For those who want to know, this model was designed in Onshape. The root ball is measured without the funnel dimensions included (if these dimensions aren't fit for you, I included a .step
file for you to play with). In my research, I have found that printing these in PETG is a good option (as compared to ABS or PLA).
PETG is slightly less flexible and ridged than ABS, but I assume you won't be hitting this with a hammer. PETG is also more temperature resistant than PLA, but less temperature resistant than ABS. PETG also won't get brittle in the UV light from the sun. These combined factors mean that PETG is more suitable for the root ball.
ABS is probably the strongest of the three mentioned filaments. It is also the most temperature resistant of the three. The only downsides are that the sun's UV light makes it turn an unpleasant yellow color, which you might not care about, but it also may get brittle under UV light. This can be avoided by painting it. I don't use ABS, so if you want a more in-detail summary, please check this out.
Unfortunately, the only advantage of PLA when it comes to this application is that it is good for printing detail and it comes in lots of colors. This project does not use detail (it might use lots of colors depending on your taste). So I don't recommend it for this. PLA melts in the sun (it will warp if it doesn't melt), and it is very brittle.
Sorry, I could only include one size (for now) and it measures about 6.8 cm by 4.8 cm (inside distance). The funnel is 7 mm tall and 29.3 mm wide at the top.
I don't have any gcodes uploaded, but here are some slicing instructions (they work for any printer). Don't worry if your version of Prusa Slicer doesn't have all of the buttons mine has, I have the Beta version. The best option for printing is with the half dome facing up, and paint on supports as shown in the video. You can follow the video entirely, or follow the text instructions:
HalfRootBall.step
or .stl
).CMD + I
on Mac, CTRL + I
on anything else).
Over 1-2 months (check a professional guide for a more accurate wait time), water your tree (as necessary) through the funnel. Then remove the ball. Your tree should have roots. Cut just below the root ball and plant your tree!
The author marked this model as their own original creation.