WO2015166378A1

WO2015166378A1 - Root watering systems and apparatus thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2015166378A1
Application number: PCT/IB2015/052900
Authority: WO
Inventors: Teja BENDKE
Original assignee: Bendke Teja
Priority date: 2014-04-30
Filing date: 2015-04-21
Publication date: 2015-11-05

Abstract

Root watering systems and apparatus thereof is configured to conserve water, deliver additives to the roots and aerate both the roots and the soil for healthy plant growth. Root watering apparatus comprises a hollow, elongated perforated shaft having unitary construction or at least one detachable segment, and further provided with a metallic tapering end for facilitating deep penetration into the earth. A diffusion membrane can be lined internally in the shaft to permit flow of water and additives into the soil, prevent soil or the roots from entering the shaft and prevent weed growth. At least one nozzle is coupled to the shaft and can be configured to facilitate coupling of the apparatus in series with other such apparatus and at least one circulatory system comprising an arrangement of porous pipes. The root watering system comprises a plurality of root watering apparatus coupled in series to provide fluid communication therebetween.

Description

ROOT WATERING SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS THEREOF

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of root watering systems and apparatus thereof.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Inadequate water penetration to the underground roots of vegetation such as plants, crops and trees typically occurs due to hard, ground conditions, such as hard soil, composite areas and paved urban areas, or climate conditions that do not produce sufficient precipitation and cause rapid evaporation. This leads to a lot of wastage of water. Again, it is often seen that fertilizers required for healthy growth do not adequately reach the roots especially in case of deep roots. There is a need to ensure that both water and fertilizers are adequately and without wastage accessed by roots of vegetation irrespective of the depth of the roots below ground.

[0003] Besides wastage of water, a lot of time is wasted in watering plants to ensure that plants receive adequate water. Hilly and sloping landscapes may also find a lot of wasteful run-off of water due to the terrain. Drought and freezing conditions also hamper healthy growth of vegetation.

[0004] The present invention in its various embodiments addresses the above and other possible needs relating to the field of root watering for healthy growth of vegetation.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can deliver water and fertilizers to the roots and also aerate the roots and soil.

[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can prevent wastage of water and fertilizers and ensure optimum use thereof.

[0008] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can reduce plant watering time. [0009] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide root watering systems and apparatus thereof that is easy to install.

[00010] One more object of the present disclosure is to provide root watering systems and apparatus thereof that is easy to extract and reuse.

[00011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide root watering systems and apparatus thereof that is durable.

[00012] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide root watering systems and apparatus thereof that is cost effective.

[00013] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can be effective on any terrain and climatic conditions.

[00014] An additional object of the present disclosure is to provide root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can be effective against damage caused by excessive salt in the soil.

SUMMARY

[00015] The expression "vegetation" referred to in the instant disclosure refers to plants, crops and trees and the like that can be considered under the plant community.

[00016] The expression "additives" referred to in the instant disclosure refers to fertilizers to promote plant growth, chemicals to impede weed growth, pesticides, and the like, such additives being capable of being delivered along with water.

[00017] Aspects of present disclosure relate to systems and apparatus for delivering water and additives to the roots of vegetation and at the same time aerating the roots and soil, irrespective of the depth of the roots under the earth.

[00018] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a root watering system is provided that can comprise a plurality of root watering apparatus that can be disposed around the roots. At least one nozzle can be coupled to the body of each of the plurality of root water apparatus. The nozzle can be configured to facilitate coupling of the plurality of root water apparatus. In another embodiment, the nozzle can be configured to facilitate coupling of the root watering system with at least one circulatory system that can be configured to provide fluid communication therebetween and to allow percolation of fluid into the soil.

[00019] In an embodiment, at least one of the plurality of root watering apparatus can be lined internally with a diffusion membrane. In an embodiment the diffusion membrane can be configured to permit flow of water and additives into the soil, prevent soil or the roots from entering the root watering apparatus, perform intended functions of the additives, or a combination thereof.

[00020] In an embodiment, the diffusion membrane can be detached from the body of the root watering apparatus.

[00021] In an embodiment, the at least one circulatory system can be an arrangement of porous pipes.

[00022] In an embodiment, the root watering apparatus can be provided with a tapering end that is reinforced with metal for facilitating deep penetration into the earth.

[00023] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a root watering apparatus is provided that can comprise a hollow elongated perforated shaft having unitary construction or at least one detachable segment, a non-tapering end and a hard and durable tapering end that can be configured to facilitate deep penetration into the earth. A diffusion membrane can be lined internally in the shaft and configured to permit flow of water and additives into the soil, prevent soil or the roots from entering the shaft, perform intended functions of the additives, or a combination thereof. At least one nozzle can be coupled to the shaft and configured to facilitate coupling of the root watering apparatus in series with other such apparatus or to at least one circulatory system for providing fluid communication therebetween.

[00024] In accordance with an embodiment, a slotted cover can be configured to be coupled over the non-tapering end of the shaft for facilitating hammering of the apparatus into the earth and the slot can be configured for coupling with a fluid delivery system.

[00025] In accordance with an embodiment, a cover can be configured to be coupled over the non-tapering end of the shaft and further configured to be coupled with a micro-tube.

[00026] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a root watering apparatus is provided that can comprise at least one hollow elongated perforated horizontal shaft having unitary construction or at least one detachable segment; either ends of the horizontal shaft being provided with a cover and capable of being disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the earth and below earth's surface; at least one hollow elongated perforated vertical shaft having unitary construction or at least one detachable segment, the vertical shaft being coupled to the horizontal shaft in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the horizontal shaft; the vertical shaft being configured to be partially disposed above the earth's surface and coupled to a fluid delivery system; and a plurality of hollow elongated perforated extension shafts being coupled to the horizontal shaft in a spaced apart manner in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the horizontal shaft and on an opposing surface of the horizontal shaft wherein the vertical shaft is coupled, each of the extension shafts having a hard and durable tapering end configured to facilitate deep penetration into the earth

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00027] In the Figures, similar components and/or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label with a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.

[00028] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary root watering apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00029] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary root watering apparatus with a diffusion membrane in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00030] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary root watering apparatus with a diffusion membrane disposed therein in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00031] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 illustrate exemplary root watering systems wherein exemplary root watering apparatus are connected in series to a water source in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00032] FIG. 6 illustrates a transverse cross sectional view of the cover of the non tapering end and a partial longitudinal cross section of the shaft and the tapering end of the elongated shaft of an exemplary root watering apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00033] FIG.7 illustrates exploded views of exemplary root watering apparatus with a diffusing membrane in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00034] FIG.8 illustrates an exemplary root watering apparatus without a slotted cover in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00035] FIG.9 illustrates an alternative exemplary root watering apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00036] Systems and apparatus for delivering water and additives to the roots and at the same time aerating the roots and soil in accordance with the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

[00037] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and methods are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[00038] The description hereinafter, of the specific embodiment will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiment herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiment. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

[00039] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and apparatus for delivering water and additives such as fertilizers to the roots of vegetation and at the same time aerating the roots and soil, irrespective of the depth of the roots under the earth.

[00040] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary root watering apparatus 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In accordance with an embodiment, root watering apparatus 100 can comprise a hollow elongated perforated shaft 103 having a non-tapering end 105 and a hard and durable tapering end 110 configured to facilitate deep penetration into the earth. In accordance with an embodiment, shaft 103 can have a unitary construction or may be provided with add-on segments for varying its length as desired. The add-on segments can be snugly fit into each other like building blocks or can be glued for rigidity.

[00041] In an embodiment, hollow elongated perforated shaft 103 can be made of any suitable material. In another embodiment, hollow elongated perforated shaft 103 can be of any suitable cross-sectional shape. In an embodiment, hollow elongated perforated shaft 103 can be of any suitable length, typically determined by the type of vegetation, age of vegetation, soil and climatic conditions.

[00042] In accordance with an embodiment, slotted cover 102 can be configured to be coupled over non-tapering end 105 of shaft 103 for facilitating hammering of apparatus 100 into the earth and slot 104 can be configured for coupling with a fluid delivery system or a drip line. Tapering end 110 of shaft 103 comprises tip 112 which is protected by hard/durable material 111. In accordance with an embodiment, tapering end 110 can be protected by hard / durable metallic material for added strength. In an embodiment, thickness, strength and durability of tapering end 110 can be obtained by using iron strips / steel strips, making the tip 112 rigid and strong for easy penetration into the earth.

[00043] In accordance with an embodiment, shaft 103 can be provided with at least one opening 106 configured to extract apparatus 100 from the earth. Opening 106 closest to the non-tapering end 105 facilitates extraction of apparatus 100 from the earth. Such extraction can be easily performed using simple tools like screw driver that can be inserted into opening 106. Shaft 103 being perforated can be provided with openings 107 and 108 repeated at predefined intervals throughout the body of elongated shaft 103 to provide paths for flow of water and additives, if any, into the soil at required depths.

[00044] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary root watering apparatus with diffusion membrane 113 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure while FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary root watering apparatus with diffusion membrane 113 disposed therein in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Diffusion membrane 113 can be lined internally in shaft 103 and configured to permit flow of water and additives such as fertilizers into the soil, prevent soil or the roots from entering the shaft, perform intended functions of the additives, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, diffusion membrane 113 can be coupled to shaft 103 via connecting component 114 and can be detached for cleaning or maintenance. In accordance with an embodiment, diffusion membrane 113 can be made of washable material. In an embodiment diffusion membrane 113 can be a planar structure or may include at least one curvature. Diffusion membrane 113 can create a protected diffusion pathway. Additives can diffuse through the diffusion pathway and get into contact with a plant's root system. In an embodiment, diffusion membrane 113 protects the diffusion pathway from gravitational water flow and rapid temperature fluctuation. In an embodiment, water and liquid fertilizer percolates out of the apparatus at the rate about 20ml/ hr. [00045] In accordance with an embodiment, diffusion membrane 113 can be impregnated with suitable solutions for serving diverse purposes like weed prevention or slow release of the additives.

[00046] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 illustrate exemplary root watering systems wherein exemplary root watering apparatus 100 are connected in series to water source 118 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In accordance with an embodiment, at least one nozzle 109 can be coupled to shaft 103 and configured to facilitate coupling of root watering apparatus 100 in series with other such apparatus or to at least one circulatory system for providing fluid communication therebetween and to allow percolation of fluid into the soil. In accordance with an embodiment, the circulatory system can comprise an arrangement of porous pipes 115 for supplying oxygen/ air to surrounding areas for root / soil aeration. The circulatory system can also be used for root watering of surrounding areas. Alternatively, nozzle 109 can couple one root watering system to another system for soil/root aeration or root watering of coupled system(s) thereby enabling circulation of water and additives, if any, in a circular and horizontal path, deep underground at desired depths.

[00047] In FIG. 4, shaft 103 is shown coupled to diffusion membrane 113 via connecting component 114 and porous pipes 115 are coupled to nozzle 109. The connecting component 114 can be removed to change the diffusion membrane or clean it when required. Water and additives will be delivered into shaft 103 and then to the porous pipes 115 from hose 117 when connected from above the earth to water source 118 to which optionally soluble / liquid fertilizers may be added.

[00048] In FIG. 5, two root water apparatus with shaft 103 are shown driven into the earth or soil surface, underneath a tree canopy. Water source 118 via hose 117 supplies water and soluble/liquid fertilizer through shaft 103 and pipes 116 into porous pipes 115 from where water and fertilizers can be delivered to the roots of the tree. In an embodiment, the root watering apparatus can be hammered into the earth. Alternatively, a hole of adequate size and depth may be dug and the root watering apparatus can then be inserted therein.

[00049] In accordance with an embodiment, porous pipes 115 can be made of EPDM RUBBER and water and liquid fertilizer can percolate at the rate of about 20ml/ Hr.

[00050] FIG. 6 illustrates a transverse cross sectional view of slotted cover 102 of non tapering end 105 of shaft 103 and partial longitudinal cross section of shaft 103 and tapering end 110 of hollow elongated shaft 103 of an exemplary root watering apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. An exemplary embodiment indicates 8 ridges 130 with gaps in between to facilitate the cooling process to make cover 102 solid. The thickness of tapering end 110 and hard durable material 111 such as iron / steel strips provided at tip 112 is indicative of the installation being rigid and strong, for easy penetration into the soil.

[00051] FIG.7 illustrates exploded views of exemplary root watering apparatus with a diffusing membrane in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In accordance with an embodiment, diffusion membrane 113 can be connected to shaft 103 by unthreaded flush joint. Exemplary embodiments illustrated are that root watering apparatus having a 26 inches long and 34 inches long shaft 103 respectively.

[00052] FIG.8 illustrates exemplary root watering apparatus 200 without a slotted cover of the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1. On uneven terrain, it becomes difficult to maintain pressure at different levels when shafts are placed at different elevations. Apparatus 200 addresses this issue by obviating need for emitters. Instead of a slotted cover, apparatus 200 is provided with a non-slotted cover 202 over an open end of shaft 203. Shaft 203 is perforated and can be provided with openings 207 and 208 repeated at pre-defined intervals below ground level, throughout the body of elongated shaft 203 to provide paths for flow of water and additives, if any, into the soil at required depths. No openings are provided above the ground level in apparatus 200 except for receiving micro-tube 215 in non-slotted cover 202. In an embodiment, tapering end 210 of shaft 203 comprises tip 212 which is protected by hard/durable material 211. In accordance with an embodiment, tapering end 210 can be protected by hard / durable metallic material for added strength. In an embodiment, thickness, strength and durability of tapering end 210 can be obtained by using iron strips / steel strips, making the tip 212 rigid and strong for easy penetration into the earth. In accordance with an embodiment, at least one nozzle 209 can be coupled to shaft 203 and configured to facilitate coupling of root watering apparatus 200 in series with other such apparatus or to at least one circulatory system for providing fluid communication therebetween and to allow percolation of fluid into the soil. In accordance with an embodiment, the circulatory system can comprise an arrangement of porous pipes for supplying oxygen/ air to surrounding areas for root / soil aeration. The circulatory system can also be used for root watering of surrounding areas. Alternatively, nozzle 209 can couple one root watering system to another system for soil/root aeration or root watering of coupled system(s) thereby enabling circulation of water and additives, if any, in a circular and horizontal path, deep underground at desired depths. [00053] FIG.9 illustrates an alternative exemplary root watering apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the apparatus can comprise at least one hollow elongated perforated horizontal shaft 303a having unitary construction or at least one detachable segment; either ends of the horizontal shaft being provided with a cover (302b, 302c). Covers (302b, 302c) can be slotted covers or otherwise. Horizontal shaft 303a can be configured to be disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the earth and below earth's surface. At least one hollow elongated perforated vertical shaft 303B having unitary construction or at least one detachable segment can be coupled to horizontal shaft 303a in a plane perpendicular to the plane of horizontal shaft 303a. Vertical shaft 303b can be configured to be partially disposed above the earth's surface and coupled to fluid delivery system 301 via slotted cover 302a. A plurality of hollow elongated perforated extension shafts 303c, 303d,...can be coupled to horizontal shaft 303a in a spaced apart manner in a plane perpendicular to the plane of horizontal shaft 303a and on an opposing surface of horizontal shaft 303a wherein vertical shaft 303b is coupled. Each of extension shafts 303c, 303d,.. can be configured with a hard and durable tapering end 310 configured to facilitate deep penetration into the earth. In accordance with an embodiment, tapering end 310 can comprise tip 312 which is protected by hard/durable material 311.

[00054] In accordance with an embodiment, at least one of horizontal shaft 303a, vertical shaft 303b and extension shafts 303c, 303d,..are lined internally with a diffusion membrane to permit flow of water and additives into the soil, prevent soil or the roots from entering the shaft, perform intended functions of the additives, or a combination thereof.

[00055] The system and apparatus of the present disclosure direct water in a vertical direction at least about four to five inches beneath the ground level and then further direct water horizontally to cause wet the roots in the vicinity. This ensures that the salts present in the soil are restricted at lower levels underneath the soil surface and are prevented from coming up to the upper surface of the soil which can cause salt burn and harm growth of plants.

[00056] Again, since the system and apparatus of the present disclosure direct water directly to the roots of the vegetation, optimum water and additives are required without compromising on the yield of the vegetation.

[00057] In the rainy season also, system and apparatus of the present disclosure direct water with additives like fertilizers to the roots deep into the earth preventing the fertilizers from getting washed away, thus maintaining fertility of the soil for a longer period of time. [00058] When system and apparatus of the present disclosure are implemented in sloping or mountainous regions, apart from saving water by mitigating run off, the fertility of the soil is maintained as the water flowing downwards from upper levels enter the system and/or apparatus while flowing down to the lower level.

[00059] In an embodiment of the invention, one or more components of the system and apparatus thereof can be made from material such as but not limited to EPDM rubber, ABS plastic, or the like.

[00060] In an embodiment, the components of the system and apparatus thereof can be detachable or have a unitary construction.

[00061] In an embodiment, the components of the system and apparatus thereof can be connected to one another by various connecting means.

[00062] In an embodiment, the system and apparatus thereof can have high crack resistance, wear resistance, corrosion resistance and dimensional stability.

[00063] In an embodiment of the invention, one or more parts or components of the system and apparatus thereof may be made up of any suitable material such as but not limited to metals, alloys, non-metals, stainless steel, titanium, iron, silicone rubber, acrylic resins, polyurethanes, polypropylene, polyethylene, polymethylmethacrylate, nylon, or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, polyglecaprone, polydioxanone and ceramics such as alumina, and hydroxyapatite, polylactides, polyglycolides, and copolymers thereof; poly(hydroxybutyric acid); poly(lactide-co-(8-caprolactone-)); poly(glycolide-co-(e- caprolactone)); polycarbonates, poly(pseudo amino acids); poly(amino acids); poly(hydroxyl alkanoate); polyanhydride or any combination thereof.

[00064] In an embodiment, the components of the system and apparatus thereof can be individually or simultaneously of any suitable cross sectional size, shape or length.

RESEARCH FINDINGS

[00065] The present invention has been implemented for research in orchards, farms, landscaping and gardens for cultivation of various crops including banana, pomegranate, grapes, coconut, mango and the like.

[00066] The research findings are given below:

Control on pressure

Water flow through the system occurs in two ways:

1) Downward - pulled by gravity and 2) Outward and upward - pulled by capillary action.

System of the present invention is made of a sturdy plastic material which in turn withstands root penetration preventing any kind of damage.

[00067] As the root watering apparatus are inserted in the soil and water gets into the root zone up to below soil surface with the gravitational force through the permeable porous membrane, the pressure required to control the water flow down the apparatus is negligible as water poured through hose pipe or by emitters or drip line is under no pressure.

[00068] Aeration can be done in several ways, common among them are core, deep line and water injecting. It is seen that a properly installed and irrigated system actually requires less aeration, if any, when compared to an overhead sprinkler system.

[00069] Because the system of the present invention has ability to create a very uniform, wetted pattern that reaches far below the surface, the pore spaces of the soil are actually filled with water. As such, they are more resilient to traffic and less likely to compact.

[00070] Evaporation

Almost 100 % water given to the tree is saved from evaporation as it goes directly to the deep roots.

[00071] Saving of water

It encourages a much larger root volume than other forms of irrigation and helps develop plants that are better adapted to survive after water supply is terminated for any reason. Water run off on the slopes is mitigated as the water is delivered to the deep roots through feedpipes / shafts instead of permitting running off down the slope. Due to deep soil watering the soil biology is activated efficiently. Air and water is introduced at root zones in presence of active soil biology which carries continuous bio-decomposition of soil organic matter. Soil organic matter in turn improves the soil water holding capacity leading to less water requirement for the plants.

[00072] In conventional watering systems, water spreads horizontally and gets evaporated soon. Due to insufficient water at the root zones, plants lack the natural growth of roots. Instead in deep drip irrigation watering is done at the periphery of the plant so water flows vertical down to deep soil in the root rhizosphere and then water flows horizontally making the roots grow horizontally increasing nutrient uptake.

[00073] The system of the present disclosure using root watering apparatus as described herein above reduces quantity of water used without reducing plant yield. Therefore it is a water saving technology which optimizes yields per unit water. The system / apparatus of the present disclosure is a labour saving technology, both because of less labour required for irrigation and less labour required for weeding.

[00074] Health of soil

System of the invention improves groundwater recharge because it minimizes runoff and increases absorption rate of the soil. It improves soil quality and retards erosion because reducing runoff can prevent degradation of soil structure and reduce erosion, depending on the surrounding landscape. Due to the system/apparatus of the present disclosure, soil moisture level is maintained and soil organic matter improves the nutrient holding capacity of soil.

[00075] Salt burn

Light and frequent irrigation applications can result in a small wetted zone and limited capacity for dilution or leaching of salts. When salt deposits accumulate near the soil surface (due to small irrigation amounts combined with evaporation from the soil surface), crop germination problems and seedling damage are more likely. In arid and semi-arid conditions a smaller wetted zone generally results in a smaller effective root zone; hence the crop is more vulnerable to salt damage and to drought stress injury.

[00076] Although excessive deep percolation losses of irrigation are discouraged for their obvious reduction in irrigation efficiency and for their potential to contribute to groundwater contamination, occasional large irrigation applications may be required for leaching of salts. Managing irrigation schedules (amounts and timing) by using system of the present disclosure to support a large root zone helps to keep salt accumulations dispersed and away from plant roots, provides for better root uptake of nutrients, and offers improved protection from salt burn as well short-term drought conditions. The classical "textbook" solution to salinity management in the field is through leaching (washing) accumulated salts below the root zone. This is often accomplished by occasional excessive irrigation applications to dissolve, dilute and move the salts. The amount of excess irrigation application required (often referred to as the "leaching fraction") depends upon the concentrations of salts within the soil and in the water applied to accomplish the leaching. Where irrigation water quantity is limited, sufficient water for leaching may not be available. The combined problem of limited water volume and poor water quality can be particularly difficult to manage. In soils with insufficient internal drainage for salt leaching and removal, the apparatus of the present disclosure acts as a mechanical drainage system as like subsurface drain tiles, ditches, etc. [00077] Root length

Roots are allowed to reach deep into the soil because there is moisture available for them. The water can reach out to its maximum radius when the soil stays moist because it is easier for water molecules to move when they are in a consistently moist environment (capillary action). Due to consistent moist zone roots drag to the zone for nutrient uptake and root growth stimulates efficiently.

[00078] Apparatus of the present disclosure reduces human exposure to hazardous material because controlling the amount of water administered to plants improves plant health, reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides.

[00079] System and apparatus of the present invention reduces air pollution and improves air quality because improved plant health promotes plant absorption of air pollutants. Also, water conservation can lead to decreased energy use and associated air pollution associated with pumping and treating less irrigation water.

[00080] The system is a good agronomic option for woody crops (almond tree, vineyard, olive tree, pistachio tree, peach tree, etc.) and extensive crops (corn, common vetch, barley, alfalfa, etc.). The system/apparatus of the present disclosure allows delivery of water and additives to the root system of the plants in a more direct way, which means an important saving of water and additives such as fertilizers, together with much more other economic, ecologic and agronomic advantages.

[00081] If the specification states a component or feature "may", "can", "could", or "might" be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.

[00082] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[00083] The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having," are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[00084] The use of the expression "at least" or "at least one" suggests the use of one or more elements, as the use may be in one of the embodiments to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.

[00085] The numerical values, if mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.

[00086] The process steps, method steps, algorithms or the like may be described in a sequential order, such processes, methods and algorithms may be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of processes described herein may be performed in any order practical. Further, some steps may be performed simultaneously, in parallel, or concurrently.

[00087] In addition to the embodiments and examples shown, numerous variants are possible, which may be obvious to a person skilled in the art relating to the aspects of the invention.

[00088] The aim of this specification is to describe the invention without limiting the invention to any one embodiment or specific collection of features. A person skilled in the relevant art may realize the variations from the specific embodiments that will nonetheless fall within the scope of the invention.

[00089] It may be appreciated that various other modifications and changes may be made to the embodiment described without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[00090] The present disclosure provides root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can deliver water and fertilizers to the roots and also aerate the roots and soil.

[00091] The present disclosure provides root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can prevent wastage of water and fertilizers and ensure optimum use thereof. [00092] The present disclosure provides root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can reduce plant watering time.

[00093] The present disclosure provides root watering systems and apparatus thereof that is easy to install.

[00094] The present disclosure provides root watering systems and apparatus thereof that is easy to extract and reuse.

[00095] The present disclosure provides root watering systems and apparatus thereof that is durable.

[00096] The present disclosure provides root watering systems and apparatus thereof that is cost effective.

[00097] The present disclosure provides root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can be effective on any terrain and climatic conditions.

[00098] The present disclosure provides root watering systems and apparatus thereof that can be effective against damage caused by excessive salt in the soil.

Claims

A root watering system configured to deliver water and additives to the roots of vegetation and aerating the roots and soil,

said system comprising:

• a plurality of root watering apparatus disposed around the roots;

• at least one nozzle coupled to the body of each of said plurality of root water apparatus, said nozzle configured to facilitate coupling of said plurality of root watering apparatus in series or to facilitate coupling of said system with at least one circulatory system configured to provide fluid communication therebetween and to allow percolation of fluid into the soil.

The root watering system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said plurality of root watering apparatus is lined internally with a diffusion membrane configured to permit flow of water and additives into the soil, prevent soil or the roots from entering the at least one of said plurality of root watering apparatus, perform intended functions of the additives, or a combination thereof.

The root watering system of claim 2, wherein said diffusion membrane is detachable from the body of the root watering apparatus.

The root watering system of claim 1, wherein the at least one circulatory system comprises an arrangement of porous pipes.

The root watering system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said plurality of root watering apparatus is reinforced at a tapering end with a metal for facilitating deep penetration into the earth.

A root watering apparatus configured to deliver water and additives to the roots of vegetation and aerating the roots and soil,

said apparatus comprising:

• a hollow elongated perforated shaft having unitary construction or at least one detachable segment, a non-tapering end and a hard and durable tapering end configured to facilitate deep penetration into the earth;

• a diffusion membrane lined internally in said shaft and configured to permit flow of water and additives into the soil, prevent soil or the roots from entering the shaft, perform intended functions of the additives, or a combination thereof; • at least one nozzle coupled to said shaft and configured to facilitate coupling of said root watering apparatus in series with other said root watering apparatus or to facilitate coupling of said root watering apparatus with at least one circulatory system configured to provide fluid communication therebetween and to allow percolation of fluid into the soil.

The root watering apparatus of claim 6, wherein said tapering end is reinforced with metal.

The root watering apparatus of claim 6, wherein said shaft is provided with at least one opening configured to extract said apparatus from the earth.

The root watering apparatus of claim 6, wherein the at least one circulatory system comprises an arrangement of porous pipes.

The root watering apparatus of claim 6 further comprising a slotted cover configured to be coupled over the non-tapering end and further configured to facilitate hammering of said apparatus into the earth, the slot being configured for coupling with a fluid delivery system.

The root watering apparatus of claim 6 further comprising a cover configured to be coupled over the non-tapering end and further configured to be coupled with a micro- tube.

said apparatus comprising:

• at least one hollow elongated perforated horizontal shaft having unitary construction or at least one detachable segment; either ends of said horizontal shaft being provided with a cover and capable of being disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the earth and below earth's surface;

• at least one hollow elongated perforated vertical shaft having unitary construction or at least one detachable segment, said vertical shaft being coupled to said horizontal shaft in a plane perpendicular to the plane of said horizontal shaft; said vertical shaft being configured to be partially disposed above the earth's surface and coupled to a fluid delivery system; and

• a plurality of hollow elongated perforated extension shafts being coupled to said horizontal shaft in a spaced apart manner in a plane perpendicular to the plane of said horizontal shaft and on an opposing surface of said horizontal shaft wherein said vertical shaft is coupled, each of said extension shafts having a hard and durable tapering end configured to facilitate deep penetration into the earth.

The root watering apparatus of claim 12 further comprising a diffusion membrane lined internally in at least one of said horizontal shaft, said vertical shaft and said extension shafts and configured to permit flow of water and additives into the soil, prevent soil or the roots from entering the shaft, perform intended functions of the additives, or a combination thereof.

The root watering apparatus of claim 12 further comprising at least one nozzle coupled to said at least one of said horizontal shaft, said vertical shaft and said extension shafts and configured to facilitate coupling of said root watering apparatus in series with other said root watering apparatus or to facilitate coupling of said root watering apparatus with at least one circulatory system configured to provide fluid communication therebetween and to allow percolation of fluid into the soil.

The root watering apparatus of claim 12, wherein said tapering end is reinforced with metal.

The root watering apparatus of claim 12, wherein said vertical shaft is provided with at least one opening configured to extract said apparatus from the earth.

The root watering apparatus of claim 14, wherein said the at least one circulatory system comprises an arrangement of porous pipes.