Abstract: Natural organic-containing substrates such as leonardite, lignite, peat, shale, sediment and soil are treated with alkaline or suitable chelating agents as extractants for organic matter in the nature of soluble fulvic and humic acid fractions. The mixture containing naturally occurring substances and extractant is then transferred to a centrifuge to produce a sediment or settled phase and a supernatant phase. The yield of organic matter found in the supernatant phase following centrifugation is significantly greater than the corresponding yield obtained when the mixtures are allowed to settle under gravity in the absence of centrifugation.

Abstract: A fungicidal composition for controlling fungal diseases in plants, which includes a fungicide, and a complex organic composition derived from natural organic materials. The organic composition may comprise a humic acid composition, a fulvic acid composition, a humin component composition, mixtures thereof or other extracts from natural organic materials such as leonardite, lignite, peat, shale, sediments and soil. The fungicidal composition includes a phosphorus-containing compound such as phosphorous acid, a phosphite salt, and a phosphate salt or mixtures thereof. The preferred embodiments of the compositions provide enhanced control of select fungal diseases in plants as well as enhanced plant nutrient uptake abilities. The invention also includes processes for producing the fungicidal compositions and methods for applying the fungicidal compositions to plants.

Abstract: Liquid micronutrient compositions are prepared by combining fulvic acid extracted from leonardite ore with a metal salt, a hydroxy acid and/or a hydroxy acid salt, and ammonia. The extract of leonardite ore is obtained by combination with a suitable chelant, while the subsequent combination with the metal salt and hydroxy acid/salt is accomplished in a heated aqueous medium. After allowing the desired metal chelates to form, the composition is combined with anhydrous ammonia, usually by sparging, to obtain a stable end product. The micronutrient compositions display enhanced plant uptake in both soil and foliar applications. Moreover, the compositions are particularly stable and suitable for application through drip irrigation systems.

Abstract: A chemical reaction apparatus having a reaction tank; at least one manifold providing a plurality of tanks adapted to contain reactants; at least two spargers disposed internally of the reaction tank; and a flow line assembly communicating between the manifold and the reaction tank.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of compositions for modifying plant growth including extracting humic acids by the reacting of organic chelating agents with leonardite ore; compositions produced by such process; and methods for use thereof for modifying plant growth and fruiting.