Plant husbandry – Receptacle for growing medium – Irrigator
Reexamination Certificate
1999-02-22
2001-05-08
Jordan, Charles T. (Department: 3644)
Plant husbandry
Receptacle for growing medium
Irrigator
Reexamination Certificate
active
06226921
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
I. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to the field of self-watering planters and, more particularly, to planting containers for growing live plants which have an integral reservoir for water and a system for wicking the water from the reservoir to the plant media, and having a water level indicator for determining the level of water within the reservoir.
II. Description of the Related Art
The prior art shows many types of planters which are self-watering in some respects, and others which have water level indicating devices, and others which sense the amount of moisture in the pot. However, a combination of these important aspects has not been found in the prior art such as the present invention provides.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the present invention and the contemplated problems which have and continue to exist in this field, the present invention overcomes the previous problems with self-watering planters by providing a planter in various sizes and which contains an integral water reservoir along with a mechanism for self-watering. In addition, there is an internal mechanism for permitting an easy determination of the water level. The planter of the present invention reduces the time required for care of potted plants and permits the owner to take extended trips without concern for the plants, or without having the plants cared for by another source during the owners absence.
The self-watering mechanism also provides the plant in the planter with healthier soil conditions and enhances the health and growth of the plant. The self-watering mechanism of the present invention generally consists of a tube extending above the soil level for filling the water reservoir in the bottom of the planter, and the tube also permits air entry into the water tank. In addition, there is a tube extending above the soil level, which is in communication with the reservoir, having an indication metering device to easily determine the level of water in the water reservoir. The soil media in which the plant grows is in communication with a hydrophilic wicking mechanism having capillary properties to slowly diffuse the water from the reservoir into the growing media. The amount of water diffused into the soil is regulated by the amount and length of the wicking material.
The present planter will be made available in various sizes and will be made of various materials such as plastic, ceramic, clay, bamboo, wood, brass or other suitable materials.
Other objects, advantages and capabilities of the invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings showing the preferred embodiment of the invention.
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Gaasbeck U.S.A., Inc.
Hinkle & Associates, P.C.
Jordan Charles T.
Palo Francis T.
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