Abstract: Methods of increasing soil water content are described. The methods may include applying a soil enhancement agent to the soil, where the soil enhancement agent includes one or both of (i) lactobionic acid and (ii) at least one salt of lactobionic acid. Treated soils with increased soil water content are also described. The treated soils may include a soil enhancement agent absorbed into the soil. The soil enhancement agent may include at least one salt of a lactobionic acid. Cations from the at least one salt of a lactobionic acid may aggregate at least a portion of the particles in the soil.

Abstract: An aerator with variable delay of the coring head includes a lift/lower control on an aerator control panel that raises and lowers a coring head and starts or discontinues rotation of a coring head crankshaft that reciprocates a plurality of coring tines. A delay timer provides a variable time period between starting to raise or lower the coring head and the rotation of the crankshaft. A switch is provided on the control panel to preset the time period.

Abstract: A technique of applying selected chemicals for increasing agricultural water retention and minimizing erosion. The technique applies water absorbent polymers into the top layer of the field. These polymers create a water barrier within the soil. Subsequently, a linear polymer such as polyacrylamide is applied to the soil's surface to minimize erosion during irrigation and precipitation. The water absorbent polymers assist in the thorough application of the linear polymer as the linear polymer is maintained at the surface area and prevented from leeching away.

Abstract: A technique and mixture for increasing water and agricultural chemical retention in an agricultural field's water absorbent polymers are applied to the land's surface and are then blended into the top six inches of the soil. The polymers, are of such small size that in a dry state, they fit into voids between grains in the soil. As the polymer retains water and swells, the swollen polymer seals these voids and creates a barrier preventing water and fertilizer from passing through and being lost to the crop. The preferred size of the polymer is less than 3 mm.

Abstract: A walk-behind, multi-functional device for use in a nursery is capable cultivating while applying fertilizer and herbicide as desired. An electric clutch assembly combines with a steering assembly to permit easy maneuverability of the walk-behind device.