Abstract: A capillary hydration system and method for facilitating the growth of plants are provided. An exemplary system comprises a base having a reservoir for holding nutrient solution, and an insert portion. The insert portion comprises at least one downwardly extending plant receiving depression that is capable of holding a growth substrate. The plant receiving depression has at least one capillary opening such that when the capillary opening is in liquid communication with the nutrient solution in the reservoir, nutrient solution is wicked from the reservoir to the growth substrate by capillary action. In accordance with various exemplary embodiments, the capillary hydration system may further comprise cover, including a cover with a supply component for refilling the nutrient solution without removing the insert portion or the cover, and a nutrient supply level indicator.

Abstract: A method for the subsurface application of fertilizers, biologicals, fumigants, non-fumigant pesticides or other chemicals to soil with reduced application rates. Discrete amounts of the materials are injected into the soil at numerous sites along a path during a pass through the soil. At the injection sites, the materials form diffusion patterns which may touch or overlapping with diffusion patterns of adjacent soil injections. The application of materials to soil in this manner maintains optimum efficacy with the use of the least amount of materials necessary per acre of soil.

Abstract: This invention relates to a synergistic composition made of a herbicidally effective amount of a propanil-based product, such as Super Wham® (RICECO, Inc., Memphis, Tenn.) and the at least one ALS inhibitor herbicide such as Regiment® (Valent U.S.A. Corp. Walnut Creek, Calif.) in an amount sufficient to facilitate the herbicidal activity of the propanil-based herbicide. It has been found that this synergistic composition, when applied to a field of rice, allows a reduction in the amount of herbicide needed, greater flexibility in timing of the application and broad spectrum of weed control.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for converting spent water-based drilling mud into fertile indigenous top soil at a well site or location. The fertile indigenous top soil is produced by the steps of: admixing, at a well site, effective amounts of spent water-based drilling mud, mature compost, organic fertilizer, and top soil from the well site to provide a mixture containing spent water-based drilling mud, from about 30 to about 150 volume percent mature compost, from about 5 to 20 volume percent organic fertilizer, and from about 5 to 20 volume percent top soil from the well site wherein each of the volume percents is based on the volume of the spent water-based drilling mud present in the mixture; stirring the mixture for a period of time effective to form a substantially homogenous mixture; and drying the substantially homogenous mixture so as to provide fertile indigenous top soil possessing similar microbial and enzyme characteristics as the top soil at the well site.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for converting spent water-based drilling mud into fertile indigenous top soil at a well site or location. The fertile indigenous top soil is produced by the steps of: admixing, at a well site, effective amounts of spent water-based drilling mud, mature compost, organic fertilizer, and top soil from the well site to provide a mixture containing spent water-based drilling mud, from about 30 to about 150 volume percent mature compost, from about 5 to 20 volume percent organic fertilizer, and from about 5 to 20 volume percent top soil from the well site wherein each of the volume percents is based on the volume of the spent water-based drilling mud present in the mixture; stirring the mixture for a period of time effective to form a substantially homogenous mixture; and drying the substantially homogenous mixture so as to provide fertile indigenous top soil possessing similar microbial and enzyme characteristics as the top soil at the well site.

Abstract: An eco-friendly fertilizer that acts as a plant growth promotion agent, soil improvement agent, bactericide and insecticide agent, disease and harmful insect prevention agent and the like, and is suitable for organic farming. The fertilizer contains extract from fruits, leaves, stems, seeds and/or roots of the Yaeyama Aoki and increases the amount of yield and extends the freshness period after harvest when applied to fruits, vegetables, leafy vegetables, root vegetables, grains as well as flowers and shrubs.

Abstract: A method of agricultural operations management including formulating an odor control mixture including zeolite mixed with an ammonium containing manure at a ratio of zeolite to manure in the range of 1:1 to 1:33 by volume. Moisture content of the odor control mixture is preferably maintained in the range of 15-25%. An active organic soil amendment may be produced by amending the odor control mixture, or preparing a fresh mixture, including zeolite mixed with manure at a ratio of zeolite to manure in the range of 1:1 to 1:4 by volume. A horticultural medium may be produced by mixing the active organic soil amendment mixed with the soil at a ratio in the range of 1:9-1:99, active organic soil amendment to soil by volume, for use in conventional, organic and certified organic horticulture.

Abstract: Agricultural soil heating processes, including mulching, green house covering and especially solar soil sterilization are improved using a plastic film or sheet of an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for converting spent water-based drilling mud into fertile indigenous top soil at a well site or location. The fertile indigenous top soil is produced by the steps of: admixing, at a well site, effective amounts of spent water-based drilling mud, mature compost, organic fertilizer, and top soil from the well site to provide a mixture containing spent water-based drilling mud, from about 30 to about 150 volume percent mature compost, from about 5 to 20 volume percent organic fertilizer, and from about 5 to 20 volume percent top soil from the well site wherein each of the volume percents is based on the volume of the spent water-based drilling mud present in the mixture; stirring the mixture for a period of time effective to form a substantially homogenous mixture; and drying the substantially homogenous mixture so as to provide fertile indigenous top soil possessing similar microbial and enzyme characteristics as the top soil at the well site.

Abstract: A particulate water retaining material for cultivating plant comprising (A) a carboxyl group-containing water-insoluble water absorbent resin and (B) a polyvalent metal compound, by having the compound (B) deposited on the the rerin (A), it is made possible to possess an outstanding water absorbing property without impairing the growth of a plant.

Abstract: A method for in-season macro and micronutrient application based on predicted yield potential, coefficient of variation, and a nutrient response index. The inventive method includes the steps of: determining a nutrient response index for a field; determining the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) of an area to fertilize; determining the coefficient of variation of NDVI over a plot; determining a predicted crop yield for the area without additional nutrient; determining an attainable crop yield for the area with additional nutrient; determining the nutrient requirement for the area as the difference between the nutrient removal at the attainable yield minus the nutrient removal at the predicted yield, adjusted by the efficiency of nutrient utilization in the particular crop as indicated by the coefficient of variation.

Abstract: This invention provides methods of enhancing plant growth or yield, comprising exposing soil to hydrogen gas (H2), and growing plants in the soil. The H2 gas employed can be generated by electrolysis of water, produced by H2 evolving microorganisms, and/or produced by legumes. In accordance with the invention, soil can be exposed to H2 and plants then grown in it, or H2 can be applied directly to soil in which plants are already growing. In one embodiment, the invention comprises obtaining an aqueous extract from H2-treated soil, and applying the extract to soil, seeds, and or plant roots.

Abstract: A system and method for nematode extermination in lawns using an array of insulated heat blankets (2) placed on the lawn, and energized in a controlled sequence to raise the soil temperature to an effective degree and depth to exterminate nematodes. An electric current controller such as a programmable logic controller (PLC) activates a first subset of the blankets (2) until they reach an upper setpoint temperature, then maintains the blanket temperature within a desired range with reduced current while activating additional blankets. The heat penetrates the soil over a period of about 20 to 50 hours to raise the temperature to at least about 52° C. (125° F.) at a sufficient depth such as at least 12 cm (4.7 inches) to kill at least most nematodes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for converting spent water-based drilling mud into fertile indigenous top soil at a well site or location. The fertile indigenous top soil is produced by the steps of: admixing, at a well site, effective amounts of spent water-based drilling mud, mature compost, organic fertilizer, and top soil from the well site to provide a mixture containing spent water-based drilling mud, from about 30 to about 150 volume percent mature compost, from about 5 to 20 volume percent organic fertilizer, and from about 5 to 20 volume percent top soil from the well site wherein each of the volume percents is based on the volume of the spent water-based drilling mud present in the mixture; stirring the mixture for a period of time effective to form a substantially homogenous mixture; and drying the substantially homogenous mixture so as to provide fertile indigenous top soil possessing similar microbial and enzyme characteristics as the top soil at the well site.

Abstract: A ground material, obtained by grinding mineral materials, is mixed with matured compost and/or sludge, obtained by the elutriation of mature compost and is matured under controlled conditions, in particular at a temperature limited to 60° C., for several weeks or several months. During the maturing process, the mineral material decomposes and biological activation occurs by means of the microorganisms that have formed during the activation phase. The product thus obtained has an improved action for promoting plant growth.

Abstract: A method and components for cultivation of plant materials. The components include enhanced berms, a confined irrigation/fertigation system, field and plant sensors, a plant support system, overcovering structure and a protective collar. Each of these components used singularly or in combination with each other enhances the growth and yield of plant material decreases the associated costs of cultivation, and decreases adverse environmental impacts.

Abstract: A soil additive produced from crushing, grinding and blending specified source rocks wherein a final product contains at least three of andesite, basalt, limestone, dolomite and claystone.

Abstract: The invention is a method of transforming a lawn into a stable, healthy plant community that can be maintained as a stable, healthy plant community without use of synthetic, non-organic, non-natural pesticides and fertilizers. The method comprises implementing a three-year, or three entire growing season program, wherein in the first two years, a transition is made to utilization of increasing proportions of organic and natural fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, and improved biological, natural controls and cultural practices. In the third year or full growing season, the lawn is transformed into being free of synthetic, non-organic fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides through se of organic fertilizers, organic herbicides, organic insecticides, biological and natural controls, and improved cultural practices.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing a cleaning procedure for a material. The apparatus includes a rack having a seat configured to retain a plurality of test coupons at a predetermined angle, an upper tray that distributes a solution along the lines of the rack, a lower tray for receiving solution passed over coupons disposed on rack, a meter that gauges a flow rate of the solution, a thermostatic heater adapted to bring the solution to a predetermined temperature, and a variable speed pump that directs the solution from a reservoir to the upper tray.

Abstract: A system, method, and devices for remediating soil of an area of land. The devices are partially inserted into the soil within the area. The devices have vent holes fluidically coupling each device to the soil. A hot fluid is circulated through the devices to heat the soil in the area to a temperature sufficient to cause a transformation in the soil. The transformation may transform an environmental contaminant in the soil such that a gas is generated from the transformation, and the gas is sucked from the soil into the devices via the vent holes and the out of the devices away from the soil. The transformation may cause a bioremediation of an environmental contaminant in the soil such that a product is generated from the bioremediation, and a bioremediation fluid is injected into the devices and into the soil via the vent holes to facilitate the bioremediation.

Abstract: An agronomic system is disclosed for the commercial production of green Cicer beans wherein a relative risk of caramelization is determined based on geographical data, macro climate data, and micro climate data for a given locale. Relative risk of caramelization helps select acreage to be planted. Additionally, an agronomic system and method for cultivation and commercial production of the green Cicer bean is described herein for preferred row spacing and variety selections that are usable for the commercial production of the green Cicer bean. Prior to the present invention there were no agronomic methods or systems adapted for commercial production of the green Cicer bean. The agronomic systems and methods disclosed herein also help to adjust planting times based on growing degree day calculations for given parcels wherein harvesting of the green Cicer bean is in rhythm with processing plant capacity.

Abstract: This invention discloses systems and methods for conversion of manure to novel fertilizer and/or soil builder products useful as input for organic farming operations. The equipment systems comprise a gas turbine generator unit (preferred heat source), a dryer vessel and a processing unit, wherein the connection between the gas turbine and the dryer vessel directs substantially all the gas turbine exhaust into the dryer vessel and substantially precludes the introduction of air into the dryer vessel. The dryer vessel receives the manure for contact with the turbine exhaust gases to convert the manure to a dry material, which is passed to the processing unit where it is formed into granules, pellets or other desired form for the final dry fertilizer product. The method comprises drying, heating and converting the manure to form novel self binding fertilizer and soil builder type products for organic farming and other uses.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for treating unwanted moderately saline waters for producing waters acceptable for treating soil, such as for irrigation. The treated water is also suitable for human and livestock consumption. The process includes passing moderately saline waters having 0.05% or more by weight and less than 1.00% by weight of the salts of Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cl, SO4, or CO3 or combinations thereof through an ion exchange resin. The ion exchange resin is pre-treated to be saturated with multivalent cations. Preferred multivalent cations include calcium (Ca2+) or magnesium (Mg2+) ions, or combinations thereof. After passing through the ion exchange resin, the effluent has decreased sodium cations and increased calcium and/or magnesium cations compared to the pre-treated moderately saline water.

Abstract: Certain novel formulations of turf additives that act in such a manner as to permit proper amounts of moisture to contact root systems in order to reduce dry spots within highly managed turf areas and/or lawns. The inventive formulation comprising multi-branched surfactant compounds with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic constituents within each branch attached to an oxygen-containing polyfunctional base compound permits effective moisture penetration through such localized dry spots for sustained grass growth therein. Importantly, such multi-branched wetting agents provide sustained moisture penetration over a sustained period of time since the individual branches of such compounds may become dissociated from its base polyfunctional compound. Since such branches include both hydrophobic and hydrophilic constituents themselves, and thus act as wetting agents, even after degradation of the initial surfactant compound, long-term wetting and moisture penetration, at least, are permitted.

Abstract: This invention provides methods of enhancing plant growth or yield, comprising exposing soil to hydrogen gas (H2), and growing plants in the soil. The H2 gas employed can be generated by electrolysis of water, produced by H2 evolving microorganisms, and/or produced by legumes. In accordance with the invention, soil can be exposed to H2 and plants then grown in it, or H2 can be applied directly to soil in which plants are already growing. In one embodiment, the invention comprises obtaining an aqueous extract from H2-treated soil, and applying the extract to soil, seeds, and or plant roots.

Abstract: A method of controlling the movement of biosolids before, during, and after land application. This method aids in management of the problematic movement (i.e., runoff and leaching) of biosolids' components that have been shown to be harmful to human and/or environmental health through both direct and indirect routes of exposure. This method requires that water-soluble polyacrylamide(s) (WSPAM) be combined with the biosolids prior to land exposure.

Abstract: A nano diatomite and zeolite ceramic crystal powder which is a new environmental material made by combining high-quality natural diatomite and zeolite together and by using most advanced nano technology, wherein the ceramic crystal powder has the capability of producing great benefits for society through advances in health care, a cleaner environment, and agriculture.

Abstract: A stable aqueous suspension of water-soluble polyacrylamide particles is in a saturated solution of an ammonium salt. The polyacrylamide particles are characterized by a particle size of about ?150 mesh, and preferably ?270 mesh, with ?400 mesh most preferred. The suspension is at least about 2.5% by weight polyacrylamide. When the ammonium salt is ammonium sulfate, PAM concentrations as high as about 15% by weight can be achieved while still being easily flowable. The suspension is made by stirring the small particle PAM into the saturated ammonium salt solution. The PAM can be quickly dissolved to form a less concentrated PAM solution by adding the suspension to water or to a dilute solution, which can include calcium salts or other soil enhancers.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a process for producing orchid seedlings by static liquid culture, in which a suitable amount of orchid seeds are suspended in a liquid medium suitable for the germination and growth of the orchid seeds to form a seed suspension; the seed suspension is then added into an empty culture container, so that the seed suspension within the culture container has a predetermined depth sufficient to enable each of the seeds to be suspended within the liquid medium while not causing said each seedling to an oxygen-deficient state; thereafter, the container is allowed to stand, such that the seeds suspended within the liquid medium germinate and grow into seedlings. The young seedlings thus obtained can be further cultivated by static liquid culture.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods of reducing weed growth or reducing pests involving applying to plant producing media particulate materials to a depth of at least about 1 cm, wherein the plant producing media to the depth comprises about 1% by weight or more and about 25% by weight or less of the applied particulate materials Also disclosed are methods of reducing weed growth involving applying to plant producing media or unwanted vegetation a film of particulate materials, wherein the film has a thickness of about 1 ?m or more and about 5 mm or less.

Abstract: Composition for and method of stimulating growth of plants, e.g. increase in crop production. The composition comprises a carbon skeleton/energy component, typically a sugar or mixture of sugars; a macronutrient component providing the elements nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and calcium, preferably also magnesium and sulfur; a micronutrient component providing zinc, iron and manganese, preferably also copper, boron, molybdenum and cobalt. The composition also preferably contains a vitamin/cofactor component and an enhancement component. The composition may be in the form of an aqueous solution or in a form suitable for coating seeds or coating pollen. It may be applied as a foliar spray, as a soil amendment, as a root dip or as an injectable solution. Preferably where, for example, it is used as a foliar spray it is applied at intervals at different stages of growth.

Abstract: Microbial blend compositions and method for their use are provided. The subject compositions comprise a plurality of distinct microbial species that all share the following characteristics: (i) are antagonistic against a plurality of microbial pathogens; (ii) are non-pathogenic towards plants and animals; (iii) are tolerant of high temperatures; (iv) grow rapidly; and (v) proliferate on a complex substrate. In many embodiments, the compositions further include a carrier, e.g., a liquid or solid carrier medium. In practicing the subject methods, the compositions are applied to at least one of soil and plant tissue, and in certain embodiments are applied in conjunction with a complex substrate. Also provided are methods of preparing the subject compositions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to product(s) containing living microorganism(s) suitable for soil treatment, microorganisms multiplying under different climatic and natural circumstances, as well as procedures for the production of the products, and procedures for the treatment of the soil and plants with the products. More particularly, the invention relates to a procedure for preparing the products from any of the microorganisms specified below, or from the mixture thereof. Furthermore, the invention relates to a procedure for the creation of the cultures of the microorganisms to be used. The subject invention also pertains to the microorganisms themselves. More particularly, the invention relates to a procedure for the treatment of the soil and the plants with a product containing at least one of the microorganisms selected from Azospirillum brasilense ssp. SW51 (NCAIM /P/ B 001293), Azotobacter vinelandii ssp. M657 (NCAIM /P/B 001292), Pseudomonas fluorescens var.

Abstract: Certain novel formulations of turf additives that act in such a manner as to permit proper amounts of moisture to contact root systems in order to reduce dry spots within highly managed turf areas and/or lawns. The inventive formulation comprising multi-branched surfactant compounds with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic constituents within each branch attached to an oxygen-containing polyfunctional base compound permits effective moisture penetration through such localized dry spots for sustained grass growth therein. Importantly, such multi-branched wetting agents provide sustained moisture penetration over a sustained period of time since the individual branches of such compounds may become dissociated from its base polyfunctional compound. Since such branches include both hydrophobic and hydrophilic constituents themselves, and thus act as wetting agents, even after degradation of the initial surfactant compound, long-term wetting and moisture penetration, at least, are permitted.

Abstract: Certain novel formulations of turf additives that act in such a manner as to permit proper amounts of moisture to contact root systems in order to reduce dry spots within highly managed turf areas and/or lawns. The inventive formulation comprising multi-branched surfactant compounds with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic constituents within each branch attached to an oxygen-containing polyfunctional base compound permits effective moisture penetration through such localized dry spots for sustained grass growth therein. Importantly, such multi-branched wetting agents provide sustained moisture penetration over a sustained period of time since the individual branches of such compounds may become dissociated from its base polyfunctional compound. Since such branches include both hydrophobic and hydrophilic constituents themselves, and thus act as wetting agents, even after degradation of the initial surfactant compound, long-term wetting and moisture penetration, at least, are permitted.

Abstract: A method for improving the rooting soil around a plant by defining an improvement area around the trunk of the plant and utilizing an air excavator to loosen the existing rooting soil in the improvement area, the method also includes treating the existing soil with a treatment to encourage growth of the plant roots in the existing treated soil.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for introducing an alkane to a plant in order to stimulate the plant's growth. Any type of plant may be treated, including potted plants, shrubs, trees, lawns, agricultural crops and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the alkane comprises butane, but other compounds can be used, including methane, ethane and propane. The alkane may be combined with water or another liquid carrier, or plant growth-enhancing additives such as nutrients, insecticides and alkane-utilizing bacteria. To induce aerobic conditions, oxygen-containing gas such as air may be introduced along with the alkane or separately from the alkane. The introduction of alkane may enhance plant growth by increasing the indigenous microbial populations in soil, e.g. bacteria, fungi, protists, and prokaryotes, which may provide benefits such as increased nutrient uptake, faster root development, and reduced heat, drought and cold stress, resulting in enhanced plant growth.

Abstract: Certain novel formulations of turf additives that act in such a manner as to permit proper amounts of moisture to contact root systems in order to reduce dry spots within highly managed turf areas and/or lawns. The inventive formulation comprising multi-branched surfactant compounds with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic constituents within each branch attached to an oxygen-containing polyfunctional base compound permits effective moisture penetration through such localized dry spots for sustained grass growth therein. Importantly, such multi-branched wetting agents provide sustained moisture penetration over a sustained period of time since the individual branches of such compounds may become dissociated from its base polyfunctional compound. Since such branches include both hydrophobic and hydrophilic constituents themselves, and thus act as wetting agents, even after degradation of the initial surfactant compound, long-term wetting and moisture penetration, at least, are permitted.

Abstract: A method for in-season macro and micronutrient application based on predicted yield potential, coefficient of variation, and a nutrient response index. The inventive method includes the steps of: determining a nutrient response index for a field; determining the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) of an area to fertilize; determining the coefficient of variation of NDVI over a plot; determining a predicted crop yield for the area without additional nutrient; determining an attainable crop yield for the area with additional nutrient; determining the nutrient requirement for the area as the difference between the nutrient removal at the attainable yield minus the nutrient removal at the predicted yield, adjusted by the efficiency of nutrient utilization in the particular crop as indicated by the coefficient of variation.

Abstract: A method of sowing plant seeds and the sowing materials used thereof are disclosed. The sowing method comprises the steps of a) providing a base with water-absorbing ability and humidity-maintaining ability, wherein the base includes a plurality of concavities, b) inlaying the plant seeds in the plural concavities of the base, and c) covering a cultivating material with the base, wherein each concavity has a void therein for allowing a radicle of a corresponding plant seed to pierce therethrough and be rooted in the cultivating material while the corresponding plant seed is germinating. The base comprises light-blocking material for preventing weeds from growing and is selected from a group consisting of a mulching paper, a fabric, a fiber and a polymer. Therefore, the steps of sowing, soil-covering and weed-removal for agricultural production can be proceeded simultaneously and thus lower cost.

Abstract: The invention relates to a ground material, obtained by grinding mineral materials. Said ground material is mixed with matured compost and/or sludge, obtained by the elutriation of mature compost and is matured under controlled conditions, in particular at a temperature limited to 60 ° C., for several weeks or several months. During said maturing process, the mineral material decomposes and biological activation occurs by means of the micro-organisms (fungi etc.) that have formed during the activation phase. The product thus obtained has an improved action for promoting plant growth. In a preferred embodiment, a plant seed cultivation is carried out on the activated substrate, in particular a thin layer cultivation. The green matter that has been formed, in addition to the substrate with interspersed roots, can e.g. be ground to produce an enriched product.

Abstract: A method is provided for improving the rooting soil of a woody landscape plant comprising the steps of exposing a root collar of a plant; defining a first improvement zone encompassing the ground collar area; excavating the first improvement zone with an air excavator; and adding a beneficial treatment to the first improvement zone.

Abstract: The invention relates to disposing of unwanted waste waters produced from purifying water. The methods of the present invention include applying waste water containing 0.15% by weight of the salts of Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cl, SO4, and CO3 and mixtures thereof to soil to control dust, effect soil stabilization, seal ponds, inhibit root rot, and irrigate soil. The invention also relates to the utilization of waste waters within cooling towers and for laundry applications.

Abstract: An irrigation system is provided in accordance with the present invention. The irrigation system is configured to distribute an irrigation fluid into a soil. The irrigation system comprising a first layer having a first aperture and a second layer that is secured to the first layer to form a fluid cavity for receiving the irrigation fluid. The second layer has a second aperture that is aligned with the first aperture to form a soil aperture, which is configured to pass at least a portion of the soil. The irrigation system also comprises a fluid distributor formed between the first layer and the second layer. The fluid distributor is configured to emit the irrigation fluid contained in the fluid cavity into the soil aperture such that that the irrigation fluid is distributed into the soil.

Abstract: A plant cultivation method for preventing weed, pest and soil borne disease is disclosed. The method is characterized in that a photo-resistive and degradable covering material daubed with a bio-control microbe (a specific fungus: Gliocladium sp.) is applied to cover the cultivation media of a sown plant or transplanted seedling so as to control the weed growth and prevent pest and soil borne disease.

Abstract: A method for modulating plant growth is provided whereby seedlings that are grown in containers such as blocks are fertilized at lift. Prior to fertilization, the block, which has numerous plug cavities, is restrained. The seedlings, which are grown in plugs formed in plug cavities, are supported and a bore is drilled into the bottom of the plug. The bore extends to the top of the plug to produce a small port, which serves as a port for expulsion of air during the injection operation. The fertilizer is measured in a metering roller and is then pneumatically injected into the bore in the plug. Upon completion of the injection, the bore is closed to reduce the loss of fertilizer from the plug. The various operations may be automated or performed manually.

Abstract: A system for cultivating tropic plants in a planting area having a ground surface. A hole is initially dug to a depth of approximately three feet below the ground surface. A layer of ceramic tiles is established at the bottom of the hole, and is covered with a layer of small rocks. A tank having a plurality of wick assemblies extending upward therefrom is positioned within the hole. A layer of vegetative cuttings and manure is established thereabove. Then fertile topsoil originally from the hole is replaced in a mix with sand to a depth of substantially one foot. The contents are allowed to settle and are thoroughly watered, the tank is filled using a fill hose. The exotic plants is then planted in potting soil thereabove, and is maintained and allowed to thrive by the unique moisture, nutritive and thermodynamic properties established by the various layers. When necessary, the tank is refilled through the fill hose.

Abstract: Certain novel formulations of turf additives that act in such a manner as to permit proper amounts of moisture to contact root systems in order to reduce dry spots within highly managed turf areas and/or lawns. It is theorized that the accumulation of humic acid (and other natural byproduct deleterious compounds) at the topsoil surface in most cultivated grassy areas including sandy soils (such as, in particular, golf greens), results in the production of an effective organic waxy coating on the soil components. Such a coating is hydrophobic in nature and thus dries out the soil itself. The inventive formulation thus permits removal of such accumulated humic acid (and other compounds) from the topsoil to the level necessary to provide effective moisture penetration for sustained grass growth therein (hereinafter referred to as “redistributes”).

Abstract: A method for producing deep-rooted trees for phytoremediation applications is shown. The method involves creating a hole of appropriate diameter and depth using direct push technology, installing a subsurface drip irrigation line down the hole, backfilling the hole, and planting a tree or cutting next to or inside the hole. The subsurface irrigation line is connected to a water supply line, to which an in-line aerator (oxygenator) and a nutrient injector apparatus (proportioner) may also be connected. A specific mixture of nutrients, root stimulant, microbes and/or surfactants may be added to the irrigation water via the proportioner with the objective of producing a subsurface environment in which roots can proliferate and the aerobic biodegradation of organic chemical contaminants is enhanced. As the trees develop, irrigation rates are regulated to encourage the drying of the upper soil layers and subsequent rooting in deeper layers of the soil.

Abstract: A method of containing organic debris such as leaves in piles or layers is disclosed. The method comprises the utilization of a chemical composition for coating the generally upward facing leaves in order to bond them together into larger sections. Once the separate leaves are bonded together by the coating, the larger sections provide a protective covering that keeps the wind from disturbing the pile or layer. Further, in some instances the coating may include a biological agent that facilitates the decomposition of the organic debris. In other instances the coating may also include a fertilizer that would be beneficial if the organic debris was used as mulch spread around plants. Also disclosed are methods for applying coating using a distributing device.