Abstract: Process for producing novel mulching pellets from waste paper scrap by incorporating particulate water-insoluble, swellable, gel-forming polymer into the pellet-forming composition. The formed pellets swell and disintegrate after being spread and impregnated with water, to increase their area of ground-coverage, to release any included nutrients or seeds, and to deposit polymer particles having water-absorbing properties.

Abstract: A calibrating device for use with centrifugal, pendulum or other types of broadcast spreaders which distribute dry granular materials to be soil for agricultural purposes is described. The device provides containment of granular materials while the spreader operates without hindrance over a predetermined distance. The invention permits the rapid and efficient calibration of broadcast spreaders and thus ensures that optimal application rates of agricultural materials will be delivered with attendant cost savings and other operational advantages.