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 evaporative losses, for example, a closed container with a small top opening, for a time and at a temperature sufficient to allow the seeds to imbibe water from the matrix and come to a water content equilibrium sufficient to enhance resultant plant vigor, i.e., enhance emergence, growth or yield characteristics, but short of that which would cause the seed to sprout. The seeds and matrix may be inoculated with beneficial microorganisms during priming. Moreover, inoculate seeds and matrix may be used to inoculate soil.

Abstract: To make and use nitrogeneous fertilizer on a farm, nitrogen oxides are prepared in a continuous process from air or from ammonia in a reactor, with the ammonia either being transported to the farm or local site in a farming area or being prepared on the site in a continuous process from water and air. The nitrogen oxides are mixed with a continuous flow of water to form a solution of nitric acid, which may be applied to the field through the irrigation system as top dressing or mixed within the system with ammonium or other cations to form ammonium nitrate or other desired nitrogen solutions for application to the fields in a continuous process or concentrated without requiring storage of large amounts of gas or creating heat exchange problems in the manufacturing process.