical.

[0020] In some implementations, the elongated body is shaped as a polygonal pyramid having a polygonal cross-section.

[0021] In some implementations, the elongated body includes lateral edges defining respective sharp edges to facilitate entry of the soil-contacting portion into the soil.

[0022] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion comprises a soilpenetrating tip at a longitudinal end thereof, furthest away from the biological agentreleasing portion to facilitate entry of the soil-contacting portion into the soil.

[0023] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing opening comprises a plurality of biological agent releasing openings defined in the biological agent releasing portion of the receptacle wall.

[0024] In some implementations, the plurality of biological agent releasing openings is distributed over an entire outer surface of a transverse section of the biological agent releasing portion.

[0025] In some implementations, the one or more biological agent releasing opening comprises a substantially circular hole.

[0026] In some implementations, the one or more biological agent releasing opening has a diameter ranging between about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm.

[0027] In some implementations, the one or more biological agent releasing opening comprises a slit.

[0028] In some implementations, the elongated body of the biological agent releasing receptacle is made of one or more of a biodegradable material, a recyclable material, and a compostable material.

[0029] In some implementations, the elongated body comprises sugar cane fibers.

[0030] In some implementations, the elongated body is made of a straw.

[0031] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing portion comprises a neck engageable with a removable cap.

[0032] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle further comprises the removable cap, the removable cap comprising a cap attachment member engaged with the biological agent releasing portion and the removable cap.

[0033] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle further comprises a support assembly engageable with the biological agent releasing portion.

[0034] In some implementations, the support assembly comprises a hook.

[0035] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing portion comprises a neck and a removable cap engaged with the neck, and the hook is engageable with the removable cap.

[0036] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing portion comprises a neck and the hook is engageable with the neck.

[0037] In some implementations, the support assembly comprises a ring and at least one leg extending from the ring, the ring being configured to receive the biological agent releasing portion therein and the leg being configured to be partially inserted into the soil.

[0038] In some implementations, the support assembly comprises one or more of a biodegradable material, a recyclable material, and a compostable material.

[0039] In some implementations, the biological agent comprises predatory mites.

[0040] In some implementations, the predatory mites comprise Neoseiulus cucumeris, Neoseiulus californicus, Amblyseius andersoni, Amblyseius swirskii or a combination thereof.

[0041] In some implementations, the receptacle cavity of the elongated body is further configured to receive a breeding system therein.

[0042] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion is configured to enable moisture to permeate through the receptacle wall.

[0043] In some implementations, the one or more biological agent releasing opening is configured to enable release of the biological agent for at least 4 weeks.

[0044] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle is refillable.

[0045] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle is reusable.

[0046] In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a method for preparing a biological agent releasing receptacle, the method comprising: closing a soil-contacting portion end of a soil-contacting portion of an elongated body having a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity;introducing a biological agent into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body; perforating the receptacle wall in a biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body located opposite to the soil-contacting portion to create one or more biological agent releasing opening; and closing a biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body.

[0047] In some implementations, closing the soil-contacting portion end comprises sealing the soil-contacting portion end.

[0048] In some implementations, sealing the soil-contacting portion end comprises heat sealing the soil-contacting portion end.

[0049] In some implementations, closing the biological agent releasing portion end comprises sealing the biological agent releasing portion end.

[0050] In some implementations, sealing the biological agent releasing portion end comprises heat sealing the biological agent releasing portion end.

[0051] In some implementations, closing the biological agent releasing portion end comprises engaging a removable cap with the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion.

[0052] In some implementations, engaging the removable cap with the biological agent releasing portion end comprises engaging the removable cap with a neck of the biological agent releasing portion extending upwardly, away from the soil-contacting portion.

[0053] In some implementations, perforating the receptacle wall of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body comprises perforating a plurality of biological agent releasing openings in the receptacle wall of the biological agent releasing portion.

[0054] In some implementations, perforating the receptacle wall is performed prior to closing the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion.

[0055] In some implementations, perforating the receptacle wall is performedsubsequently to closing the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion.

[0056] In some implementations, the method further comprises: re-opening the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body; introducing an additional biological agent into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body; and re-closing the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body.

[0057] In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a method for installing a system for releasing a biological agent in proximity of vegetation to be treated, the method comprising: inserting a soil-contacting portion of a biological agent releasing receptacle comprising a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity configured to receive therein the biological agent into soil surrounding the vegetation to be treated, such that a biological agent releasing portion, located opposite of the soil-contacting portion and comprising one or more biological agent releasing opening, extends outwardly from the soil and away from the soil-contacting portion.

[0058] In some implementations, the vegetation to be treated forms part of a crop.

[0059] In some implementations, the system comprises first and second biological agent releasing receptacles, and inserting the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil comprises: inserting the soil-contacting portion of the first biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil at a given location in proximity of the vegetation to be treated; and inserting the soil-contacting portion of the second biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil at a predetermined distance from the first biological agent releasing receptacle.

[0060] In some implementations, inserting the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil comprises: orienting a given one of the one or more biological agent releasing opening toward a stem of a plant of the vegetation to be treated.

[0061] In some implementations, inserting the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil is automated.

[0062] In some implementations, inserting the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil is performed manually.

[0063] In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a method for preparing a biological agent releasing receptacle, the method comprising: introducing a biological agent into a receptacle cavity defined by a receptacle wall of an elongated body having a soil-contacting portion and a biological agent releasing portion located longitudinally opposite to the soil-contacting portion; and closing a biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body.

[0064] In some implementations, the method further comprises perforating the receptacle wall in the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body to create one or more biological agent releasing opening.

[0065] In some implementations, the method further comprises closing a soilcontacting portion end of the soil-contacting portion of the elongated body.

[0066] In some implementations, closing the soil-contacting portion end of the soilcontacting portion of the elongated body is performed prior to introducing the biological agent into the receptacle cavity.

[0067] In some implementations, the method further comprises one or more features defined herein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0068] The attached figures illustrate various features, aspects and implementations of the technology described herein.

[0069] Fig. 1 is a front transparent view of a biological agent releasing receptacle having a biological agent releasing portion opened end, in accordance with an implementation.

[0070] Fig. 2 is a front transparent view of a biological agent releasing receptacle having a biological agent releasing portion closed end, in accordance with an implementation.

[0071] Fig. 3 is a front transparent view of a biological agent releasing receptacle having a sharp edge and a soil-penetrating tip, in accordance with an implementation.

[0072] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a biological agent releasing receptacle having an elongated body being substantially cylindrical, in accordance with an implementation.

[0073] Fig. 5 is a front transparent view of a biological agent releasing receptacle having an elongated body being conical and including a neck, in accordance with an implementation.

[0074] Fig. 6 is a transparent perspective view of the biological agent releasing receptacle of Fig. 5.

[0075] Fig. 7 is a transparent perspective view of a biological agent releasing receptacle including a neck and a hook, in accordance with an implementation.

[0076] Fig. 8 is a transparent perspective view of a biological agent releasing receptacle including a neck and a hook, in accordance with another implementation.

[0077] Fig. 9 is a transparent perspective view of a biological agent releasing receptacle and a support assembly including a ring and two legs, in accordance with an implementation.

[0078] Fig. 10 is a front view of the biological agent releasing receptacle of Fig 7,shown engaged with vegetation and with a soil-contacting portion inserted into soil surrounding the vegetation to be treated, in accordance with an implementation.

[0079] Fig. 11 is a front view of first and second biological agent releasing receptacles each having a soil-contacting portion inserted into soil surrounding vegetation to be treated, in accordance with an implementation.

[0080] Fig. 12A is a front transparent view of a biological agent releasing receptacle having six biological agent releasing openings distributed over an outer surface of a transverse section of a biological agent releasing portion.

[0081] Fig. 12B is a front transparent view of a biological agent releasing receptacle having five biological agent releasing openings distributed along a longitudinal length of the biological agent releasing portion.

[0082] Fig. 13 is a front transparent view of a biological agent releasing receptacle having a first set of four biological agent releasing openings having a first configuration, and as a second set of two biological agent releasing openings having a second configuration, the second configuration being different than the first configuration.

[0083] Fig. 14 is a front transparent view of a biological agent releasing receptacle having a biological agent releasing opening shaped as a slit.

[0084] Fig. 15 shows a biological agent release rate of a biological agent releasing receptacle compared with a conventional sachet as a control sachet.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0085] Techniques described herein relate to systems, devices and methods for pest control for application in crops, crops under cover, cultures, greenhouses, and the like.

[0086] A biological agent releasing receptacle to release a biological agent in proximity of vegetation in order to treat the vegetation against pests in an efficient and durable manner is described herein. The biological agent releasing receptacle includes an elongated body having a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity configured to receive the biological agent therein, the elongated body comprising a soil-contacting portion configured for insertion into the soil in proximity of the vegetation to be treated. Thebiological agent releasing receptacle can be made of a material that enables moisture from the surrounding soil to penetrate through the soil-contacting portion, which can be beneficial for the biological agent within the biological agent releasing receptacle. This configuration of the biological agent releasing receptacle contrasts with conventional sachets, which are used above ground and entirely exposed to air and daylight. The characteristics of the biological agent releasing receptacle as described herein can contribute to expand the useful lifespan of the biological agent received into the biological agent releasing receptacle by providing enhanced growing and development conditions for the biological agent. The elongated configuration of the body of the biological agent releasing receptacle can enable for a direct insertion of the soil-contacting portion into the soil. The biological agent releasing receptacle can be installed as a standalone feature in proximity of the vegetation to be treated, or can be further stabilized via engagement with a support assembly.

[0087] The insertion process of the biological agent releasing receptacle into soil surrounding the vegetation to be treated can be performed manually or can be automated. In some implementations, the automated insertion of the biological agent releasing receptacle can contribute to avoiding tedious and complicated manual fastening of conventional sachets to vegetation using hooks or sticks. In addition, given that the biological agent releasing receptacle can be inserted into soil in a standalone fashion at a given location in proximity of the vegetation to be treated, either manually or according to an automated insertion process, the steps involved in the installation of the biological agent releasing receptacle as described herein can enable an improved consistency and reproducibility in the installation of the biological agent releasing receptacle in proximity of vegetation. The optional fastening of the biological agent releasing receptacle to a portion of the vegetation to be treated as described herein or the engagement of the biological agent releasing receptacle with a support assembly can further contribute to the stabilization of the biological agent releasing receptacle with respect to the vegetation in proximity of which it is inserted. The biological agent contained in the receptacle cavity can be released via one or more biological agent releasing openings defined in a biological agent releasing portion of the receptacle that is located opposite to the soil-contacting portion, / .e., above ground. In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle can be made of a biodegradable or compostable material, which can eliminate the need to remove the biological agent releasing receptacle from the soil after use.

[0088] Various implementations and features of the biological agent releasing receptacle and associated methods will now be described in greater detail in the following paragraphs.General description of the biological agent releasing receptacle

[0089] With reference to Figs. 1 to 9, 12A, 12B, 13 and 14, a biological agent releasing receptacle 10 for releasing a biological agent 32 in proximity of vegetation 34 to be treated is shown. In the implementation shown, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 includes an elongated body 12 having a receptacle wall 14 defining a receptacle cavity 16. The receptacle cavity 16 is configured to receive the biological agent 32 therein, which can include for example predatory mites. The elongated body 12 includes a soil-contacting portion 18 having a soil-contacting portion end 19, and a biological agent releasing portion 20 having a biological agent releasing portion end 21. The soil-contacting portion 18 is configured to be inserted into the soil surrounding the vegetation 34 to be treated by the biological agent 32. The biological agent releasing portion 20 is located longitudinally opposite to the soil-contacting portion 18 and is configured to extend outwardly from the soil once the soil-contacting portion 18 is inserted into the soil, and thus away from the soil-contacting portion 18.

[0090] As used herein, the term “soil” is intended to refer to any type of substance into which the vegetation 34 to be treated grows and can be any type of soil or substrate such as, for example, garden soil, topsoil, black earth, solid growing medium, potting soil, compost, peat, peat moss, sand, mulch, liquid growing medium, water-based mineral nutrient solutions, inert medium such as perlite, gravel, or a mix thereof.

[0091] In Fig. 1 , the soil-contacting portion 18 includes a soil-contacting portion closed end 22, and the biological agent releasing portion 20 includes a biological agent releasing portion opened end 24. The biological agent releasing portion opened end 24 is configured to be closable. For instance, the biological agent releasing portion opened end 24 is configured to be closed following the introduction of the biological agent 32 to be released into the receptacle cavity 16 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10.

[0092] In Figs. 2 and 3, the soil-contacting portion 18 is configured similarly to the soilcontacting portion 18 shown in Fig. 1 , with the soil-contacting portion 18 including a soil-contacting portion closed end 22. However, in contrast to Fig. 1 , the biological agent releasing portion 20 shown in Figs. 2 and 3 includes a biological agent releasing portion closed end 26. Whether the biological agent releasing portion 20 includes a biological agent releasing portion opened end 24 or a biological agent releasing portion closed end 26 can depend on whether the biological agent 32 is already present in the receptacle cavity 16 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 or not. When the biological agent 32 has already been introduced into the receptable cavity 16 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10, the biological agent releasing portion 20 typically includes a biological agent releasing portion closed end 26, and when the biological agent 32 has not been introduced into the receptable cavity 16 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 yet, the biological agent releasing portion 20 typically includes a biological agent releasing portion opened end 24.

[0093] In some implementations and as shown in Fig. 4, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be substantially cylindrical, thereby forming an elongated tubular body. It is to be understood that in alternative implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be shaped as a “flattened” cylindrical prism, with an elliptic cross-section instead of a circular crosssection. In yet other implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be shaped as an elongated prism, and have a polygonal cross-section. Examples can include a rectangular prism, a hexagonal prism, etc. It is to be understood that any shape of the elongated body 12 can be suitable as long as the elongated body includes a soil-contacting portion 18 and a biological agent releasing portion 20.

[0094] In some implementations, and as shown for instance in Figs. 5 to 9, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is configured such that a width of the soil-contacting portion 18 (i.e., a soil-contacting portion width) is smaller than a width of the biological agent releasing portion 20 (i.e., a biological agent releasing portion width). In some implementations, a smaller width of the soil-contacting portion 18 compared to a width of the biological agent releasing portion 20 can contribute to facilitating insertion of the soil-contacting portion 18 into the soil.

[0095] In some implementations and as shown in Fig. 3, the soil-contacting portion closed end 22 of the soil-contacting portion 18 of the elongated body 12 can be configured to facilitate insertion of the soil-contacting portion 18 into the soil. In order to do so, the soil-contacting portion closed end 22 of the soil-contacting portion 18 can be tapered to define a sharp edge 28. In some implementations, as shown in Figs. 5 to 9, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be conical with a substantially spherical cross-section, an elliptical cross-section, or a polygonal cross-section. In such implementations, the soil-contacting portion 18 can include a soil-penetrating tip 29 at a longitudinal end thereof, furthest from the biological agent releasing portion 20 to facilitate entry of the soil-contacting portion 18 into the soil. In some implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can include both a sharp edge 28 and a soil-penetrating tip 29. For instance, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be shaped as an elongated polygonal pyramid having a polygonal cross-section, with the lateral edges of the elongated polygonal pyramid defining respective sharp edges 28 and with the tip of the elongated polygonal pyramid defining the soil-penetrating tip 29 at a longitudinal end thereof. In other implementations, the elongated body 12 can be shaped as a truncated pyramid and can include one or more sharp edge. In some implementations, the elongated body 12 can be substantially frustoconical. The tapering of the soil-contacting portion closed end 22, and optionally the soil-penetrating tip 29, can contribute to facilitating the insertion of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 into the soil. When the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is conical, frustoconical, shaped as an elongated polygonal pyramid or a truncated pyramid, the soil-contacting portion width of the elongated body 12 can be considered smaller than the biological agent releasing portion width of the elongated body 12.

[0096] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be irregularly shaped, for instance being shaped as an hourglass where the soil-contacting portion 18 has a smaller cross-section than the cross-section of the biological agent releasing portion 20. It is to be understood that the above examples are described for illustrative purposes only, and that biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can have any suitable shape enabling insertion of the soil-contacting portion 18 into the soil while receiving a biological agent 32 into the receptacle cavity 16.

[0097] Still referring to Figs. 5 to 9, in the examples shown, the biological agent releasing portion 20 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can include a neck 36 defining the biological agent releasing portion opened end 24, the neck 36 extending upwardly away from the soil-contacting portion 18 and being optionally engageable with a removable cap 38. In such implementations, the biological agent releasing portion 20 can transition from having a biological agent releasing portion closed end 26 (when the neck 36 is engaged with the removable cap 38) to a biological agent releasing portion opened end 24 (when the neck 36 is not engaged with the removable cap 38), as desired. Such transitioning can enable for instance refilling the receptacle cavity 16 with a biological agent 32 or performing any other step involving an access to the receptacle cavity 16. For instance, in some implementations, the introduction of the biological agent 32 into the receptacle cavity 16 can occur periodically and not only prior to installing the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 at a desired location. The removable cap 38 can also enable reuse of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 successively at more than one location. In some implementations and as shown more particularly in Fig. 5, the removable cap 38 can be engaged with a portion of the biological agent releasing portion 20, such as the neck 36, by a cap attachment member 39. In such implementations, the removable cap can be removed from the neck 36 of the biological agent releasing portion 20 to form the biological agent releasing portion opened end 24 while still remaining engaged with the biological agent releasing receptacle 10.

[0098] In alternative implementations, the removable cap 38 may be omitted, and the biological agent releasing portion opened end 24 can be defined by the neck 36. In yet other alternative implementations, the neck 36 may be omitted, and the biological agent releasing portion opened end 24 can be defined by the top surface 37 of the biological agent releasing portion 20.

[0099] Referring to Figs. 7 to 9, in some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can further include a support assembly 40. The configuration of the support assembly 40 can be selected to reduce a potential risk of destabilization of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 in proximity of the vegetation 34 to be treated. For instance, in some implementations, the support assembly 40 can contribute to prevent the biological agent releasing portion 20 from folding over the soil-contacting portion 18. Examples of circumstances that may result in an undesired destabilization of the biologicalagent releasing receptacle 10 in proximity of the vegetation 34 can include for instance excess moisture in the soil-contacting portion 18, or environmental factors such as wind, rain or other adverse weather conditions. With reference more particularly to Fig. 7 and 8, in some implementations, the support assembly 40 can include a hook 42 engageable with the removable cap 38, or another region of the biological agent releasing portion 20 if the removable cap 38 is omitted. The hook 42 can contribute to stabilize the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 by engaging with the vegetation 34, as exemplified in Fig. 10. With reference to Fig. 9, in other implementations, the support assembly 40 can include a ring 44 (or another enclosed or partially-enclosed shape) and at least one leg 46 extending from the ring 44. In some implementations, the ring 44 can have a width at least slightly larger than a width of the biological agent releasing portion 20 at the height where the biological agent releasing portion 20 will be engaged with the ring 44. To provide stabilization, at least one leg 46 of the support assembly 40 (two are shown in Fig. 9) can be partially inserted into the soil alongside a portion of the elongated body 12, including the soil-contacting portion 18. In some implementations, the support assembly 40 can be made of a biodegradable material. In the context of the present description, the term “biodegradable” is intended to refer to a material that can be broken down by living organisms. In other implementations, the support assembly 40 can be made of a compostable material. In the context of the present description, the term “compostable” is intended to refer to a material that can be degraded into compost. While a compostable material can be considered biodegradable, a biodegradable material may not necessarily be compostable. In some implementations, the support assembly 40 can be made of a recyclable material, such as paper, hard cardboard, plastic, or any other suitable material that can be recycled.

[0100] Referring back to Figs. 1 to 9, 12A and 12B, a biological agent releasing opening 30 is defined in the receptacle wall 14 of the biological agent releasing portion 20. In some implementations, the biological agent releasing opening 30 can include a plurality of biological agent releasing openings 30. For instance, in Figs. 1 to 9, two biological agent releasing openings 30 are defined in the receptacle wall 14 of the biological agent releasing portion 20. In other implementations, the receptacle wall 14 of the biological agent releasing portion 20 can define a single biological agent releasing opening 30, or any number of biological agent releasing openings 30. For instance, in Fig. 12A, six biological agent releasing openings 30 are defined in the receptacle wall 14 of thebiological agent releasing portion 20 while in Fig. 12B, five biological agent releasing openings 30 are defined in the receptacle wall 14 of the biological agent releasing portion 20. The one or more biological agent releasing opening 30 is configured to release the biological agent 32 received in the receptacle cavity 16. The one or more biological agent releasing opening 30 thus enables the release of the biological agent 32 received within the receptacle cavity 16 from the receptacle cavity 16 to the vegetation 34 to be treated that is located in proximity of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10. In addition, the one or more biological agent releasing opening 30 can facilitate air circulation within the receptacle cavity 16 and can contribute to the preservation of a humid environment within the receptacle cavity 16, which in turn can provide enhanced growing and development conditions for the biological agent 32.

[0101] When a plurality of biological agent releasing opening 30 is defined in the receptacle wall 14 of the biological agent releasing portion 20, the plurality of biological agent releasing openings 30 can be distributed over an entire outer surface (which can be a circumferential outer surface if the elongated body is an elongated tubular body) of a transverse section of the biological agent releasing portion 20 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10, as shown for instance in Fig. 12A. In other implementations, the biological agent releasing openings 30 can be distributed over a given section of the receptacle wall 14 of the biological agent releasing portion 20. For instance, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can define four quadrants provided at 90° of each other via two longitudinally-extending plans, each quadrant having an equal arc length, and the biological agent releasing openings 30 can be defined in a selected one of the four quadrants, as shown for instance in Fig. 1. The selected one of the four quadrants can be one that once the soil-contacting portion 18 is inserted into the soil, is oriented toward the vegetation 34 to be treated. Similarly, the biological agent releasing openings 30 can be defined in two of the four quadrants, which can be adjacent to each other or not. In yet other implementations, biological agent releasing openings 30 can be defined in three of the four quadrants.

[0102] With reference to Fig. 13, when a plurality of biological agent releasing openings 30 is defined in the receptacle wall 14 of the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10, biological agent releasing openings 30 can be configured similarly to each other, or the biological agent releasing openings 30 can be provided as a first setof biological agent releasing openings 30 having a first configuration, and as a second set of biological agent releasing openings 30 having a second configuration, the second configuration being different than the first configuration. The first and second configurations can differ for instance in terms of the size of the biological agent releasing openings 30, or in the shape of the biological agent releasing openings 30.

[0103] With reference to Fig. 12B, in some implementations, the biological agent releasing openings 30 can be distributed along a longitudinal length of the biological agent releasing portion 20. Thus, instead of being provided peripherally along the circumference or perimeter of the elongated body, the biological agent releasing openings 30 can extend lengthwise, from top to bottom of the biological agent releasing portion 20 or along a longitudinally-extending section of the biological agent releasing portion 20.

[0104] The biological agent releasing opening 30 can have any suitable shape to enable the release of the biological agent 32 from the receptacle cavity 16. For instance, in some implementations, the biological agent releasing opening 30 can be substantially circular. When the biological agent releasing opening 30 is substantially circular, the diameter of the biological agent releasing opening 30 can range, for example, between about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm. In some implementations, the diameter of the biological agent releasing opening 30 can range, for example, between about 0.3 mm to about 0,6 mm. In other implementations, the biological agent releasing opening 30 can be a slit, as shown in Fig. 14.

[0105] In some implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a biodegradable material. In the context of the present description, the term “biodegradable” is intended to refer to a material that can be broken down by living organisms. In other implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a compostable material. In the context of the present description, the term “compostable” is intended to refer to a material that can be degraded into compost. While a compostable material can be considered biodegradable, a biodegradable material may not necessarily be compostable. An elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 made of a biodegradable material or of a compostable material can provide benefits such as alleviating the need to remove the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 from the soil after usage. Anotherbenefit of a biological agent releasing receptacle 10 made of a biodegradable material or of a compostable material is the reduction of waste or pollution that is otherwise produced with a conventional sachet made of plastic, for instance. In some implementations, the biodegradable material or compostable material can be plant-based or plant-derived, or made of plant-based ingredients, such as plant fibers. In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a plastic-free material.

[0106] In some implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of paper, hard cardboard, plastic, or any other suitable material. In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a non-biodegradable material.

[0107] In some implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of sugar cane or sugar cane fibers. The sugar cane fibers can be made from bagasse, which is a material that remains following the crushing of sugarcane stalks performed to extract sugarcane juice therefrom. Sugar cane, sugar cane fibers or bagasse are materials that are biodegradable and compostable. Alternatively, in some implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a material that includes banana fibers. In yet other implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a material that includes coffee grounds.

[0108] In some implementations, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of sugar cane fibers comprising for instance about 40% to about 50% of cellulose, and about 25% to about 35% of hemicellulose. The remaining component(s) can include for instance lignin, wax, etc.

[0109] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion 18 of the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a soil-contacting portion material that enables moisture, e.g., from the soil into which the soil-contacting portion 18 is inserted, to penetrate through the receptacle wall 14 of the elongated body 12 and into the receptacle cavity 16 at least at the level of the soil-contacting portion 18. In such implementations, the biological agent releasing portion 20 of the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a biological agent releasing portion material that is different or the same as the soil-contacting portion material. Whenthe biological agent releasing portion material and the soil-contacting portion material are different, the biological agent releasing portion material can be chosen to have selected characteristics specific to the biological agent releasing portion 20. For instance, the biological agent releasing portion material can be selected to confer protection against wind, rain or adverse weather conditions, given that the biological agent releasing portion 20 is configured to extend above ground and can be exposed to such weather conditions. Thus, each of the biological agent releasing portion material and the soil-contacting portion material can be chosen to provide desired properties thereto. In other implementations, the biological agent releasing portion material and the soil-contacting portion material can be the same.

[0110] In another implementation, the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a straw, such as a straw made of sugar cane fibers.

[0111] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be reusable. In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be refillable with a biological agent 32 or another component associated with the biological agent 32. In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of silicone. In other implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of plastic. In other implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of metal, such as stainless steel. In other implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is made of glass. In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made from a single material. In another implementation, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made from more than one material.

[0112] As mentioned above, the soil-contacting portion 18 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be configured to enable moisture to permeate through the receptacle wall 14 and into the receptacle cavity 16 at least at the level of the soilcontacting portion 18. The biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can further be made of a material that enables moisture to circulate between the soil-contacting portion 18 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 and the soil. Moisture transmitted to the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can contribute to provide enhanced growing anddevelopment conditions for the biological agent 32 present in the receptacle cavity 16. Moisture permeability of the soil-contacting portion material and optionally the biological agent releasing portion material can thereby contribute to an improved durability and / or useful lifespan of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 over conventional sachets on hooks or on sticks.

[0113] The insertion of the soil-contacting portion 18 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 into the soil or growing medium that surrounds the vegetation 34 to be treated combined with the appropriate choice of material for the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can enable for moisture of the soil to permeate through the soil-contacting portion 18 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 at a desired rate, while providing spatial refuge for the biological agent 32, such as predatory mites, in case of exposure of the biological agent releasing portion 20 to high light intensity.

[0114] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion 18 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can extend along approximately one quarter of the total length of the elongated body 12 or about half of the total length of the elongated body 12. Alternatively, the soil-contacting portion 18 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 extends along about one-third of the total length of the elongated body 12. In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion 18 can extends up to any length of the elongated body 12, in accordance with the intended use of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10, and thus can be longer or shorter than about one-third of a total length of the elongated body 12. In some implementations, the length of the soil-contacting portion 18 can depend on the degree of humidity desired in the receptacle cavity 16, with a longer soil-contacting portion 18 offering a larger surface area for moisture to permeate through and typically resulting in a higher degree of humidity in the receptacle cavity 16.

[0115] In some implementations, the width of the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10, or diameter when the elongated body 12 is substantially cylindrical, can range between about 2 mm and about 20 mm, or between about 4 mm and about 10 mm. In some implementations, the width or diameter of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can range between about 4 mm and about 8 mm. In some implementations, the width or diameter of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be about 8 mm (0.23 in). In some implementations, the width or diameter of the biologicalagent releasing receptacle 10 can be about 6 mm (0.23 in). In other implementations, the diameter of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be about 5 mm (0.16 in).

[0116] In some implementations, the length of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can range between about 100 mm and about 300 mm. In some implementations, the length of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can range between about 125 mm and about 500 mm, or between about 125 mm and about 250 mm. In some implementations, the length of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can range between about 150 mm and about 175 mm. In some implementations, the length of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is at least 100 mm. In some implementations, the length of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is about 210 mm (8.25 in). In some implementations, the length of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is about 152 mm (6 in) in length. In other implementations, the length of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is about 100 mm (3.9 in).

[0117] In some implementations, the dimensions of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be about 6 mm (0.23 in) in width with a length of about 210 mm (8.25 in). In some implementations, the dimensions of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be about 5 mm (0.16 in) in width per about 152 mm (6 in) in length. In another implementation, the dimensions of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be about 8 mm (0.31 in) in width per about 210 mm (8.25 in) in length. In another implementation, the dimensions of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be about 5 mm (0.16 in) in width per about 100 mm (3.9 in) in length. In some implementations, the dimensions of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be between about 5 mm to about 10 mm in width per between about 100 mm to about 300 mm in length.

[0118] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be used to release a biological agent 32 in proximity of vegetation 34 in order to treat said vegetation 34 against pests. Various types of biological agents 32 can be used, such as predatory mites and / or parasitoid organisms, selected for providing for pest control. In some implementations, the biological agent 32 comprises predatory mites such as, but not limited to, Neoseiulus cucumeris, Neoseiulus californicus, Amblyseius swirskii, Anystisbaccarum, Gaeolaelaps gillespiei, Neoseiulus fallacis, Phytoseiulus persimilis, Stratiolaelaps scimitus, Amblyseius andersoni, or a combination thereof.

[0119] In some implementations, the biological agent 32 or predatory mites of choice can be selected according to the vegetation 34 to be treated to the pest to control or a combination thereof.

[0120] In some implementations, a food source for the predatory mites, a filler substrate, or a combination thereof, can be received in the receptacle cavity 16 of the elongated body 12 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10. In some implementations, the food source for the predatory mites and / or the filler substrate can be selected in accordance with the type of biological agent 32 received in the receptacle cavity 16. In some implementations, the combination of the food source and filler substrate can be referred to as a “breeding system”.

[0121] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can include a crust, provided within the receptacle cavity 16 of the soil-contacting portion 18. In some implementations, the crust can include a wet bottom. In some implementations, the crust can facilitate the preservation of a humid environment within the receptacle cavity 16 which in turns provide enhanced growing and development conditions for the biological agent 32 received in the receptacle cavity 16.

[0122] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can include a crust and a breeding system. In such implementations, the breeding system can thus include a food source and a filler substrate as the breeding system, and the crust. In some implementations, the crust can be made of a combination of bran and water. In some implementations, the crust can be located in a bottom portion of the receptacle cavity of the soil-contacting portion 18.

[0123] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be configured to enable release of the biological agent 32 for at least 4 weeks. In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be configured to enable release of the biological agent 32 during more than about five weeks, or more than about six weeks. In contrast, conventional sachets for releasing predatory mites are typically configured to release such predatory mites for a shorter duration, which can be less thanfour weeks. In some implementations, the extent of the release of the biological agent 32 throughout the duration of use of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be increased compared to a conventional sachet.

[0124] When referring to the term “vegetation” 34 herein, it is to be understood that such vegetation 34 can include for instance crops, crops under cover, plant cultures, greenhouse crops or cultures, hydroponic culture, plants or plant parts, seedlings, among others.

[0125] In some implementations, the vegetation 34 is in need to be treated with a biological agent 32. In some implementations, the treatment may be a preventive treatment, or it may be a treatment to control, to cure, to inhibit, to reduce, to prevent or to treat pests. Pests can include, but is not limited to, thrips, white flies, spider mites, etc.Method for preparing a biological agent releasing receptacle

[0126] In some implementations, a method of preparing a biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is provided. Such method will now be described in further detail.

[0127] The method includes closing a soil-contacting portion end of a soil-contacting portion of an elongated body having a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity. When the soil-contacting portion end of the soil-contacting portion is closed, a biological agent is introduced into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body. In alternative implementations, the soil-contacting portion end of the soil-contacting portion can be already closed, and the step of closing the soil-contacting portion end of the soil-contacting portion can be omitted.

[0128] Following the introduction of the biological agent into the receptacle cavity, a biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body is then closed.

[0129] In some implementations, the closing of the soil-contacting portion end, the closing of the biological agent releasing portion end, or both, can be done by sealing, such as heat sealing, thus creating a sealed soil-contacting portion end or a sealed biological agent releasing portion end, or both. Despite the closing of the soil-contacting portion end of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 and depending on the choice of the materialfrom which the elongated body is made, moisture from the soil can still permeate into the receptacle cavity from the soil-contacting portion inserted into the soil.

[0130] In some implementations, the closing of the biological agent releasing portion end can include engaging a removable cap with a neck of the soil-contacting portion, or with another region of the soil-contacting portion if the neck is not present.

[0131] Prior to or following the closing of the biological agent releasing portion end, the receptacle wall of the elongated body is perforated in a region located opposite to the soilcontacting portion, i.e., in a biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body. Such perforation of the receptacle wall creates a biological agent releasing opening via which the biological agent can subsequently be released. If desired, the receptacle wall of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body can be perforated with a plurality of biological agent releasing openings.

[0132] In other implementations, perforation of the receptacle wall can be omitted, if one or more biological agent releasing opening are already defined in the receptacle wall.

[0133] Optionally, a crust can be introduced into the receptacle cavity of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10. This step can be performed for instance before the biological agent is introduced into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body, or after at least a portion of the biological agent is introduced into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body.

[0134] Optionally, a breeding system can be introduced into the receptacle cavity of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10. This step can be performed for instance before the biological agent is introduced into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body, simultaneously with the introduction of the biological agent into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body, or after a portion or all of the biological agent is introduced into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body.

[0135] In some implementations, after the biological agent has been depleted from the receptacle cavity of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be refilled with an additional biological agent and optionally, with an additional crust and / or an additional breeding system. In such implementations, the method can further include opening the biological agent releasing portion closed endto obtain a biological agent releasing portion opened end, introducing the additional biological agent and optionally the additional crust and / or the additional breeding system into the receptacle cavity and re-closing the biological agent releasing portion opened end. In some implementations, this can be performed by cutting open the soil-contacting portion closed end to enable introducing the additional biological agent into the receptacle cavity and re-closing the biological agent releasing portion opened end. Re-closing the biological agent releasing portion opened end can be performed for instance via heat sealing. In other implementations, re-closing the biological agent releasing portion opened end can be performed by re-engaging the removable cap onto the neck or other portion of the biological agent releasing portion.Method for installing a system for releasing a biological agent

[0136] Referring to Figs. 10 and 11 , a method for installing a system for releasing a biological agent in proximity of vegetation 34 to be treated is provided. Such method will now be described in further detail.

[0137] The method includes inserting a soil-contacting portion of a biological agent releasing receptacle 10 comprising a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity configured to receive therein the biological agent into soil surrounding the vegetation 34 to be treated, such that a biological agent releasing portion, located opposite of the soilcontacting portion and comprising one or more biological agent releasing opening, extends outwardly from the soil and away from the soil-contacting portion.

[0138] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is inserted into the soil by approximately about one-quarter of the total length of the elongated body or about half of the total length of the elongated body. In other implementations, the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is inserted into the soil by about one-third of the total length of the elongated body, or at any suitable depth, which can be longer or shorter than about one-third of a total length of the elongated body. It is to be noted that the biological agent releasing portion remains above ground, such that the one or more biological agent releasing opening also remains above ground, as depicted in Figs. 10 and 11. In some implementations, the depth of insertion, and thus the length of the soil-contacting portion,can depend on the degree of humidity desired in the receptacle cavity, with a longer soilcontacting portion typically resulting in a higher degree of humidity in the receptacle cavity.

[0139] In some implementations, the method can include engaging a support assembly of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 with the vegetation 34 to contribute to stabilizing the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 in proximity of the vegetation 34. In some implementations, the support assembly can include for instance a hook.

[0140] In some implementations, the method can include inserting a leg of a support assembly of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 into the soil and inserting the biological agent releasing receptacle into a ring engaged with the leg of the support assembly to contribute to stabilizing the biological agent releasing receptacle 10.

[0141] In some implementations, the method can further include re-opening the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body. The re-opened biological agent releasing portion end can subsequently enable introduction of an additional biological agent into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body, thereby refilling the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 with additional biological agent. Optionally, introducing an additional crust and / or an additional breeding system into the receptacle cavity via the re-opened biological agent releasing portion end can also be performed. After the introduction of the additional biological agent into the receptacle cavity, the biological agent releasing portion end of the elongated body can be re-closed. In some implementations, the re-opening of the biological agent releasing portion end can be performed by removing a removable cap from the biological agent releasing portion. In some implementations, the re-opening of the biological agent releasing portion end can be performed by cutting open the biological agent releasing portion end to enable introducing the additional biological agent into the receptacle cavity. In some implementations, re-closing the biological agent releasing portion end can be performed by placing the removable cap back into place, i.e., via re-engagement with the biological agent releasing portion, or by heat sealing.

[0142] In some implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be removed from the soil once treatment of the vegetation 34 is completed, while in other implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can remain in the soil and thus does not necessarily need to be removed from the soil once treatment of thevegetation 34 is completed. When the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 is intended to remain in the soil, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be made of a biodegradable or compostable material, such as a cane sugar fiber-made straw. In such implementations, the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 will be degraded into organic matter or turn into compost over time, thereby alleviating the need to remove the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 from the soil.

[0143] In some implementations, inserting the soil-contacting portion 18 of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 into the soil can be performed manually. In other implementations, inserting the soil-contacting portion of a biological agent releasing receptacle 10 into the soil can be automated. Automation of the insertion of the soilcontacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can reduce manual labour and manipulation of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10. Automation of the insertion of the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can also provide for consistency and reproducibility in the installation of a biological agent releasing receptacle 10.

[0144] In some implementations, removing the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be performed manually. In other implementations, removing the soil-contacting portion of a biological agent releasing receptacle 10 into the soil can be automated.

[0145] When a plurality of biological agent releasing receptacles is desired in proximity of vegetation 34 to be treated, the method can include inserting a soil-contacting portion of a first biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil at a given location in proximity of the vegetation 34 to be treated and inserting the soil-contacting portion of a second biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil at a given distance from the first biological agent releasing receptacle, which can be a predetermined distance. A third, a fourth, etc. biological agent releasing receptacle can also be installed as such.

[0146] In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion of a biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be inserted into the soil so that the one or more biological agent releasing opening is oriented toward vegetation 34 to be treated, as shown in Fig. 11. Proper orientation of the one or more biological agent releasing opening can facilitate the release or distribution of the biological agent in proximity of the vegetation 34 to betreated, and subsequent treatment of the vegetation 34, and protect the biological agent releasing opening from chemicals that may be sprayed onto the vegetation 34. In some implementations, the soil-contacting portion of a biological agent releasing receptacle 10 can be inserted into the soil so that the one or more biological agent releasing opening is to be oriented toward a stem of a plant of the vegetation 34 to be treated.ExamplesExample 1: Release Test

[0147] The abundance / frequency of predatory mites being released from the biological agent releasing receptacle over time was tested against a conventional plastic-covered paper sachets under greenhouse conditions with air humidity at 60%. Each conventional sachet included approximately 250 swirskii predatory mites per sachet. The biological agent releasing receptacle was made of cane sugar fibers and had two biological agent releasing openings, predatory mites as the biological agent, and a crust within the receptacle cavity. As shown in Fig. 15, results demonstrate an increased release of predatory mites with the biological agent releasing receptacle, in comparison to the conventional plastic-covered paper sachet, throughout the duration of the test.

[0148] For the same amount of predatory mites included in both the conventional sachet and the biological agent releasing receptacle the biological agent releasing receptacle continuously displayed over the course of five weeks a higher number of released predatory mites, illustrating that the enhanced conditions in which the predatory mites live within the receptacle cavity of the biological agent releasing receptacle enables them to thrive and reproduce in a superior number in comparison to the conventional sachet, thus extending the useful life of the biological agent releasing receptacle, and reducing the amount of interventions necessary to achieve treatment of the plant.Example 2: Durability Test

[0149] The durability of the biological agent releasing receptacle over time was tested against conventional plastic-covered paper sachets under greenhouse conditions with an air humidity of 60%. Each conventional plastic-covered sachet included approximately 250 swirski predatory mites per sachet. The biological agent releasing receptacle was made of cane sugar fibers and had two biological agent releasing openings, predatory mites asthe biological agent, and a crust within the receptacle cavity. Results demonstrated that after four weeks, the biological agent releasing agent still contained a significant number of predatory mites compared to the conventional sachets, which were empty.

[0150] Several alternative implementations and examples have been described and illustrated herein. The implementations of the technology described above are intended to be exemplary only. A person of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate the features of the individual implementations, and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that any of the implementations could be provided in any combination with the other implementations disclosed herein. It is understood that the technology may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the central characteristics thereof. The present implementations and examples, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the technology is not to be limited to the details given herein. Accordingly, while the specific implementations have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A biological agent releasing receptacle for releasing a biological agent in proximity of vegetation to be treated, the biological agent releasing receptacle comprising: an elongated body having a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity configured to receive the biological agent therein, the elongated body comprising: a soil-contacting portion configured to be inserted into soil surrounding the vegetation to be treated, the soil-contacting portion having a soil-contacting portion end; a biological agent releasing portion located opposite to the soil-contacting portion and having a biological agent releasing portion end, the biological agent releasing portion being configured to extend outwardly from the soil once the soil-contacting portion is inserted into the soil and away from the soilcontacting portion; and one or more biological agent releasing opening defined in the receptacle wall of the biological agent releasing portion to release the biological agent received in the receptacle cavity in proximity of the vegetation to be treated.

2. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 1 , further comprising a crust provided within the soil-contacting portion.

3. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 2, wherein the crust comprises a wet bottom.

4. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the soilcontacting portion extends approximately one-third of a total length of the elongated body.

5. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the soilcontacting portion extends approximately one-quarter of a total length of the elongated body.

6. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the biological agent releasing portion end is configured to be closed once the biological agent is received into the receptacle cavity to form a biological agent releasing portion closed end.

7. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the soilcontacting portion end is configured to be closed prior to insertion of the soil-contacting portion into the soil to form a soil-contacting portion closed end.

8. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 7, wherein the soil-contacting portion closed end is tapered to define a sharp edge to facilitate entry of the soilcontacting portion into the soil.

9. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the elongated body is substantially cylindrical, thereby defining an elongated tubular body.

10. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the elongated body is shaped as an elongated prism.

11. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the soilcontacting portion has a soil-contacting portion width that is smaller than a biological agent releasing portion width of the biological agent releasing portion.

12. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 11 , wherein the elongated body is substantially conical.

13. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 11 , wherein the elongated body is shaped as a polygonal pyramid having a polygonal cross-section.

14. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 13, wherein the elongated body includes lateral edges defining respective sharp edges to facilitate entry of the soilcontacting portion into the soil.

15. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the soil-contacting portion comprises a soil-penetrating tip at a longitudinal end thereof, furthest away from the biological agent releasing portion to facilitate entry of the soilcontacting portion into the soil.

16. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the biological agent releasing opening comprises a plurality of biological agent releasing openings defined in the biological agent releasing portion of the receptacle wall.

17. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 16, wherein the plurality of biological agent releasing openings is distributed over an entire outer surface of a transverse section of the biological agent releasing portion.

18. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the one or more biological agent releasing opening comprises a substantially circular hole.

19. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 18, wherein the one or more biological agent releasing opening has a diameter ranging between about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm.

20. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the one or more biological agent releasing opening comprises a slit.

21. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the elongated body of the biological agent releasing receptacle is made of one or more of a biodegradable material, a recyclable material, and a compostable material.

22. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 21 , wherein the elongated body comprises sugar cane fibers.

23. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claims 21 or 22, wherein the elongated body is made of a straw.

24. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the biological agent releasing portion comprises a neck engageable with a removable cap.

25. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 24, further comprising the removable cap, the removable cap comprising a cap attachment member engaged with the biological agent releasing portion and the removable cap.

26. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 23, further comprising a support assembly engageable with the biological agent releasing portion.

27. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 26, wherein the support assembly comprises a hook.

28. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 27, wherein the biological agent releasing portion comprises a neck and a removable cap engaged with the neck, and the hook is engageable with the removable cap.

29. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 27, wherein the biological agent releasing portion comprises a neck and the hook is engageable with the neck.

30. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 26, wherein the support assembly comprises a ring and at least one leg extending from the ring, the ring being configured to receive the biological agent releasing portion therein and the leg being configured to be partially inserted into the soil.

31. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein the support assembly comprises one or more of a biodegradable material, a recyclable material, and a compostable material.

32. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 31 , wherein the biological agent comprises predatory mites.

33. The biological agent releasing receptacle of claim 32, wherein the predatory mites comprise Neoseiulus cucumeris, Neoseiulus californicus, Amblyseius andersoni, Amblyseius swirskii or a combination thereof.

34. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the receptacle cavity of the elongated body is further configured to receive a breeding system therein.

35. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 34, wherein the soil-contacting portion is configured to enable moisture to permeate through the receptacle wall.

36. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the one or more biological agent releasing opening is configured to enable release of the biological agent for at least 4 weeks.

37. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 36, wherein the biological agent releasing receptacle is refillable.

38. The biological agent releasing receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 37, wherein the biological agent releasing receptacle is reusable.

39. A method for preparing a biological agent releasing receptacle, the method comprising: closing a soil-contacting portion end of a soil-contacting portion of an elongated body having a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity; introducing a biological agent into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body; perforating the receptacle wall in a biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body located opposite to the soil-contacting portion to create one or more biological agent releasing opening; and closing a biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein closing the soil-contacting portion end comprises sealing the soil-contacting portion end.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein sealing the soil-contacting portion end comprises heat sealing the soil-contacting portion end.

42. The method of any one of claims 39 to 41 , wherein closing the biological agent releasing portion end comprises sealing the biological agent releasing portion end.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein sealing the biological agent releasing portion end comprises heat sealing the biological agent releasing portion end.

44. The method of any one of claims 39 to 41 , wherein closing the biological agent releasing portion end comprises engaging a removable cap with the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein engaging the removable cap with the biological agent releasing portion end comprises engaging the removable cap with a neck of the biological agent releasing portion extending upwardly, away from the soil-contacting portion.

46. The method of any one of claim 39 to 45, wherein perforating the receptacle wall of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body comprises perforating a plurality of biological agent releasing openings in the receptacle wall of the biological agent releasing portion.

47. The method of any one of claims 39 to 46, wherein perforating the receptacle wall is performed prior to closing the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion.

48. The method of any one of claims 39 to 46, wherein perforating the receptacle wall is performed subsequently to closing the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion.

49. The method of any one of claims 39 to 48, further comprising: re-opening the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body; introducing an additional biological agent into the receptacle cavity of the elongated body; and re-closing the biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body.

50. A method for installing a system for releasing a biological agent in proximity of vegetation to be treated, the method comprising: inserting a soil-contacting portion of a biological agent releasing receptacle comprising a receptacle wall defining a receptacle cavity configured to receive therein the biological agent into soil surrounding the vegetation to be treated, such that a biological agent releasing portion, located opposite of the soil-contactingportion and comprising one or more biological agent releasing opening, extends outwardly from the soil and away from the soil-contacting portion.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the vegetation to be treated forms part of a crop.

52. The method of claim 50 or 51 , wherein the system comprises first and second biological agent releasing receptacles, and inserting the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil comprises: inserting the soil-contacting portion of the first biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil at a given location in proximity of the vegetation to be treated; and inserting the soil-contacting portion of the second biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil at a predetermined distance from the first biological agent releasing receptacle.

53. The method of any one of claims 50 to 52, wherein inserting the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil comprises: orienting a given one of the one or more biological agent releasing opening toward a stem of a plant of the vegetation to be treated.

54. The method of any one of claims 50 to 53, wherein inserting the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil is automated.

55. The method of any one of claims 50 to 54, wherein inserting the soil-contacting portion of the biological agent releasing receptacle into the soil is performed manually.

56. A method for preparing a biological agent releasing receptacle, the method comprising: introducing a biological agent into a receptacle cavity defined by a receptacle wall of an elongated body having a soil-contacting portion and a biological agent releasing portion located longitudinally opposite to the soil-contacting portion; and closing a biological agent releasing portion end of the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body.

57. The method of claim 56, further comprising perforating the receptacle wall in the biological agent releasing portion of the elongated body to create one or more biological agent releasing opening.

58. The method of claim 56 or 57, further comprising closing a soil-contacting portion end of the soil-contacting portion of the elongated body.

59. The method of claim 58, wherein closing the soil-contacting portion end of the soilcontacting portion of the elongated body is performed prior to introducing the biological agent into the receptacle cavity.

60. The method of any one of claims 56 to 59, further comprising one or more features defined in any one of claims 40 to 49.

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