TREE BALLING METHOD, SYSTEM, AND WIRE BASKET USED THEREIN

摘要

A tree balling system automates the current tree balling method and greatl y reduces strenuous physical labor. A novel wire basket having projections wit h hooks is provided for securing the earth ball of a plant for transplantation . Wrapping and tensioning a tensile member around these hooks encloses the projections around the earth ball. A balling station is also disclosed which has a stand for supporting and rotating the wire basket and plant. The balling station includes a tensile member guide and a tensioning component. The balling station is preferably located on a transportable vehicle and is equipped with unloading features for discharging the wrapped earth ball. A powered tensioning device tightens the wire basket around the earth ball. A hook forming device is als o disclosed wherein the hook forming device can modify conventional wire baskets.