JP2006158383A - Plant cultivation method, and plant cultivation apparatus and plant cultivation device for the cultivation method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a plant cultivation apparatus having a simple structure, readily usable without using soil causing the proliferation of microorganisms and effective for preventing root rot. <P>SOLUTION: The plant cultivation apparatus 10 is provided with a water impermeable vessel 11, a supporting member 12 closing the top of the vessel and supporting a plant, a watering means 13 to supply water from the lower part of the vessel 11 to the upper face of the supporting member 12, and an aeration means to supply air between the lower part of the supporting member 12 and the outside of the vessel. The vessel 11 is composed of a vessel body 14 and a cover 15, and the supporting member 12 is composed of a wire net 21, a supporting plate 22a, a block material 22b, a center member 25 and a light-shielding plate 23. The watering means 13 is composed of a pump 35 and a water-feeding pipe 27. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a plant cultivation method, a plant cultivation apparatus and a plant cultivation tool used therefor.

JP 2004-49215 A JP 2002-272275 A JP 2002-262684 A JP 2001-320989 A

  Patent Document 1 discloses a planting stand for purifying by passing air through the soil holding the roots of the plant. As shown in FIG. 23, this plant stand includes a water container 101, a flower pot 102 inserted into the water container, and a fan 103 that sucks air in an upper space between the water container and the flower pot. Yes. A water passage hole 104 through which water in the water container 101 passes is formed at the bottom of the flower pot 102, and a partition wall 107 that partitions the inside of the flower pot 102 into a ventilation part 105 and a planting part 106 is provided. In this planting stand, the fan 103 sucks ambient air and passes it through the soil of the planting unit 106. As a result, microorganisms in the soil decompose toxins in the air and the surrounding air can be purified.

  Patent Document 2 discloses a plant cultivation apparatus 110 that includes a water tank 111 that accommodates cultivation water and a cultivation container 112 provided on the upper part of the water tank, as shown in FIG. Soil D is placed in the cultivation container 112. A water absorbing body insertion hole 113 and a vent hole 114 are formed at the bottom of the cultivation container 112, and a water absorbing body 115 such as a nonwoven fabric is inserted into the water absorbing body insertion hole 113 and hangs down to the water tank 111. Activated carbon 116 is spread over the bottom of the water tank to purify the water. Furthermore, air is sent into the water through a pipe 117 having a large number of holes and purified by bubbling.

  Patent Document 3 discloses a floating planter configured to hold a root portion of a plant so that the root penetrates downward and reaches the water surface. This material floats on a creek or the like caused by reclamation, and is useful for purification of creek water into which miscellaneous wastewater flows. Patent Document 4 discloses a plant cultivation apparatus in which a pump is provided on a support base that also serves as a liquid tank, and liquid is supplied to a tray that supports a flower pot under the control of a timer.

  The plant stand of Patent Document 1 forcibly circulates air so as to pass through the soil in which microorganisms are present, so the air purification performance is high, but the mechanism becomes large. Furthermore, the growth environment of microorganisms must be maintained. Conversely, the presence of soil may cause malignant microorganisms to propagate. Although the plant cultivation apparatus of patent document 2 has a simple structure, since the soil is still used, there is a problem similar to the above.

  On the other hand, Patent Document 3 is intended to artificially provide a coral colony useful for lake purification, and can be used for hydroponics that does not use soil, but the roots are immersed in water, so root rot There is a problem. Although the plant cultivation apparatus of patent document 4 can be used for supplying water automatically, since the plant is cultivated by putting soil in the flower pot, there is a problem in the case of using the above-mentioned soil.

  The present invention has as a technical problem to provide a plant cultivation method that eliminates the problems of cultivation and hydroponics using the conventional soil, does not use soil that is a source of microbial propagation, and is less prone to root rot. Yes. Furthermore, this invention makes it the technical subject to provide the plant cultivation apparatus and plant cultivation tool which the structure used for the plant cultivation method is simple and can be utilized easily.

  The plant cultivation method of the present invention is characterized in that a plant root is held by a porous holding member having air permeability and water permeability, and water is supplied to the holding member at predetermined time intervals. In such a cultivation method, it is preferable that the predetermined time interval is equal to or longer than the time for the holding member to dry.

  The plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention is provided so as to close a non-permeable container, an upper part of the container, a support member for supporting the plant, and water supply for supplying water to the support member from the lower part of the container And air supply means for supplying air between the lower side of the support member and the outside. The support member is preferably provided with a cage-like or net-like frame having air permeability and water permeability, and a flexible and porous holding member held by the frame.

  In such a plant cultivation apparatus, it is preferable that a part of the holding member is detachably fitted to the other part and includes an insertion part for inserting a plant root. In addition, it is preferable that the water supply means includes a pump for pumping up water stored in a lower part of the container, and a water supply pipe connected to the pump for supplying water to the upper surface of the support member. In addition, it is preferable that the air supply means is a ventilation path that communicates the inside and the outside of the container.

  Further, it is preferable that the holding member is formed with a plurality of arc-shaped slits extending radially from the vicinity of the center to the vicinity of the side surface and penetrating from the upper surface to the lower surface. Moreover, it is preferable that the water supply pipe rises from the holding member, the second holding member is wound around the water supply pipe, and water flowing from the upper end of the water supply pipe is supplied to the second holding member. Furthermore, it is preferable that a rod-like column is erected around the upper end of the container, and a support string is stretched between the columns.

  Further, it is preferable that a water supply groove for guiding the water supplied from the water supply means to the opening for inserting the plant is formed on the upper surface of the support member. Furthermore, a plant cultivation device is preferably provided with a root shielding sheet or a root shielding plate having air permeability and water permeability for blocking the roots of the plant on the lower surface side of the support member. Moreover, what is provided with the heater which heats the water in the said container is preferable.

  The water supply means and the air supply means may include a water tank provided outside the container and a pump for supplying water from the water tank into the container and draining the water from the container to the water tank. . Further, the container includes a plurality of water tanks, and the water supply means and the air supply means include a water passage that allows the water tanks to communicate with each other, and a pump that is interposed in the water passage and is capable of reciprocating water supply. It may be. Further, the water supply means and the air supply means may be means for moving up and down between a position where the support member is immersed in water filled in the container and a position away from the water surface.

  The plant cultivation tool of the present invention includes a holding member that holds a plant in a state of wrapping a root, and a frame that includes a plurality of legs for supporting the holding member in a suspended state. It is characterized by being. In such a plant cultivation tool, the holding member is preferably made of a flexible porous material having air permeability and water permeability. Further, the frame body includes a plurality of vertical members extending vertically and arranged in a ring with a gap, and a ring member that connects the vertical members in a ring shape, and the lower part of the legs is formed by It is preferable that it is wider than the vertical member.

  According to a second aspect of the plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention, any one of the plant cultivation tools and a dish-like or bowl-shaped non-permeable container on which the legs of the plant cultivation tool are placed are characterized. Yes.

  In the plant cultivation method of the present invention, the root of the plant is held by a porous holding member having air permeability and water permeability, and water is supplied to the holding member at a predetermined time interval, so there is no need to immerse the root in water. . Further, fresh air is supplied below the support member from the air supply means. Therefore, there is little risk of root rot. Furthermore, since the supporting member is used, it is not necessary to use soil. Therefore, malignant microorganisms do not breed.

  That is, the plant cultivation method of the present invention should be called a third cultivation method that is neither soil cultivation nor hydroponics, that is, a plant aerial cultivation method. And by putting water in this plant cultivation apparatus and cultivating the plant indoors, plant cultivation free from contamination by malignant microorganisms in the soil and water rot can be performed. Furthermore, fresh oxygen is supplied by the carbon dioxide assimilation effect of the plant to be cultivated, moisture is transpired from the leaves of the plant, and water supplied to the upper surface of the plant support layer by the water supply means is transpired. Can be maintained within a certain range. Thereby, there exists an effect | action of air purification or air purification.

  The plant cultivation apparatus of this invention puts water in a container and hold | maintains plants, such as a flower and a tree, by a supporting member. Then, the water in the container can be soaked into the support member by the water supply means and the plants can be irrigated, and the support member can be exposed to fresh air by the air supply means. Thereby, the plant aerial cultivation method can be carried out, and based on this, root rot can be prevented, and plant cultivation free from contamination by malignant microorganisms in the soil and water rot can be performed. . Furthermore, it acts as an air purification device or an air purification device by the carbon dioxide assimilation and transpiration of the plant to be cultivated.

In the case where a plurality of arc-shaped slits extending radially from the vicinity of the center to the vicinity of the side surface and penetrating from the upper surface to the lower surface are formed on the holding member, the holding member is formed at the central portion of the slit formed radially, Since it can bend easily, it is easy to insert the root of the plant into that part.
Furthermore, when the water supply pipe rises from the holding member, the second holding member is wound around the water supply pipe, and water flowing from the upper end of the water supply pipe is supplied to the second holding member, Since the holding member can be supported above by the pipe and water can be supplied along the holding member, it is suitable for growing plants such as ivy. And since the pipe for water supply can be hidden inside a holding member, aesthetics are not spoiled.
In addition, when a rod-shaped column is erected around the upper end of the container and a supporting string is stretched between the columns, a plant such as ivy is entangled with the column and the supporting string to grow. Can do.

  When the support member includes a cage-like or net-like frame body having air permeability and water permeability, and a flexible and porous holding member held by the frame body, the plant root portion is held by the holding member. By making it hold | maintain by, a plant can be stood stably and the weight of a holding member and a plant can be supported by a frame.

  In addition, when a part of the holding member is detachably fitted to the other part and includes an insertion part for inserting a plant root, the whole holding member is not removed from the container. Furthermore, it is possible to plant a plant by removing only a part of the holding member.

  In the case where the water supply means includes a pump for pumping water stored in the lower part of the container and a water supply pipe connected to the pump for sending water to the upper surface of the support member, sufficient water is supplied at an appropriate time. Can be supplied to the upper surface of the support member. When the air supply path is a ventilation path that communicates the inside and the outside of the container, fresh air can always be supplied to the roots of the plant supported by the support member without using any power. Moreover, a support member can be dried as needed.

  When a water supply groove is formed on the upper surface of the support member to guide the water supplied from the water supply means to the opening for inserting the plant, the water supplied to the upper surface of the support member is surely near the root of the plant. Can be supplied to.

  When a root shielding sheet or a root shielding plate having air permeability and water permeability is provided on the lower surface side of the support member, the roots extend into the water. Can be prevented, thereby further preventing root rot. Moreover, since roots are prevented from growing in the water, the replacement work is facilitated when the container is replaced in accordance with the growth of the plant. Furthermore, when the heater which heats the water in the said container is provided, even when ambient temperature is low, such as winter, water temperature can be made into the temperature suitable for the growth of a plant.

  When the water supply means and the air supply means include a water tank provided outside the container and a pump for supplying water from the water tank into the container and draining the water from the container to the water tank, By supplying water into the interior and raising the water level, the support member can be immersed in water for irrigation. Conversely, when the water level in the container is lowered and the support member is raised from the water surface by sending water from the container to the water tank side, the support member can be sufficiently exposed to the air and dried.

  In the case where the container includes a plurality of water tanks, and the water supply means and the air supply means include a water passage that allows the water tanks to communicate with each other, and a pump that is interposed in the water passage and is capable of reciprocating water supply. When the pump is operated to send water from one water tank to the other water tank, the water level of the one water tank is lowered and the water level of the other water tank is raised. Thereby, the root of the plant in one water tank can be dried, and the plant of the other water tank can be irrigated. When the pump is operated in reverse, one plant can be irrigated and the other plant dried.

  When the water supply means and the air supply means include means for moving the support member up and down between a position where the support member is immersed in the water filled in the container and a position away from the water surface, the plant is When dried and lowered, the support member is immersed in water, so that the plant can be irrigated.

  The plant cultivation tool of the present invention includes a holding member that holds a plant in a state of wrapping a root, and a frame that includes a plurality of legs for supporting the holding member in a suspended state. Therefore, it is possible to irrigate the plant by applying water to the holding member. And by leaving it for a while, the roots of the plant can be dried. Furthermore, since this plant cultivation tool has a very simple configuration, it can be made disposable, for example, plant seedlings can be sold in a state in which the roots of the plant are wrapped around the holding member. The purchaser can enjoy the plant cultivation by simply placing the plant growing tool on a table or the like, or placing it on a plate or a bowl, and watering the holding member.

  When the holding member is made of a flexible porous material having air permeability and water permeability, the plant root can be stably held by holding the root portion of the plant with the holding member, and is held by the frame. Can support the weight of components and plants. Further, the frame body is provided with a plurality of vertically extending vertical members arranged in a ring with a gap, and a ring member that connects the vertical members in a ring shape, and the lower part of the legs When these longitudinal members are also spread, the air permeability is high, a preferable appearance can be obtained, and the plant can stand stably even if the plant grows.

  Since the 2nd aspect of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention is equipped with the plant cultivation tool in any one of the said, and the dish-shaped thru | or bowl-shaped non-permeable container which mounts the leg of the plant cultivation tool, When water is supplied to the holding member, excess water accumulates in the container. Therefore, it is easy to handle.

  Next, an embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing an embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the plant cultivation apparatus, and FIG. 3 is a partial sectional side view showing another embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 4, FIG. 4 is a sectional view showing still another embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention, FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are exploded perspective views of the principal part of the plant cultivation apparatus, and FIG. 7 shows the plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing still another embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IX-IX of FIG. FIGS. 11 and 12 are a perspective view, a plan view, and a sectional view of a use state of a plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention, respectively, and FIG. 13 is a process diagram illustrating an embodiment of a method of using the plant cultivation apparatus. 14 and 15 show the frame used in the plant cultivation apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XVI-XVI of FIG. 14, FIG. 17 is a side view showing the support of the frame, and FIGS. 18 to 21 are plant cultivation apparatuses of the present invention, respectively. Thru | or the schematic block diagram which shows other embodiment of a plant cultivation system, FIG. 22 is a schematic slope view which shows the holding member with a slit used for the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention, FIG. 23 is another plant cultivation apparatus of this invention It is a schematic slope view which shows embodiment.

  A plant cultivation apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes a container 11, a support member 12 provided on the upper part of the container, and water supply means 13 for supplying water contained in the container 11 to above the support member 12. Yes. In this embodiment, the container 11 includes a container body 14 that does not allow water to pass therethrough and a cover 15 that covers the outside of the container body 14. A gap or space is provided between the container body 14 and the cover 15 on the side surface and the bottom surface side. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a large number of vertical grooves 16 are formed on the outer surface of the container body 14.

  For example, a synthetic resin molded product or the like is used as the container body 14 and is formed into a thin cup shape. However, other materials such as pottery and glass can be used. The cover 15 can also be formed of a synthetic resin sheet, rubber sheet, paper, cloth, leather, or the like. The cover 15 can be omitted, but it is preferable to employ the cover 15 because it can improve the appearance such as silk screen printing. The vertical groove 16 is a protrusion on the inner surface side and acts as a reinforcing rib. A step portion 17 that is continuous with the longitudinal groove 16 is provided on the upper portion of the container body 14. However, the stepped portion 17 is not always necessary. In this embodiment, a communication hole 18 that communicates the inside and the outside is opened in the longitudinal groove 16 on the side wall slightly below the stepped portion 17. As shown in FIG. 1, the communication hole 18 serves as an air supply means for supplying air to a space S <b> 1 between the support member 12 and the surface of the water W filled in the container body. However, the communication hole 18 of the container main body 14 can be omitted when the support member 12 has high air permeability or when the support member is provided with a communication hole.

  As shown in FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the support member 12 includes a wire mesh (including a synthetic resin material) 21 and a holding member 22 placed on the upper surface side of the wire mesh 21. The wire mesh 21 is preferably made of stainless steel or synthetic resin and has high water resistance. A punching plate made of stainless steel or synthetic resin may be used. Instead of the wire net 21, a synthetic resin-backed net or a cage may be used (see FIG. 4). In this embodiment, the container 11 has a circular shape according to the shape of the container 11, but may be a square or a polygon (see FIG. 4).

  The holding member 22 includes a disk-shaped support plate 22a as a lower layer and a columnar block member 22b overlaid thereon. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the disk-shaped light-shielding plate 23 is covered on the block material 22b. The support plate 22a, the block material 22b, and the light shielding plate 23 are preferably formed of a flexible material having air permeability and water permeability, such as foamed resin such as urethane foam, or foamed rubber. It should be noted that other materials can be employed as long as they are highly breathable and water permeable, such as natural fibers such as coconut shell and palm, and chemical fibers such as polyester fibers, and can hold plants. The light shielding plate 23 prevents external light from hitting the roots of the plant P, and a soft and lightweight polymer material is preferable because it is easy to handle.

  In this embodiment, an opening 24 is formed at the center of the block member 22b, and a center member 25 is fitted into the opening. The central member 25 can be made of the same material as the block material 22b. It can also be formed by cutting out the central portion of the block material 22b into a circular shape. As shown in FIG. 2, the central member 25 has a cross-shaped slit 25a formed from the upper surface to the side surface. This slit 25a reaches to the vicinity of the lower end, whereby the root portion of the plant P can be inserted as shown in FIG. A large number of notches 22c are formed on the outer periphery of the block material 22b to enhance the air circulation to the roots of the plant P. The notch 22c can be omitted. Reference numeral 26 denotes a hole through which a water supply pipe 27 described later is passed. In the center of the light shielding plate 23, an opening 28 for passing the central member 25 is formed. Reference numeral 29 is a hole through which the water supply pipe 27 is passed. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the holding member 22 is divided into a support plate 22a and a block material 22b, but may be integrated, and the support plate 22a may be omitted. Further, the light shielding plate 23 can also be omitted.

  The central member 25 wraps the root of the plant P as shown in FIG. 1 and protects the root within a range not impairing the air permeability. The center member 25 preferably has a function of holding a powdered or tablet-shaped chemical fertilizer or an organic fertilizer. It may have water retention. Further, the central member 25 can be divided into a plurality of members by dividing it vertically to the lower end. In that case, place it around the root of the plant and tie it with a string.

  Returning to FIG. 1, a heater 33 for heating water in the container 11 to an appropriate temperature in winter is attached to the lower surface of the bottom plate of the container body 14. It is preferable that the temperature of the heater 33 can be controlled to a temperature specified by the control circuit, for example, 10 to 35 ° C. Such a control circuit can be provided, for example, on the operation panel 34 disposed on the cover 15 or the upper part of the container body 14. The heater 33 is preferably a cord heater or a sheathed heater.

  A pump 35 is disposed inside the container body 14, a water supply pipe 27 extends upward from a discharge port 35 a of the pump 35, and an upper end thereof reaches the upper side of the support member 12. The pump 35 and the water supply pipe 27 constitute the water supply means 13 described above. The upper end of the water supply pipe 27 is bent horizontally so as to flood near the root of the plant P. As the water supply pipe 27, a vinyl chloride pipe or the like is used. The pump 35 is preferably a submersible pump used in a water tank such as tropical fish. However, other types of pumps may be used.

  The operation panel 34 is for operating the heater 33 on / off and temperature adjustment, the pump 35 on / off, and the like, and is provided with an operation button 36. A power cord 37 extending downward from the operation panel 34 extends downward through the inside of the cover 15 and extends outward from the lower end of the cover 15. A power line or control line extending from the operation panel 34 to the pump 35 and the heater 33 also extends to the lower part of the container body 14 through the space between the cover 15 and the container body 14. Thereby, wiring can be protected and complexity can be hidden.

  1 is a water level gauge, which employs a known water level gauge comprising a transparent pipe made of glass or synthetic resin whose upper and lower ends communicate with the inside of the container body 14 and a scale provided on the cover 15. can do. As shown in FIG. 3, when the container main body 14 is transparent or semi-transparent, a vertically long cut or slit 39 is formed in a part of the cover 15, and a scale M is provided at the edge thereof, thereby providing a water level gauge. 38 can also be configured. When the container main body 14 and the cover 15 have a small diameter somewhat downward, the cover 15 can be easily adhered to the container main body 14.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the plant cultivation apparatus 10 configured as described above puts water W into the container body 14 and inserts the root portion of the plant P into the opening 24 of the block material 22 b through the opening 28 of the light shielding plate 23. The center member 25 is fitted and the whole is supported by the wire mesh 21. When the pump 35 is operated in this state, water is flooded from the upper end of the water supply pipe 27 to the root portion of the plant P, flows along the stem and xylem of the plant P, flows into the block material 22b below the light shielding plate 23, and Soak into the central member 25 wrapping As the plant P grows, the roots are stretched inside the central member 25. Thereby, the plant P can be cultivated. When the plant P further grows, the roots can be stretched inside the surrounding block material 22b.

  When water is put into the plant cultivation apparatus 10 to grow the plant 10, the indoor humidity can be appropriately maintained by the flooding action from the water supply pipe 27 and the transpiration action of the leaves of the plant P. Moreover, since the block material 22b is not immersed in water, the block material 22b can be dried in the range which the plant P does not die by stopping the pump 35 for a fixed period. As a result, it is possible to prevent moss from occurring on the block material 22b and root rot from occurring. Furthermore, oxygen is generated by the carbon dioxide assimilation of the leaves of the plant P, which is useful for purifying indoor air. That is, the plant cultivation apparatus 10 in a state where the water W and the plant P are put in has an air purification action as a whole and can be used as an air purifier.

  The plant cultivation apparatus 10 in FIG. 1 has a substantially cylindrical shape whose lower end side is somewhat thinner, but may be a substantially rectangular tube-shaped plant cultivation apparatus 40 as shown in FIGS. The container 41 of the plant cultivation apparatus 40 has a bottomed rectangular tube shape having a bottom plate 42 somewhat above the lower end, and a bowl-shaped frame 43 is fitted into the upper end opening. Around the upper end of the frame 43, a flange 44 having a U-shaped cross section as shown in FIG. 4 is provided. Ribs 45 are formed on the outer surface of the side wall of the frame body 43, whereby a gap for ensuring air circulation is formed between the outer surface of the side wall and the inner surface of the container 41. Further, a notch 46 for ensuring air circulation is formed at the upper end of the container 41.

  An operation panel 34 for providing an operation button (switch) 36 is provided at the upper end of the container 41. A plate 47 for covering the operation panel 34 protrudes from a corresponding portion of the flange 44 of the frame body 43. A seal material such as a rubber plate is interposed between the plate 47 and the operation panel 34. The lower part of the bottom plate 42 of the container 41 is a cavity for accommodating the heater 33 as shown in FIG. The lower end of the container 41 is closed with a cover plate 48, for example.

  On the side wall of the container 41, concave grooves 49, 49 penetrating vertically are formed at two locations. The concave grooves 49 and 49 are for inserting a cord for connecting the operation panel 34 to the heater 33 and the pump 35. The outer surface of the container 41 may be covered with a cover 15 or a decorative film as shown in FIG. For the container 41 and the frame 43, for example, a synthetic resin molded product such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride is used. However, the container 41 may be formed of earthenware or glass, and the frame body 43 may be formed of metal.

  In this plant cultivation device 40, as shown in FIG. 6, the support plate 22 a, the block material 22 b, and the light shielding plate 23 are formed into a substantially square plate or prismatic shape according to the shape of the container 41. Further, the whole is accommodated in the frame 43 after being accommodated in the bottomed square cylindrical root shield sheet 50. The root shield sheet 50 can be formed by folding a non-woven fabric having air permeability and water permeability into a square tube shape and stopping with a stapler (stapler) or the like. Note that the support plate 22a and the block material 22b shown in FIG. 2 can also be wrapped with a bottomed cylindrical root shield sheet 50.

  The root shield sheet 50 is for preventing the root of the plant from extending toward the water to be put into the container 41, thereby preventing root rot and reducing root cutting at the time of replanting. can do. In addition, when a root extends, since a hair root extends first, even a nonwoven fabric etc. can interrupt | block. Since the materials of the holding member 22 and the light shielding plate 23 and the configuration and materials of the central member 25 are the same as those in the case of the plant cultivation apparatus 10 of FIGS.

  FIG. 7 shows a state in which an annular block material 51 is added around the block material 22b when the container 41 is enlarged in accordance with the growth of the plant. As the plant grows, the roots extend to the inside of the block material 22b. Therefore, when the container 41 is replaced, the entire block material 22b is transferred. In that case, it is preferable to sequentially fit the annular block member 51 around the original block member 22b in order to secure a space where the roots further extend. In addition, it is preferable to increase the thickness of the support plate 22a.

  Although the plant cultivation apparatus 10 of FIGS. 1-3 and the plant cultivation apparatus 40 of FIGS. 4-6 are flowerpot types, it can also be made into a planter type like the plant cultivation apparatus 60 shown in FIG. The plant cultivation device 60 includes a rectangular container 61, a support member 62 fitted in the upper opening of the container, and a water supply means 63. The container 61 is made of synthetic resin, earthenware, glass, or the like, and no opening or communication hole is formed.

  When the support member 62 is formed of a synthetic resin or the like that does not have water permeability and air permeability, the area of the support member 62 becomes large. Therefore, the support member 62 is not separated into a light shielding plate and a support plate, is relatively thick, and has high rigidity. Make a member. In the case of employing a foamed resin, it is preferable to use a relatively low-foamed closed-cell foamed resin. For example, a beating board for swimming practice may be used. 2 may be provided, or the frame 43 shown in FIG. 4 may be provided. In that case, a sponge-like holding member may be employed.

  In this embodiment, the support member 62 has an opening 64 through which a plurality of plants are inserted, and a water supply groove 65 that is inclined so as to descend toward the opening 64 is formed on the surface thereof. The water supply groove 65 includes a central groove 66 provided at the center and a branch groove 67 from the central groove toward the opening 64. In this embodiment, a pair of branch grooves 67 are provided toward both sides of the opening 64. However, only one may be used. The center member 25 similar to that in the case of FIG. 2 is fitted into the opening 64, and the center member 25 can hold the vicinity of the root of the plant.

  Near the end of the central groove 66, a water supply pipe 27 penetrating the support member 62 rises, and water flowing out from the water supply pipe 27 flows into the central groove 66. As shown in FIG. 9, the water supply pipe 27 is connected to a pump 35 disposed in the water. The pump 35 and the control circuit for controlling the pump may be the same as those of the plant cultivation apparatus 10 in FIG. The container 41 is preferably provided with a heater (see reference numeral 33 in FIG. 1).

  As shown in FIG. 9, at the end portion of the support member 62, a vent hole 68 that communicates the lower portion of the opening 64 and the outside is formed. In this embodiment, the vent hole 68 is formed by a groove formed on the side surface and the bottom surface of the support member 62. Thereby, even when the container 61 does not have air permeability and a communication hole cannot be formed, air can be supplied to the space S between the support member 62 and the water W, and root decay of the plant is prevented. Note that air may be forcibly supplied to the space S by a fan or the like driven by a motor. This also applies to the plant cultivation apparatus 10 of FIG. 1 and the plant cultivation apparatus 40 of FIG. However, it is necessary to be careful about being too dry.

  The planter-type plant cultivation device 60 of FIGS. 8 and 9 has substantially the same effect as the plant cultivation device 10 of FIG. Furthermore, since a plurality of plants can be cultivated, different types of plants can be cultivated simultaneously, and even when used as an air purifier, the air purifying function is high.

  Next, the plant cultivation tool of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. A plant cultivation tool 70 in FIG. 10 includes a substantially bowl-shaped frame 71 and a holding member 72 accommodated in the frame 71. The frame body 71 is provided inside a longitudinal member 73 that is annularly arranged with a plurality of gaps (12 in FIG. 10), a ring member 74 that connects these longitudinal members, and an inner side of the ring member 74. It consists of a support bar 75 and legs 76 extending downward from several vertical members 71.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in this embodiment, there are six legs 76, but it is sufficient that the number of legs 76 is about 3 to 8 and can be stably supported. As shown in FIG. 11, the support bar 75 includes a central ring part 75a and a horizontal bar 75b provided radially around the ring part 75a. As the support member, the frame 71 is made of a synthetic resin molded product or a metal molded product, but may be made of other materials.

  The holding member 72 can be formed of the same material as the block material 22b of FIG. 1, a foamed resin having open cells such as foamed urethane, or a flexible material having air permeability and water permeability such as foamed rubber. . It should be noted that other materials can be employed as long as they are highly breathable and water permeable, such as natural fibers such as coconut shell and palm, and chemical fibers such as polyester fibers, and can hold plants. A cross-shaped notch 77 reaching the side surface is formed on the upper surface side of the holding member 72. The holding member 72 may be wrapped with a nonwoven fabric or paper.

  Such a plant cultivation tool 70 is sold at a flower shop or the like in a state where a plant is planted in the notch 77 of the holding member 72 and the holding member is put in the frame 71. It is preferable to put chemical fertilizer or the like in the holding member 72 in advance at the time of sale. As shown in FIG. 12, the purchased consumer may cultivate the plant P by placing the plant growing tool 70 on a hand-held dish-shaped container 78 and pouring water from above the holding member 72. Although the container 78 may be deep, a dish-shaped or deep dish-shaped container 78 shallower than the height of the legs 76 is preferable so that the holding member 72 is not immersed in water. As a result, the periphery and bottom surface of the holding member 72 are always in contact with air, so that the holding member 72 is kept clean and root rot is prevented. Moreover, the holding member 72 can be dried in the range which the plant P does not wither by not providing water for a predetermined period. Thus, the plant cultivation tool 70 combined with the container 78 has substantially the same effect as the plant cultivation apparatus 10 of FIG. 1 as one plant cultivation apparatus.

  In order to cultivate a plant using the plant cultivating tool 70 and the container 78, first, as shown at the left end of FIG. 13, the plant cultivating tool 70 is set up in a dish-shaped container 78, and water is supplied from above the holding member 72. do. As a result, as shown in the center of FIG. 13, the container 78 accumulates, but the holding member 72 is not immersed in water. Plant P is cultivated in this state. While the container 78 has water, the holding member 72 is kept somewhat moist. As shown in the right end of FIG. 13, when the water in the container 78 evaporates and dries, the holding member 72 is also dried. And after drying the holding member 72 in the range which the plant P does not wither, as shown in the left end of FIG.

  A frame body 80 shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 is a modification of the frame body 71 of the plant cultivation tool 70 of FIG. 10, and 16 vertical members (supports) 73 and a ring member 74 that connects these vertical members 73. And a plurality of legs 76 extending radially from the ring member 74. By accommodating the holding member 72 of FIG. 10 in the frame body 80, a plant cultivation apparatus is obtained. The frame 80 is not provided with a support bar that supports the bottom of the holding member 72, but can be held by elastically pushing the holding member 72 into the vertical member 73.

  As can be seen from FIG. 14, the vertical member 73 of the frame 80 has an elliptical or oval cross-sectional shape, and the vertical center lines are arranged radially. As shown in FIGS. 15 and 17, a tapered surface 73 a is formed on the outer periphery of the upper end of each vertical member 73. Further, as shown in FIG. 17, a U-shaped cutout 73b into which the ring member 74 is fitted is formed on the outer side of the central portion in the vertical direction, and a cutout opened to the lower end side on the outer peripheral side of the lower end. 73c is formed. At the lower end of the vertical member 73, a notch 73c that fits with the ring member 74 of the lower frame when the frame 80 is overlapped is formed. Thereby, the bulk can be reduced when the frames 80 are overlapped.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the ring member 74 is a flat plate-like member that is flat in the radial direction, and the legs 76 are fixed to the outer surface. Thus, even if a plant grows because leg 76 spreads outside, frame 80 can be made to stand in a container in the stable state.

  The frame body 80 can be configured, for example, by integrally forming the ring member 74 and the leg 76 with a synthetic resin, and fitting and bonding the vertical member 73 to the inner surface side thereof. However, the whole can be integrally formed. As in the case of FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the frame 80 containing the holding member can stand in a dish-shaped or bowl-shaped container to grow a plant, and the same effects are exhibited. The

  The plant cultivation apparatus 81 shown in FIG. 18 is supported by the container 82, the support | pillar 83 provided in the container, the arm 84 by which the center part is supported in the shape of a balance at the upper end of the support | pillar, and the both ends of the arm. It consists of the frame bodies 85 and 86 and the holding member hold | maintained at those frame bodies. In this case, water is put in the container 82, and both the frame bodies 85 and 86 are always arranged above the water surface to grow the plant. Then, if necessary, both the frame bodies 85 are alternately immersed in water to supply moisture to the holding member. As a result, the holding members in the frames 85 and 86 are always exposed to the air, so that they are dried and no root rot occurs. However, depending on the type of plant, one of the frames 85 and 86 may be always immersed in water.

  Further, in the plant cultivation device 81 of FIG. 18, the frame body and the holding member are provided on both the arms 84, but one of them can be weighted, and the arm 84 is cantilevered and biased upward by a spring or the like. You can also do it. In that case, the plant is cultivated with one holding member and one water tank. In both the seesaw type shown in FIG. 18 and the above-mentioned cantilever type, the arm 84 is lifted between the arm 84 and the column 83 or the container 82 in order to ensure that the holding member is immersed in water. It is preferable to provide locking means for preventing this. In addition, it can be prevented from easily lifting due to friction.

  In the case of FIG. 18, holding members are arranged so as to be alternately immersed in water at both ends of the seesaw type arm 84, but the container 82 is partitioned by a partition wall 88 as in the plant cultivation apparatus 87 shown in FIG. 19. A pump capable of forming two water tanks 89a and 89b, mounting legged frame bodies 90a and 90b on each of them, and connecting the water tanks 89a and 89b with a water supply / drainage pipe 91 and supplying water in both directions in the middle 92 may be interposed.

  As shown in the upper part of FIG. 19, when the pump 92 is operated and water is sent from the right water tank 89b to the left water tank 89a, the water level of the left water tank 89a rises and is stored in the left frame 90a. The retained holding member can be immersed in water. Then, as shown in the lower part of the figure, when the pump 92 is operated in the reverse direction to send water from the left water tank 89a to the right water tank 89b, the holding member accommodated in the right frame 90b can be immersed in water. it can.

  It should be noted that the entire amount of water and the amount of water supplied by the pump may be adjusted so that both the holding members of the frame bodies 90a and 90b on both sides are not immersed in water. In that case, the holding members of both frame bodies 90a and 90b can be kept in a state where they are not soaked in water, and can be dried within a range where the plant does not wither. Moreover, as shown by an imaginary line in FIG. 19, other aquariums can be connected to water a large number of plants in order. Even when two water tanks 89a and 89b are used and when many water tanks are employed, each water tank can be an independent type. In that case, it can also be considered that the plant cultivation apparatus is constituted as a whole, and it can also be considered as a plant cultivation system in which a plurality of plant cultivation apparatuses are connected. Also in the case of the plant cultivation apparatus 81 of FIG. 18, a water tank can be comprised with two independent containers.

  A plant cultivation apparatus or plant cultivation system 93 in FIG. 20 has a large number of plant cultivation apparatuses 10a, 10b, 10c... In FIG. 1 and holds the plant cultivation apparatus adjacent to the outlet of the water supply pipe 27 of each plant cultivation apparatus. The structure extends to the upper surface of the member 22. The plant cultivation devices 10a, 10b, 10c,... May be arranged in a line or may be arranged in a ring shape. Note that the pump 35 and the water supply pipe 27 can be disposed outside the container 11. In that case, the inside of the container 11 and the pump 35 are connected by another pipe.

  In such a plant cultivation system 93, the water supplied to the first plant cultivation apparatus 10a is sent to the adjacent plant cultivation apparatuses 10b, 10c... Can be prevented and water can be saved. In addition, although it can also connect with piping like FIG. 19, when it is made to spray water with the water supply pipe 27 like FIG. 20, since the sprayed water will be purified by touching air, it will be further. Can prevent water rot. As in the case of FIG. 19, after water is supplied at appropriate times, the periphery of the holding member 22 is in contact with the air, so that the holding member dries and moss generation and root rot are prevented. The

  The plant cultivation system 94 of FIG. 21 arrange | positions the two plant cultivation apparatuses 10a and 10b adjacently, and has extended the water supply pipe 27 to the upper surface of the holding member 22 of the adjacent plant cultivation apparatus. This also has almost the same effect as the plant cultivation system 93 in which a large number of plant cultivation apparatuses 10a, 10b, 10c,. Also in this case, the pump 35 and the water supply pipe 27 can be disposed outside the container 11.

  As the plant cultivation apparatus used in the plant cultivation systems 93 and 94 in FIGS. 20 and 21, the plant cultivation apparatus 40 in FIG. 4 or the plant cultivation apparatus in FIG. 12 can be used. 20 and 21, the plant cultivation devices are arranged with an upper and lower step, and water is sent to the adjacent plant cultivation device adjacent to the lower by a siphon principle without using a pump. May be. Furthermore, similarly to the case of FIG. 19, a partition wall is provided in one container to constitute a plurality of water tanks, and the plant cultivation apparatus of FIG. 1, FIG. 4 or FIG. In either case, the pump and the water supply pipe 27 can be provided outside.

Next, the holding member 95 with a slit is demonstrated using FIG. In the holding member 95 with slits, a plurality of arc-shaped slits 95a extending radially from the vicinity of the center to the vicinity of the side surfaces are arranged radially. The slit 95 a penetrates from the upper end to the lower end of the holding member 95. The holding member 95 with a slit is formed of the same material as the holding member 22 (see FIG. 4) described above.
The holding member 95 is formed with a hole 26 through which the water supply pipe 27 (see FIG. 4) is passed. Of the slits 95a, the slit 95a extending in the direction of the hole 26 extends to the front of the hole 26 and is shorter than the other slits 95a.

  The radial central portion where the slits 95a of the holding member 95 with slits gather is easily bent. Therefore, it is easy to insert plant roots. In addition, when three or more slits 95a are formed at equal intervals, the roots of the plant can be held so as to be wrapped in a balanced manner from the surroundings. Furthermore, the slit 95a guides the water supplied through the water supply pipe 27 throughout the holding member 95, and distributes the roots of the plant throughout the holding member 95 in a balanced manner. It is preferable to form about 3 to 20 slits 95a, particularly about 6 to 12 slits 95a.

  The holding member with slits 95 bends naturally according to the growth of the plant and does not hinder the natural growth of the plant. Further, by adjusting the number, the bending state, or the length of the slit 95a, the bending state of the holding member 95 with the slit can be changed. In addition, although the slit 95a is formed in circular arc shape, it can also be made into a linear slit.

  The slit 95a is a path through which the root of the plant extends from the central portion of the holding member 95 with the slit to the outer peripheral portion. Therefore, it is preferable to form the slit 95a in a balanced manner with a natural curvature from the central portion toward the outer peripheral portion. Further, the slit 95a can be formed in a spiral shape.

  Next, still another embodiment of the cultivation apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. In this cultivation apparatus, a water supply pipe 27 rises from the center of the above-described holding member 22 (see FIG. 2), and a sheet-like second holding member 96 is wound around the water supply pipe 27. The holding member may be formed in a cylindrical shape, and the water supply pipe 27 may be fitted into the opening. In that case, if a plurality of cylindrical holding members having a predetermined length are prepared, they can be easily stacked and extended in the axial direction.

When water flows from the upper end of the water supply pipe 27, the water overflows from above the holding member 96, and gradually flows downward while soaking into the holding member 96. Therefore, since water can be supplied in a relatively wide range from the top to the bottom of the cultivation apparatus, it is suitable for cultivating plants such as ivy or pothos.
Further, when the water supply pipe 27 is arranged in a curved shape and a sheet-like holding member 96 is wound around the water supply pipe 27, water can be supplied along the curved shape of the water supply pipe 27. Therefore, plants can be grown by a similar route.

In the case of using such a holding member 96, rod-like support columns 97 are arranged around the support member 96, a support string 98 or the like is passed between the support columns 97, and the support string 98 or the like is ivy. Can be entangled.
Note that such support columns 97 and support straps 98 can be used even when the holding member 96 is not provided.

It is sectional drawing which shows one Embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. It is a disassembled perspective view of the plant cultivation apparatus. It is a partial cross section side view which shows other embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows other embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. It is a principal part disassembled perspective view of the plant cultivation apparatus of FIG. It is a principal part disassembled perspective view of the plant cultivation apparatus of FIG. It is process drawing which shows the case where the holding member used for the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention is expanded. It is a top view which shows other embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. It is the IX-IX sectional view taken on the line of FIG. It is a perspective view which shows other embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. It is a top view of the plant cultivation apparatus of FIG. It is a use condition sectional view of the product cultivation apparatus of FIG. It is process drawing which shows embodiment of the usage method of the plant cultivation apparatus of FIG. The top view which shows other embodiment of the frame concerning this invention It is a front view of the frame. It is the XVI-XVI sectional view taken on the line of FIG. It is a side view which shows the vertical member of the frame of FIG. It is a schematic block diagram which shows other embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram which shows other embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram which shows other embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram which shows other embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. It is a schematic slope view which shows the holding member with a slit used for the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention. The schematic slope figure which shows other embodiment of the plant cultivation apparatus of this invention is shown. It is sectional drawing which shows an example of the conventional plant cultivation apparatus. It is sectional drawing which shows the other example of the conventional plant cultivation apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Plant cultivation apparatus 11 Container 12 Support member 13 Water supply means 14 Container main body 15 Cover 16 Vertical groove 17 Step part 18 Communication hole W Water S Space 21 Wire net 22 Holding member 22a Support plate 22b Block material 22c Notch S2 Space 23 Light shielding plate 24 Opening 25 Center member 25a Slit 26 Hole 27 for passing water supply pipe Water supply pipe 28 Opening 29 Hole for passing water supply pipe P Plant 33 Heater 34 Operation panel 35 Pump 36 Operation button 37 Power cord 38 Water level gauge 39 Slit M Scale 40 Plant cultivation device 41 Container 42 Bottom plate 43 Frame 44 Flange 45 Rib 46 Notch 47 Plate 48 Cover plate 49 Concave groove 50 Root shielding sheet 51 Annular block material 60 Plant cultivation device 61 Container 62 Support member 63 Water supply means 64 Opening 65 Water supply groove 66 Central groove 67 Branch groove 68 Vent 0 plant cultivation tool 71 frame 72 holding member 73 vertical member 73a taper surface 73b notch 73c notch 74 ring member 75 support bar 75a ring part 75b side beam 76 leg 77 notch 78 dish-like container 80 frame 81 plant cultivation device 82 Container 83 Column 84 Arm 85, 86 Frame 87 Plant cultivation device 88 Partition wall 89a, 89b Water tank 90a, 90b Frame 91 Water supply / drain pipe 92 Pump 93 Plant cultivation system 10a, 10b, 10c Plant cultivation device 94 Plant cultivation system 95 Slit Holding member 95a Slit 96 Sheet-like holding member 97 Support column 98 Support string

Claims (20)

  A plant cultivation method in which a root of a plant is held by a porous holding member having air permeability and water permeability, and water is supplied to the holding member at predetermined time intervals.   The plant cultivation method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined time interval is equal to or longer than a time during which the holding member dries.   A non-permeable container, a support member provided to close the upper part of the container, for supporting plants, water supply means for supplying water to the support member, and between the lower side and the outside of the support member A plant cultivation device comprising air supply means for supplying air to the plant.   The plant cultivation device according to claim 3, wherein the support member includes a cage-like or net-like frame having air permeability and water permeability, and a flexible and porous holding member held by the frame.   The plant cultivation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a part of the holding member is detachably fitted to another part and includes an insertion part for inserting a plant root.   The plant cultivation apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the water supply means includes a pump that pumps up water stored in a lower part of the container, and a water supply pipe that is connected to the pump and sends water to the upper surface of the support member.   The plant cultivation device according to claim 4, wherein a plurality of arc-shaped slits extending radially from the vicinity of the center to the vicinity of the side surface and penetrating from the upper surface to the lower surface are formed in the holding member.   The plant according to claim 4, wherein the water supply pipe rises from a holding member, a second holding member is wound around the water supply pipe, and water flowing from an upper end of the water supply pipe is supplied to the second holding member. Cultivation equipment.   The plant cultivation apparatus according to claim 4 or 8, wherein a rod-shaped support is erected around the upper end of the container, and a support string is stretched between the support.   The plant cultivation apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the air supply means is an air passage that communicates the inside and the outside of the container.   The plant cultivation apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a water supply groove for guiding water supplied from the water supply means to an opening for inserting a plant is formed on the upper surface of the support member.   The plant cultivation apparatus according to claim 5, wherein a root shielding sheet or a root shielding plate having air permeability and water permeability is provided on the lower surface side of the support member to block plant roots.   The plant cultivation apparatus of Claim 3 provided with the heater which heats the water in the said container.   The plant cultivation apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the water supply means and the air supply means include a water tank provided outside the container, and a pump for supplying water from the water tank into the container and draining the water from the container to the water tank. .   The container includes a plurality of water tanks, and the water supply means and the air supply means include a water passage that communicates the water tanks with each other and a pump that can be reciprocated and interposed between the water passages. 3. The plant cultivation apparatus according to 3.   The plant cultivation apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the water supply means and the air supply means include means for moving the support member up and down between a position where the support member is immersed in water filled in the container and a position away from the water surface.   A plant cultivation tool comprising a holding member that holds a plant in a state of wrapping a root, and a frame that includes a plurality of legs for supporting the holding member in a suspended state.   The plant cultivation tool according to claim 17, wherein the holding member is made of a flexible porous material having air permeability and water permeability. The frame includes a plurality of vertically extending vertical members arranged in a ring with a gap, and a ring member that connects the vertical members in an annular shape,
The plant cultivation tool according to claim 17, wherein a lower portion of the leg is wider than the vertical members.   A plant cultivation device comprising the plant cultivation tool according to any one of claims 17 to 19 and a dish-shaped or bowl-shaped non-permeable container on which the legs of the plant cultivation tool are placed.