A plant support device

Abstract

A plant support device for use in supporting a plant including: a main body which extends from a first end having a first opening to a second end having a second opening, wherein the main body defines a channel which extends along an axis A between the first opening and the second opening; and coupling formations for attaching limb support members which, in use, engage with respective limbs of the plant to support the limbs, wherein the main body defines a slot in communication with the channel to permit an elongate support member to pass through the slot and into the channel.

Description

[0001] A PLANT SUPPORT DEVICE

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a plant support device and a plant support system for supporting plants during cultivation.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Plants often require support during cultivation, particularly indoor cultivation. As a plant grows, the limbs of a plant become heavier due to the growth of leaves, fruit, flowers and / or vegetables whilst the ability of the stems of such limbs to support them may not be sufficient, particularly in relation to fast growing plants. In the prior art, it is known to support limbs in various ways. For example, by tying limb support members, e.g. strings or cables, to the limbs and attaching them to a rigid support, e.g. a stake, bamboo cane or horticultural garden cane. Other methods include the use of a support structure, e.g. frame or cage structure formed of relatively rigid frame members connected together, which is installed around the plant. The frame members that make up the support structure provide support for the stems of the plant to rest on. In some methods, nets for supporting the stems are attached to a ceiling e.g. by a hook or the like, or to a vertical stake. It is known to use so-called YoYo plant supports or horticultural YoYos to support plant limbs. Such YoYo plant supports include a reel storing a cable which can be coupled at its free end to a plant limb to provide support. The reel is spring loaded and lockable to permit the cable to be fixed at different lengths as required to support the plant limb. The free end of the cable has a hook to receive the plant limb, e.g. a stem thereof. The YoYo plant support has a fixing member, e.g. a hook or the like, provided on its main body to releasably fix or hang the YoYo plant support at a raised height so that the cable extends downwardly to lift and hold the plant limb at a desired height.

[0006] Various issues are associated with the prior art. For example, prior art support structures provide support at locations which cannot be easily adapted or modified to support limbs or parts of a plant which are not at those locations. Often there is a requirement to reposition plants as they grow. For example, smaller plants require less space and may require different lighting and as the plants grow, they need to be moved to a larger space and / or different lighting conditions whilst prior art solutions are not amenable to such repositioning. Prior art techniques can often be time consuming and / or involve careful manipulation by the user. Also, the use of support structures or nets requires additional space around the plant and / or limits access to the plant. Similarly, there is a need to provide support in a way which can be easily adapted and / or requires less time.

[0007] The above issues can be exacerbated as the limbs move and change in size I shape as the plant grows. Similarly, space can be particularly limited where plants are being grown indoors.

[0008] H 16478 WO Aspects of the present disclosure may ameliorate one or more of the above issues.

[0009] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, we provide a plant support device for use in supporting a plant including: a main body which extends from a first end having a first opening to a second end having a second opening, wherein the main body defines a channel which extends along an axis A between the first opening and the second opening; and coupling formations for attaching limb support members which, in use, engage with respective limbs of the plant to support the limbs, wherein the main body defines a slot in communication with the channel to permit an elongate support member to pass through the slot and into the channel.

[0011] Optionally or preferably, the slot tapers towards the channel.

[0012] Optionally or preferably, the main body is made from a resiliency deformable material, optionally or preferably the main body may include one or more recesses which extend radially from an outer surface of the main body towards the axis A.

[0013] Optionally or preferably, the main body is generally C-shaped in plan view.

[0014] Optionally or preferably, the channel is generally C-shaped in cross-section.

[0015] Optionally or preferably, the main body includes a plurality of projections which extend into the channel to retain the elongate support member in the channel when received therein, optionally or preferably one or more of the plurality of projections extend along the length of the channel.

[0016] Optionally or preferably, two or more of the coupling formations are spaced apart along a radial direction.

[0017] Optionally or preferably, the coupling formations are slits for receiving a portion of a respective one of the limb support members to form an interference fit therewith.

[0018] Optionally or preferably, each slit has a locating section and a coupling section which forms the interference fit with the said one of the limb support members, wherein the locating section has a larger width than the coupling section and / or tapers in width in a direction towards the coupling section.

[0019] H 16478 WO Optionally or preferably, the plant support device includes a wall, wherein the wall defines at least some of the coupling formations, optionally or preferably including a plurality of said walls.

[0020] Optionally or preferably, the plant support device includes a plurality of walls spaced apart from each other relative to a first axis Fi, wherein a first coupling formation from one of the plurality of said walls and a first coupling formation from a second, adjacent, one of the plurality of said walls co-operate to receive respective first and second portions of a limb support member, wherein, the respective first coupling formations are offset relative to relative to a second axis F2 which is perpendicular to the first axis F1 such that the limb support member is held at an angle under tension between the first and second coupling formations during use.

[0021] Optionally or preferably, the wall, or each wall, extends in a radial direction.

[0022] Optionally or preferably, the wall, or each wall, has an upper end having an edge and a lower end, and each of the coupling formations extend from the edge towards the lower end.

[0023] Optionally or preferably, the locating section extends from the edge to the coupling section.

[0024] Optionally or preferably, the width of the locating section narrows as the locating section extends towards the coupling section.

[0025] Optionally or preferably, the locating section is generally V-shaped and the coupling section is generally l-shaped.

[0026] Optionally or preferably, the plant support device includes one or more arm members which extend radially or along a radial direction, wherein at least one of the arm members includes the coupling formations.

[0027] Optionally or preferably, the one or more of the arm members are inclined with respect to the main body, optionally or preferably inclined downwardly away from the main body.

[0028] Optionally or preferably, at least one of the arm members includes a plurality of said walls.

[0029] Optionally or preferably, the device includes an attachment member for attaching a Y0Y0 plant support thereto.

[0030] Optionally or preferably, the attachment member extends around at least a portion of the main body and defines a space between the attachment member and the main body to permit attachment of the Y0Y0 plant support at different points along the attachment member.

[0031] Optionally or preferably, the attachment member extends arcuately around the main body.

[0032] H 16478 WO Optionally or preferably, the plant support device includes one or more said attachment members.

[0033] Optionally or preferably, one or more of the attachment members extend between one or more respective pairs of arm members.

[0034] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure we provide a plant support system including a plant support device according to any preceding aspect and one or more of the elongate support member, limb support member(s), and YoYo plant support(s).

[0035] A plant support device or system according to any preceding aspect wherein the limb support members are strings, wires or cables.

[0036] A plant support device or system according to any preceding aspect wherein the coupling formations each include a portion which extends along a non-radial plane P with respect to axis A so that a portion of the limb support member which is attached or engages the portion of the coupling formation extends along the plane P.

[0037] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure we provide a plant support device for use in supporting a plant including: a main body for attachment to an elongate support member which extends along an axis A; and coupling formations for attaching limb support members which, in use, engage with respective limbs of the plant to support the limbs, wherein the coupling formations are spaced apart along a radial direction.

[0038] Optionally or preferably, the plant support device includes one or more arm members connected to the main body which extend away therefrom in a radial direction or extend radially, wherein the one or more arm members include the coupling formations.

[0039] Optionally or preferably, one or more of the arm members are inclined with respect to the main body, optionally or preferably incline downwardly away from the main body.

[0040] Optionally or preferably, the coupling formations are slits for receiving a portion of a respective one of the limb support members to form an interference fit therewith.

[0041] Optionally or preferably, each slit has a locating section and a coupling section which forms the interference fit with the said one of the limb support members, wherein the locating section has a larger width than the coupling section and / or tapers in width in a direction towards the coupling section.

[0042] Optionally or preferably, the plant support device includes a wall, wherein the wall defines at least some of the coupling formations, optionally or preferably including a plurality of said walls.

[0043] H 16478 WO Optionally or preferably, the plant support device includes a plurality of walls spaced apart from each other relative to a first axis Fi, wherein a first coupling formation from one of the plurality of said walls and a first coupling formation from a second, adjacent, one of the plurality of said walls co-operate to receive respective first and second portions of a limb support member, wherein, the respective first coupling formations are offset relative to relative to a second axis F2 which is perpendicular to the first axis F1 such that the limb support member is held at an angle under tension between the first and second coupling formations during use.

[0044] Optionally or preferably, the wall, or each wall, extends in a radial direction.

[0045] Optionally or preferably, the wall, or each wall, has an upper end having an edge and a lower end, and each of the coupling formations extend from the edge towards the lower end.

[0046] Optionally or preferably, the locating section extends from the edge to the coupling section.

[0047] Optionally or preferably, the width of the locating section narrows as the locating section extends towards the coupling section.

[0048] Optionally or preferably, the locating section is generally V-shaped and the coupling section is generally l-shaped.

[0049] Optionally or preferably, the device includes an attachment member for attaching a Y0Y0 plant support thereto.

[0050] Optionally or preferably, the attachment member extends around at least a portion of the main body and defines a space between the attachment member and the main body to permit attachment of the Y0Y0 plant support at different points along the attachment member.

[0051] Optionally or preferably, the attachment member extends arcuately around the main body.

[0052] A plant support device according to any of the preceding aspects including one or more said attachment members.

[0053] Optionally or preferably, one or more of the attachment members extend between one or more respective pairs of arm members.

[0054] Optionally or preferably, the main body extends from a first end having a first opening to a second end having a second opening, wherein the main body defines a channel for the elongate support member to pass therethrough and which extends along an axis between the first opening and the second opening.

[0055] H 16478 WO According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure we provide a plant support system including a plant support device according to the third aspects and aspects dependent thereon and one or more of the elongate support member, limb support member(s), and YoYo plant support(s).

[0056] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0057] In orderthat the present disclosure may be more readily understood, preferable embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0058] FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a plant support device embodying the present disclosure;

[0059] FIGURE 2 is another perspective view of the plant support device shown in figure 1 ;

[0060] FIGURE 3 is a side view of the plant support device shown in figure 1 ;

[0061] FIGURE 4 is a plan view of the plant support device shown in figure 1 from a first end thereof;

[0062] FIGURE 5 is a plan view of the plant support device shown in figure 1 from a second end thereof;

[0063] FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of the plant support device shown in figure 1 attached to an elongate support member;

[0064] FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of the plant support device shown in figure 1 attached to an elongate support member and configured to support a plant;

[0065] FIGURE 8a is a perspective view of the plant support device shown in figure 1 with objects attached thereto;

[0066] FIGURE 8b is a perspective view of the plant support device shown in figure 1 with objects attached thereto and attached to an elongate support member;

[0067] FIGURE 8c is a perspective view of the plant support device as shown in figure 8b and configured to support a plant;

[0068] FIGURES 9a to 9c show the plant support device of figure 1 in various states during use; and

[0069] FIGURES 10a to 10c show the plant support device of figure 1 being used to support a plant using three different methods.

[0070] H 16478 WO DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0071] Referring to the figures, these show a plant support device 10 embodying aspects of the present disclosure.

[0072] Referring to figures 1 to 5 showing various views of the plant support device 10, the plant support device 10 is for use in supporting a plant. The plant support device 10 may include a main body 12 which extends from a first end 14a having a first opening 16a to a second end 14b having a second opening 16b. The main body 12 may define a channel 18 which extends along an axis A between the first opening 16a and the second opening 16b. The plant support device 10 includes coupling formations 20 for attaching limb support members 100 to the device 10 which, in use, engage with respective limbs of the plant to support the limbs. The main body 12 may define a slot 22 in communication with the channel 18 to permit an elongate support member 90 to pass through the slot 22 and into the channel 18.

[0073] The limb support members 100 may be any suitable string, cable or wire which may be attached to the plant support device 10 and limbs of the plant.

[0074] Figure 6 shows the plant support device 10 attached to an elongate support member 90 which is fixed in growing medium 50 (e.g. soil, hydroponic suitable materials which may be inert mediums, Rockwool, coconut coir, perlite, soilless mediums etc. as are known in the art) of a plant pot. Figure 7 shows a plant 80 being supported by limb support members 100 attached to the plant support device 10.

[0075] The elongate support member 90 may be a relatively rigid member that can be fixed vertically, e.g. by pushing a lower end of the elongate support member 90 into the growing medium surrounding the plant. The elongate support member 90 is suitable for supporting the weight of the plant support device 10 and at least some of the weight of the plant limbs which are coupled to the plant support device 10 by the limb support members 100. The elongate support member 90 may be a bamboo cane or a horticultural garden cane (e.g. made from plastic). The diameter of the elongate support member 90 may range between 8 - 11 mm, 10.5 - 12.5mm, or 10-18 mm, e.g. depending on the type of cane to be used. It will be appreciated that the plant support device 10 can be formed to have suitable dimensions, e.g. the sizes of the openings 16a, 16b, channel 18 and slot 22 to accommodate a particular type of elongate support member 90. In examples, the elongate support member 90 may be any suitable rigid elongate member, e.g. a stake, which is suitable for bearing the required load transmitted to it by the limb support members 100 during use.

[0076] The main body 12 may be generally C-shaped as best seen in figures 4 and 5 that show the plant support device 10 in plan view from different ends of the main body 90. In this example, the main

[0077] H 16478 WO body 12 may be generally tubular shaped and may be open at the slot 22 positioned to one side of the main body 12. The channel 18 may be generally C-shaped in cross-section. The channel 18 may be elongated about the axis A. The slot 22 may extend along the length of the main body 12 from the first end 14a to the second end 14b. The slot 22 may extend radially towards the channel 18. The slot 22 may taper towards the channel 18. In this example, the main body 12 may be made from a resiliently deformable material, e.g. a semi-rigid polymer, high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polypropylene (PP). As will be described, in the present example, the main body 12 is configured to form a clip or clip like attachment to the elongate support member 90 as the elongate support member 90 passes through the slot 22 into the channel 18. The main body 12 resiliently deforms around the elongate support member 90 as the elongate support member 90 is pushed into the slot 22 and then into the channel 18 to hold or fix the elongate support member 90 to the main body 12. The main body 12 may include one or more recesses 24 which extend inwardly and radially from an outer surface 26 of the main body 12 towards the axis A. The recesses 24 are elongate slots which extend lengthwise along the outer surface 26. The recesses 24 may extend from the first end 14a to the second end 14b. The recesses 24 provide areas about which the main body 12 can flex during use as will be described. The main body 12 may include a plurality of projections 28 which extend into the channel 18 to retain the elongate support member in the channel 18 when received therein. The projections 28 may extend along the length of the channel 18. The projections 28 may be teeth-shaped in cross-section, e.g. triangular shaped, to engage the surface of the elongate support member. The main body 12 may define an internal space H or be a hollow body so that the main body 12 deforms more easily. In examples, the plurality of projections 28 may have other forms. For example, the projections 28 may be teeth-shaped formations arranged along the length of the channel 18 or the internal surface of the channel 18 whilst each projection 28 may not extending along the length of the channel 18. For example, the projections 28 may be formed as a pattern using a process such as knurling.

[0078] In other examples, the main body 12 may have other shapes. For example, the main body 12 may be cuboid, pentagonal shaped or another multi-sided shaped. In examples, the main body 12 may be attached to the elongate support member 90 in different ways other than forming a clip which fits by resiliently deforming around the elongate support member 90. For example, an attachment mechanism including some form of mechanical fastening to fix the main body 12 to the elongate support member 90 may be used, e.g. a fastening device including a threaded fastener, or a mechanical clip may be used in the alternative.

[0079] In examples, the plant support device 10 may include one or more arm members 32 which extend radially or in a radial direction in plan view. The arm members 32 may be identical in examples. The arm members 32 may be spaced apart around the main body 12, e.g. equidistantly spaced. For example, referring to figure 4, which shows the plant support device 10 in plan view, the arm members 32 extend radially with respect to axis A. The arm members 32 may be connected to the

[0080] H 16478 WO main body 12, e.g. to the outer side or outwardly facing surface 26 of the main body 12. The arm members 32 may be inclined with respect to the main body 12, e.g. inclined downwardly away from the main body 12. In the present example, the arm members 32 include the coupling formations 20. In other examples in which the plant support device 10 does not have arm members 32, the coupling formations 20 may be provided elsewhere, e.g. as part of the main body 12. The arm members 32 may be generally elongate-shaped in examples. The arm members 32 may be generally wedge- shaped. Referring to figure 4, In examples, in plan view, the coupling formations 20 are spaced apart along a radial direction. The coupling formations 20 may be arranged in sets Si, S2, S3 of coupling formations 20 and coupling formations 20 from a particular set may be positioned along a respective straight line. The coupling formations 20 may be slits for receiving a portion of a respective one of the limb support members to form an interference fit therewith. As best seen in figure 2, each slit may have a locating section 20’ and a coupling section 20” which forms the interference fit with the said one of the limb support members. The locating section 20’ may have a larger width than the coupling section 20”. The width of the locating section 20’ may narrow as the locating section 20’ extends towards the coupling section 20”. The locating section 20’ is generally V-shaped or is V- shaped and the coupling section 20” is generally l-shaped or is l-shaped. As best seen in figure 4, the coupling formations 20 each include a portion, e.g. coupling portion 20”, which extends along a plane P which extends in a non-radial direction with respect to axis A so that a portion of the limb support memberwhich is attached or engages the portion of the coupling formation 20 extends along the plane P. For example, as shown in figure 4, one or more of the coupling formations 20 may be spaced apart along a respective axis which lies in a respective plane Q so that the limb support member 100 intersects the plane Q as it extends through the coupling formations 20.

[0081] In more detail, referring to figures 1 to 4, each of the arm members 32 may include one or more walls 34 which define the coupling formations 20. The walls 34 may be planar and extend vertically. The walls 34 may be spaced apart along a width wise direction of their respective arm members 32. The walls 34 on a respective arm member 32 may be connected by strengthening members 35 which connect adjacent walls 34 together. The strengthening members 35 provide rigidity to the plant support device 10 to prevent undesirable deformation of the device. In examples, the plant support device 10 may have a suitable geometry and / or be made from a material for which no or fewer such strengthening members 35 are required. Each wall 34 may extend generally radially or along a radial direction as shown in the plan view of the main body 12 in figure 4. Each wall may have an upper end 34a having an edge 34a’ and a lower end 34b. For example, the coupling formations 20 may have the locating section 20’ extend from the edge 34a’ towards the coupling portion 20”. Each of the coupling formations 20 may extend from the edge 34a’ towards the lower end 34b. The edges 34a’ may be sloped or inclined downwardly. The coupling formations 20 may be slits defined in the walls 34 for receiving a portion of a respective one of the limb support members 100 to form an interference fit therewith. Each of the walls 34 may be formed of ribs which are connected and spaced apart along the lengths of the respective walls 34 with the coupling formations 20 being

[0082] H 16478 WO defined by respective opposite sides of adjacent ribs. The coupling formations 20 may be arranged so that, moving radially away from the main body 12, the coupling formations 20 are progressively lower with respect to the main body 12.

[0083] As best seen in figure 4, each arm member 32 has three walls 34a, 34b, 34c spaced apart from each other relative to a first axis Fi. Respective adjacent coupling formations 20 from adjacent walls 34a, 34b, 34c which receive portions of the same limb support member 100 are offset relative to each other, or misaligned, so that the portions of the limb support member 100 are held at an angle as they extend between the coupling formations 20 during use.

[0084] In more detail, a first coupling formation 20a from a first wall 34a and a first coupling formation 20b from a second, adjacent, wall 34b co-operate to receive respective first and second portions of a limb support member 100 (as will be described below). The respective first coupling formations 20a, 20b are offset relative to relative to a second axis F2 which is perpendicular to the first axis F1 such that the limb support member 100 is held at an angle under tension between the first coupling formations 20a, 20b during use. The second wall 34b is positioned between the outer placed first and third walls 34a, 34c. The first and third walls 34a, 34c slope inwardly towards the second wall 34b as they extend lengthwise along their respective arm member 32. The third wall 34c, adjacent to the second wall 34b, includes a first coupling formation 20c which is aligned with the first coupling formation 20a of the wall 34a relative to the second axis F2 and offset with respect to the first coupling formation 20b of the second wall 34b. In this way, the limb support member 100 when received by the respective first coupling formations 20a, 20b, 20c is held under tension and follows a tortuous path. Similarly, the rest of the corresponding second, third and further ones of the coupling formations 20 from respective walls 34a, 34b, 34c may be arranged to be aligned and offset in a similar way to hold each of the respective limb support members 100 at an angle under tension and / or cause the each of the respective limb support members 100 to follow a tortuous path. In examples, there may be more than three walls 34 on each arm member 32 and the coupling formations 20 may be arranged in a similar way to hold the respective limb support members received by them at an angle under tension.

[0085] The plant support device 10 may include one or more attachment members 40 for attaching objects thereto, e.g. for attaching one or more Y0Y0 plant supports 42 thereto. Figure 8a shows the plant support device 10 with three Y0Y0 plant supports 42 attached to an attachment member 40. Figure 8b shows the plant support device 10 with three two Y0Y0 plant supports 42 attached and supported on the elongate support member 90 and figure 8c shows the plant support device 10 with Y0Y0 plant plant supports attached and configured to support the plant 80. The Y0Y0 plant supports 42 each have a hook shaped attachment member 44 provided on a main body for hanging on the attachment member 40. Each of the Y0Y0 plant supports 42 includes a limb support member 46 and a limb coupling member 48 connected to the free end of the limb support member 46.

[0086] H 16478 WO Each attachment member 40 may extend around at least a portion of the main body 12 and define a space between the attachment member 40 and the main body 12 to permit attachment of the object or YoYo plant support 42 at different points along the attachment member 40. Each attachment member 40 is configured or adapted to receive a hook-shaped coupling member so that the object, e.g. YoYo plant support, may be hanged therefrom. One or more of the attachment members may extend arcuately around the main body 12. For example, one or more of the attachment members 40 may extend between one or more respective pairs of arm members. For example, the ends of the attachment members 40 may be connected to respective arm members 32 to extend between the arm members 32. In examples, referring to figure 4, the attachment members 40 may include attachment members 40a, 40b which are positioned to either side of the slot 22 to permit objects, e.g. YoYo plant supports to be in this region of the plant support device 10. In plan view, the attachment members 40a, 40b may be generally u-shaped with the upstanding ends being inclined outwardly. The attachment members 40a, 40b may define a space S between them which is communication with the slot 22.

[0087] Use of the plant support device 10 will now be described. Referring to figures 9a to 9c, these show the plant support device 10 and elongate support member 90 in plan view in different states as the plant support device 10 is attached to the elongate support member 90.

[0088] The elongate support member 90 will, in most cases, already be fixed relative to the surface where the plant is located, e.g. fixed to growing medium 50 within a plant pot containing the plant. If there is no elongate support member 90, then it must be fixed to the growing medium by pushing a lower end thereof into the growing medium 50. The plant support device 10 is configured to be attached as a clip with flexes around the elongate support member 90.

[0089] Advantageously, the plant support device 10 can be easily located and fixed at different heights. During attachment, the plant support device 10 is located relative to the elongate support member 90 by placing it at the desired height at which the limb support members 100 are to be fixed, and then bringing the slot 22 into alignment with the elongate support member 90. For example, in figure 9a, the plant support device 10 is shown positioned so that the slot 22 and the space S are aligned with the elongate support member 90. Once in this position, a user simply pushes the plant support device 10 towards the elongate support member 90. As the plant support device 10 moves closer to the elongate support member 90, the attachment members 40a, 40b will come into contact with the elongate support member 90 because the space S narrows in a direction towards the axis A and has a width which is less than the diameter of the elongate support member 90. The user then pushes the plant support device 10 further towards the elongate support member 90 and the attachment members 40a, 40b deform or flex outwardly which causes the width of the space S to increase and allows the plant support device 10 move closer towards the elongate support member

[0090] H 16478 WO 90 until the elongate support member 90 engages the mouth of the slot 22, e.g. the edges of the slot 22. As the width of the slot 22 is smaller than the width or diameter of the elongate support member 90, the plant support device 10 must be pushed further towards the elongate support member 90 with enough force to cause the main body 12 to deform or flex and increase the width of the slot 22. The recesses 24 provide spaces for the main body 12 to flex and the recesses 24 become compressed as the main body 12 flexes. As this happens, the arm members 32 positioned to either side of the slot 22 are displaced outwardly as best seen in figure 9b. The plant support device 10 then moves closer until the elongate support member 90 is positioned in the channel 18 as shown in figure 9c. The channel 18 flexes around the elongate support member 90 to form an interference fit with the elongate support member 90. This occurs because the original, non-extended width or diameter of the channel 18 is less than the width or diameter of the elongate support member 90. The projections 28 are pressed into the elongate support member 90 to provide a strong attachment between the elongate support member 90 and the plant support device 10. In this state, the channel 18 has a larger diameter than its original diameter without the elongate support member 90 being received therein.

[0091] As the elongate support member 90 is inserted into the channel 18, the main body 12 deforms or flexes back. The slot 22 thus decreases in width albeit the slot 22 is wider than its original nonextended state because the main body 12 has flexed around the elongate support member 90.

[0092] Once the plant support device 10 has been attached, it can be used in different ways to support the plant 80. One such example is shown figure 7.

[0093] Figure 10a shows a first method of using the plant support device 10 to support the plant 80. Figure 10a shows a limb support member 100 having a first end 100a attached to the plant support device 10 and an opposite second end 100b attached to a limb of the plant 80 requiring support. The first step of attaching the limb support member 100 requires the first end 100a to be attached to the plant support device 10. This involves selecting a respective arm 32 most suitable for locating the limb support member 100 relative to the limb requiring support. The user must then decide on which of the coupling formations 20 should be used to attach the limb support member 100 to the plant support device 10. In this example, the user has chosen the coupling formations 20 furthest along the arm member 32. In order to attach the limb support member 100, the user simply places the first end 100a over the respective coupling formations 20, i.e. over the locating sections 20’ of the respective coupling formations 20, positioned on adjacent walls 34a, 34b, 34c and pulls the limb support member 100 downwardly over them. The respective portions of the limb support member 100 at the first end 100a pass through the respective locating sections 20’ and become aligned with the coupling sections 20”.

[0094] The locating sections 20’ provide a convenient way of aligning, and guiding, the limb support member 100 relative to their respective coupling sections 20”. The coupling sections 20” have a relatively

[0095] H 16478 WO thin width whilst the locating sections 20’ have a relatively wide opening to receive the limb support members 100 and taper towards the coupling sections 20” so that, if the limb support members 100 are not initially aligned with the coupling sections 20”, they will slide along the sides of the locating sections 20’ when the limb support members 100 are pulled downwards until they are aligned with the coupling sections 20”.

[0096] The user must then pull the limb support member 100 and, due to the width of the coupling sections 20” being less than the diameter of the limb support members 100, an interference fit is formed between the limb support member 100 and the coupling sections 20”. The user pulls the limb support member 100 until it reaches the lowermost end of the coupling sections 20”. The coupling formations 20, due to their offset arrangement, cause the first end 100a of the limb support member 100 to be tensioned automatically without requiring additional fixing components or steps. The limb support member 100 is now firmly attached to the plant support device 100. The user is now free to tie the second, loose, end 100b of the limb support member 100 to the limb of the plant 80 such that the limb support member 100 is placed under tension to support the limb at the desired height and / or position.

[0097] Figure 10b shows a second method of using the plant support device 10 to support the plant 80. In this method, the user attaches the first end 100a in the same way as the first method. The user then loops the limb support member 100 around the limb requiring support and attaches the second end 100a to the plant support device 10 in a similar way to the first end 100a. The second end 100b is shown coupled to the same set of coupling formations 20 as the first end 100a. The second end 100b is pulled down the respective coupling sections 20” until it abuts the first end 100a located at the ends of the coupling sections 20”. An advantage of this method is that a user does not have to tie the limb support member 100 to the limb saving time and provides for greater flexibility, particularly where it is difficult to tie the limb support member 100 because of limited space.

[0098] It should be noted that, in examples, the limb support members 100 may be provided with attachment devices, e.g. hooks, at their respective ends for providing another way of attaching the limb support members 100 to the limbs.

[0099] Figure 10c shows a third method of using the plant support device 10 to support the plant 80. In this method, a YoYo plant support 42 is attached to the plant support device 10 by hanging it at a suitable location on one of the attachment members 40. A user then pulls the limb support member 46 stored in the YoYo plant support 42 and attaches the limb coupling member 48 to the limb requiring support.

[0100] If required, further limb support members 100 and / or YoYo plant supports 42 can be attached to the plant support device 10 at the required locations for supporting different limbs of the plant 80 at different heights and / or locations. Similarly, if a limb support member 100 must be removed as it is

[0101] H 16478 WO no longer suitably placed or required due to changes in the shape or size of the limbs of the plant 80, a user can simply pull the respective ends of the limb support members 100 out of the coupling formations 20 and untie I release the opposite ends from the limbs. If the location of the plant support device 10 is no longer suitable, a user can simply pull the plant support device 10 from the elongate support member 90 to remove it and, if desired, attach it to a different point on the elongate support member 90. In addition, or alternatively, multiple plant support devices 10 may be attached to the elongate support member 90 at different heights along the elongate support member 90 to permit limb support members 100 to be attached at different heights from the elongate support member 90. This can prevent limb support members 100 becoming entangled and / or interfering with each other.

[0102] The plant support device 10 as described provides a number of advantages over prior art devices.

[0103] The plant support device 10 is compatible with an elongate support member 90 such as a bamboo cane or synthetic horticultural cane which are already widely used to support plants during cultivation. No additional or specialist components are required to use the plant support device 10. The plant support device 10 can simply fit to the elongate support member 90 already in place in the growing medium forthe particular plant. The elongate support member 90 provides multiple connection points in terms of height and a high degree of accessibility through the foliage of the plant 80. The elongate support member 90 or additional elongate support members 90 can be installed at different locations around the plant 80 as required to provide support to the limbs that require it.

[0104] The plant support device 10 can be attached from the side of the elongate support member 90 compared to, for example, requiring access from above the plant 80 that could otherwise obstruct the user from attaching the plant support device 10.

[0105] For the examples in which the coupling formations 20 are spaced apart along a radial direction, a relatively higher number of attachment points for the limb support members 100 is provided for the same space and so permits a higher number of limb support members 100 to be attached. This can be important for particularly large plants with dense foliage.

[0106] For examples in which the plant support device 10 includes coupling formations 20 and attachment members 40, different types of attachments are possible with a single device, i.e. both loose limb support members 100 in the form of strings or cables, as well as YoYo plant supports 42 can be attached to the plant support device 10.

[0107] The plant support device 10 would, generally speaking, be attached closer to the top of the elongate support member 90 which makes it easier for a user to notice the presence of the elongate support member 90 when tending to the plant 80. Elongate support members 90 are often not visible due to their colour and / or size, meaning that users can inadvertently lean into them causing injury, e.g. eye

[0108] H 16478 WO injuries if the elongate support member 90 contacts the user’s eye. In examples, the plant support device 10 may be a bright colour, e.g. orange or red, which contrasts with the colour of the elongate support member 90 to lesson the chances of user not noticing the elongate support member 90.

[0109] It should be understood that, in examples, the coupling formations 20 may be configured differently without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the coupling formations 20 may be upstanding projections or hooks to which a user may tie an end of the limb support member 100 thereto. In examples, the coupling formations 20 may have other configurations that permit an interference fit with the limb support members 100, for example, resiliently flexible members which co-operate to form an interference fit with the limb support members 100.

[0110] When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

[0111] The invention may also broadly consist in the parts, elements, steps, examples and / or features referred to or indicated in the specification individually or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more said parts, elements, steps, examples and / or features. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment(s) described herein.

[0112] Protection may be sought for any features disclosed in any one or more published documents referenced herein in combination with the present disclosure.

[0113] Although certain example embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these embodiments. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and / or to encompass equivalents.

[0114] H 16478 WO

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A plant support device for use in supporting a plant including: a main body which extends from a first end having a first opening to a second end having a second opening, wherein the main body defines a channel which extends along an axis A between the first opening and the second opening; and coupling formations for attaching limb support members which, in use, engage with respective limbs of the plant to support the limbs, wherein the main body defines a slot in communication with the channel to permit an elongate support member to pass through the slot and into the channel.

2. A plant support device according to claim 1, wherein the slot tapers towards the channel.

3. A plant support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the main body is made from a resiliently deformable material, optionally or preferably the main body may include one or more recesses which extend radially from an outer surface of the main body towards the axis A.

4. A plant support device according to claim 1 , 2 or 3, wherein the main body is generally C-shaped in plan view.

5. A plant support device according to any preceding claim, wherein the channel is generally C-shaped in cross-section.

6. A plant support device according to any preceding claim, wherein the main body includes a plurality of projections which extend into the channel to retain the elongate support member in the channel when received therein, optionally or preferably one or more of the plurality of projections extend along the length of the channel.

7. A plant support device according to any preceding claim, wherein two or more of the coupling formations are spaced apart along a radial direction.

8. A plant support device according to any preceding claim, wherein the coupling formations are slits for receiving a portion of a respective one of the limb support members to form an interference fit therewith.

9. A plant support device according to claim 8, wherein each slit has a locating section and a coupling section which forms the interference fit with the said one of the limb supportH 16478 WOmembers, wherein the locating section has a larger width than the coupling section and / or tapers in width in a direction towards the coupling section.

10. A plant support device according to any preceding claim including a wall, wherein the wall defines at least some of the coupling formations, optionally or preferably including a plurality of said walls.

11. A plant support device according to claim 10 including a plurality of walls spaced apart from each other relative to a first axis Fi, wherein a first coupling formation from one of the plurality of said walls and a first coupling formation from a second, adjacent, one of the plurality of said walls co-operate to receive respective first and second portions of a limb support member, wherein, the respective first coupling formations are offset relative to relative to a second axis F2 which is perpendicular to the first axis F1 such that the limb support member is held at an angle under tension between the first and second coupling formations during use.

12. A plant support device according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein the wall, or each wall, extends in a radial direction.

13. A plant support device according to claim 10, 11 or 12, wherein the wall, or each wall, has an upper end having an edge and a lower end, and each of the coupling formations extend from the edge towards the lower end.

14. A plant support device according to claim 13 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 8, wherein the locating section extends from the edge to the coupling section.

15. A plant support device according to claim 9 or any one of claims 10 to 14 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 8, wherein the width of the locating section narrows as the locating section extends towards the coupling section.

16. A plant support device according to claim 9 or any one of claims 10 to 15 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 8, wherein the locating section is generally V-shaped and the coupling section is generally l-shaped.

17. A plant support device according to any preceding claim, including one or more arm members which extend radially or along a radial direction, wherein at least one of the arm members includes the coupling formations.

18. A plant support device according to claim 17, wherein one or more of the arm members are inclined with respect to the main body, optionally or preferably inclined downwardly away from the main body.H 16478 WO19. A plant support device according to claim 17 or 18 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 9, wherein at least one of the arm members includes a plurality of said walls.

20. A plant support device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device includes an attachment member for attaching a YoYo plant support thereto.21 . A plant support device according to claim 20, wherein the attachment member extends around at least a portion of the main body and defines a space between the attachment member and the main body to permit attachment of the YoYo plant support at different points along the attachment member.

22. A plant support device according to claim 21 , wherein the attachment member extends arcuately around the main body.

23. A plant support device according to claim 20, 21 or 22 including one or more said attachment members.

24. A plant support device according to claim 23 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 17, wherein one or more of the attachment members extend between one or more respective pairs of arm members.

25. A plant support system including a plant support device according to any preceding claim and one or more of the elongate support member, limb support member(s), and YoYo plant support(s).

26. A plant support device or system according to any preceding claim wherein the limb support members are strings, wires or cables.

27. A plant support device or system according to any preceding claim wherein the coupling formations each include a portion which extends along a non-radial plane P with respect to axis A so that a portion of the limb support member which is attached or engages the portion of the coupling formation extends along the plane P.

28. A plant support device for use in supporting a plant including: a main body for attachment to an elongate support member which extends along an axis A; and coupling formations for attaching limb support members which, in use, engage with respective limbs of the plant to support the limbs, wherein the coupling formations are spaced apart along a radial direction.H 16478 WO29. A plant support device according to claim 28 including one or more arm members connected to the main body which extend away therefrom in a radial direction or extend radially, wherein the one or more arm members include the coupling formations.

30. A plant support device according to claim 29, wherein one or more of the arm members are inclined with respect to the main body, optionally or preferably incline downwardly away from the main body.

31. A plant support device according to any preceding claim, wherein the coupling formations are slits for receiving a portion of a respective one of the limb support members to form an interference fit therewith.

32. A plant support device according to claim 31 , wherein each slit has a locating section and a coupling section which forms the interference fit with the said one of the limb support members, wherein the locating section has a larger width than the coupling section and / or tapers in width in a direction towards the coupling section.

33. A plant support device according to any one of claims 28 to 32 including a wall, wherein the wall defines at least some of the coupling formations, optionally or preferably including a plurality of said walls.

34. A plant support device according to claim 33 including a plurality of walls spaced apart from each other relative to a first axis Fi, wherein a first coupling formation from one of the plurality of said walls and a first coupling formation from a second, adjacent, one of the plurality of said walls co-operate to receive respective first and second portions of a limb support member, wherein, the respective first coupling formations are offset relative to relative to a second axis F2 which is perpendicular to the first axis F1 such that the limb support member is held at an angle under tension between the first and second coupling formations during use.

35. A plant support device according to claim 33 or 34, wherein the wall, or each wall, extends in a radial direction.

36. A plant support device according to claim 33, 34 or 35, wherein the wall, or each wall, has an upper end having an edge and a lower end, and each of the coupling formations extend from the edge towards the lower end.

37. A plant support device according to claim 36 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 32, wherein the locating section extends from the edge to the coupling section.H 16478 WO38. A plant support device according to claim 32 or any one of claims 33 to 37 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 32, wherein the width of the locating section narrows as the locating section extends towards the coupling section.

39. A plant support device according to claim 32 or any one of claims 33 to 37 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 32, wherein the locating section is generally V-shaped and the coupling section is generally l-shaped.

40. A plant support device according to any one of claims 28 to 39, wherein the device includes an attachment member for attaching a YoYo plant support thereto.41 . A plant support device according to claim 40, wherein the attachment member extends around at least a portion of the main body and defines a space between the attachment member and the main body to permit attachment of the YoYo plant support at different points along the attachment member.

42. A plant support device according to claim 41 , wherein the attachment member extends arcuately around the main body.

43. A plant support device according to claim 40, 41 or 42 including one or more said attachment members.

44. A plant support device according to claim 43 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 29, wherein one or more of the attachment members extend between one or more respective pairs of arm members.

45. A plant support device according to any one of claims 28 to 44 wherein the main body extends from a first end having a first opening to a second end having a second opening, wherein the main body defines a channel for the elongate support member to pass therethrough and which extends along an axis between the first opening and the second opening.

46. A plant support system including a plant support device according to any one of claims 28 to 45 and one or more of the elongate support member, limb support member(s), and YoYo plant support(s).H 16478 WO

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