APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TRAINING PLANTS

摘要

An apparatus and method for controlling apical growth of plants without cutting or pinching so as to increase productivity and efficiently utilize growth resources. A spring-shaped frame is provided having the form of mirror image/opposed Fibonacci or Golden Spirals that expand from a first starting point and then contract back to a second starting point by an approximately similar number of quarter-turns, the spring suitably being formed of a single length of wire. The apical growth tip of the plant is bent to meet the frame at selected locations and attached progressively as growth proceeds, using ties or other connectors. A stake inserted through the starting points of the spiral attaches the frame to the medium in which the plant is rooted. The stake is preferably angled so that the plant maximizes utilization of available light, for example, approximately 80° to the surface of the medium.

主权项

1. An apparatus for controlling apical dominance in growing plants, said apparatus comprising:
a spring-shaped frame having the general shape of a double-opposed Fibonacci spiral; said spring-shaped frame extending from a first center point for a predetermined number of approximate quarter-turns and then contracting for a substantially equal number of approximate quarter-turns to a second center point so as to create substantially symmetrical and opposed spirals; and a plurality of connection points located along said opposed spirals for progressive attachment of at least one apical shoot of said plant thereto.