Plant growing containers

Abstract

A system comprises a grow cup made of a clay coated wet strength paper, a curved top edge of the wet strength paper, a curved lower edge of the wet strength paper, a wrapping end of the wet strength paper, a connecting end of the wet strength paper, and a plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper.

Description

PLANT GROWING CONTAINERSCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 711,049, filed October 23, 2024, entitled “PLANT GROWING CONTAINERS.” U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 63 / 711 ,049 is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments disclosed herein are related to agriculture. Embodiments are further related to soil sealants. Embodiments are further related to grow cups with soil sealants. Embodiments are further related to grow supporting tubes. Embodiments are further related to grow tubes and grow cups with root pruning apertures. It is one aspect of the present embodiments to provide a compostable plant growing cup or tube. Embodiments are further related to field compostable grow tubes or grow cups and associated field compostable arrayed cup holders.BACKGROUND

[0003] Many plants require a structure to grow properly. For example, many plants are initially planted in a plastic cup or pot. The plastic container serves as the container for the growing plant, often through point of sale purchase at a nursery or greenhouse.

[0004] T raditional systems and methods for growing plants make use of metal or plastic containers. The containers can contain numerous harmful chemicals, and are generally not environmentally friendly. These systems are effective during the growth of the plant, but create major disadvantages after the plant is ready to be placed in the ground or pot during the grow season.

[0005] For example, after the plant is ready to be removed from the initial plastic container for planting in the ground or in a larger planters, the plant must be removed fromthe plastic container for transplantation. Most such containers have a limited useful life and often are not re-used, even once. Instead, the container is usually discarded as waste. At scale, this creates a massive inefficiency which requires many resources and is ultimately wasteful. In addition, the plastic waste created by the use of inorganic containers is shipped to landfills and is generally unhealthy for the environment.

[0006] Therefore, a need exists for a strong compostable growth supporting containers, as described by the embodiments disclosed herein.SUMMARY

[0007] The following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the embodiments disclosed and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the various aspects of the embodiments can be gained by taking the entire specification, claims, drawings, and abstract as a whole.

[0008] It is one aspect of the present embodiments to provide a plant growing container.

[0009] It is another aspect of the present embodiments to provide a soil sealing bridgeable growing container.

[0010] It is another aspect of the embodiments to provide a field compostable soil sealing grow cups and grow tubes with air pruning apertures.

[0011] It is another aspect of the embodiments to provide biodegradable grow container platforms for holding biodegradable grow cups and grow tubes.

[0012] It is another aspect of the embodiments to provide grow cups and grow tubes.

[0013] For example, in certain embodiments, a system comprises a grow cup comprising a clay coated wet strength paper, a curved top edge of the wet strength paper, a curved lower edge of the wet strength paper, a wrapping end of the wet strength paper, a connecting end of the wet strength paper, and a plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the system further comprises an adhesive disposed on the connecting end of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the wet strength paper comprises a clay coated side of the wet strength paper facing inward and a wet strength side of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the system further comprises a natural oil coating applied to a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the curved top edge has a longer radius than the curved lower edge. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper further comprises a compostable material. In an embodiment, the system further comprises a bottom surface of wet strength paper configured to fit in a bottom of the grow cup. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper comprises unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper and a PLA film laminated on the unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper. In an embodiment, theclay coated wet strength paper comprises unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper comprises unbleached clay coated recycled kraft paper.

[0014] In an embodiment, a system for growing plants comprises a grow cup comprising a clay coated wet strength paper with a white clay coated inner side of the clay coated wet strength paper and a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper, the grow cup further comprising a curved top edge, a curved lower edge, a wrapping end, and a connecting end of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the system for grow plants further comprises a plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper comprise a lateral curved slit and a vertical slit bisecting the lateral curved slit. In an embodiment, the system for grow plants further comprises an adhesive disposed on the connecting end of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the system for grow plants further comprises a natural oil coating applied to a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper comprises at least one of unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper, unbleached clay coated, recycled kraft paper and a PLA film laminated on the unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper.

[0015] In an embodiment, a plant display and planting system comprises a display carton a plurality of grow cups configured to fit in the display carton, each of the plurality of grow cups comprising a clay coated wet strength paper, a curved top edge of the, wet strength paper, a curved lower edge of the wet strength paper, a wrapping end of the wet strength paper, a connecting end of the wet strength paper, and a plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper of each of the plurality of grow cups comprises a clay coated side of the wet strength paper facing inward and a wet strength side of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the plant display and planting system further comprises a natural oil coating applied to a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper of each of the plurality of grow cups. In an embodiment the plant display and planting system further comprises a dry fertilizer material integrated in the display carton.

[0016] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparentfrom the following detailed description when viewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which set forth certain embodiments of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0017] The accompanying figures, in which like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, further illustrate the embodiments and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0018] FIG. 1A depicts a material associated with a biodegradable grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 1B further depicts material layers associated with a biodegradable grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0020] FIG. 2A depicts a bottom perspective view of a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 2B depicts an elevation view of a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0022] FIG. 20 depicts a disassembled view of a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0023] FIG. 2D depicts a top plan view of a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0024] FIG. 2E depicts a top plan view of another embodiment of a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0025] FIG. 3A depicts a grow cup planted in a growing location, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0026] FIG. 3B depicts a grow cup planted in a growing location with the grow cup biodegrading, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0027] FIG. 4 depicts a display carton configured with a selection of grow cups, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0028] FIG. 5 depicts an image of a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0029] FIG. 6 depicts an array of grow cups on display, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0030] FIG. 7 depicts an array of grow tubes on display, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0031] FIG. 8A depicts a perspective view of another embodiment of a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0032] FIG. 8B depicts a top perspective view of another embodiment of a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0033] FIG. 8C depicts a top view of another embodiment of a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0034] FIG. 9 depicts steps associated with a method of using a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;

[0035] FIG. 10A depicts steps associated with a method for assembling a grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments; and

[0036] FIG. 10B depicts additional steps associated with the method for assembling the grow cup, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] The particular values and configurations discussed in the following non-limiting examples can be varied, and are cited merely to illustrate one or more embodiments, and are not intended to limit the scope thereof.

[0038] Example embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which illustrative embodiments are shown. The embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the embodiments to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0039] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0040] Throughout the specification and claims, terms may have nuanced meanings suggested or implied in context beyond an explicitly stated meaning. Likewise, the phrase “in one embodiment” as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment and the phrase “in another embodiment” as used herein does not necessarily refer to a different embodiment. It is intended, for example, that claimed subject matter include combinations of example embodiments in whole or in part.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with theirmeaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0042] It is contemplated that any embodiment discussed in this specification can be implemented with respect to any method, kit, reagent, or composition of the invention, and vice versa. Furthermore, compositions of the invention can be used to achieve methods of the invention.

[0043] It will be understood that particular embodiments described herein are shown by way of illustration and not as limitations of the invention. The principal features of this invention can be employed in various embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific procedures described herein. Such equivalents are considered to be within the scope of this invention and are covered by the claims.

[0044] The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and / or the specification may mean “one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,” and “one or more than one.” The use of the term “or” in the claims is used to mean “and / or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or the alternatives are mutually exclusive, although the disclosure supports a definition that refers to only alternatives and “and / or.” Throughout this application, the term “about” is used to indicate that a value includes the inherent variation of error for the device, the method being employed to determine the value, or the variation that exists among the study subjects.

[0045] As used in this specification and claim (s), the words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and any form of including, such as “includes” and “include”) or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0046] The term “or combinations thereof” as used herein refers to all permutations andcombinations of the listed items preceding the term. For example, “A, B, C, or combinations thereof” is intended to include at least one of: A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, or ABC, and if order is important in a particular context, also BA, CA, CB, CBA, BCA, ACB, BAC, or CAB. Continuing with this example, expressly included are combinations that contain repeats of one or more item or term, such as BB, AAA, AB, BBC, AAABCCCC, CBBAAA, CABABB, and so forth. The skilled artisan will understand that typically there is no limit on the number of items or terms in any combination, unless otherwise apparent from the context.

[0047] All of the compositions and / or methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the compositions and methods of this invention have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the compositions and / or methods and in the steps or in the sequence of steps of the method described herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the invention. All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0048] The disclosed embodiments are directed to a biodegradable grow cup and / or grow tube that can be used to grow plants. The embodiments are formed of material sufficiently robust to keep their form even after they are planted in the ground, but are also bridgeable so that, over time the material will degrade in the soil. The grow cups and grow tubes can be used as replacements for standard non-degradable growing containers, which can’t be planted in the ground and become waste after the plant is removed.

[0049] FIG. 1A illustrates aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein comprising a grow cup 100. In this embodiment, the grow cup 100 comprises, clay coated wet strength paper 105, with a clay coated side 110 facing toward the soil. A natural oil coating 115 (e.g., peppermint oil, citronella oil, etc.) can be applied to the wet strength side 120 of the paper 105. The oil coating 115, such as peppermint oil, can act as a fungus growth inhibitor or fungicide. The white clay side is configured to face inwardly in the grow cup 100. This is intentional, as it allows the grow cups to retain sufficient strength to last duringplanting and watering until the plants are ready to be planted in the ground. The inner facing white clay side thus ensures the grow cup does not fall apart before it is meant to.

[0050] For example, FIG. 1B illustrates certain embodiments where the grow cup 100 can be made of FDA food grade approved materials and are environmentally friendly. The grow cup 100 can be provided in 3 grades; a heavy grade paper 105 made of compostable and renewable unbleached clay coated virgin Kraft paper 154 laminated with PLA film 152. The heavy grade may last for longer than one growing season. The grow cup 100 can also be made in a medium grade made of renewable unbleached clay coated virgin Kraft paper. The medium grade may last for nominally one growing season. The grow cup 100 can also be made in a lite grade comprising renewable unbleached clay coated recycled Kraft paper for short term plantings. All materials are highly compostable and renewable. In certain embodiments, one or more of the heavy grade, medium grade, or lite grade materials can also include a biofilm coating. The biofilm coating can comprise a biodegradable coating typically. The biofilm coating can be applied to the kraft the wet strength paper, or both.

[0051] The grow cup 100 further comprises an adhesive along an edge and covered with a carrier tape as further detailed herein. The grow cup 100 is configured to hold soil and a growing seed / plant in the soil. The grow cup 100 is configured to be planted directly in the ground, or other planting location. All materials selected for the grow cup 100 can be selected to be easily shred-able, compostable, and / or biodegradable, so that once the plant is planted in its final location in the grow cup 100, the grow cup 100 will biodegrade in place, allowing the plant growth to continue.

[0052] The grow cup 100 can further include a series of air pruning holes 130. The air pruning holes 130 allow air to reach the roots growing in the grow cup 100. The grow cup 100, is configured to trap moisture in the soil to enhance plant growth. Air pruning the roots encourages plant growth so that when planted, the roots exit the pruning holes 130 in the grow cup 100.

[0053] For example, the root air pruning holes 130 help plants grow stronger by stopping the roots from circling around inside the grow cup 100. When the roots reach these holes 130 and hit the air, they dry out at the tips, which causes the plant to grow more new roots inside the grow cup 100. This leads to a fuller, healthier root system thatcan absorb water and nutrients more efficiently, helping the plant grow better overall. Once planted in a permanent location the roots will continue to grow naturally and the grow cup 100 will dissolve with time.

[0054] As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the grow cup 100 can be formed from the paper 105. The paper 105 can include a curved top edge 135 and a curved lower edge 140, with the curved top edge 135 having a longer radius than the curved lower edge 140. The paper 105 can further comprise a wrapping end 145 and a connecting end 150, with the adhesive 125 disposed on or along the connecting end 150. Although the grow cup 100 has a spiral profile, it can be shipped in a substantially flat configuration as illustrated in FIG. 1A.

[0055] FIGs. 2A-2D illustrate a series of illustrations of the grow cup 100 once it is affixed in its final three-dimensional form, from different perspectives in order to illustrate aspects of the embodiments.

[0056] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of the grow cup 100. As illustrated, the grow cup 100 is formed by wrapping the connecting end 150 over the wrapping end 145, to form a cone shaped structure 205, with a top opening 210 and a bottom opening 215. In certain embodiments, the top opening 210 can have a greater diameter than the diameter of the bottom opening 215. This is a consequence of the curved top edge 135 having a longer length than the length of the curved lower edge 140.

[0057] It should be appreciated that for certain applications, it is advantageous for the grow cup 100 to have a tubular form. In such cases, the top opening 210 can have a diameter equal to the diameter of the bottom opening 215. This is accomplished by configuring the system so that the curved top edge 135 has the same length and / or radius as the curved lower edge 140.

[0058] FIG. 2B illustrates an elevation view of the grow cup 100. As illustrated, the grow cup 100 can comprise a cone shaped structure 205 with a larger top opening 210 and a smaller lower opening 215. The grow cup 100 further comprises a series of air pruning holes or slits 130.

[0059] FIG. 2C further illustrates the mechanism by which the substantially planer grow cup 100 is formed into a cone shaped structure 205. As illustrated in FIG. 2C, the wrappingend 145 is wrapped beneath the connecting end 150. The connecting end 150 can include adhesive 220, which can be covered with a tape cover 225. The tape cover 225 can be removed so that the adhesive 220 can be applied to the paper 105, preferably proximate to the wrapping end 145, to form the cone shaped structure 205 as illustrated by arrow 230, with a top opening 210 and a bottom opening 215.

[0060] FIG. 2D provides a top plan view of the grow cup 100. As illustrated, the diameter of the top opening 210 of the cone shaped structure 205, is larger than the diameter of the bottom opening 215. In this illustration the top of the grow cup 100 and the bottom of the grow cup 100 are open.

[0061] FIG. 2E provides a top plan view of the grow cup 100, with a bottom surface 235. As illustrated, the diameter of the top opening 210 of the cone shaped structure 205, is larger than the diameter of the bottom surface 235, so that only the top opening 210 is open.

[0062] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B illustrate the use of a grow cup 100 in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the grow cup 100 can be planted into the soil 300. The soil 300 can be an outdoor location or in a larger pot. The grow cup 100 can be inserted into the ground with the plant 305 presently growing in the grow cup 100. The roots 310 of the plant 305 are distributed in the grow cup 100.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 3B over time the grow cup 100, which can be configured of biodegradable and / or compostable materials, will breakdown or biodegrade. This allows the roots 310 of the plant to continue to grow and expand in the soil 300, beyond the shape defined by the grow cup before it biodegraded.

[0064] FIG. 4 illustrates additional aspects of the disclosed embodiments. In certain embodiments, systems can include a display carton 400. The display carton 400 comprises a tray 402 with a series of grow cup receptacles 405 in which a series of grow cups 100 and plants 305 can be displayed. The display carton 400 can be made, in whole or in part, of clay coated wet strength paper, with a clay coated side and a wet strength side. The material can further include dry fertilizer material 410. In certain embodiments, the material is configured to last 2 or 3 weeks on the shelf before it needs to be planted. The entire display carton 400 can be planted in the ground with the grow cups 100therein.

[0065] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary a grow cup 100 in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. The grow cup 100 shows soil 505 in the grow cup 100. In certain embodiments, the grow cup 100 can be arranged in a substantially conical shape for floral bundling and labeling. The grow cup 100 as illustrated in FIG. 5 can eliminate the need for plastic containers for many applications at nurseries. For example, in certain embodiments, the grow cups 100 can be placed in existing fabric bags that are planted directly in the ground instead of using plastic and pulling the plant out of the plastic

[0066] The grow cup 100 can also be configured of a material that can be printable. In other words, the material can be configured to accept custom labeling 510. The custom labeling 510 can indicate plant variety, planting instructions, sow date, stick date, and other record keeping information. The embodiments are configured for planting directly, in order to minimize root shock and root damage. All materials used in the grow cup 100 can be selected to be FDA food grade approved and can be used for holding organic plant material and / or soil.

[0067] Although FIG. 5 shows one exemplary size of a grow cup 100, it should be appreciated that the grow cup 100 can be configured in custom sizes to meet the growers need. In certain embodiments sizes can include, but are not limited to, 3” x 61 ” (making a 2” diameter grow cup); 3” x 9 / ” (making a 3” diameter grow cup) and 91 / ”x 18” (making a 3” diameter 18” tall grow tube). The grow cup 100 can be stored flat in order to make it convenient for storage and / or shipping, is easy to assemble into its conical shape, and simple to use.

[0068] FIG. 6 show an array 600 of grow cups 100, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. As illustrated, the grow cups 100 can be filled with soil 605 and plants 610 can be planted therein. The grow cups 100 can then be placed in a carton 615 for retail display in a nursery, greenhouse, or other such facility. The grow cups 100 can be sold to retail customers who can take the growing plant 610 in the grow cup 100 to a final planting location. The grow cup 100 can then be inserted directly into its final location and planted. Over time the grow cup 100 will disintegrate, and the plant will continue to grow.

[0069] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment comprising an array 700 of grow tubes705. The grow tubes 705 can comprise a sheet of material configured of the same materials as the grow cup and wrapped in much the same way as the grow cups 100. However, the grow tubes 705 can be taller and can be formed into a cylindrical tube of such material with a plant, tree, or sprig 710, planted in the soil 715 therein.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the grow tubes 705 can be made of FDA food grade approved materials selected to be environmentally friendly. The grow tube 705 can be provided in 3 grades; a heavy grade made of compostable and renewable unbleached clay coated virgin Kraft paper laminated with PLA film. The heavy grade may last for longer than one growing season. The grow tube 705 can also be made in a medium grade made of renewable unbleached clay coated virgin Kraft paper. The medium grade may last for nominally one growing season. The grow tube 705 can also be made in a lite grade comprising renewable unbleached clay coated recycled Kraft paper for short term plantings. All materials are highly compostable and renewable.

[0071] The grow tube 705 can further comprise an adhesive along an edge, covered with a carrier tape. The grow tube 705 is configured to hold soil and a growing plant in the soil. The grow tube 705 can be planted directly in the ground, or other planting location. All materials selected for the grow tube 705 can be selected to be easily shred-able, compostable and / or biodegradable, so that once the plant is planted in its final location in the grow tube 705, the grow tube 705 will biodegrade in place, allowing the plant growth to continue.

[0072] FIGs. 8A-8C illustrate additional embodiments of a grow cup 800 in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. The grow cup 800 can be made of material 805 commensurate with that described for grow cup 100. The grow cup material 805 comprises, clay coated wet strength paper 105, with a clay coated side 110 facing toward the soil. A natural oil coating 115 (e.g., peppermint oil, citronella oil, etc.) can be applied to the wet strength side 120 of the paper 105. The white clay side 802 is configured to face inwardly in the grow gup 800. This is intentional as it allows the grow cups 800 to retain sufficient strength to last during planting and watering until the plants are ready to be planted in the ground. The inner facing white clay side 802 thus ensures the grow cup does not fall apart before it is meant to.

[0073] As with grow cup 100, grow cup 800 is formed by bending a sheet of material805 into contact with itself, forming a wider top opening 810 and a narrow bottom diameter 815. A series of root pruning slits 820 can be formed in the grow cup 800. The root pruning slits 820 can comprise a lateral curved slit 825 bisected by a vertical slit 830.

[0074] As illustrated in FIG. 8B, printing 835 can be done on the outward facing surfaces of the material 805. This printing can include barcodes, labels, and the like. The material can be sold in sheets with labeling being unique to each of the grow cups 800.

[0075] FIG. 80 illustrates a top view of the grow cup 805. The grow cup 800 can include a bottom 840. The bottom 840 can be formed of the same material 805 as the rest of the grow cup 800. The bottom 840 can have a diameter 845 slightly larger than the narrow bottom diameter 815. In this way the bottom 840 can be inserted into the grow cup 800 from the top. Because the grow cup 800 is cone-shaped, the bottom 840 will naturally fit when the diameter of the cone shape matches the diameter of the bottom 840.

[0076] The bottom 840 can include a locking tab 850, which can be inserted through one of the reference slits 860 or root pruning slits 820, to be sure the bottom 840 is securely in place in the grow cup 800. The bottom 840 can further include a plurality of root pruning slits 855.

[0077] FIG. 9 illustrates a flow chart of steps associated with a method 900 for planting plants using the grow cups or grow tubes disclosed herein. The method starts at 905.

[0078] At step 910 grow cups can be configured in flat sheets of material comprising clay coated wet strength paper 105, with a clay coated side 110 and a wet strength side. The flat grow cups can optionally be shipped to a nursery, commercial growing facility, or other such location, at step 915.

[0079] Once the grow cups are at a facility, at step 920, the grow cups can be configured into their conical configuration and optionally labeled to identify the plants that will be planted therein. At step 925 the grow cups can be filled with soil. At step 930, seeds or growing plants can be planted in the soil in the grow cups.

[0080] As the plants grow in the grow cups, they can be displayed, for example, for retail purchase at step 935. A customer or other such person can select a plant for planting and purchase or transport the grow cup to a new planting location at step 940. The growcup can be placed directly into a prepared hole in the ground at the planting location and any excess space in the hole can be backfilled with soil at step 945.

[0081] The plant is now able to grow in the planting location. The grow cup, which is biodegradable, will degrade over time, leaving the plant to continue growing in the planting location at step 950. The method ends at step 955.

[0082] It should be appreciated that this method is exemplary, and that the use of the grow cups can be used in other ways without departing from the scope disclosed herein.

[0083] FIG. 10A and 10B illustrate steps associated with a method 1000 for assembling a grow cup, such as grow cup 100, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments. The method starts at step 1005, where a grow cup is provided in a flat configuration as illustrated.

[0084] At step 1010, the protective liner covering the adhesive can be removed, so that the adhesive is exposed. The grow cup is then folded along the reference line as illustrated at step 1015. The line is used for reference to ensure the hole diameter can be used for the grow cup bottom. The edge of the fold should be as close as possible to the reference line. This creates the cone shape of the grow cup as illustrated at step 1020. Step 1025 shows the adhesive applied to the other side of the grow cup so that the grow cup holds its conical shape, with the white side facing inward.

[0085] Next at step 1030, the grow cup bottom can be inserted. As with the other parts of the grow cup, the white side of the grow cup bottom faces inward. The grow cup bottom can include a tab which can be inserted into the tab slots to ensure correct placement of the bottom, securing it in place. The method then flows as illustrated by block “A” in FIG.10A to block A in FIG. 10B. At step 1035 the grow cup is fully assembled and ready for use.

[0086] Based on the foregoing, it can be appreciated that a number of embodiments, preferred and alternative, are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a system comprises a grow cup comprising a clay coated wet strength paper, a curved top edge of the wet strength paper, a curved lower edge of the wet strength paper, a wrapping end of the wet strength paper, a connecting end of the wet strength paper, and a plurality of air pruningholes in the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the system further comprises an adhesive disposed on the connecting end of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the wet strength paper comprises a clay coated side of the wet strength paper facing inward and a wet strength side of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the system further comprises a natural oil coating applied to a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the curved top edge has a longer radius than the curved lower edge. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper further comprises a compostable material. In an embodiment, the system further comprises a bottom surface of wet strength paper configured to fit in a bottom of the grow cup. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper comprises unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper and a PLA film laminated on the unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper comprises unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper comprises unbleached clay coated recycled kraft paper.

[0087] In an embodiment, a system for growing plants comprises a grow cup comprising a clay coated wet strength paper with a white clay coated inner side of the clay coated wet strength paper and a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper, the grow cup further comprising a curved top edge, a curved lower edge, a wrapping end, and a connecting end of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the system for grow plants further comprises a plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper comprise a lateral curved slit and a vertical slit bisecting the lateral curved slit. In an embodiment, the system for grow plants further comprises an adhesive disposed on the connecting end of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the system for grow plants further comprises a natural oil coating applied to a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper comprises at least one of unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper, unbleached clay coated, recycled kraft paper and a PLA film laminated on the unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper.

[0088] In an embodiment, a plant display and planting system comprises a display carton a plurality of grow cups configured to fit in the display carton, each of the plurality of grow cups comprising a clay coated wet strength paper, a curved top edge of the, wetstrength paper, a curved lower edge of the wet strength paper, a wrapping end of the wet strength paper, a connecting end of the wet strength paper, and a plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the clay coated wet strength paper of each of the plurality of grow cups comprises a clay coated side of the wet strength paper facing inward and a wet strength side of the wet strength paper. In an embodiment, the plant display and planting system further comprises a natural oil coating applied to a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper of each of the plurality of grow cups. In an embodiment the plant display and planting system further comprises a dry fertilizer material integrated in the display carton.

[0089] It will be appreciated that variations of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Also, it should be appreciated that various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system comprising:a grow cup comprising a clay coated wet strength paper;a curved top edge of the wet strength paper;a curved lower edge of the wet strength paper;a wrapping end of the wet strength paper;a connecting end of the wet strength paper; anda plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper.

2. The system of claim 1 further comprising:an adhesive disposed on the connecting end of the wet strength paper.

3. The system of claim 1 wherein the wet strength paper comprises:a clay coated side of the wet strength paper facing inward; anda wet strength side of the wet strength paper.

4. The system of claim 1 further comprising:a natural oil coating applied to a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper.

5. The system of claim 1 wherein the curved top edge has a longer radius than the curved lower edge.

6. The system of claim 1 wherein the clay coated wet strength paper further comprises:a compostable material.

7. The system of claim 1 further comprising:a bottom surface of wet strength paper configured to fit in a bottom of the grow cup.

8. The system of claim 1 wherein the clay coated wet strength paper comprises:unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper; anda PLA film laminated on the unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper.

9. The system of claim 1 wherein the clay coated wet strength paper comprises: unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper.

10. The system of claim 1 wherein the clay coated wet strength paper comprises:unbleached clay coated recycled kraft paper.

11. A system for growing plants comprising:a grow cup comprising a clay coated wet strength paper with a white clay coated inner side of the clay coated wet strength paper, and a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper, the grow cup further comprising:a curved top edge;a curved lower edge;a wrapping end; anda connecting end of the wet strength paper.

12. The system for grow plants of claim 11 further comprising:a plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper.

13. The system for growing plants of claim 12 wherein each of the plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper comprise:a lateral curved slit; anda vertical slit bisecting the lateral curved slit.

14. The system for growing plants of claim 11 further comprising:an adhesive disposed on the connecting end of the wet strength paper.

15. The system for growing plants of claim 11 further comprising:a natural oil coating applied to a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper.

16. The system for growing plants of claim 11 wherein the clay coated wet strength paper comprises at least one of:unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper;unbleached clay coated recycled kraft paper; anda PLA film laminated on the unbleached clay coated virgin kraft paper.

17. A plant display and planting system comprising:a display carton;a plurality of grow cups configured to fit in the display carton, each of the plurality of grow cups comprising:a clay coated wet strength paper;a curved top edge of the wet strength paper;a curved lower edge of the wet strength paper;a wrapping end of the wet strength paper;a connecting end of the wet strength paper; anda plurality of air pruning holes in the wet strength paper.

18. The plant display and planting system of claim 17 wherein the clay coated wet strength paper of each of the plurality of grow cups comprises:a clay coated side of the wet strength paper facing inward; anda wet strength side of the wet strength paper.

19. The plant display and planting system of claim 17 further comprising:a natural oil coating applied to a wet strength side of the clay coated wet strength paper of each of the plurality of grow cups.

20. The plant display and planting system of claim 17 further comprising:a dry fertilizer material integrated in the display carton.

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