Apparatus and methodologies for fertilization, moisture retention, weed control, and seed, root, and plant propagation

A method for stimulating root development at defined location on an existing plant using an air-layering technique, comprising the steps of:

• a) providing a multi-functional horticultural device comprising a plurality of intertwined individual natural fibers, wherein said device has a density from generally about 0.02 to generally about 3 grams of fibers per cubic inch;
• b) exposing a portion of a plant stem or branch by removing its outermost protective surface;
• c) wrapping said exposed portion of said stem or branch with said device;
• and
• d) maintaining said device in a generally moistened condition.

A method for stimulating seed germination using a multi-functional horticultural device, comprising the steps of:

• a) providing a multi-functional horticultural device comprising a plurality of intertwined individual natural fibers, wherein said device has a density from generally about 0.02 to generally about 3 grams of fibers per cubic inch;
• b) planting a seed in a plug tray recess, wherein said device is used as a liner for said plug tray recess so as to aid in moisture retention and fertilization of the soil in such plug tray recess;
• and
• c) maintaining said seed-retaining plug tray recess in a generally moistened condition.

A method of enhancing root development in plantings using a multi-functional horticultural device, comprising the steps of:

• a) providing a multi-cultural horticultural device comprising a plurality of intertwined individual natural fibers, wherein said device has a density from generally about 0.02 to generally about 3 grams of fibers per cubic inch and wherein said device is capable of holding and retaining from generally about 0.02 to generally about 15 grams of liquid per cubic inch and wherein said device has been shaped into a plurality of tufts or pellets;
• b) mixing said plurality of tufts or pellets with a growth medium;
• c) planting at least one plant in said mixed growth medium;
• and
• d) maintaining said growth medium in a generally moistened condition.

A method for establishing ground cover in locations having minimal natural soil, comprising the steps of:

• a) providing a multi-cultural horticultural device comprising a plurality of intertwined individual natural fibers, wherein said device has a density from generally about 0.02 to generally about 3 grams of fibers per cubic inch and wherein said device has been shaped into generally planar sheets;
• b) planting said ground cover on top of said device, wherein the weight of said ground cover is sufficient to secure said generally planar sheets of said device in place;
• and
• c) maintaining said ground cover in a generally moistened condition.