Abstract: An improved mixture of water-absorbent polymers, including a quantity of small-grained particles, may be injected below-ground where plants are growing or are to be planted, such as by using air-blown, plowblade applicators. In a preferred mixture, 10-20% of the particles are powdery, fine material (such as less than 0.5 mm), and the remainder are larger granules (such as 1-2 mm). The mixture creates a "blanket" of moisture-retaining particles that can surround plant roots. The mixture may be injected by drawing a plowblade through the soil at an appropriate shallow angle and speed to establish a wave in the soil, together with the use of a deflector and control over the air pressure, all of which maximizes underground diffusion and distribution of the injected particles.

Abstract: Disclosed are improvements relating to injection of water-absorbent polymers, including a blend containing fine granules, using one or more air-blown, plowblade applicators. The process creates a "blanket" of moisture-retaining particles for the plant roots. A further aspect of the invention includes drawing a plowblade through the soil at an appropriate shallow angle and speed to establish a wave in the soil, together with the use of a deflector and control over the air pressure, all of which maximizes diffusion and distribution of the injected particles.