Patent Publication Number: US-2016227720-A1

Title: Buoyant Devices, Buoyant Systems, and Methods of Placing Buoyant Devices Containing a Plant in a Liquid

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/112,677 filed on Feb. 6, 2015. This related application is hereby incorporated into this disclosure in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The disclosure relates to the field of aquatic devices, systems, and methods. More particularly, the disclosure relates to buoyant devices, buoyant systems, and methods of placing buoyant devices containing a plant in a liquid. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The art includes several examples of buoyant devices, buoyant systems, and methods of placing buoyant devices containing a plant in a liquid. The home-gardening field, for example, includes floating gardens that house one or more plants. These floating gardens, though, often do not place a plant or another object in contact with a liquid and, instead, are designed to prevent the plant from contacting the liquid. 
     A need exists, therefore, for improved buoyant devices, buoyant systems, and methods of placing buoyant devices containing a plant in a liquid. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF SELECTED EXAMPLES 
     Various example buoyant devices are described. 
     An example buoyant device configured to house a plant comprises an outer member having an upper surface, a lower surface, a side disposed between the upper surface and the lower surface, and a first passageway extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the first passageway defining a first inner surface; and an inner member having an upper surface, a lower surface, a side extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, and a second passageway extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the second passageway defining a second inner surface, the second inner surface configured to house said plant; wherein the side of the inner member is releasably attached to the first inner surface. 
     Another example buoyant device configured to house a plant comprises an outer member having a first portion, a second portion, a third portion, and a fourth portion, the first portion releasably attached to the second portion and the fourth portion, the second portion releasably attached to the first portion and the third portion, the third portion releasably attached to the second portion and the fourth portion, the first portion, second portion, third portion, and fourth portion cooperatively defining an upper surface, a lower surface, a side extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, and a first passageway, the upper surface being substantially circular, the lower surface being substantially circular, the first passageway extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the first passageway defining a first inner surface; and an inner member having an upper surface, a lower surface, a side extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, and a second passageway, the second passageway extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the second passageway defining a second inner surface, the second inner surface configured to house said plant; wherein the side of the inner member is releasably attached to the first inner surface. 
     Various example buoyant systems are also described. 
     An example buoyant system configured to house two or more plants comprises a first outer member having an upper surface, a lower surface, a side disposed between the upper surface and the lower surface, and a first passageway, the upper surface being hexagonal in shape, the lower surface being hexagonal in shape, the first passageway extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the first passageway defining a first inner surface, the first inner surface comprising a first threaded portion; a first inner member having an upper surface, a lower surface, a side disposed between the upper surface and the lower surface, and a second passageway, the second passageway extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the second passageway defining a second inner surface, the side comprising a second threaded portion releasably attached to the first threaded portion; a second outer member having an upper surface, a lower surface, a side disposed between the upper surface and the lower surface, and a third passageway, the upper surface being hexagonal in shape, the lower surface being hexagonal in shape, the third passageway extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the third passageway defining a third inner surface, the third inner surface comprising a third threaded portion; and a second inner member having an upper surface, a lower surface, a side disposed between the upper surface and the lower surface, and a fourth passageway, the fourth passageway extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the fourth passageway defining a fourth inner surface, the side comprising a fourth threaded portion releasably attached to the third threaded portion; wherein the second inner surface is in contact with one of said two or more plants; wherein the fourth inner surface is in contact with one of said two or more plants; and wherein the side of the first outer member is in contact with the side of the second outer member. 
     Additional understanding of the claimed devices, systems, and methods can be obtained by reviewing the detailed description of selected examples, below, with reference to the appended drawings. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES 
         FIG. 1  is an exploded view of a first example buoyant device. 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of the first example buoyant device. 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the first example buoyant device. 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view of the buoyant device illustrated in  FIG. 3  taken along line  4 - 4 . 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of the first example buoyant device with an associated plant. 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of the buoyant device and plant illustrated in  FIG. 5  taken along line  6 - 6 . 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a second example buoyant device. 
         FIG. 8  is a side view of the buoyant device illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded view of a third example buoyant device. 
         FIG. 10  is a top view of the third example buoyant device. 
         FIG. 11  is a top view of a first example system that includes multiple buoyant devices. 
         FIG. 12  is a top view of the first example system. The outer members of the devices of the system are illustrated without their corresponding inner members. 
         FIG. 13  is a magnified side view of Area I of the first example system illustrated in  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14  is a top view of the first example system with associated cages. 
         FIG. 15  is a side view of the system illustrated in  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 16  is a top view of a fourth example buoyant device. 
         FIG. 17  is a side view of the buoyant device illustrated in  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 17A  is a side view of a fifth example buoyant device. 
         FIG. 17B  is a perspective view of the buoyant device illustrated in  FIG. 17A . 
         FIG. 17C  is a cross-sectional view of the buoyant device illustrated in  FIG. 17B , taken along line  17 C- 17 C and illustrated without a grow medium and plant. 
         FIG. 17D  is a cross-sectional view of the buoyant device illustrated in  FIG. 17B , taken along line  17 D- 17 D and illustrated without a grow medium and plant. 
         FIG. 17E  is an aerial view of a system of buoyant devices. 
         FIG. 18  is a sectional view of an example inner member. 
         FIG. 18A  is a sectional view of an alternative inner member. 
         FIG. 19  is a flowchart representation of an example method of placing buoyant devices containing a plant in a liquid. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED EXAMPLES 
     The following detailed description and the appended drawings describe and illustrate various example buoyant devices configured to house a plant. The description and illustration of these examples are provided to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the buoyant devices configured to house a plant. They are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any manner. 
     Each of  FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4  illustrates a first example buoyant device  10  configured to house a plant (not illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 4 ). The buoyant device  10  includes an inner member  20  and an outer member  50 . The inner member  20  is releasably attached to the outer member  50 . 
     The inner member  20  has a main body  22  having an upper surface  24 , a lower surface  26  substantially opposite the upper surface  24 , a first side  28  extending from the upper surface  24  to the lower surface  26 , a first passageway  30 , and an inner surface  32 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the main body  22  of the inner member  20  is substantially disc-shaped. As such, the upper surface  24  is substantially circular and the lower surface  26  is substantially circular. Each of the main body  22 , the upper surface  24 , and the lower surface  26  may have any suitable shape, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable shapes for the main body, the upper surface, and the lower surface according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In alternative embodiments, the main body may be bucket-shaped, egg-shaped, pyramid-shaped, cube-shaped, or have any other shape. In other embodiments, the upper surface may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In different embodiments, the lower surface may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In addition, the lower surface may be shaped the same as, substantially the same as, or differently than the upper surface. 
     The first side  28  defines a first height h 1  extending from the upper surface  24  of the main body  22  to the lower surface  26  of the main body  22 . The first side  28  also defines a first threaded portion  44 . The first threaded portion  44  extends along the entire first height h 1  of the first side  27  and is configured to mate with the second threaded portion (described below) of the outer member  50 . The first threaded portion  44  is integrally formed with the first side  28  of the main body  22  in the illustrated embodiment. The first height h 1  may have any suitable measurement and the first threaded portion  44  may have any configuration, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable first height and a suitable configuration for the first threaded portion according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In an alternative embodiment, the first threaded portion may extend from the upper surface toward the lower surface along about 10 percent to about 70 percent of the height of the first side. In a different embodiment, the first threaded portion may extend from the upper surface toward the lower surface along about 25 percent to about 55 percent of the height of the first side. In another embodiment, the first threaded portion may extend from the upper surface toward the lower surface along about 35 percent to about 45 percent of the height of the first side. Additionally, in alternative embodiments, rather than being integrally formed with the first side, the first threaded portion may be attached to the first side via an adhesive, a mechanical structure, welding, or any other suitable attachment mechanism. 
     The upper surface  24  and the lower surface  26  cooperatively define a first passageway  30  that extends from the upper surface  24  to the lower surface  26  about the central longitudinal axis (not illustrated in the Figures) of the inner member  20 . The inner surface  32  is defined by the first passageway  30  and extends from the upper surface  24  to the lower surface  26 . The inner surface  32  and upper surface  24 , therefore, cooperatively define an upper opening  40  and the inner surface  32  and the lower surface  26  cooperatively define a lower opening  42 . Each of the upper and lower openings  40 ,  42  is circular in the illustrated embodiment. The upper and lower openings  40 ,  42  may have any shape, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select whether to extend the first passageway from the upper surface to the lower surface and suitable shapes for the upper and lower openings according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. Though the first passageway  30  extends from the upper opening  40  to the lower opening  42  and has the same height (not illustrated in the Figures) as the first height h 1  of the first side  28  in this embodiment, in an alternative embodiment the first passageway may extend from the upper opening towards the lower surface, but not fully extend to the lower surface. In such an embodiment, the lower surface does not define a lower opening; instead, the first passageway has an upper opening opposite a floor. In alternative embodiments, the first passageway may define a height that is equal to, about equal to, or less than the first height of the first side. In other embodiments, the upper opening may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In different embodiments, the lower opening may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In addition, the lower opening may be shaped the same as, substantially the same as, or differently than the upper opening. 
     As best illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the inner surface  32  defines a first diameter d 1  extending through the central longitudinal axis from a first point  31  disposed where the upper surface  24  is adjacent the inner surface  32  to a second point  33  where the upper surface  24  is adjacent the inner surface  32 . The first diameter d 1  is constant along the entire first passageway  30  from the upper surface  24  to the lower surface  26 . The first diameter d 1  may have any suitable measurement, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable first diameter according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In an alternative embodiment, the first diameter may taper from the upper surface to the lower surface. In a different embodiment, the first diameter may taper from the lower surface to the upper surface. Alternatively, the first diameter may first taper, and then expand from the upper surface to the lower surface. 
     The upper surface  24  defines a second diameter d 2  extending through the central longitudinal axis (not illustrated in the Figures) from a third point  34  disposed where the upper surface  24  is adjacent the first side  28  to a fourth point  36  where the upper surface  24  is adjacent the first side  28 . The second diameter d 2  is constant from the upper surface  24  to the lower surface  26 . The second diameter d 2  is greater than the first diameter d 1  in the illustrated embodiment. The second diameter d 2  may have any suitable measurement, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable second diameter according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In an alternative embodiment, the second diameter may taper from the upper surface to the lower surface. In a different embodiment, the second diameter may taper from the lower surface to the upper surface. Alternatively, the second diameter may first taper, and then expand from the upper surface to the lower surface. Additionally, the first diameter may be between about 50 percent and about 99 percent as great as the second diameter in other embodiments. In alternative embodiments, the first diameter may be between about 60 percent and about 90 percent as great as the second diameter. In different embodiments, the first diameter may be between about 70 percent and about 80 percent as great as the second diameter. 
     The inner member  20  also includes a plurality of teeth  38  disposed on the inner surface  32 . Each of the plurality of teeth  38  is triangular in shape and is designed to contact and grasp a plant (described below) disposed within the first passageway  30  of the inner member  20 . In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of teeth  38  is attached to the inner surface  38  via an adhesive. The inner member  20  may have any suitable mechanism for housing the plant within the first passageway  30 , however. A skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate mechanism for contacting and grasping a plant based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In another embodiment, the inner surface may be coated with an adhesive that enables the inner surface to house the plant within the first passageway upon contact between the inner surface and the plant. In an alternative embodiment, the inner surface may comprise a platform extending from the inner surface across a portion of the first passageway on which the plant may be placed. In a different embodiment, the first passageway may be packed with a grow medium in which the plant is disposed; the grow medium may rest on a platform or be attached to the inner surface via an adhesive. Furthermore, the plurality of teeth may be integrally formed with the inner surface, rather than attached to the inner surface via an adhesive. The first passageway, and, thus, the inner surface, may also taper to such a degree from the upper surface to the lower surface that the inner member may need no mechanism for housing the plant apart from the shape of the inner surface itself. 
     The outer member  50  has a main body  52  having an upper surface  54 , a lower surface  56  substantially opposite the upper surface  54 , a second side  58  extending from the upper surface  54  to the lower surface  56 , a second passageway  60 , and an inner surface  62 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the main body  52  of the outer member  50  is substantially disc-shaped. As such, the upper surface  54  is substantially circular and the lower surface  56  is substantially circular. Each of the main body  52 , the upper surface  54 , and the lower surface  56  may have any suitable shape, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable shapes for the main body, the upper surface, and the lower surface according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In alternative embodiments, the main body may be bucket-shaped, egg-shaped, pyramid-shaped, cube-shaped, or have any other shape. In other embodiments, the upper surface may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In different embodiments, the lower surface may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In addition, the lower surface may be shaped the same as, substantially the same as, or differently than the upper surface. 
     The second side  58  defines a second height h 2  extending from the upper surface  54  of the main body  52  to the lower surface  56  of the main body  52 . In the illustrated embodiment, the second height h 2  is about equal to the first height h 1  of the first side  28 . The second height h 2  may have any measurement relative to the first height h 1 , however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable second height according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In alternative embodiments, the second height may be greater than, equal to, about equal to, or less than the first height. 
     The upper surface  54  and the lower surface  56  cooperatively define a second passageway  60  that extends from the upper surface  54  to the lower surface  56  about the central longitudinal axis (not illustrated in the Figures) of the outer member  50 . An inner surface  62  is defined by the second passageway  60  and extends from the upper surface  54  to the lower surface  56 . The inner surface  62  and the upper surface  54 , thus, cooperatively define an upper opening  80  and the lower surface  56  cooperatively define a lower opening  82 . Each of the upper and lower openings  80 ,  82  is circular in the illustrated embodiment. The upper and lower openings  80 ,  82  may have any shape, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select whether to extend the second passageway from the upper opening to the lower opening and suitable shapes for the upper and lower openings according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. Though the second passageway  60  extends from the upper opening  80  to the lower opening  82  and has the same height (not illustrated in the Figures) as the second height h 2  of the second side  58  in this embodiment, in an alternative embodiment the second passageway may extend from the upper opening towards the lower surface, but not fully extend to the lower surface. In such an embodiment, the lower surface does not define a lower opening; instead, the second passageway has an upper opening opposite a floor. In alternative embodiments, the second passageway may define a height that is equal to, about equal to, or less than the second height of the second side. In other embodiments, the upper opening may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In different embodiments, the lower opening may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In addition, the lower opening may be shaped the same as, substantially the same as, or differently than the upper opening. 
     The inner surface  62  also defines a second threaded portion  84 . The second threaded portion  84  extends along the entire inner surface  62  and is configured to mate with the first threaded portion  44  of the inner member  20 . The second threaded portion  84  is integrally formed with the second side  58  of the main body  52  in the illustrated embodiment. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable configuration for the second threaded portion according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In an alternative embodiment, the second threaded portion may extend along the inner surface from the upper surface towards the lower surface to about 10 percent to about 70 percent of the height (not illustrated in the Figures) of the inner surface. In a different embodiment, the second threaded portion may extend along the inner surface from the upper surface towards the lower surface to about 25 percent to about 55 percent of the height (not illustrated in the Figures) of the inner surface. In another embodiment, the second threaded portion may extend along the inner surface from the upper surface towards the lower surface to about 35 percent to about 45 percent of the height (not illustrated in the Figures) of the inner surface. Additionally, in alternative embodiments, rather than being integrally formed with the inner surface, the second threaded portion may be attached to the inner surface via an adhesive, a mechanical structure, welding, or any other suitable attachment mechanism. In other embodiments, neither the inner surface of the outer member nor the first side of the inner member has a first threaded portion or a second threaded portion, respectively. Instead, the inner surface and the first side may, for example, contain snap-fit mechanisms that allow the inner surface of the outer member to be attached to the first side of the inner member. Furthermore, one or both of the inner surface of the outer member and the first side of the inner member may be coated in an adhesive to attach the inner and outer members. Mechanical structures, welding, or any other suitable technique may also attach the first side of the inner member to the inner surface of the outer member. 
     As best illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the inner surface  62  defines a third diameter d 3  extending through the central longitudinal axis of the outer member  50  from a fifth point  61  disposed where the upper surface  54  is adjacent the inner surface  62  to a sixth point  63  where the upper surface  54  is adjacent the inner surface  62 . The third diameter d 3  is constant along the entire second passageway  60  from the upper surface  54  to the lower surface  56  and is greater than the second diameter d 2  in the illustrated embodiment. The third diameter d 3  may have any suitable measurement, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable third diameter according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In an alternative embodiment, the third diameter may taper from the upper surface to the lower surface. In a different embodiment, the third diameter may taper from the lower surface to the upper surface. Alternatively, the third diameter may first taper, and then expand from the upper surface to the lower surface. 
     The upper surface  54  defines a fourth diameter d 4  extending through the central longitudinal axis from a seventh point  64  disposed where the upper surface  54  is adjacent the second side  58  to an eighth point  66  where the upper surface  54  is adjacent the second side  58 . The fourth diameter d 4  is constant along the entire second side  58  from the upper surface  54  to the lower surface  56  in the illustrated embodiment. The fourth diameter d 4  is greater than the third diameter d 3  in the illustrated embodiment. The fourth diameter d 4  may have any suitable measurement, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable fourth diameter according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In an alternative embodiment, the fourth diameter may taper from the upper surface to the lower surface. In a different embodiment, the fourth diameter may taper from the lower surface to the upper surface. Alternatively, the fourth diameter may first taper, and then expand from the upper surface to the lower surface. Additionally, the third diameter may be between about 10 percent and about 50 percent as great as the fourth diameter in other embodiments. In alternative embodiments, the third diameter may be between about 20 percent and about 40 percent as great as the fourth diameter. In different embodiments, the third diameter may be between about 25 percent and about 35 percent as great as the fourth diameter. 
     Each of  FIGS. 5 and 6  illustrate the first example buoyant device  10  described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 4  with an associated plant  2 . 
     The plant includes a plurality of roots  4 , a leafy section  6 , and a stem  8  extending from the plurality of roots  4  to the leafy section  6 . The plant  2  illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6  is a generic plant  2 . Any suitable plant may be used in connection with the buoyant device  10 . A skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate plant to use in conjunction with the buoyant device according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the composition of and location of the liquid into which the buoyant device will be placed and the size and shape of the inner member and the outer member. Examples of suitable plants include tomato plants, potato plants, any type of fruit-bearing plant, any type of vegetable-bearing plant, or one or more grasses. Furthermore, soil, foam impregnated with soil, a mechanical filtration device, or any other item or device may be used in place of a plant. 
     The plant  2  is housed in the first passageway  30  of the inner member  20  and is held in place by the plurality of teeth  38 . Specifically, the plurality of teeth  38  contacts the stem  8  of the plant  2  to hold the plant  2  in place within the first passageway  30  of the inner member  20 . The plant  2  may be held in place via any suitable mechanism, though. A skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate mechanism for holding the plant within the first passageway according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the composition of and location of the liquid into which the buoyant device will be placed, the size and shape of the plant, and the size and shape of the inner member and outer member. In an alternative embodiment, the inner surface of the inner member may be coated with an adhesive that can adhere the plant to the inner member upon contact between the stem of the plant and the inner surface. In another embodiment, the stem of the plant may be coated with an adhesive that can adhere the plant to the inner member upon contact between the stem of the plant and the inner surface. In a different embodiment, the inner surface may define a threaded portion configured to mate with a thread attached to the stem of the plant. Moreover, any other mechanical structure for attaching the plant to the inner surface of the inner member may be used in other embodiments. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, each of the plurality of roots  4  is disposed beneath the lower surface  56  of the inner member  50  and is, thus, fully disposed outside of the first passageway  30 . The plurality of roots  4  is disposed as such to ensure that the plurality of roots  4  is disposed substantially continuously in a liquid (not illustrated in the Figures). Substantially continuous contact between the plurality of roots  4  and a liquid allows for the plurality of roots  4  to efficiently absorb excess nutrients disposed in the liquid; such excess nutrients may include, for example, ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, or other similar compounds. Each of the plurality of roots  4  may be fully disposed outside of the first passageway  30 ; they also may be partially disposed within the first passageway  30 . A skilled artisan will be able to select how to dispose the plurality of roots with respect to the first passageway according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the composition of and location of the liquid into which the buoyant device will be placed, the size and shape of the plant, and the size and shape of the inner member and outer member. In another embodiment, only a portion of each of the plurality of roots may extend into the liquid; the other portion may be disposed within the first passageway. In an alternative embodiment, a mesh cage may be attached to the lower surface and surround the plurality of roots. 
     Each of  FIGS. 7 and 8  illustrates another example buoyant device  110 . The buoyant device  110  is similar to the buoyant device  10  illustrated in  FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4  and described above, except as described below. Thus, the buoyant device  110  comprises an inner member  120  releasably attached to an outer member  150 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the upper surface  154  and the lower surface  156  cooperatively define a channel defining an inner surface (not illustrated in the Figures) that extends from the upper surface  154  to the lower surface  156  of the outer member  150 . The upper surface  154  defines an upper opening (not illustrated in the Figures) and the lower surface  156  defines a lower opening (not illustrated in the Figures). Each of the upper opening and the lower opening is circular in shape and the diameter of the upper opening is equal to the diameter of the lower opening (not illustrated in the Figures). Furthermore, the channel has a constant diameter from the upper opening to the lower opening. The channel may have one or more diameters, however, and each of the upper opening and the lower opening may have different diameters and shapes. A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable shapes for the upper and lower openings and one or more diameters for the channel according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. Examples of suitable shapes for the upper and lower openings include elliptical, square, rectangular, ovoid, or any other suitable shape. In other embodiments, the upper opening may have a diameter that is larger than, smaller than, or substantially equal to the diameter of the lower opening. In addition, in alternative embodiments, the diameter of the channel may not be constant. 
     As best illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , a pile  185  extends through the channel (not illustrated in the Figures) and is releasably attached to the inner surface of the channel (not illustrated in the Figures). The pile comprises a proximal end  186 , a distal end  187 , and a main body  188  extending from the proximal end  186  to the distal end  187 . The main body  188  of the pile  185  is releasably attached to the inner surface of the channel via an adhesive disposed on the main body  188 . The pile  185  may be releasably attached to the inner surface of the channel by any suitable technique, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable technique for releasably attaching the pile to the inner surface of the channel according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the pile, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. Examples of suitable techniques for releasably attaching the pile to the inner surface of the channel include through the use of a mechanical structure, welding, or any other suitable attachment mechanism. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a sensor  181  and a locator beacon  189  are disposed on the main body  188  distal to the lower surface  156  of the outer member  150 . The sensor  181  is configured to locate a cleat (not illustrated in the Figures). The locator beacon  189  is configured to magnetically locate A skilled artisan will be able to select whether to dispose one or more sensors to the main body and whether to dispose one or more locator beacons to the main body according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the pile, the plant that will be housed by the inner member and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In another embodiment, zero, two, or greater than two sensors may be disposed on the main body. In a different embodiment, zero, two, or greater than two locator beacons may be disposed on the main body. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates the distal end  187  of the pile  185 . The distal end  187  comprises an anchor  190 . The anchor  190  is arrowhead-shaped and configured to contact a surface, such as the bed of a body of water such as a lake, river, ocean, or creek, for example, (not illustrated in the Figures) to stop the movement of the buoyant device  110  when the buoyant device  110  is placed in a liquid. The distal end  187  may have any suitable shape, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable shape for the distal end according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the pile, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. Examples of suitable shapes for the distal end include triangular, elliptical, anchor, rectangular, trapezoid, and square. 
       FIGS. 7 and 8  also illustrate a solar panel  191  attached to the upper surface  154  of the outer member  150 . The solar panel  191  comprises a base  193  and a cell  192  attached to the base  193 . The base  193  is substantially tower-shaped; the cell  192  is rectangular. The solar panel  191  is welded to the upper surface  154  and is operably connected to each of the light sources and the air compressor disposed on the buoyant device  110  (described below). The solar panel  191  is operably connected to the light sources and the air compressor via a series of wires (not illustrated in the Figures) disposed within the main body  152  of the outer member  150 . The cell  192  is configured to harness sunlight and allow the solar panel  193  to transform the sunlight into energy. This energy is passed from the solar panel  191  to the light sources and air compressor and provides their power. Each of the cell  192  and the base  193  may have any shape; furthermore, the solar panel  191  may be operably connected to any one of a number of devices via any suitable method of connection. A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable shapes for the cell and the base and determine how to suitably connect the solar panel to other devices according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the number of devices to which the solar panel will be operably connected, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. Examples of suitable shapes for the base include pyramidal, cubical, trapezoidal, and egg. Examples of suitable shapes for the cell include elliptical, square, trapezoidal, and circular. The solar panel may be operably connected to the light sources, air compressor, or any other device via wires that are disposed on the lower surface, upper surface, or second side of the outer member, or through direct contact between a device and the solar panel. Additionally, the solar panel may be attached to the upper surface through a mechanical attachment or an adhesive, rather than welded to the upper surface. 
     The illustrated embodiment also includes first and second light sources  194   a ,  194   b  disposed on the upper surface  154  of the outer member  150 . The light sources  194   a ,  194   b  are tower-shaped and are powered by the solar panel  191 , as described above. The first light source  194   a  is substantially opposite the second light source  194   b  about the inner member  120 . The light sources  194   a ,  194   b  are visible at night and enable tracking of the buoyant device  110  in darkness. Any type of light may be used as a light source  194   a ,  194   b . A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable light sources according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the number of devices to which the solar panel will be operably connected, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. Examples of suitable light sources include for example, blue, red, and green LED lights. In addition, in other embodiments, zero, one, three, or more than three light sources may be disposed on the upper surface, second side, or lower surface of the outer member. 
     An air compressor  195  is also illustrated in  FIG. 8 . The air compressor  195  is disposed on the lower surface  156  of the outer member  150  and is powered by the solar panel  191 , as described above. The air compressor  195  may be disposed anywhere on the outer member  150 . A skilled artisan will be able to select whether to include the air compressor according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the number of devices to which the solar panel will be operably connected, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In other embodiments, the air compressor may be disposed on the upper surface or the second side of the outer member. 
     Each of  FIGS. 9 and 10  illustrate another example buoyant device  210 . The buoyant device  210  is similar to the buoyant device  110  illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8  and described above, except as described below. Thus, the buoyant device  210  comprises an inner member  220  releasably attached to an outer member  250 . 
     The inner member  220  is similar to the inner member  10  described above. Thus, the inner member  220  includes an upper surface  224 , a lower surface  226 , a first side  228 , a first passageway  230 , an inner surface  232 , a plurality of teeth  238 , and a first threaded portion  244 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the outer member  250  is comprised of first, second, third, and fourth portions  251 ,  253 ,  255 ,  257  (collectively referred to as “the four portions  251 ,  253 ,  255 ,  257 ”). The first portion  251  includes a first edge  261   a  and a second edge  261   b . The first edge  261   a  includes three protrusions  241   a ,  241   b ,  241   c , while the second edge  261   b  includes three indentations  271   a ,  271   b ,  271   c . The second portion  253  includes a first edge  263   a  and a second edge  263   b . The first edge  263   a  includes three protrusions  243   a ,  243   b ,  243   c , while the second edge  263   b  includes three indentations  273   a ,  273   b ,  273   c . The third portion  255  includes a first edge  265   a  and a second edge  265   b . The first edge  265   a  includes three protrusions  245   a ,  245   b ,  245   c , while the second edge  265   b  includes three indentations  275   a ,  275   b ,  275   c . The fourth portion  257  includes a first edge  267   a  and a second edge  267   b . The first edge  267   a  includes three protrusions  247   a ,  247   b ,  247   c , while the second edge  267   b  includes three indentations  277   a ,  277   b ,  277   c . The first edge  261   a  of the first portion  251  is configured to mate with the second edge  263   b  of the second portion  253 . The first edge  263   a  of the second portion  253  is configured to mate with the second edge  265   b  of the third portion  255 . The first edge  265   a  of the third portion  255  is configured to mate with the second edge  267   b  of the fourth portion  257 . The first edge  267   a  of the fourth portion  257  is configured to mate with the second edge  261   b  of the first portion  251 . The outer member  250  may be comprised of any number of portions, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable number of portions based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In other embodiments, one, two, three, five, or more than five portions may comprise the outer member. 
     When the four portions  251 ,  253 ,  255 ,  257  mate as described above, they cooperatively form a disc-shaped outer member  250 . The four portions  251 ,  253 ,  255 ,  257  also cooperatively define an upper surface  254 , a lower surface  256 , a second side  258  extending from the upper surface  254  to the lower surface  256 , and a second threaded portion  284  configured to mate with the first threaded portion  244 . The upper surface  254  and the lower surface  256  are each circular in the illustrated embodiment. A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable shapes for the outer member, the upper surface, and the lower surface according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In alternative embodiments, the outer member may be bucket-shaped, egg-shaped, pyramid-shaped, cube-shaped, or have any other shape. In other embodiments, the upper surface may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In different embodiments, the lower surface may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In addition, the lower surface may be shaped the same as, substantially the same as, or differently than the upper surface. 
     The upper surface  254  and the lower surface  256  cooperatively define a second passageway  260  that extends from the upper surface  254  to the lower surface  256  about the central longitudinal axis (not illustrated in the Figures) of the outer member  250 . An inner surface  262  is defined by the second passageway  260  and extends from the upper surface  254  to the lower surface  256 . The inner surface  262  and the upper surface  254 , thus, cooperatively define an upper opening  280  and the inner surface  262  and the lower surface  256  cooperatively define a lower opening  282 . Each of the upper and lower openings  280 ,  282  is circular in the illustrated embodiment. The upper and lower openings  280 ,  282  may have any shape, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select whether to extend the second passageway from the upper surface to the lower surface according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. Though the second passageway  260  extends from the upper surface  254  to the lower surface  256  in this embodiment, in an alternative embodiment the second passageway may extend from the upper opening towards the lower surface, but not fully extend to the lower surface. In such an embodiment, the lower surface does not define a lower opening; instead, the second passageway has an upper opening opposite a floor. In alternative embodiments, the second passageway may define a height (not illustrated in the Figures) that is equal to, about equal to, or less than the height (not illustrated in the Figures) of the second side. In other embodiments, the upper opening may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In different embodiments, the lower opening may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In addition, the lower opening may be shaped the same as, substantially the same as, or differently than the upper opening. 
     The outer member  250  defines first, second, third, and fourth channels  249 ,  259 ,  269 ,  279  (collectively referred to as “the four channels  249 ,  259 ,  269 ,  279 ”). The first channel  249  is cooperatively defined by the second edge  261   b  of the first portion  251 , the first edge  267   a  of the fourth portion  257 , and the second side  258 . The second channel  259  is cooperatively defined by the first edge  261   a  of the first portion  251 , the second edge  263   b  of the second portion  253 , and the second side  258 . The third channel  269  is cooperatively defined by the first edge  263   a  of the second portion  253 , the second edge  265   b  of the third portion  255 , and the second side  258 . The fourth channel  279  is cooperatively defined by the first edge  265   a  of the third portion  255 , the second edge  267   b  of the fourth portion  257 , and the second side  258 . None of the four channels  249 ,  259 ,  269 ,  279 , however, extend to the inner surface  262  of the outer member  250 . Additionally, each of the four channels  249 ,  259 ,  269 ,  279  defines a first, a second, a third, and a fourth opening  249   a ,  259   a ,  269   a ,  279   a , respectively. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth openings  249   a ,  259   a ,  269   a ,  279   a  is circular in shape and is configured to house a rod (described below). The outer member  250  may define any number of channels that define openings having any shape, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable number of channels and suitable shapes for their openings according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. In other embodiments, the outer member may define zero, one, two, three, five, or more than five channels. In different embodiments, the openings may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In addition, any individual opening may be shaped the same as, substantially the same as, or differently than any other individual opening. 
       FIGS. 9 and 10  also illustrate first, second, third, and fourth rods  302 ,  304 ,  306 ,  308  (collectively referred to as “the four rods  302 ,  304 ,  306 ,  308 ”). In the illustrated embodiment, the four rods  302 ,  304 ,  306 ,  308  releasably attach one of the four portions  251 ,  253 ,  255 ,  257  to another of the four portions  251 ,  253 ,  255 ,  257 . Thus, for example, the first rod  302  is inserted into the first channel  249  and releasably attaches the first portion  251  to the fourth portion  257 . The second rod  304  is inserted into the second channel  259  and releasably attaches the first portion  251  to the second portion  253 . The third rod  306  is inserted into the third channel  269  and releasably attaches the second portion  253  to the third portion  255 . The fourth rod  308  is inserted into the fourth channel  279  and releasably attaches the third portion  255  to the fourth portion  257 . In addition, first, second, third, and fourth caps  312 ,  314 ,  316 ,  318  (collectively referred to as “the four caps  312 ,  314 ,  316 ,  318 ”) are releasably attached to the second side  258  adjacent the first, second, third, and fourth openings  249   a ,  259   a ,  269   a ,  279   a , respectively, to seal the four rods  302 ,  304 ,  306 ,  308  within their respective channels  249 ,  259 ,  269 ,  279 . Each of the caps  312 ,  314 ,  316 ,  318  is disc-shaped in the illustrated embodiment and is attached to the second side  258  via a snap-fit mechanism (not illustrated in the Figures). One of the four portions  251 ,  253 ,  255 ,  257  of the outer member  250  may be attached to another of the four portions  251 ,  253 ,  255 ,  257  via any suitable technique, however. Furthermore, if the four rods  312 ,  314 ,  316 ,  318  are utilized, the caps  312 ,  314 ,  316 ,  318  may be secured to the second side  258  via any means. A skilled artisan will be able to select whether to include the four rods and the four caps or how to otherwise suitably attach the four portions of the outer member according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. Examples of suitable ways to connect one of the four portions to another of the four portions include through the use of adhesives, a mechanical structure, or welding. In addition, if the four rods are utilized, the caps may be attached to the second side through the use of adhesives, a mechanical structure, or welding. 
       FIGS. 9 and 10  illustrate various devices attached to the upper surface  254  of the outer member  250 . The second and fourth portions  253 ,  257  include first and second light sources  294   a ,  294   b , respectively. The first portion  251  includes an air compressor  295  disposed on the upper surface  254  and the third portion  255  includes a solar panel  291  disposed on the upper surface  254 . Each of the four portions  251 ,  253 ,  255 ,  257  may include one or more solar panels  291 , air compressors  295 , or light sources  294   a ,  294   b . A skilled artisan will be able to determine whether to include a solar panel, an air compressor, or light sources on the upper surface based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer member, the plant that will be housed by the inner member, and the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed. 
     Each of  FIGS. 11, 12, and 13  illustrates an example buoyant system  400 . The buoyant system  400  is comprised of first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh buoyant devices  410   a ,  410   b ,  410   c ,  410   d ,  410   e ,  410   f ,  410   g  (collectively referred to as “the buoyant devices  410   a ,  410   b ,  410   c ,  410   d ,  410   e ,  410   f ,  410   g ”), each of which is similar to the buoyant device  110  illustrated in  FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4 , except as described below. Therefore, the buoyant devices  410   a ,  410   b ,  410   c ,  410   d ,  410   e ,  410   f ,  410   g  each comprise an inner member releasably attached, respectively, to an outer member. 
     Each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh inner members  420   a ,  420   b ,  420   c ,  420   d ,  420   e ,  420   f ,  420   g  (collectively referred to as “the inner members  420   a ,  420   b ,  420   c ,  420   d ,  420   e ,  420   f ,  420   g ”) is similar to inner member  120  described above. Thus, each of the inner members  420   a ,  420   b ,  420   c ,  420   d ,  420   e ,  420   f ,  420   g  includes, respectively, an upper surface  424   a ,  424   b ,  424   c ,  424   d ,  424   e ,  424   f ,  424   g , a lower surface  426   a ,  426   b ,  426   c ,  426   d ,  426   e ,  426   f ,  426   g , a first side  428   a ,  428   b ,  428   c ,  428   d ,  428   e ,  428   f ,  428   g , a first passageway  430   a ,  430   b ,  430   c ,  430   d ,  430   e ,  430   f ,  430   g , an inner surface  432   a ,  432   b ,  432   c ,  432   d ,  432   e ,  432   f ,  432   g , a plurality of teeth  438   a ,  438   b ,  438   c ,  438   d ,  438   e ,  438   f ,  438   g , and a first threaded portion  444   a ,  444   b ,  444   c ,  444   d ,  444   e ,  444   f ,  444   g.    
     Each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  (collectively referred to as “the outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g ”) is similar to outer member  150 , except as described below. Thus, each of the outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  includes, respectively, an upper surface  454   a ,  454   b ,  454   c ,  454   d ,  454   e ,  454   f ,  454   g , a lower surface  456   a ,  456   b ,  456   c ,  456   d ,  456   e ,  456   f ,  456   g , a second side  458   a ,  458   b ,  458   c ,  458   d ,  458   e ,  458   f ,  458   g , a second passageway  460   a ,  460   b ,  460   c ,  460   d ,  460   e ,  460   f ,  460   g , an inner surface  462   a ,  462   b ,  462   c ,  462   d ,  462   e ,  462   f ,  462   g , an upper opening  480   a ,  480   b ,  480   c ,  480   d ,  480   e ,  480   f ,  480   g , and a lower opening  482   a ,  482   b ,  482   c ,  482   d ,  482   e ,  482   f ,  482   g.    
     The upper surface  454   a  of the first outer member  450   a  is hexagonal in shape in this embodiment; the lower surface (not illustrated in the Figures) is also hexagonal in shape in this embodiment. The upper surface  454   a  of the first outer member  450   a  is the same size as the lower surface of the first outer member  450   a , as well. Thus, the second side  458   a  is perpendicular to the upper surface  454   a  and the lower surface  456   a . Each of the upper surface  454   a  and the lower surface may have any shape and size, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable shapes for the upper surface and the lower surface according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer members, the plants that will be housed by the inner members, and the liquid into which the buoyant system is placed. In other embodiments, the upper surface may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In different embodiments, the lower surface may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. In addition, the lower surface may be shaped the same as, substantially the same as, or differently than the upper surface and may also be larger than, about equal to, or smaller than the upper surface. 
     The first outer member  450   a  also defines first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth channels  500   a ,  501   a ,  502   a ,  503   a ,  504   a ,  505   a ,  506   a ,  507   a ,  508   a ,  509   a ,  510   a ,  511   a  (collectively referred to as “the plurality of channels  514   a ”). Each of the plurality of channels  514  extends from the upper surface  454   a  to the lower surface  456   a  of the first outer member  450   a . Each of the plurality of channels  514   a  has a constant diameter from the upper surface  454   a  to the lower surface  456   a  and defines circular upper and lower openings (not illustrated in the Figures); furthermore, each of the plurality of channels  514   a  is the same size and shape as each other of the plurality of channels  514   a  and each of the upper and lower openings is same size and shape as each of the other upper and lower openings. Each of the plurality of channels  514   a  is configured to allow the insertion of a connecting member (described below). The first outer member  450   a  may define any number of channels, however; additionally, each channel may have any size and shape. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable number of channels and determine suitable shapes and sizes for the channels according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer members, the plants that will be housed by the inner members, and the liquid into which the buoyant system is placed. In other embodiments, the outer member may define zero, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, thirteen or more than thirteen channels. In alternative embodiments, each of the channels may define square, rectangular, elliptical, or triangular upper and lower openings and each upper or lower opening may have the same as or a different shape as any other upper or lower opening. In different embodiments, one or more of the channels may have non-constant diameters. 
     Each of the second outer member  450   b , the third outer member  450   c , the fourth outer member  450   d , the fifth outer member  450   e , the sixth outer member  450   f , and the seventh outer member  450   g  is configured in the same manner as the first outer member  450   a . The second outer member  450   b , therefore, has a hexagonal upper surface  454   b , a hexagonal lower surface  456   b , and a plurality of channels  514   b . The third outer member  450   c  has a hexagonal upper surface  454   c , a hexagonal lower surface  456   c , and a plurality of channels  514   c . The fourth outer member  450   d  has a hexagonal upper surface  454   d , a hexagonal lower surface  456   d , and a plurality of channels  514   d . The fifth outer member  450   e  has a hexagonal upper surface  454   e , a hexagonal lower surface  456   e , and a plurality of channels  514   e . The sixth outer member  450   f  has a hexagonal upper surface  454   f , a hexagonal lower surface  456   f , and a plurality of channels  514   f . The seventh outer member  450   g  has a hexagonal upper surface  454   g , a hexagonal lower surface  456   g , and a plurality of channels  514   g . A skilled artisan will be able to select how suitably to size and shape each portion of the second through sixth outer members according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the inner members, the plants that will be housed by the inner members, and the liquid into which the buoyant system is placed. In other embodiments, each of the upper surfaces and lower surfaces may have any size and shape. In alternative embodiments, each of the second through seventh outer members may define any number of channels. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the second side  458   b  of the second outer member  450   b  is adjacent to and in contact with each of the second side  458   a  of the first outer member  450   a , the second side  458   c  of the third outer member  450   c , and the second side  458   g  of the seventh outer member  450   g . The second side  458   c  of the third outer member  450   c  is adjacent to and in contact with each of the second side  458   a  of the first outer member  450   a , the second side  458   b  of the second outer member  450   b , and the second side  458   d  of the fourth outer member  450   d . The second side  458   d  of the fourth outer member  450   d  is adjacent to and in contact with each of the second side  458   a  of the first outer member  450   a , the second side  458   c  of the third outer member  450   c , and the second side  458   e  of the fifth outer member  450   e . The second side  458   e  of the fifth outer member  450   e  is adjacent to and in contact with each of the second side  458   a  of the first outer member  450   a , the second side  458   d  of the fourth outer member  450   d , and the second side  458   f  of the sixth outer member  450   f . The second side  458   f  of the sixth outer member  450   f  is adjacent to and in contact with each of the second side  458   a  of the first outer member  450   a , the second side  458   e  of the fifth outer member  450   e , and the second side  458   g  of the seventh outer member  450   g . The second side  458   g  of the seventh outer member  450   g  is adjacent to and in contact with each of the second side  458   a  of the first outer member  450   a , the second side  458   f  of the sixth outer member  450   f , and the second side  458   b  of the second outer member  450   b . Each of the outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  may be disposed in any manner in relation to each of the outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g , however. A skilled artisan will be able to select how suitably to align the outer members according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer members, the plants that will be housed by the inner members, and the liquid into which the buoyant system is placed. In another embodiment, each of the second sides of the outer members may contact each other second side of each other outer member. In a different embodiment, each of the second sides of the outer members may only contact one second side of one other outer member. In an alternative embodiment, each of the second sides of the outer members may not contact any other second sides of the other outer members. 
     Each of the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  is attached to the first outer member  450   a  via at least one connecting member  550  that extends through one of the plurality of channels  514   a  of the first outer member  450   a  and through one of the plurality of channels  514   b ,  514   c ,  514   d ,  514   e ,  514   f ,  514   g  defined by the respective second, third, fourth fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g . However, the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  may be attached to the first outer member  450   a  via any suitable mechanism. A skilled artisan will be able to select how best to attach the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members to the first outer member according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the connecting members, the plants that will be housed by the inner members, and the liquid into which the buoyant system is placed. In other embodiments, the first outer member may be attached to the other outer members via adhesives, magnets, or welding. In alternative embodiments, multiple connecting members may be inserted through one or more of the plurality of channels defined by the first outer member and one or more of the plurality of channels defined by the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members. In addition, other embodiments exist in which the first outer member is attached to greater than or fewer than six other members. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting members comprise zip ties; however, in other embodiments, any mechanical structure may comprise the connecting members. 
     As is also illustrated, each of the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  is attached to its adjacent second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  via connecting members  550  that extend through at least two of the plurality of channels  514   b ,  514   c ,  514   d ,  514   e ,  514   f ,  514   g . Thus, for example, the second outer member  450   b  is attached to the third and seventh outer members  450   c ,  450   g  through the use of connecting members  550 . Similarly, the third outer member  450   c  is attached to the second and fourth outer members  450   b ,  450   d , the fourth outer member  450   d  is attached to the third and fifth outer members  450   c ,  450   e , the fifth  450   e  outer member is attached to the fourth and sixth outer members  450   d ,  450   f , the sixth outer member  450   f  is attached to the fifth and seventh outer members  450   e ,  450   g , and the seventh outer member  450   g  is attached to the sixth and second outer members  450   g ,  450   b  through the use of connecting members  550  that extend through the plurality of channels  514   b ,  514   c ,  514   d ,  514   e ,  514   f ,  514   g  defined by each of the second third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g . However, the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  may be attached to one another via any suitable mechanism. A skilled artisan will be able to select how to suitably attach the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members to one another according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of connecting members, the plants that will be housed by the inner members, and the liquid into which the buoyant system is placed. In other embodiments, the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members may be attached to one another via adhesives or welding. In alternative embodiments, multiple connecting members may be inserted through one or more of the plurality of channels defined by the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members. In addition, other embodiments exist in which the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh outer members are not attached to one another. 
     Each of the inner members  420   a ,  420   b ,  420   c ,  420   d ,  420   e ,  420   f ,  420   g  is releasably attached to its respective outer member  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  in the same manner in which the inner member  20  is releasably attached to the outer member  50 , as described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4 . A skilled artisan will be able to select how best to releasably attach the inner members to the outer members according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer members, the plants that will be housed by the inner members, and the liquid into which the buoyant system is placed. Examples of suitable means of attaching the inner members to the outer members include through the use of an adhesive, via welding, or via a mechanical attachment. 
       FIG. 12  also illustrates various devices attached to one or more of the outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g . A solar panel  491  that is similar to solar panel  191  described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , for example, is attached to each of the second and third outer members  450   b ,  450   c  via connecting members  550  that extend through the plurality of channels  514   b ,  514   c  defined by the second and third outer members  450   b ,  450   c . The solar panel  491  is comprised solely of a cell  492  in the illustrated embodiment; the base of the solar panel  491  has been removed. The buoyant device also includes three air pumps  560 ,  561 ,  562  attached to the respective upper surfaces  454   a ,  454   b ,  454   d  of the first, second, and fourth outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   d . The three air pumps  560 ,  561 ,  562  are attached to the respective upper surfaces  454   a ,  454   b ,  454   d  via adhesives. A skilled artisan will be able to select whether to attach one or more devices to the buoyant system according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer members, the plants that will be housed by the inner members, and the liquid into which the buoyant system is placed. In an alternative example, each of the outer members includes a solar panel and an air pump. In a different example, none of the outer members includes a solar panel. In another embodiment, none of the outer members includes an air pump. Zero, one, two, four, or more than four air pumps may be included in other embodiments; zero, two, or more than two solar panels may be included in other embodiments, as well. 
     Each of  FIGS. 14 and 15  illustrate the buoyant system  400  described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 11 through 13  with associated cages  600   a ,  600   b ,  600   c ,  600   d ,  600   e ,  600   f ,  600   g.    
     In the illustrated embodiment, a cage  600   a ,  600   b ,  600   c ,  600   d ,  600   e ,  600   f ,  600   g  is attached to each of the outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g , respectively. Each of the cages  600   a ,  600   b ,  600   c ,  600   d ,  600   e ,  600   f ,  600   g  is circular in shape and is attached, respectively, to the upper surfaces  454   a ,  454   b ,  454   c ,  454   d ,  454   e ,  454   f ,  454   g  of the outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g . The first, second, and fifth cages  600   a ,  600   b ,  600   e  each include an attached light source  494   a ,  494   b ,  494   c , as well. Each of the outer members  450   a ,  450   b ,  450   c ,  450   d ,  450   e ,  450   f ,  450   g  may include a cage having any shape, however. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable shape for the cages and will be able to determine how many cages to attach to the buoyant system according to a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the outer members, the plants that will be housed by the inner members, and the liquid into which the buoyant system is placed. In other embodiments, zero, one, two, three, four, five, seven, or more than seven cages may be attached to the buoyant system. Additionally, any attached cage may be attached to any portion of the buoyant device. In alternative embodiments, the cages may be square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other shape. Different embodiments also exist in which the cages include zero, one, two, four, or greater than four light sources. 
     Each of  FIGS. 16 and 17  illustrates another example buoyant device  710 . The buoyant device  710  includes a raft  720  and a base  750 . The base  750  is permanently attached to the raft  720 . 
     The raft  720  includes a main body  722 , an upper surface  724 , a lower surface  726 , a side  728  extending from the upper surface  724  to the lower surface  726 , a window  730  extending from the upper surface  724  to the lower surface  726 , and an inner surface  732  extending from the upper surface  724  to the lower surface  726 . 
     The raft  720  and the window  730  are rounded rectangular in shape in the illustrated embodiment. Though the raft  720  and the window  730  are rounded rectangular in the illustrated embodiment, the raft  720  and window  730  may have any shape. A skilled artisan will be able to determine a suitable shape for each of the raft and the window in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the base, the dimensions of the window, and the liquid into which the buoyant device will be placed. Other example shapes for the raft and the window include rectangular, square, oval, elliptical, circular, and trapezoidal. 
     The base  750  includes a floor  752  and a side  754 . The floor  752  and the side  754  are comprised of mesh, or a similar material, that allow for a plant or grass (not illustrated in the Figures) to be placed on the floor  754  such that the roots of the plant or grass extend through the mesh into a liquid (not illustrated in the Figures). The side  754  is attached to the inner surface  732  via an adhesive. In other embodiments, the base  750  may be comprised of other materials and the side  754  may be attached to the inner surface  732  via a different mechanism. A skilled artisan will be able to determine a suitable material for the floor and side and a suitable mechanism for attaching the side to the inner surface in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the raft, the dimensions of the window, and the liquid into which the buoyant device will be placed. In a different embodiment, the floor or side may be made of a plastic containing pores. In another embodiment, the side may be attached to the inner surface via a mechanical attachment. 
       FIG. 16  best illustrates four light sources  794   a ,  794   b ,  794   c ,  794   d  attached to the upper surface  724  of the raft  720 . The light sources  794   a ,  794   b ,  794   c ,  794   d  attached to the upper surface  724  are similar to the light sources  194   a ,  194   b  described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 . Also disposed on the upper surface  724  is a solar panel  791  comprising a cell  792  and two air compressors  795   a ,  795   b . The solar panel  791  is similar to the solar panel  791  described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , but does not include a base; air compressors  795   a ,  795   b  are also disposed on the upper surface  724  and are similar to the air compressor  295  described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 . The light sources  794   a ,  794   b ,  794   c ,  794   d , solar panel  791 , and air compressors  795   a ,  795   b  may be attached to any portion of the buoyant device  710 . A skilled artisan will be able to determine a suitable position for the light sources, solar panel, and air compressors in a particular example based on various considerations, the size and shape of the raft, the dimensions of the window, and the liquid into which the buoyant device will be placed. In another embodiment, the buoyant device does not include any a solar panel, light source, or air compressor. In a different embodiment, a buoyant device includes only one of a solar panel, a light source, and an air compressor. In other embodiments, the buoyant device comprises multiple solar panels, air compressors, and light sources. 
     Each of  FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, and 17D  illustrates another example buoyant device  710 ′. The buoyant device  710 ′ includes a basket  720 ′, a first covering  740 ′, flotation devices  760   b ′,  760   c ′,  760   d ′, a second covering  780 ′, and a weight  790 ′. 
     The basket  720 ′ includes a proximal side  722 ′, a distal side  724 ′, a base  726 ′, and four walls  728   b ′,  728   c ′,  728   d ′ (one wall is not illustrated in the Figures). The basket  720 ′ is grated; that is, none of the base  726 ′ or walls  728   b ′,  728   c ′,  728   d ′ is solid. Instead, each of the base  726 ′ and walls  728   b ′,  728   c ′,  728   d ′ defines a plurality of windows  730 ′; each individual window is substantially square-shaped. Each of the plurality of windows  730 ′ is substantially the same size and shape as every other window of the plurality of windows  730 ′. The first wall (not illustrated in the Figures) and second wall  728   b ′ are each substantially rectangular in shape; the third and fourth walls  728   c ′,  728   d ′ are each substantially square in shape. The base  726 ′ is substantially rectangular in shape and also defines a plurality of windows  730 ′. A skilled artisan will be able to select how best to size and shape the basket in a particular example based on various considerations, including the liquid into which the buoyant device will be placed and the plant that will be used in conjunction with the buoyant device. In other embodiments, each of the walls can be rectangular, square, triangular, or have any other shape. Alternatively, one, two, three, or none of the walls may comprise a plurality of windows. The plurality of windows, in other embodiments, may be rectangular, circular, triangular, or have any other shape. Furthermore, in a different embodiment, the base may be solid, while the walls may comprise one or more windows. 
     The basket  720 ′ is typically packed with a grow medium (not illustrated in the Figures) that allows a plant, such as plant  9 ′ illustrated in the Figures and described below, to absorb nutrients through the grow medium after it has contacted a liquid.  FIGS. 17C and 17D  are illustrated without a grow medium in order to better show the components of the buoyant device  710 ′. The basket  720 ′ can be completely filled from the distal side  724 ′ to the proximal side  722 ′ with grow medium; it can also be partially filled with grow medium. A skilled artisan will be able to select how much and which grow medium to utilize in a particular example based on various considerations, including the liquid into which the buoyant device will be placed and the plant that will be used in conjunction with the buoyant device. Examples of suitable grow mediums include coconut coir, pearlite, Rockwool, straw, peat moss, gravel, sand, and other proprietary mediums. 
     The grow medium houses a plant  9 ′. The plant  9 ′ has roots (not illustrated in the Figures) that extend through the grow medium and obtain nutrients through the liquid that it contacts. The grow medium provides a substrate for nitro-bacteria (or, “Nitrobacters”) to attach. Nitrobacters convert excess ammonia disposed in the liquid in which the buoyant device  710 ′ is disposed to environmentally preferable nitrate. The plant  9 ′ illustrated in this embodiment differs from the plant  2  described above. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable plant in a particular example based on various considerations, including the liquid into which the buoyant device is disposed and the size and shape of the basket. Suitable plants include many grass species; a skilled artisan will be able to determine such a suitable species based on a particular geographic location in which the buoyant device is used. Other suitable plants can be those plants  2  described above. One, two, three, four, or more than four plants may be disposed in a buoyant device. 
     The buoyant device  710 ′ includes a first covering  740 ′ that is disposed about and covers the base  726 ′ and each of the walls  728   b ′,  728   c ′,  728   d ′. The first covering  740 ′ is configured such that it allows liquid, such as water disposed in a lake, stream, creek, or other similar body of water, through the covering  740 ′ and into the basket  720 ′. Said liquid will then contact the grow medium. The first covering  740 ′ is attached to the exterior of the basket  720 ′ through the use of an adhesive. The first covering  740 ′ also includes a plurality of rings  742 ′ that allow for the buoyant device  710 ′ to be attached to another buoyant device or to another type of device. Each of the plurality of rings  742 ′ is attached to the first covering  740 ′ via an adhesive. A skilled artisan will be able to select and configure a suitable first covering in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the basket and the liquid into which the buoyant device will be placed. The first cover can be comprised of one or more of any material, including a geofabric material and a material such as jute, hemp, and burlap, for example. In alternative embodiments, the geofabric material may only cover one, two, or three walls; it may also not cover the base. Additionally, the first covering may contain any number of rings, which may be disposed on any portion of the first covering. The rings may be comprised of one or more of brass, stainless steel, titanium, a metal alloy, a plastic, a plastic alloy, and any other suitable material. 
     Flotation devices  760   b ′,  760   c ′,  760   d ′ (one flotation device is not illustrated in the Figures) are each disposed adjacent the proximal side  722 ′ of the basket  720 ′. The first flotation device (not illustrated in the Figures) is disposed adjacent the first wall of the basket  720   a ′. The second flotation device  760   b ′ is disposed adjacent the second wall  728   b ′ of the basket  720 ′. The third flotation device  760   c ′ is disposed adjacent the third wall  728   c ′ of the basket  720 ′. The fourth flotation device  760   d ′ is disposed adjacent the fourth wall  728   d ′ of the basket  720 ′. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth flotation devices  760   b ′,  760   c ′,  760   d ′ is attached to the basket  720 ′ via an adhesive. Additionally, each of the first, second, third, and fourth flotation devices  760   b ′,  760   c ′,  760   d ′ is disposed beneath the first covering  740 ′. That is, as illustrated in, for example,  FIG. 17B , the flotation devices  760   b ′,  760   c ′,  760   d ′ are not visible on the exterior of the buoyant device  710 ′. Each of the flotation devices  760   b ′,  760   c ′,  760   d ′ is designed to prevent the proximal side  722 ′ of the basket  720 ′ and the plant  9 ′ (described below) from being submerged in a liquid. A skilled artisan will be able to select whether to include flotation devices and how many to include in a particular example based on various considerations, including the weight of the basket and the plant and grow medium. Zero, one, two, three, five, or more than five flotation devices may be used. The flotation devices may be disposed on the exterior of the first covering in other devices, as well. The flotation devices can also be placed at the base of the buoyant device, in another embodiment. The flotation devices, in various examples, may be comprised of any material, including one or more of a plastic, an encapsulated foam, rubber, and a plastic inflatable bladder. 
     The buoyant device  710 ′ also includes a second covering  780 ′ that is attached to the walls  728   b ′,  728   c ′,  728   d ′ and covers the grow medium. The second covering  780 ′ comprises a screen  781 ′ having a plurality of windows  782 ′ that are square-shaped. Each of the plurality of windows  782 ′ is large enough to allow a portion of the plant  9 ′ to grow through an individual window. A skilled artisan will be able to determine a suitable second covering in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the plant and the size and shape of the basket. In a different embodiment, the second covering may define a plurality of windows that are one or more of rectangular, circular, and triangular, for example. In an alternative embodiment, the second covering may allow light, but not the plant to pass through one or more of the plurality of windows. In a different embodiment, the buoyant device may not contain a second covering. In other embodiments, the second covering may include one or more of a solar panel and a light source. 
     Optionally, and as illustrated in  FIGS. 17A and 17D , the buoyant device  710 ′ may include an anchor  790 ′. The anchor is disposed adjacent the distal side  724 ′ of the basket  720 ′ and is attached to both the first covering  740 ′ and the base  726 ′ of the basket  720 ′. The anchor  790 ′ assists in maintaining the proximal side  722 ′ (the side containing the second covering  780 ′) of the buoyant device  710 ′ upright. The anchor  790 ′ is attached to the first covering  740 ′ and base  726 ′ via a mechanical attachment. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable anchor in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the basket and the plant housed within the buoyant device. The buoyant device may include two, three, or more than three anchors; additionally, the anchors may be disposed anywhere on the buoyant device. The anchor also may be attached one or both of the base and first covering via an adhesive or suturing, rather than a mechanical attachment. In an alternative embodiment, the buoyant device may not include an anchor. 
       FIG. 17E  illustrates a system of buoyant devices  702 . The system of buoyant devices  702  is comprised of a plurality of buoyant devices; each of the plurality of buoyant devices is similar to buoyant device  710 ′, described above. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, an individual buoyant device  710 ′ is attached to at least one other individual buoyant device  710 ′ via one or more of the plurality of rings  742 ′ (described above) that are disposed on the first coverings  740 ′ of the buoyant devices  710 ′. A mechanical attachment (not illustrated in the Figures) can be connected to one of the plurality of rings  742 ′ of a first buoyant device  710 ′ and one of the plurality of rings  742 ′ of a second buoyant device  710 ′. These mechanical attachments, which may comprise zip ties or other similar devices (not illustrated in the Figures), hold together the system of buoyant devices  702 . A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable way to attach multiple buoyant devices in a particular example based on various considerations, including the liquid into which the system is placed and the size and shape of the buoyant devices. In a different embodiment, one or more buoyant devices may be attached to at least one other buoyant device via suturing or an adhesive, rather than via a mechanical attachment. 
     The system of buoyant devices  702  is placed within a liquid  704 , such a river, stream creek, lake, or other similar body of water. The system of buoyant devices  702  may be attached to a plurality of stabilizing structures  703   a ,  703   b ,  703   c ,  703   d  that rest either in or near the liquid  704  to stabilize the system of buoyant devices  702  in the liquid  704 . The system of buoyant devices  702  may be attached to the stabilizing structures  703   a ,  703   b ,  703   c ,  703   d , which may include posts, stakes, or rods, via connecting mechanisms  705   a ,  705   b ,  705   c ,  705   d . The connecting mechanisms  705   a ,  705   b ,  705   c ,  705   d  may be comprised of strings, ropes, or another similar materials and can be tied or mechanically attached to one or more of the individual buoyant devices  710 ′. A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable stabilizing structures and connecting mechanisms in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the liquid into which the system of buoyant devices is placed and area in which the stabilizing structure will be placed. In other embodiments, the system of buoyant devices may be partially disposed on land, and partially disposed in a liquid. In another embodiment, zero, one, two, three, five, or more than five stabilizing structures and connecting mechanisms may be used in conjunction with a system of buoyant devices. 
       FIG. 18  illustrates another example inner member  820 . The inner member  820  includes a first portion  830 , a second portion  840 , a third portion  850 , and a fourth portion  860 . The first, second, third, and fourth portions  830 ,  840 ,  850 ,  860  cooperatively form a first passageway  890  extending continuously through the first, second, third, and fourth portions  830 ,  840 ,  850 ,  860 . 
     The first portion  830  has a proximal end  832 , a distal end  833 , and a curved lip  834  extending from the proximal end  832  to the distal end  833 . The proximal end  832  and the distal end  833  are substantially parallel to one another and, respectively, define first and second radii r 1 , r 2 . The first radius r 1  is greater than the second radius r 2  in the illustrated embodiment. However, the proximal and distal ends  832 ,  833  may have any suitable first and second radii r 1 , r 2 . A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable first and second radii in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape the plant that will be inserted into the inner member and the liquid into which a buoyant device that includes the inner member will be placed. In other embodiments, the first radius may be greater than, about equal to, or less than the second radius. 
     Optionally, the first portion  830  is a hollow cap designed to catch rain or splash water. The second portion  840  may be fully or partially filled with a material  5  that helps a plant seed (not illustrated) to germinate, and later provides frictional tension to help hold the plant  2  inside the inner member  820 . A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable material to place in the first portion based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the plant that will be inserted into the inner member and the liquid into which a buoyant device will be placed. In a particular embodiment, the material can be comprised of any material, including one or more of Rockwool, cotton, jute, hemp, and a proprietary substrate that mimics soil. Additionally, the first portion may contain no material in other embodiments. 
     The second portion  840  has a proximal end  842 , a distal end  843 , a side  844  extending from the proximal end  842  to the distal end  843 , and an outer surface  845 . In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion  840  and first portion  830  are connected such that the first and second portions  830 ,  840  are not separately moveable. Each of the proximal end  842 , distal end  843 , and side  844  define a third radius r 3  that is constant from the proximal end  842  to the distal end  843 ; the third radius r 3  is equal to the second radius r 2  defined by the distal end  834  of the first portion  830 . However, the proximal end, distal end, and side  842 ,  843 ,  844  may have any suitable third radius r 3 . A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable third radius in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape the plant that will be inserted into the inner member and the liquid into which a buoyant device that includes the inner member will be placed. In other embodiments, the third radius may be greater than, about equal to, or less than the second radius. In alternative embodiments, the proximal end may define a radius that is greater than, about equal to, or less than the radius of the distal end and the side. In another embodiment, the first and second portions may be separate components that are separately moveable. 
     The outer surface  845  of the second portion  840  defines a first threaded portion  846 . The first threaded portion  846  is configured to mate with an outer member (not illustrated in the Figures), such as one of the outer members  50 ,  150 ,  250 ,  450  described above. Alternative embodiments exist in which the first threaded portion is replaced with an adhesive or a snap-fit structure. 
     The second portion  840  houses a plant, such as the plant  2  described above. The plant  2  is held in place in the second portion  840  through the use of a grow medium  7 . The grow medium  7  is tightly packed within the second portion  840  and is disposed such that it abuts the material  5  described above that is housed in the first portion  830 . The grow medium  7  maintains the position of the plant  2  within the second portion  840  and helps the plant to obtain and utilize nutrients. As illustrated, the second portion  840  is completely filled with a grow medium  7 ; however, the second portion  840  may be partially filled, as well, depending on the needs of the plant  2 . A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable grow medium based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the plant that will be inserted into the inner member and the liquid into which a buoyant device will be placed. In a particular embodiment, the grow medium may be comprised of any material, including one or more of coconut coir, cotton, jute, hemp, and a proprietary substrate that mimics soil. Additionally, the second portion may also contain no grow medium. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the second portion contains a grow medium, but also includes a thin layer of material upon which the grow medium rests at the distal portion of the second portion. This thin layer of material provides additional support to the grow medium and plant. 
     The third portion  850  has a proximal end  852 , a distal end  853 , a side  854  extending from the proximal end  852  to the distal end  853 , an outer surface  855 , and an inner surface  856 . The proximal end  852  and the distal end  853  are substantially parallel to one another and, respectively, define fourth and fifth radii r 4 , r 5 . The fourth radius r 4  is equal to the fifth radius r 5  in the illustrated embodiment; each of the fourth and fifth radii r 4 , r 5  are also equal to the third radius r 3  of the second portion  840 , as well. In addition, the side  854  defines a sixth radius r 6  that is greater than the fourth and fifth radii r 4 , r 5 . However, the proximal end, distal end, and side  852 ,  853 ,  854  may have any suitable fourth, fifth, and sixth radii r 4 , r 5 , r 6 . A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable fourth, fifth, and sixth radii in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape the plant that will be inserted into the inner member and the liquid into which a buoyant device that includes the inner member will be placed. In other embodiments, the fourth, fifth, and sixth radii may all be equal. In other embodiments, the sixth radius may be less than the fourth and fifth radii. 
     The third portion  850  also includes first and second apertures  858 ,  859 . The first and second apertures  858 ,  859  are each cooperatively defined by the inner and outer surfaces  856 ,  855 . The first and second apertures  858 ,  859  are substantially cylindrical in shape and have circular openings on the inner and outer surface  856 ,  855 . The apertures  858 ,  859  allow for a liquid to flow into and out of the third portion  850 , enabling the liquid in which a buoyant device is disposed to contact the roots  4  of the plant  2 . This allows for the roots  4  of the plant  2  to absorb excess ammonia that is disposed in the liquid, which the plant  2  converts to environmentally preferable nitrate. The first and second apertures  858 ,  859 , therefore, will comprise a radius that allows for a desirable amount of liquid to travel into the third portion  850  to allow for this conversion process. A skilled artisan will be able to determine how many apertures to include and how best to size and shape the apertures in a particular example based on various considerations, including the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed and the size and shape of the plant and its roots disposed in the inner member. In a particular embodiment, the third portion may define one, three, four, five, or more than five apertures. Additionally, the apertures may have openings that are triangular, rectangular, square, or any other shape, and may taper or widen from the outer surface to the inner surface. 
     The fourth portion  860  has a proximal end  862 , a distal end  863 , a side  864  extending from the proximal end  862  to the distal end  863 , an outer surface  865 , and an inner surface  866 . The distal end  863  of the fourth portion  860  is also attached to an air compressor  895  that is similar to air compressors  195 ,  295 , described above. The proximal end  862  and the distal end  863  are substantially parallel to one another and, respectively, define seventh and eighth radii r 7 , r 8 . The seventh radius r 7  is less than the eighth radius r 8  in the illustrated embodiment; the seventh radius r 7  is equal to the fifth radius r 5  of the third portion  850 , however. In addition, the side  864  defines a ninth radius r 9  that is greater than the seventh and eighth radii r 7 , r 8 . However, the proximal end, distal end, and side  862 ,  863 ,  864  may have any suitable seventh, eight, and ninth radii r 7 , r 8 , r 9 . A skilled artisan will be able to select suitable seventh, eight, and ninth radii in a particular example based on various considerations, including the size and shape the plant that will be inserted into the inner member and the liquid into which a buoyant device that includes the inner member will be placed. In other embodiments, the seventh, eighth, and ninth radii may all be equal. In other embodiments, the ninth radius may be less than the seventh and eighth radii. In other embodiments, the fourth portion is not attached to an air compressor. 
     The fourth portion  860  also includes third and fourth apertures  868 ,  869 . The third and fourth apertures  868 ,  869  are each cooperatively defined by the inner and outer surfaces  866 ,  865 . The third and fourth apertures  868 ,  869  are substantially cylindrical in shape and have circular openings on the inner and outer surface  866 ,  865 . The apertures  868 ,  869  allow for a liquid to flow into and out of the fourth portion  860 , enabling the liquid in which a buoyant device is disposed to contact the roots  4  of the plant  2 . The liquid is propelled up to the roots  4  of the plant  2  that are disposed in the third portion  850 . This allows for the roots  4  of the plant  2  to absorb excess ammonia that is disposed in the liquid, which the plant  2  converts to environmentally preferable nitrate. The third and fourth apertures  868 ,  869 , therefore, will comprise a radius that allows for a desirable amount of liquid to travel into the fourth portion  860  to allow for this conversion process. A skilled artisan will be able to determine how many apertures to include and how best to size and shape the apertures in a particular example based on various considerations, including the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed and the size and shape of the plant and its roots disposed in the inner member. In a particular embodiment, the fourth portion may define one, three, four, five, or more than five apertures. Additionally, the apertures may have openings that are triangular, rectangular, square, or any other shape, and may taper or widen from the outer surface to the inner surface. 
     The fourth portion  860  also contains a plurality of pellets  870 . These pellets  870  flow freely throughout the fourth portion  860  and help the plant  2  convert ammonia found in the liquid in which the buoyant device is disposed into nitrate. Each pellet of the plurality of pellets  870  is spherical and provides a large surface area for ammonia to bond to and, when it moves throughout the fourth portion  860 , allows for the ammonia to be transported to the third portion  850  through the first passageway  890 . Each pellet of the plurality of pellets  870  is too large to escape through the third and fourth apertures  868 ,  869 . Additionally, the air compressor  895  helps to move the plurality of pellets  870  throughout the fourth portion  860  and introduces a greater amount of oxygen to the fourth portion  860  than otherwise would be introduced. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable number of pellets to include in a particular example based on various considerations, including the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed and the size and shape of the plant and its roots disposed in the inner member. In a particular embodiment, the plurality of pellets will provide a surface area sufficient to house nitrobacters. In such an embodiment, the plurality of pellets may be comprised of plastic, perlite, and other semi-buoyant materials. In a different embodiment, the pellets may be plastic or metallic, but may be coated with a layer of, for example, plastic, perlite, and other semi-buoyant materials. Each of the plurality of pellets may have any shape and size, as well. Alternatively, the fourth portion may contain no pellets. 
       FIG. 18A  illustrates another example inner member  820 ′. The inner member  820 ′ is similar to the inner member  820  described above, except as described below. 
     The first portion  830 ′ has a proximal end  832 ′, a distal end  833 ′, and a curved lip  834 ′ extending from the proximal end  832 ′ to the distal end  833 ′. Optionally, the first portion  830 ′ may be fully or partially filled with a material, such as the material  5  described above, that helps a plant (described below) housed in the inner member  820 ′ fully utilize its surroundings and grow to its greatest capability. A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable material to place in the first portion based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the plant that will be inserted into the inner member and the liquid into which a buoyant device will be placed. In a particular embodiment, the material can be comprised of any material, including one or more of Rockwool, cotton, jute, hemp, and a proprietary substrate that mimics soil. Additionally, the first portion may contain no material in other embodiments. 
     The second portion  840 ′ has a proximal end  842 ′, a distal end  843 ′, a side  844 ′ extending from the proximal end  842 ′ to the distal end  843 ′, and an outer surface  845 ′. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion  840 ′ and first portion  830 ′ are connected such that the first and second portions  830 ′,  840 ′ are not separately moveable. The outer surface  845 ′ of the second portion  840 ′ defines a first threaded portion  846 ′. The first threaded portion  846 ′ is configured to mate with an outer member (not illustrated in the Figures), such as one of the outer members  50 ,  150 ,  250 ,  450  described above. A skilled artisan will be able to select how best to configure the outer surface based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the first and third portions and the outer member to which the inner member will be attached. The first threaded portion may comprise an inner thread or an outer thread. In another embodiment, the first and second portions may be separate components that are separately moveable. Alternative embodiments exist in which the first threaded portion is replaced with an adhesive or a snap-fit structure. 
     The second portion  840 ′ houses a plant, such as the plant  2  described above. The plant  2  is held in place in the second portion  840 ′ through the use of a grow medium, such as the grow medium  7  described above. The grow medium  7  is tightly packed within the second portion  840 ′ and is disposed such that it abuts the material  5  described above and allows for the roots  4  of the plant  2  to extend into the third portion  850 ′ of the inner member  820 ′. The grow medium  7  maintains the position of the plant  2  within the second portion  840 ′ and helps the plant to obtain and utilize nutrients. As illustrated, the second portion  840 ′ is completely filled with a grow medium  7 ; however, the second portion  840 ′ may be partially filled, as well, depending on the needs of the plant  2 . A skilled artisan will be able to select a suitable grow medium based on various considerations, including the size and shape of the plant that will be inserted into the inner member and the liquid into which a buoyant device will be placed. In a particular embodiment, the grow medium may be comprised of any material, including one or more of Rockwool, cotton, jute, hemp, and a proprietary substrate that mimics soil. Alternatively, the second portion may also contain no grow medium. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the second portion contains a grow medium, but also includes a thin layer of material upon which the grow medium rests at the distal portion of the second portion. This thin layer of material provides additional support to the grow medium and plant. 
     The third portion  850 ′ has a proximal end  852 ′, a distal end  853 ′, a side  854 ′ extending from the proximal end  852 ′ to the distal end  853 ′, an outer surface  855 ′, and an inner surface  856 ′. The third portion  850 ′ also includes first and second apertures  858 ′,  859 ′. The first and second apertures  858 ′,  859 ′ are each cooperatively defined by the inner and outer surfaces  856 ′,  855 ′. The first and second apertures  858 ′,  859 ′ are substantially cylindrical in shape and have circular openings on the inner and outer surface  856 ′,  855 ′. The apertures  858 ′,  859 ′ allow for a liquid to flow into and out of the third portion  850 ′, enabling the liquid in which a buoyant device is disposed to contact the roots  4  of the plant  2 . This allows for the roots  4  of the plant  2  to absorb excess ammonia that is disposed in the liquid, which the plant  2  converts to environmentally preferable nitrate. The first and second apertures  858 ′,  859 ′, therefore, will comprise a radius that allows for a desirable amount of liquid to travel into the third portion  850 ′ to allow for this conversion process. A skilled artisan will be able to determine how many apertures to include and how best to size and shape the apertures in a particular example based on various considerations, including the liquid into which the buoyant device is placed and the size and shape of the plant and its roots disposed in the inner member. In a particular embodiment, the third portion may define one, three, four, five, or more than five apertures. Additionally, the apertures may have openings that are triangular, rectangular, square, or any other shape, and may taper or widen from the outer surface to the inner surface. 
       FIG. 19  is a flowchart representation of an example method  900  of placing a buoyant device containing a plant in a liquid. Performance of the method results in the release of a buoyant device into a liquid. An example method includes the use of an inner member, an outer member, and a plant. In other examples, a single member may be used instead of an outer member and an inner member and a buoyant system may be used instead of a single buoyant device. Furthermore, soil or any other organic material, foam impregnated with soil, a mechanical filtration device, or any other item or device may be used in place of a plant. 
     An initial step  902  comprises releasably attaching an inner member to an outer member to form a buoyant device. Inner member  20  and outer member  50  are described in this step. Inner member  20  is releasably attached to outer member  50  to form buoyant device  10 . The inner member may comprise any of the inner members  120 ,  220 ,  420  described above. The outer member may comprise any of the outer members  150 ,  250 ,  450  described above. Any suitable inner member and any suitable outer member may be used to perform this step. 
     Another step  904  comprises placing a plant within the inner member such that the plant is at least partially disposed within the liquid. Plant  2  is described in this step. The plant may comprise any plant, however, and may also comprise soil or any other organic material, foam impregnated with soil, a mechanical filtration device, or any other item or device. 
     Another step  906  comprises releasing the buoyant device into the liquid. The liquid may comprise any body of water, including as an ocean, creek, river, or lake. 
     It is noted that it is considered advantageous to complete the method  900  in the order illustrated and described. However, any order is considered suitable. 
     All components of the buoyant device can be made from any suitable material. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials include plastic, polystyrene, or any other suitable material. Non-limiting examples of materials considered specifically suitable for use in the inner member and outer members include any type of plastic or metal. 
     Those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that various modifications and alternatives for the described and illustrated embodiments can be developed in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure. Accordingly, the particular arrangements disclosed are intended to be illustrative only and not limiting as to the scope of the invention, which is to be given the full breadth of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof