Abstract: Foliar fertilizers which include a phosphate ester in concentrations greater than approximately ½ molar with water. The phosphate esters are preferably polyhydroxy alcohol orthophosphate esters, such as ethylene glycol phosphate esters. The fertilizer solutions or mixtures are provided with a water miscible hygroscopic agent which retains the applied fertilizers on the leaf in liquid form by extracting moisture from the atmosphere. The hygroscopic agent is preferably provided by an appropriate hygroscopic alcohol such as used in the production of the esters, or substitutes thereof. The esters can be formed into substituted salts using metals or other elements which are preferably of nutritional value to plants. Methods for the production of the esters and fertilizers are described. Also described are novel methods of use and fertilization using the foliar fertilizer compositions.

Abstract: In the process of the invention, the seed to be treated, a predetermined amount of solid matrix material and a predetermined amount of water are admixed and the mixture allowed to stand, preferably in a container which allows entry of air but which reduces evaporation losses, for example, a closed metal container with a small top opening, for a time and at a temperature sufficient to enhance resultant plant vigor, i.e., enhance emergence, growth of yield characteristics, but short of that which would cause the seed to sprout. Faulty seeds may be separated by size and systemic resistance to disease can be induced.

Abstract: In the process of the invention, the seed to be treated, a predetermined amount of solid matrix material and a predetermined amount of water are admixed and the mixture allowed to stand, preferably in a container which allows entry of air but which reduces evaporation losses, for example, a closed metal container with a small top opening, for a time and at a temperature sufficient to enhance resultant plant vigor, i.e., enhance emergence, growth of yield characteristics, but short of that which would cause the seed to sprout. Faulty seeds may be separated by size and systemic resistance to disease can be induced.

Abstract: In the process of the invention, the seed to be treated, a predetermined amount of solid matrix material and a predetermined amount of water are admixed and the mixture allowed to stand, preferably in a container which allows entry of air but which reduces evaporation losses, for example, a closed metal container with a small top opening, for a time and at a temperature sufficient to enhance resultant plant vigor, i.e., enhance emergence, growth of yield characteristics, but short of that which would cause the seed to sprout. Faulty seeds may be separated by size and systemic resistance to disease can be induced.