Patent Application
20220124988
Prior to 1990, California table grape trellises consisted of a “T” trellis comprising a T-bar and three to four foliage wires evenly spaced on top of the T-bar. This “T” trellis was used for over fifty years with little variation.
Provided herein are systems and methods for sunlight delivery, shoot positioning, canopy trellis division, and for positioning fruit into distinct zones of plants on trellises that cure the deficiencies associated with manual canopy division or moveable wire-assisted canopy division that suffer from cluster thinning, berry thinning, and increased harvest costs.
One aspect provided herein is a device for sunlight delivery, shoot positioning, and canopy management of one or more plants on a trellis, comprising one or more panels configured for coupling to the trellis, the panels configured to collect light energy and to direct the collected light energy to the plants, thereby modifying growth or development of the plants. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are detachably coupled to the trellis.
In some embodiments, the one or more panels are physically coupled to the trellis. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are functionally coupled to the trellis. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise one or more reflective panels. In some embodiments, the one or more reflective panels are configured to reflect the collected light energy to the plants, thereby directing the collected light energy to the climbing vine. In some embodiments, the one or more reflective panels are configured to encourage leaf and stem growth and in other to help ripen fruits, encourage leaf and stem growth, and improve plant productiveness, fruitfulness, and yield. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are red, yellow, or orange in color. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate reflection of blue light. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate reflection of ultraviolet (UV) light. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are blue in color. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate reflection of red, yellow, or orange light. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise one or more translucent panels.
In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of about 1% to about 90%. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of about 1% to about 2%, about 1% to about 5%, about 1% to about 10%, about 1% to about 20%, about 1% to about 30%, about 1% to about 40%, about 1% to about 50%, about 1% to about 60%, about 1% to about 70%, about 1% to about 80%, about 1% to about 90%, about 2% to about 5%, about 2% to about 10%, about 2% to about 20%, about 2% to about 30%, about 2% to about 40%, about 2% to about 50%, about 2% to about 60%, about 2% to about 70%, about 2% to about 80%, about 2% to about 90%, about 5% to about 10%, about 5% to about 20%, about 5% to about 30%, about 5% to about 40%, about 5% to about 50%, about 5% to about 60%, about 5% to about 70%, about 5% to about 80%, about 5% to about 90%, about 10% to about 20%, about 10% to about 30%, about 10% to about 40%, about 10% to about 50%, about 10% to about 60%, about 10% to about 70%, about 10% to about 80%, about 10% to about 90%, about 20% to about 30%, about 20% to about 40%, about 20% to about 50%, about 20% to about 60%, about 20% to about 70%, about 20% to about 80%, about 20% to about 90%, about 30% to about 40%, about 30% to about 50%, about 30% to about 60%, about 30% to about 70%, about 30% to about 80%, about 30% to about 90%, about 40% to about 50%, about 40% to about 60%, about 40% to about 70%, about 40% to about 80%, about 40% to about 90%, about 50% to about 60%, about 50% to about 70%, about 50% to about 80%, about 50% to about 90%, about 60% to about 70%, about 60% to about 80%, about 60% to about 90%, about 70% to about 80%, about 70% to about 90%, or about 80% to about 90%. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of about 1%, about 2%, about 5%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, or about 90%. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of at least about 1%, about 2%, about 5%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, or about 80%. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of at most about 2%, about 5%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, or about 90%.
In some embodiments, the one or more translucent panels are configured to diffuse the collected light energy to the plants, thereby directing the collected light energy to the climbing vine. In some embodiments, the one or more translucent panels are configured to encourage leaf and stem growth and in other to help ripen fruits and improve plant yields. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are red, yellow, or orange in color. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate diffusion of blue light. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate diffusion of ultraviolet (UV) light. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are blue in color. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate diffusion of red, yellow, or orange light. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise one or more translucent panels. In some embodiments, the one or more translucent panels are configured to diffuse the collected light energy to the plants, thereby directing the collected light energy to the climbing vine. In some embodiments, the one or more translucent panels are configured to encourage leaf and stem growth and in other to help ripen fruits and improve plant yields. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are red, yellow, or orange in color. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate diffusion of blue light. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate diffusion of ultraviolet (UV) light. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are blue in color. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate diffusion of red, yellow, or orange light. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise a curved shape. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise a parabolic, partial parabolic, or compound parabolic shape. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise a metallic material. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise a plastic material. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise one or more holes therethrough. In some embodiments, the one or more holes are configured to improve ventilation of the panels, to reduce heat load on the panels, to improve light transmission through the one or more panels, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more holes are sized to prevent ingress of the plant through the one or more holes. In some embodiments, the one or more holes comprise a diameter of at most about 5 millimeters (mm). In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more hole-closing units configured to close the one or more holes. In some embodiments, the one or more hole-closing units comprise one or more secondary panels. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary panels are configured to slide over the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more hole-closing units comprise one or more strips of solid material coupled to the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material are detachably coupled to the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material are integrally coupled to the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material are embedded in the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to physically separate each plant of the one or more plants from each other plant of the one or more plants. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to interlock. In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more curtains coupled to an edge of the one or more panels, the curtains configured to protect the plants from rain. In some embodiments, the curtains comprise a metallic material. In some embodiments, the curtains comprise a plastic material. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to maintain an area behind the one or more panels clear of foliage from the plants. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to train the plants on the trellis. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to provide shade to the plants. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to protect the plants from rain. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to protect the plants from frost. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to protect the plants from hail. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to protect the plants from sunburn. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to fold up into a center of the trellis to ease pruning of the plants. In some embodiments, the one or more plants comprise one or more vines. In some embodiments, the one or more vines comprise one or more members selected from the group consisting of: grape vines, kiwifruit vines, berry vines, blueberry vines, blackberry vines, raspberry vines, strawberry vines, melon vines, kiwifruit vines, watermelon vines, cantaloupe vines, and honeydew vines. In some embodiments, the one or more plants comprise one or more trees. In some embodiments, the one or more trees comprise one or more members selected from the group consisting of: fruit trees, apple trees, stone-fruit trees, cherry trees, peach trees, nectarine trees, plum trees, apricot trees, citrus trees, orange trees, lemon trees, lime trees, grapefruit trees, pomelo trees, and tangerine trees. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise a portion of a roll of material. In some embodiments, the roll comprises a plurality of the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a continuous roll of material. In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a length of about 660 feet (201.168 meters). In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a length of about 1,320 feet (402.336 meters).
Another aspect provided herein is a device for sunlight delivery, shoot positioning, and canopy division of one or more plants on a trellis of one or more plants on a trellis, comprising: one or more panels configured for coupling to the trellis; and a standoff coupled to the trellis and at least a portion of each of the one or more panels; wherein the panels divide the growth of plant shoots on the trellis, thereby modifying sunlight delivery, shoot positioning, and canopy division of the plants.
In some embodiments, the one or more panels are detachably coupled to the trellis. In some embodiments, the standoff is detachably coupled to the trellis. In some embodiments, the one or more panels interlock. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are reflective. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are translucent.
In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of about 1% to about 90%. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of about 1% to about 2%, about 1% to about 5%, about 1% to about 10%, about 1% to about 20%, about 1% to about 30%, about 1% to about 40%, about 1% to about 50%, about 1% to about 60%, about 1% to about 70%, about 1% to about 80%, about 1% to about 90%, about 2% to about 5%, about 2% to about 10%, about 2% to about 20%, about 2% to about 30%, about 2% to about 40%, about 2% to about 50%, about 2% to about 60%, about 2% to about 70%, about 2% to about 80%, about 2% to about 90%, about 5% to about 10%, about 5% to about 20%, about 5% to about 30%, about 5% to about 40%, about 5% to about 50%, about 5% to about 60%, about 5% to about 70%, about 5% to about 80%, about 5% to about 90%, about 10% to about 20%, about 10% to about 30%, about 10% to about 40%, about 10% to about 50%, about 10% to about 60%, about 10% to about 70%, about 10% to about 80%, about 10% to about 90%, about 20% to about 30%, about 20% to about 40%, about 20% to about 50%, about 20% to about 60%, about 20% to about 70%, about 20% to about 80%, about 20% to about 90%, about 30% to about 40%, about 30% to about 50%, about 30% to about 60%, about 30% to about 70%, about 30% to about 80%, about 30% to about 90%, about 40% to about 50%, about 40% to about 60%, about 40% to about 70%, about 40% to about 80%, about 40% to about 90%, about 50% to about 60%, about 50% to about 70%, about 50% to about 80%, about 50% to about 90%, about 60% to about 70%, about 60% to about 80%, about 60% to about 90%, about 70% to about 80%, about 70% to about 90%, or about 80% to about 90%. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of about 1%, about 2%, about 5%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, or about 90%. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of at least about 1%, about 2%, about 5%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, or about 80%. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a translucency of at most about 2%, about 5%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, or about 90%.
In some embodiments, the one or more panels are chromatic. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are formed of a metallic material, a plastic material, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise a curved shape. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise a parabolic, partial parabolic, or compound parabolic shape. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise one or more holes therethrough. In some embodiments, the one or more holes improve ventilation of the one or more panels, reduce a heat load on the one or more panels, improve light transmission through the one or more panels, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more holes are sized to prevent ingress of the plant through the one or more holes. In some embodiments, the one or more holes have a diameter of at most about 5 mm. In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more hole-closing units configured to close the one or more holes. In some embodiments, the one or more hole-closing units comprise one or more secondary panels. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary panels are configured to slide over the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more hole-closing units comprise one or more strips of solid material coupled to the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material are detachably coupled to the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material are integrally coupled to the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material are embedded in the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more curtains coupled to an edge of the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the curtains are formed of a metallic material, a plastic material, a fabric, or both. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to physically separate a first portion of the plant from a second portion of the plant. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to train the plants on the trellis. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to provide shade to the plants. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to provide scattered/diffused light for illuminating shaded parts of the plant canopy. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to protect the plants from rain, frost, hail, wind, sunburn or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to fold up into a center of the trellis for pruning of the plants. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to allow illumination of an interior canopy of the one or more plants, a fruiting zone of the one or more plants, or both. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to reduce, increase, or maintain a temperature in a fruiting zone of the one or more plants. In some embodiments, the one or more panels are configured to reduce light levels in a canopy of the one or more plants, a fruiting zone of the one or more plants, or both. In some embodiments, the one or more plants comprise one or more vines. In some embodiments, the one or more vines comprise one or more members selected from the group consisting of: grape vines, kiwifruit vines, berry vines, blueberry vines, blackberry vines, raspberry vines, strawberry vines, melon vines, watermelon vines, cantaloupe vines, and honeydew vines. In some embodiments, the one or more plants comprise one or more trees. In some embodiments, the one or more trees comprise one or more members selected from the group consisting of: fruit trees, apple trees, stone-fruit trees, cherry trees, peach trees, nectarine trees, plum trees, apricot trees, citrus trees, orange trees, lemon trees, lime trees, grapefruit trees, pomelo trees, and tangerine trees. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise a portion of a roll of material. In some embodiments, the roll comprises a plurality of the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a continuous roll of material. In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a length of about 660 feet (201.168 meters). In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a length of about 1,320 feet (402.336 meters).
In some embodiments, the standoff is formed of plastic, metal, wood, fiberglass, glass, or any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the standoff has a length of about 4 inches to about 20 inches. In some embodiments, the standoff has a length of about 4 inches to about 6 inches, about 4 inches to about 8 inches, about 4 inches to about 10 inches, about 4 inches to about 12 inches, about 4 inches to about 14 inches, about 4 inches to about 16 inches, about 4 inches to about 18 inches, about 4 inches to about 20 inches, about 6 inches to about 8 inches, about 6 inches to about 10 inches, about 6 inches to about 12 inches, about 6 inches to about 14 inches, about 6 inches to about 16 inches, about 6 inches to about 18 inches, about 6 inches to about 20 inches, about 8 inches to about 10 inches, about 8 inches to about 12 inches, about 8 inches to about 14 inches, about 8 inches to about 16 inches, about 8 inches to about 18 inches, about 8 inches to about 20 inches, about 10 inches to about 12 inches, about 10 inches to about 14 inches, about 10 inches to about 16 inches, about 10 inches to about 18 inches, about 10 inches to about 20 inches, about 12 inches to about 14 inches, about 12 inches to about 16 inches, about 12 inches to about 18 inches, about 12 inches to about 20 inches, about 14 inches to about 16 inches, about 14 inches to about 18 inches, about 14 inches to about 20 inches, about 16 inches to about 18 inches, about 16 inches to about 20 inches, or about 18 inches to about 20 inches. In some embodiments, the standoff has a length of about 4 inches, about 6 inches, about 8 inches, about 10 inches, about 12 inches, about 14 inches, about 16 inches, about 18 inches, or about 20 inches. In some embodiments, the standoff has a length of at least about 4 inches, about 6 inches, about 8 inches, about 10 inches, about 12 inches, about 14 inches, about 16 inches, or about 18 inches. In some embodiments, the standoff has a length of at most about 6 inches, about 8 inches, about 10 inches, about 12 inches, about 14 inches, about 16 inches, about 18 inches, or about 20 inches.
In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a length of about 40 inches to about 160 inches. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a length of about 40 inches to about 50 inches, about 40 inches to about 60 inches, about 40 inches to about 70 inches, about 40 inches to about 80 inches, about 40 inches to about 90 inches, about 40 inches to about 100 inches, about 40 inches to about 120 inches, about 40 inches to about 140 inches, about 40 inches to about 160 inches, about 50 inches to about 60 inches, about 50 inches to about 70 inches, about 50 inches to about 80 inches, about 50 inches to about 90 inches, about 50 inches to about 100 inches, about 50 inches to about 120 inches, about 50 inches to about 140 inches, about 50 inches to about 160 inches, about 60 inches to about 70 inches, about 60 inches to about 80 inches, about 60 inches to about 90 inches, about 60 inches to about 100 inches, about 60 inches to about 120 inches, about 60 inches to about 140 inches, about 60 inches to about 160 inches, about 70 inches to about 80 inches, about 70 inches to about 90 inches, about 70 inches to about 100 inches, about 70 inches to about 120 inches, about 70 inches to about 140 inches, about 70 inches to about 160 inches, about 80 inches to about 90 inches, about 80 inches to about 100 inches, about 80 inches to about 120 inches, about 80 inches to about 140 inches, about 80 inches to about 160 inches, about 90 inches to about 100 inches, about 90 inches to about 120 inches, about 90 inches to about 140 inches, about 90 inches to about 160 inches, about 100 inches to about 120 inches, about 100 inches to about 140 inches, about 100 inches to about 160 inches, about 120 inches to about 140 inches, about 120 inches to about 160 inches, or about 140 inches to about 160 inches. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a length of about 40 inches, about 50 inches, about 60 inches, about 70 inches, about 80 inches, about 90 inches, about 100 inches, about 120 inches, about 140 inches, or about 160 inches. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a length of at least about 40 inches, about 50 inches, about 60 inches, about 70 inches, about 80 inches, about 90 inches, about 100 inches, about 120 inches, or about 140 inches. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have a length of at most about 50 inches, about 60 inches, about 70 inches, about 80 inches, about 90 inches, about 100 inches, about 120 inches, about 140 inches, or about 160 inches.
The novel features of the disclosure are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:
In the late 1980s, the University of California began research with new V-shaped trellis designs which became popular. Although the gable trellis increased yield dramatically and in some cases doubled production, its effective use required labor-intensive shoot positioning and canopy division.
Solutions to improve the canopy division of the gable trellis included positioning shoots to the trellis arms and leaving the middle of the plant free of foliage to form two fruiting zones along each of the trellis arms. Although the trellis center remains open for only three or four weeks, the canopy division operation was necessary to organize the fruit zone (keeping shoots from heaping up in the bottom of the V) and to improve light during a critical period in the development of fruit buds. Canopy division also allows light into the canopy interior, which is critical for developing fruitful buds for the following year.
Canopy division is currently a manual process performed by positioning and securing shoots to wires on one trellis arm or the other using vine ties or training tape. Labor costs for such a manual division are prohibitively expensive. Further, manual canopy division tends to break shoots that crisscross each other. Alternatively, canopy division can be performed by placing two moveable wires in the middle of the trellis support cross-arm during plant dormancy, whereby the two wires are pulled over to the trellis arm to divide the canopy. Such moveable wires often fail to properly secure the vines, allowing inclement weather to easily blow shoots out of position and back into bottom of the trellis V. Shoots positioned by moveable wires or by hand can be dislodged and disorganized by high winds and inclement weather.
To protect such vines from sunburns of canopy and fruit, from fruit ambering, and from rain and inclement weather, growers currently cover the vine's canopy with plastic until harvest is complete. Such covers slow fruit maturation, reduce the light levels received by the canopy and fruiting zone, and increase the heat, humidity, and condensation in the canopy and fruiting zone. This plastic cover is used for only one season and then disposed, and the cost of the cover and the amount of labor required for installation and reinstallation is significant. The cost of labor and materials, in some cases, exceeds a thousand dollars per acre. The plastic has very low light transmittance and thus prevents sugar and color accumulation in the fruit.
Plant growth regulators, fungicides, pesticides, and foliar nutrients are currently sprayed onto the plants as concentrates (air carrier) or dilutes (water carrier). Both spray types require direct spray up and through the canopy. Spray, which does not come in contact with leaves and fruit, penetrates the vine and drifts into the atmosphere or drips to the ground.
Provided herein are devices and systems for sunlight delivery, shoot positioning, and canopy division, positioning fruit into distinct zones, managing fruit maturity and quality, and reducing canopy management and harvest labor. The devices and systems may also protect fruit from damaging weather, such as rain, wind, or excess sun exposure. The devices and systems may further provide spray coverage and may reduce or eliminate spray drift. The devices and systems herein represent a leap forward in trellising by enabling improved light management and climate conditions in the vine canopy and fruiting zones. The devices and systems for sunlight delivery, shoot positioning, and canopy division of one or more plants on a trellis herein overcome the deficiencies associated with manually canopy division or moveable wire-assisted canopy division.
Recognized herein are systems and methods for positioning fruit into distinct zones of plants on trellises that obviate the deficiencies associated with cluster thinning, berry thinning, and harvest.
The devices and systems herein enable increased crop production and improved fruit maturity and quality by directing growth of shoots parallel to one another and upward until the shoots cascade over the top of the trellis arms. Further the devices and systems herein may reduce or eliminate the need for vine positioning labor and single-season disposable products, and reduce cluster thinning, berry thinning, and harvest labor. Additionally, the shape and positioning of the devices and systems shield and secure the vine from frost, hail, rain, wind and sunburn damage. Further, the shape and positioning of the devices and systems maintain the position and integrity of the plant's shoots even under high winds. The devices and systems provide a shield that greatly reduces spray drift into the atmosphere and improves coverage of the fruiting zone and foliage. Additionally, as the devices and systems enable the center of the trellis to remain open all season, the interior canopy, fruit wood developing for next year, and fruiting zone are continuously illuminated in some embodiments. Such illumination increases flower cluster numbers and sizes the following years.
The devices and systems for sunlight delivery, shoot positions, and canopy division described herein may be applied to a variety of trellises or trellis systems, such as T trellises, standalone T trellises, gable trellises, closed gable trellises, open gable trellises, Tatura trellises, or any other trellis or trellis system.
Provided herein per
In some embodiments, per
In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 are configured to reduce, increase, or maintain a temperature in the interior canopy 130, the fruiting zone 140, or both. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 are configured to reduce, increase, or maintain a temperature in the interior canopy 130, the fruiting zone 140, or both to prevent maturation delay and prevent poor fruit quality.
In some embodiments, per
Further, per
In some embodiments, per
In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 are formed of a metallic material, a plastic material, or any combination thereof. For instance, in some embodiments, the one or more panels are formed of aluminum, steel, polyamides (PA), polycarbonates (PC), polyesters (PES), polyethylene (PE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), polyurethanes (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyepoxides, polymethyl methylacrylate (PMMA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), phenol formaldehyde (PF), melamine formaldehyde (MF), urea-formaldehyde (UF), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (PEI), polyimides, polylactic acid (PLA), furans, silicones, polysulfones, polydiketoenamines, or any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the properly divided canopy region with the panels displays a strip of light having an intensity, at high noon during bloom, of at least about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, or more, greater than an intensity, at high noon during bloom, of a strip of light displayed by an improperly divided canopy region without the panels. In some embodiments, the properly divided canopy region with the panels displays a strip of light having an intensity, at high noon during bloom, of at most about 100%, 95%, 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or less, greater than an intensity, at high noon during bloom, of a strip of light displayed by an improperly divided canopy region without the panels. In some embodiments, the properly divided canopy region with the panels displays a strip of light having an intensity, at high noon during bloom, that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values, when compared to an intensity, at high noon during bloom, of a strip of light associated with an improperly divided canopy region without the panels.
By contrast, per
In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 are detachably coupled to the trellis 160. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 interlock with each other. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 comprise a curved shape. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 comprise a parabolic, partial parabolic, or compound parabolic shape. In some embodiments, the curved shape comprises 1, 2, 3, 4 or more curves. In some embodiments, the curved shape comprises a flat portion and a curved portion. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 have a length of at least about 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 15 inches, 20 inches, 25 inches, 30 inches, 35 inches, 40 inches, 45 inches, 50 inches, 55 inches, 60 inches, 65 inches, 70 inches, 75 inches, 80 inches, 85 inches, 90 inches, 95 inches, 100 inches, 105 inches, 110 inches, 115 inches, 120 inches, 125 inches, 130 inches, 135 inches, 140 inches, 145 inches, 150 inches, 155 inches, 160 inches, 165 inches, 170 inches, 175 inches, 180 inches, 185 inches, 190 inches, 195 inches, 200 inches, or more. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 have a length of at most about 200 inches, 195 inches, 190 inches, 185 inches, 180 inches, 175 inches, 170 inches, 165 inches, 160 inches, 155 inches, 150 inches, 145 inches, 140 inches, 135 inches, 130 inches, 125 inches, 120 inches, 115 inches, 110 inches, 105 inches, 100 inches, 95 inches, 90 inches, 85 inches, 80 inches, 75 inches, 70 inches, 65 inches, 60 inches, 55 inches, 50 inches, 45 inches, 40 inches, 35 inches, 30 inches, 25 inches, 20 inches, 15 inches, 10 inches, 9 inches, 8 inches, 7 inches, 6 inches, 5 inches, 4 inches, 3 inches, 2 inches, 1 inch, or less. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 have a length that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, in some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 have a length of about 40 inches to about 160 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the panel 110 is measured as minimum, a maximum, or an average distance between an utmost point of the panel 110 and a downmost point of the panel 110. The length of the panel 110 may be customized for a given trellis design or a given application (such as rain protection, wind protection, sun protection, and so forth).
In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 are configured to translate into a center of the trellis 160 for pruning of the plants. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 are configured to translate while being supported by a wire in the trellis. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 110 comprise a hinge, a pin, or both to fold.
In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more curtains 170 coupled to an upper edge of the one or more panels 110. In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more curtains 170 removably coupled to an upper edge of the one or more panels 110. In some embodiments, the curtains 170 are formed of a durable metallic material, a plastic material, a fabric, or both. In some embodiments, the curtains 170 are about 120 cm wide. In some embodiments, the curtains 170 provide protection from frost, hail, rain, sunburn, wind, or any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more strips of material coupled to an upper edge, lower edge, center, or other location of the one or more panels 110. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of material have a linear dimension (such as a width or length) of at least about 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches, 25 inches, 26 inches, 27 inches, 28 inches, 29 inches, 30 inches, 31 inches, 32 inches, 33 inches, 34 inches, 35 inches, 36 inches, 37 inches, 38 inches, 39 inches, 40 inches, 41 inches, 42 inches, 43 inches, 44 inches, 45 inches, 46 inches, 47 inches, 48 inches, 49 inches, 50 inches, 51 inches, 52 inches, 53 inches, 54 inches, 55 inches, 56 inches, 57 inches, 58 inches, 59 inches, 60 inches, or more. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of material have a linear dimension of at most about 60 inches, 59 inches, 58 inches, 57 inches, 56 inches, 55 inches, 54 inches, 53 inches, 52 inches, 51 inches, 50 inches, 49 inches, 48 inches, 47 inches, 46 inches, 45 inches, 44 inches, 43 inches, 42 inches, 41 inches, 40 inches, 39 inches, 38 inches, 37 inches, 36 inches, 35 inches, 34 inches, 33 inches, 32 inches, 31 inches, 30 inches, 29 inches, 28 inches, 27 inches, 26 inches, 25 inches, 24 inches, 23 inches, 22 inches, 21 inches, 20 inches, 19 inches, 18 inches, 17 inches, 16 inches, 15 inches, 14 inches, 13 inches, 12 inches, 11 inches, 10 inches, 9 inches, 8 inches, 7 inches, 6 inches, 5 inches, 4 inches, 3 inches, 2 inches, 1 inch, or less. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of material have a linear dimension that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.
In some embodiments, the one or more strips of material cover a portion of the area of the panel of at least about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, or more. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of material cover a portion of the area of the panel of at most about 80%, 79%, 78%, 77%, 76%, 75%, 74%, 73%, 72%, 71%, 70%, 69%, 68%, 67%, 66%, 65%, 64%, 63%, 62%, 61%, 60%, 59%, 58%, 57%, 56%, 55%, 54%, 53%, 52%, 51%, 50%, 49%, 48%, 47%, 46%, 45%, 44%, 43%, 42%, 41%, 40%, 39%, 38%, 37%, 36%, 35%, 34%, 33%, 32%, 31%, 30%, 29%, 28%, 27%, 26%, 25%, 24%, 23%, 22%, 21%, 20%, 19%, 18%, 17%, 16%, 15%, 14%, 13%, 12%, 11%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or less. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of material cover a portion of the area of the panel that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise no strips of material. The percentage of the area of the panel covered by the one or more strips of material and the pattern by which the one or more strips of material are placed on the panels may be customized for a given trellis design or a given application (such as rain protection, wind protection, sun protection, and so forth).
In some embodiments, the one or more strips of material provide protection from frost, hail, rain, sunburn, wind, or any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, per
In some embodiments, per
In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more hole-closing units, alternatively termed as a cover, which is configured to removably close the one or more holes 330. In some embodiments, the one or more hole-closing units comprise one or more secondary panels. In some embodiments, the one or more hole-closing units comprise one or more secondary panels that close the holes 330 when in a first position and open the holes when in a second position. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary panels are configured to slide over the one or more panels 110. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary panels are configured to translate from the first position to the second position by sliding over the one or more panels 110. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary panels are configured to rotate from the first position to the second position with respect to the one or more panels 110. In some embodiments, at least one of the secondary panels and the panels 110 comprise a slide, a bearing, a rail, a pulley, a gear, a cam, a pinion, a rack, or any combination thereof to rotate or translate with respect to the one or more panels 110. In some embodiments, the one or more hole-closing units are configured to be reusable and easily installed onto the panels such that replacement of a damaged hole-closing unit is simple and inexpensive. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary panels provides protection from frost, hail, rain, wind, sunburn or any combination thereof when the hole closing units are in the opened position. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary panels provides protection from frost, hail, rain, wind, sunburn, or any combination thereof when the hole closing units are removed. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary panels provide protection from frost, hail, rain, sunburn, wind, or any combination thereof only with the hole-closing units are in the closed position. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary panels provide improved protection from frost, hail, rain, wind, sunburn, or any combination thereof when the hole-closing units are installed.
In some embodiments, the one or more hole-closing units comprise one or more strips of solid material coupled to the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material are detachably coupled to the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material are integrally coupled to the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material are embedded in the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material have a linear dimension (such as a width or length) of at least about 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches, 25 inches, 26 inches, 27 inches, 28 inches, 29 inches, 30 inches, 31 inches, 32 inches, 33 inches, 34 inches, 35 inches, 36 inches, or more. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material have a linear dimension of at most about 36 inches, 35 inches, 34 inches, 33 inches, 32 inches, 31 inches, 30 inches, 29 inches, 28 inches, 27 inches, 26 inches, 25 inches, 24 inches, 23 inches, 22 inches, 21 inches, 20 inches, 19 inches, 18 inches, 17 inches, 16 inches, 15 inches, 14 inches, 13 inches, 12 inches, 11 inches, 10 inches, 9 inches, 8 inches, 7 inches, 6 inches, 5 inches, 4 inches, 3 inches, 2 inches, 1 inch, or less. In some embodiments, the one or more strips of solid material have a linear dimension that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.
In some embodiments, the one or more panels comprise one or more portions of a roll of material. In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a plurality of the one or more panels. In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a continuous roll of material. In some embodiments, the continuous roll of material is configured to be rolled out along a row or column of plants and trellises, such that one or more panels of the continuous roll of material is coupled to each plant and trellis in the row or column. Such a system may allow for decreased production costs due to economies of scale or to decreased labor costs due to the ease of unrolling the roll along a row or column of plants. In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a length of at least about 165 feet ( 1/32 of a mile, 50.292 meters), 330 feet ( 1/16 of a mile, 100.584 meters), 660 feet (⅛ of a mile, 201.168 meters), 1,320 feet (¼ of a mile, 402.336 meters), 2,640 feet (½ of a mile, 804.672 meters), 5,280 feet (1 mile, 1,609.344 meters), or more. In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a length of at most about 5,280 feet, 2,640 feet, 1,320 feet, 660 feet, 330 feet, 165 feet, or less. In some embodiments, the roll of material comprises a length that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.
As shown in
In some embodiments, the first riser, the first drop, or the second drop have a length of at least about 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches, or more. In some embodiments, the first riser, the first drop, or the second drop have a length of at most about 24 inches, 23 inches, 22 inches, 21 inches, 20 inches, 19 inches, 18 inches, 17 inches, 16 inches, 15 inches, 14 inches, 13 inches, 12 inches, 11 inches, 10 inches, 9 inches, 8 inches, 7 inches, 6 inches, 5 inches, 4 inches, 3 inches, 2 inches, 1 inch, or fewer. In some embodiments, the first riser, the first drop, or the second drop have a length that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, in some embodiments, the first riser 821 has a length of about 3 inches to about 12 inches. For instance, in some embodiments, the first drop 822 has a length of about 2 inches to about 8 inches. For instance, in some embodiments, the second drop 823 has a length of about 4 inches to about 16 inches. Though depicted as comprising one riser and two drops in
In some embodiments, the first cross arm 862 or the second cross arm 864 has a length of at least about 0.5 feet, 1 foot, 1.5 feet, 2 feet, 2.5 feet, 3 feet, 3.5 feet, 4 feet, 4.5 feet, 5 feet, 5.5 feet, 6 feet, 6.5 feet, 7 feet, 7.5 feet, 8 feet, 8.5 feet, 9 feet, 9.5 feet, 10 feet, or more. In some embodiments, the first cross arm or the second cross arm has a length of at most about 10 feet, 9.5 feet, 9 feet, 8.5 feet, 8 feet, 7.5 feet, 7 feet, 6.5 feet, 6 feet, 5.5 feet, 5 feet, 4.5 feet, 4 feet, 3.5 feet, 3 feet, 2.5 feet, 2 feet, 1.5 feet, 1 foot, 0.5 feet, or less. In some embodiments, the first cross arm or the second cross arm has a length that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, in some embodiments, the first cross arm 862 has a length of about 1.5 feet to about 6 feet. For instances, in some embodiments, the second cross arm 864 has a length of about 1 foot to about 4 feet. In some embodiments, the first cross arm 862 and the second cross arm 863 form an angle. In some embodiments, the angle is at least about 10 degrees, 11 degrees, 12 degrees, 13 degrees, 14 degrees, 15 degrees, 16 degrees, 17 degrees, 18 degrees, 19 degrees, 20 degrees, 21 degrees, 22 degrees, 23 degrees, 24 degrees, 25 degrees, 26 degrees, 27 degrees, 28 degrees, 29 degrees, 30 degrees, 31 degrees, 32 degrees, 33 degrees, 34 degrees, 35 degrees, 36 degrees, 37 degrees, 38 degrees, 39 degrees, 40 degrees, 41 degrees, 42 degrees, 43 degrees, 44 degrees, 45 degrees, 46 degrees, 47 degrees, 48 degrees, 49 degrees, 50 degrees, 51 degrees, 52 degrees, 53 degrees, 54 degrees, 55 degrees, 56 degrees, 57 degrees, 58 degrees, 59 degrees, 60 degrees, 61 degrees, 62 degrees, 63 degrees, 64 degrees, 65 degrees, 66 degrees, 67 degrees, 68 degrees, 69 degrees, 70 degrees, or more. In some embodiments, the angle is at most about 70 degrees, 69 degrees, 68 degrees, 67 degrees, 66 degrees, 65 degrees, 64 degrees, 63 degrees, 62 degrees, 61 degrees, 60 degrees, 59 degrees, 58 degrees, 57 degrees, 56 degrees, 55 degrees, 54 degrees, 53 degrees, 52 degrees, 51 degrees, 50 degrees, 49 degrees, 48 degrees, 47 degrees, 46 degrees, 45 degrees, 44 degrees, 43 degrees, 42 degrees, 41 degrees, 40 degrees, 39 degrees, 38 degrees, 37 degrees, 36 degrees, 35 degrees, 34 degrees, 33 degrees, 32 degrees, 31 degrees, 30 degrees, 29 degrees, 28 degrees, 27 degrees, 26 degrees, 25 degrees, 24 degrees, 23 degrees, 22 degrees, 21 degrees, 20 degrees, 19 degrees, 18 degrees, 17 degrees, 16 degrees, 15 degrees, 14 degrees, 13 degrees, 12 degrees, 11 degrees, 10 degrees, or less. In some embodiments, the angle is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, in some embodiments, the angle is between 10 degrees and 60 degrees.
In some embodiments, the stake 863 has a length of at least about 1 foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, 15 feet, 16 feet, 17 feet, 18 feet, 19 feet, 20 feet, or more. In some embodiments, the stake 863 has a length of at most about 20 feet, 19 feet, 18 feet, 17 feet, 16 feet, 15 feet, 14 feet, 13 feet, 12 feet, 11 feet, 10 feet, 9 feet, 8 feet, 7 feet, 6 feet, 5 feet, 4 feet, 3 feet, 2 feet, 1 foot, or less. In some embodiments, the stake 863 has a length that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, in some embodiments, the stake 863 has a height of about 4 feet to about 16 feet. As shown the trellis system 800 comprises two cordon wires 865. In some embodiments, the trellis system 800 comprises at least about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more cordon wires 865. In some embodiments, the trellis system 800 comprises at most about 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, or fewer cordon wires 865. In some embodiments, the trellis system 800 comprises a number of cordon wires that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. In some embodiments, the cordon wires 865 support the plant as it grows within the fruiting zone.
In some embodiments, a width of the trellis system 800 is at least about 1 foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, or more. In some embodiments, a width of the trellis system 800 is at most about 12 feet, 11 feet, 10 feet, 9 feet, 8 feet, 7 feet, 6 feet, 5 feet, 4 feet, 3 feet, 2 feet, 1 foot, or less. In some embodiments, a width of the trellis system is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, in some embodiments, a width of the trellis system 800 is about 3 feet to about 12 feet. In some embodiments, a maximum distance between the trellis arms 861 is at least about 1 foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, or more. In some embodiments, a maximum distance between the trellis arms 861 is at most about 12 feet, 11 feet, 10 feet, 9 feet, 8 feet, 7 feet, 6 feet, 5 feet, 4 feet, 3 feet, 2 feet, 1 foot, or less. In some embodiments, a maximum distance between the trellis arms 861 is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, in some embodiments, a maximum distance between the trellis arms 861 is about 3 feet to about 12 feet.
In some embodiments, the one or more plants comprise one or more vines. In some embodiments, the one or more vines comprise one or more members selected from the group consisting of: grape vines, kiwifruit vines, berry vines, blueberry vines, blackberry vines, raspberry vines, strawberry vines, melon vines, watermelon vines, cantaloupe vines, and honeydew vines. In some embodiments, the one or more plants comprise one or more trees. In some embodiments, the one or more trees comprise one or more members selected from the group consisting of: fruit trees, apple trees, stone-fruit trees, cherry trees, peach trees, nectarine trees, plum trees, apricot trees, citrus trees, orange trees, lemon trees, lime trees, grapefruit trees, pomelo trees, and tangerine trees.
The trellis systems described herein were applied to the growth of flame seedless grapes. Two experiments were conducted on flame seedless grapes located within a few rows of one another. The first experiment involved trellis panels that did not utilize holes, while the second experiment involved trellis panels that include holes and had a boat-like shape. Both experiments were statistically designed as completely randomized blocks with six replications, statistical analysis by analysis of variance (ANOVA), mean separation by least significant difference. Fruit characteristics were measured on five occasions, twice before harvest began and then just prior to each of the three harvests for a total of five samplings. Measurements included berry weight, length, and width, and firmness. Berries were macerated and the resulting solution was evaluated for sugar and acid.
The potential yield for both experiments are shown in Tables 1 and 2. This was based on counting clusters in each plot. The average cluster weight was 1 pound, vine density was 518 vines per acre, and a packed box weight was 19 pounds. Using this data, the potential yield for each plot was calculated and reported as boxes per acre. There were no significant differences in total potential yield between the two experiments and the coefficient of variation between plots was reasonable (about 10%). The percentage packed treatment values were calculated as boxes packed divided by potential yield (boxes available to be packed).
This trellis panels in the first experiment (no holes) increased the percentage of fruit packed 40% compared to 24% for the unleafed control. The amount of total fruit harvested for the leafed control was 42%. For the second experiment (with holes), the amount of total fruit harvested was 65% compared to 49% for the control. Both of these treatments were leafed.
The first and second experiments were in close proximity to one another in the vineyard. It is interesting to note that the total fruit harvested from leafed control vines in each experiment was similar (42% and 49%, respectively), as shown in Tables 3 and 4. The similarity in results comparing the two experiments adds confidence to the results. It also suggests that the performance of trellis panels utilizing holes was good and likely similar to the original design.
The result from the first experiment verifies results obtained a year ago. The trellis panels without holes increased the number of boxes picked on the first pick by 77% in this experiment and by 61% in the previous year's trial. The total harvest for all three picks was also increased, by 16% this year and 11% last year, as shown in Table 3.
The results from the second experiment aligned nicely with the results from the first experiment. The first pick was 97% greater than control. Harvests from the trellis panels with holes and control treatments were similar on the second pick, but the harvest from the trellis panels with holes was greater on the last pick. The total for all three picks showed that the yield from the trellis panels with holes was significantly higher (32%) compared to the control, as shown in Table 4.
In the first experiment, there was no difference in sugar comparing the unleafed first experiment with the leafed control treatment. However, both had significantly higher sugar compared to the unleafed control. This suggests that light was the primary factor, lack of which reduced sugar accumulation in the unleafed control, and that the first experiment was as effective as leafing in providing light.
The second experiment increased berry weight, width, and length compared to the control. After leafing, shoots and side shoots continue to grow and the improvement in the light environment that results from leafing is lost within a few weeks. But, with the application of trellis panels without holes, the improvement in the light environment continues. There is a suggestion that the trellis panels without holes improve berry firmness, as shown in Table 6.
For all tables, L.S.D. is the treatment mean separation by least significant difference; “n.s.” means no significance, * signifies a 10% level of significance, ** signifies a 5% level of significance, *** signifies a 1% level of significance, and C.V. is the coefficient of variation calculated as the standard deviation as a percentage of the general mean.
Percentage based on actual yield compared to potential yield (Table 1). To convert boxes per acre to clusters per vine, multiply boxes by 0.147.
Percentage based on actual yield compared to potential yield (Table 2). To convert boxes per acre to clusters per vine, multiply boxes by 0.147.
This research was designed as a completely randomized block design with four treatments, six replications, and four vine plots. The experiments included controls with no panels, white metal panels, white glittery panels, and red panels. Statistical analysis was by ANOVA and treatment mean separation by least significant difference.
The red panel delayed early fruit color development, but later fruit color was similar for all experiments. Fruit color was similar for all panels when evaluated on the east and west side of the vine. As with fruit color, the red panel delayed sugar accumulation, but later sugar accumulation was similar for all experiments. Berry firmness, an important sensory quality, was similar for all experiments.
Flowers were counted for both the flame seedless and Krissy seedless experiments to determine the impact of a previous year's treatments on vine fruitfulness. The statistical design was a completely randomized block with six replications and four treatments. Treatments for flame seedless included a control treatment, a trellis panel with holes, a glitter trellis panel, and a red trellis panel. Treatments for Krissy seedless included a control treatment, a white trellis panel, a glitter trellis panel, and a red trellis panel. Statistical analysis was by analysis of variance (ANOVA).
There was no difference in flower counts between the east and west cordons for the Krissy seedless cultivar but a highly significant difference for the flame seedless cultivar (which had more flowers on the west cordon). For all cultivars, adequate light is required from May through June for bud differentiation, and some cultivars have a greater requirement than others. Flame seedless is very light-sensitive, which may explain why there would be more flowers on the more illuminated west side of the vine. Krissy seedless is less light-sensitive.
With Krissy seedless, the red panels significantly increased flower counts compared to the control and white panels. For flame seedless, the fruitfulness with the red panel was similar to the control and both the control and the red panel produced greater fruitfulness than white panels. All of this suggests that the red chromatic plays a greater role in flower cluster differentiation than other colors.
Light was measured on a clear sunny day in the early afternoon using an Apogee Instruments (Logan, Utah) hand-held Quantum Flux meter Model MQ-500. The experiment was carried out in a commercial Krissy seedless vineyard that utilized east-west row orientation. The vineyard was treated by best common practices, including leafing and centering (i.e. shoot pruning along the alleyway) for light penetration.
The experiment utilized 5 different conditions: a control that did not feature the panels described herein, treatments that utilized fully-holey polymer pearl, orange, and red panels described herein, and a treatment that used a partially-holey polymer pearl panel with a rain-protection strip (referred to as “Pearl+”). Each experimental condition covered a gable-to-gable section (4 vines). Panel sections and control sections were separated by buffer sections. The experimental layout was arranged in 8 fully randomized repetition blocks.
Light readings were collected from 15 different locations for each condition and each repetition on the north side of the vines at 165 cm height above ground level, just above the fruiting zone (which spans between 110 cm and 160 cm above ground level). The sensor was held horizontally facing south. The intensities were recorded as average photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) values in units of μmol photons*m−2*s−1. The standard error was calculated from the 8 averaged values for each condition.
Aspect 1. A device for sunlight delivery, shoot positioning, and canopy division of one or more plants on a trellis, comprising one or more panels configured for coupling to the trellis, the panels configured to collect light energy and to direct the collected light energy to the plants, thereby modifying growth or development of the plants.
Aspect 2. The device of aspect 1, wherein the one or more panels are detachably coupled to the trellis.
Aspect 3. The device of aspect 1 or 2, wherein the one or more panels are physically coupled to the trellis.
Aspect 4. The device of any one of aspects 1-3, wherein the one or more panels are functionally coupled to the trellis.
Aspect 5. The device of any one of aspects 1-4, wherein the one or more panels comprise one or more reflective panels.
Aspect 6. The device of aspect 5, wherein the one or more reflective panels are configured to reflect the collected light energy to the plants, thereby directing the collected light energy to the climbing vine.
Aspect 7. The device of any one of aspects 1-6, wherein the one or more panels are red, yellow, or orange in color.
Aspect 8. The device of any one of aspects 5-7, wherein the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate reflection of blue light.
Aspect 9. The device of any one of aspects 5-8, wherein the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate reflection of ultraviolet (UV) light.
Aspect 10. The device of any one of aspects 1-6, wherein the one or more panels are blue in color.
Aspect 11. The device of any one of aspects 5-7, wherein the one or more panels are configured to limit or eliminate reflection of red, yellow, or orange light.
Aspect 12. The device of any one of aspects 1-11, wherein the one or more panels are translucent and transform direct light into a scattered light, a diffused light, or both.
Aspect 13. The device of any one of aspects 1-12, wherein the one or more panels comprise a curved shape.
Aspect 14. The device of aspect 13, wherein the one or more panels comprise a parabolic, partial parabolic, or compound parabolic shape.
Aspect 15. The device of any one of aspects 1-14, wherein the one or more panels comprise a metallic material.
Aspect 16. The device of any one of aspects 1-14, wherein the one or more panels comprise a plastic material, a metallic material, wood, carbon fiber, fiberglass, or any combination thereof.
Aspect 17. The device of any one of aspects 1-16, wherein the one or more panels comprise one or more holes therethrough.
Aspect 18. The device of aspect 17, wherein the one or more holes are configured to improve ventilation of the panels, to reduce heat load on the panels, to improve light transmission through the one or more panels, or any combination thereof.
Aspect 19. The device of aspect 17 or 18, wherein the one or more holes are sized to prevent ingress of the plant through the one or more holes.
Aspect 20. The device of aspect 19, wherein the one or more holes comprise a diameter of at most about 5 mm.
Aspect 21. The device of any one of aspects 17-20, further comprising one or more hole-closing units configured to close the one or more holes.
Aspect 22. The device of aspect 21, wherein the one or more hole-closing units comprise one or more secondary panels.
Aspect 23. The device of aspect 22, wherein the one or more secondary panels are configured to slide over the one or more panels.
Aspect 24. The device of aspect 21, wherein the one or more hole-closing units comprise one or more strips of solid material coupled to the one or more panels.
Aspect 25. The device of aspect 24, wherein the one or more strips of solid material are detachably coupled to the one or more panels.
Aspect 26. The device of aspect 24, wherein the one or more strips of solid material are integrally coupled to the one or more panels.
Aspect 27. The device of aspect 24, wherein the one or more strips of solid material are embedded in the one or more panels.
Aspect 28. The device of any one of aspects 1-27, wherein the one or more panels are configured to physically separate each plant of the one or more plants from each other plant of the one or more plants.
Aspect 29. The device of any one of aspects 1-28, wherein the one or more panels are configured to interlock.
Aspect 30. The device of any one of aspects 1-29, further comprising one or more curtains coupled to an edge of the one or more panels, the curtains configured to protect the plants from rain.
Aspect 31. The device of aspect 30, wherein the curtains comprise a metallic material.
Aspect 32. The device of aspect 31, wherein the curtains comprise a plastic material.
Aspect 33. The device of any one of aspects 1-32, wherein the one or more panels are configured to maintain an area behind the one or more panels clear of foliage from the plants.
Aspect 34. The device of any one of aspects 1-33, wherein the one or more panels are configured to train the plants on the trellis.
Aspect 35. The device of any one of aspects 1-34, wherein the one or more panels are configured to provide shade to the plants.
Aspect 36. The device of any one of aspects 1-35, wherein the one or more panels are configured to protect the plants from rain.
Aspect 37. The device of any one of aspects 1-36, wherein the one or more panels are configured to protect the plants from frost.
Aspect 38. The device of any one of aspects 1-37, wherein the one or more panels are configured to protect the plants from hail.
Aspect 39. The device of any one of aspects 1-38, wherein the one or more panels are configured to fold up into a center of the trellis to ease pruning of the plants.
Aspect 40. The device of any one of aspects 1-39, wherein the one or more plants comprise one or more vines.
Aspect 41. The device of aspect 40, wherein the one or more vines comprise one or more members selected from the group consisting of: grape vines, kiwifruit vines, berry vines, blueberry vines, blackberry vines, raspberry vines, strawberry vines, melon vines, watermelon vines, cantaloupe vines, and honeydew vines.
Aspect 42. The device of any one of aspects 1-39, wherein the one or more plants comprise one or more trees.
Aspect 43. The device of aspect 42, wherein the one or more trees comprise one or more members selected from the group consisting of: fruit trees, apple trees, stone-fruit trees, cherry trees, peach trees, nectarine trees, plum trees, apricot trees, citrus trees, orange trees, lemon trees, lime trees, grapefruit trees, pomelo trees, and tangerine trees.
Aspect 44. The device of any one of aspects 1-43, wherein the one or more panels comprise a portion of a roll of material.
Aspect 45. The device of aspect 44, wherein the roll comprises a plurality of the one or more panels.
Aspect 46. The device of aspect 44, wherein the roll of material comprises a continuous roll of material.
Aspect 47. The device of aspect 44, wherein the roll of material comprises a length of about 660 feet (201.168 meters).
Aspect 48. The device of aspect 44, wherein the roll of material comprises a length of about 1,320 feet (402.336 meters).
Aspect 49. A device for modifying growth development and fruit production of one or more plants on a trellis, comprising:
Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.
As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to “or” herein is intended to encompass “and/or” unless otherwise stated.
Whenever the term “at least,” “greater than,” or “greater than or equal to” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term “at least,” “greater than” or “greater than or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, greater than or equal to 1, 2, or 3 is equivalent to greater than or equal to 1, greater than or equal to 2, or greater than or equal to 3.
Whenever the term “no more than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” or “at most” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term “no more than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” or “at most” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, less than or equal to 3, 2, or 1 is equivalent to less than or equal to 3, less than or equal to 2, or less than or equal to 1.
Where values are described as ranges, it will be understood that such disclosure includes the disclosure of all possible sub-ranges within such ranges, as well as specific numerical values that fall within such ranges irrespective of whether a specific numerical value or specific sub-range is expressly stated.
As used herein, the term “about” refers to an amount that is near the stated amount by 10%, 5%, or 1%, including increments therein.
As used herein, the term “about” in reference to a percentage refers to an amount that is greater or less the stated percentage by 10%, 5%, or 1%, including increments therein.
As used herein, the phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or” are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “at least one of A, B, or C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, “one or more of A, B, or C” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together.
While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the disclosure described herein may be employed in practicing the disclosure.
This application is the continuation of International Application No. PCT/US2020/044046, filed on Jul. 29, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/880,542, entitled “TRELLIS PANELS FOR SHOOT POSITIONING AND CANOPY DIVISION,” filed on Jul. 30, 2019, which is entirely incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62880542 | Jul 2019 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | PCT/US2020/044046 | Jul 2020 | US |
| Child | 17571937 | US |
