Abstract: A hydromulching material includes a mixture of: Kurapia cut seedlings prepared by cutting Kurapia stem into pieces each on the order of averagely 4 cm in length; seeds of sterile annual plant; and soil dressing.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are processes for treating high-P fluid involving (1) providing a high-P containing stream; (2) chemically treating the high-P stream such that a majority of dissolved P in the stream is transformed into a solid form via sorption of P onto particles placed or precipitated within the stream; and (3) removing the solid form containing P from the chemically treated fine solids stream, such that >about 90% of the total P is removed from the high-P fluid. Also disclosed are systems for treating a high-P stream, the systems involving (1) a chemical treatment station operable to chemically treat and transform equal to or greater than about 90% of dissolved P in a high-P stream into a solid form; and (2) a liquid-solid separator station operable to remove the solid form containing P from the chemically treated high-P stream.

Abstract: A fertilizer and method of making a fertilizer that include bioactivated nutrients derived from immobile/less mobile elements. The immobile/less elements are made available to plants by the action of element mobilizing microorganisms, which are isolated, cultured, and combined with organic material and sources of the immobile element.

Abstract: The invention relates to fertilizer compositions comprising a carbon source and a source of nitrogen. Carbon is in form that can be readily up-taken by soil bacteria. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing the fertilizer, a method for fertilizing soil and uses of said fertilizer. Use of the fertilizer promotes uptake of endogenous soil nutrient resources by plant.

Abstract: The invention is directed to manufacture of fertilizer having commercial levels of nitrogen supplemented with organic substances. The process treats organic matter with acid causing hydrolysis of organic polymers after which the mix is injected with nitrogen. The resultant sterilized and liquefied organic matter is disbursed over recycled material for the production of granules. Because the process allows for the controlled addition of acids and ammonia, desired levels of components can be achieved. The process is scalable, odor controlled and safe thereby allowing for the location of biosolid processing facilities in most any location. Further, the fertilizer of the invention provides a dual nitrogen-release profile when applied to crops. After application to soil, fertilizer of the invention releases an immediate bolus of nitrogen, similar to traditional ammonium sulfate, followed by continued slow release of nitrogen typically over a season.

Abstract: A composition provides increased. lithium and selenium content in vegetables and in their bio-technologically and/or technologically processed products. This composition comprises an aqueous solution of lithium compounds and selenium salts having a lithium content ranging from 0.0001 to 15.Og/l and selenium ranging from 0.0001 to 12.Og/l and at least an adjuvant selected among at least alkaline soap, chitosan hydrolysate, chitosan hydrolysate added with lecithin, and tannic acid and/or mixtures thereof where at least an adjuvant is assigned to increase the lithium and selenium ions absorption.

Abstract: The invention provides for methods, devices, and systems for pyrolyzing biomass. A pyrolysis unit can be used for the pyrolysis of biomass to form gas, liquid, and solid products. The biomass materials can be selected such that an enhanced biochar is formed after pyrolysis. The biomass can be pyrolyzed under specified conditions such that a selected biochar core is formed. The pyrolysis process can form a stable biochar core that is inert and/or resistant to degradation. The biochar or biochar core can be functionalized to form a functionalized biochar or functionalized biochar core. Functionalization can include post-pyrolysis treatments such as supplementation with microbes or physical transformations including annealing and/or activation.

Abstract: This invention is directed to systems, devices and methods for treating organic-containing sludges and converting such sludges to high value fertilizers containing both inorganic and organic fertilizer components, which creates an inorganically-augmented bioorganic fertilizer. The invention describes methods to create a thixotropic or paste-like material via the application of mixing energy to the organic sludge followed by an alkaline treatment and a subsequent ammoniation. The invention further describes a method to increase the plant nutrient content in the organic containing product to a level which permits the finished granular fertilizer product to compete in the commercial agricultural fertilizer marketplace. Further, the invention reduces odors associated with said organic-containing sludges.

Abstract: A seed composition comprising a seed and a first component comprising an agriculturally acceptable complex mixture of dissolved organic material characterized by natural organic matter that is partially humified and methods of seed treating. A method comprising contacting a seed with a first component comprising an agriculturally acceptable complex mixture of dissolved organic material characterized by natural organic matter that is partially humified, where the first component enhances at least one of germination, emergence, root development, seedling vigor, seedling growth, mortality resistance, chlorophyll production, cold resistance, water log resistance, and nutrient uptake compared to similar seed not contacted with the first component.

Abstract: A method of integration of concentration-dehydration and aerobic air-drying of sewage sludge comprises the following steps: (a) conditioning by an organic agent (3); (b) gravitationally concentrating (5) the residual sludge conditioned by the organic agent; (c) conditioning by inorganic agents (7); (d) mechanically dehydrating (8); (e) crushing and dispersing (10); and (t) aerobically air-drying (11).

Abstract: A method of producing an organic based fertilizer and usable water from animal waste includes the step of separating the animal waste into liquid waste and solid waste. The liquid waste is clarified to produce a supernatant and a sludge which is pressed into a filter cake. Ammonia is extracted from the supernatant to produce ammonium sulfate and an aqueous solution. The aqueous solution is filtered to produce a concentrate and water filtrate. The water filtrate may be used as drinking and washing water. The filter cake, ammonium sulfate, and concentrate may be used to supplement to the solid waste which is pelletized into the organic based fertilizer. In alternative embodiments a portion of the supernatant and aqueous solution may be used as a liquid fertilizer.

Abstract: Animal waste is processed to form a biomaterial that is employed as a coating layer for typical fertilizer particles. The biomaterial coating layer can be used neat or with additives and serves to do one or more or any combination of the following: (a) impart a slow or controlled release property to the fertilizer, (b) prevent or reduce the tendency of the fertilizer particles to cake together, or (c) prevent or reduce the tendency of the fertilizer particles to create dust. The biomaterial coating layer can also release nutrients when used as part of a fertilizer composition.

Abstract: An environment is moderated in an area where animal wastes are collected in a fluid containing compartment. Animal wastes are collected in a fluid containing compartment. The animal wastes are of the type that generate or provide in or above the fluid containing compartment at least one waste selected from the group consisting of carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, mercaptans and organic acids. A combination is provided of i) a polymer capable of absorbing at least ten times its weight in water (preferably a superpolymer) and ii) a combination of salts that react to liberate I2. At least one waste is flocculated with liberated I2 (and any cations from the reactive salts) to form a flocculent that has reduced odor and reduced microbial content. The flocculent may be used as a fertilizer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel mixtures based on sulfur-crosslinked triglyceride, a process for their preparation, and their use as fertilizers, in particular for promoting the growth of plants which require sulfur.

Abstract: A method of producing an organic based fertilizer and usable water from animal waste includes the step of separating the animal waste into liquid waste and solid waste. The liquid waste is clarified to produce a supernatant and a sludge which is pressed into a filter cake. Ammonia is extracted from the supernatant to produce ammonium sulfate and an aqueous solution. The aqueous solution is filtered to produce a concentrate and water filtrate. The water filtrate may be used as drinking and washing water. The filter cake, ammonium sulfate, and concentrate may be used to supplement to the solid waste which is pelletized into the organic based fertilizer. In alternative embodiments a portion of the supernatant and aqueous solution may be used as a liquid fertilizer.

Abstract: A process for removing phosphorus from solid poultry or animal wastes involving (a) mixing solid poultry or animal wastes with water and acid at a pH lower that about 5.0 and higher than about 3.0 to form (i) a liquid extract that contains suspended solids of about 3.5 g/L and soluble phosphorus and (ii) a washed solid residue (having a N:P ratio of at least more than 4 expressed on an elemental basis), (b) separating the liquid extract from the washed solid residue to form separated liquid extract and separated washed solid residue, (c) mixing the separated liquid extract with an alkaline earth base to a pH of about 8.0 to about 11.0, (d) mixing the liquid extract with a flocculant to form (i) precipitated phosphorus solids with P2O5 content greater than about 10% and (ii) a liquid, and (e) separating the precipitated phosphorus solids from the liquid to form separated phosphorus solids and separated liquid. The process is conducted at a temperature greater than about 5° C. and less than about 50° C.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a pelletized fertilizer includes the following steps. A water-soluble manure and a colloidal solution are mixed, to form an aqueous solution of a fertilizer, wherein the water-soluble manure is selected from the group consisting of monopotassium phosphate, epsomite, manganous sulfite, boric acid, borax, copper sulfate pentahydrate, white vitriol, ammonium molybdate, urea, ferric ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and potassium nitrate, the colloidal solution is selected from the group consisting of agar, xanthan gum, shellac, guar gum, natto gum, pectin, synthetic hydrogel and PLGA, and the weight percentage of the colloidal solution in the aqueous solution of the fertilizer is between 1.5 and 15%. The aqueous solution of the fertilizer is added into a water within a temperature range between 0 and 4° C., whereby the aqueous solution of the fertilizer is solidified to the pelletized fertilizer.

Abstract: Compositions comprising a protein and an isolated or purified amino acid product, and uses thereof are disclosed.

Abstract: A method of preparing a fertilizer by feather processing inserts a weighed feather into a reaction container, and then adds caustic potash. Water is then added, and feather disintegration occurs. Phosphoric acid is poured into the mixture, and then the pH is measured—and if necessary improved with phosphoric acid or caustic potash. Epsom salt, vitriol of iron, boric acid, manganic sulphate, zinc sulphate, cuprous sulphate, ammonium molybdate and calcium nitrate are mixed in, and the mixture is partitioned into transportation containers depending on the weight of caustic potash included in the mixture using a drain pump through appropriate filter under constant stirring. The mixture is diluted with water, and the whole mass is perfectly mixed. Humic acids are then mixed into the diluted mixture to form a final keratin fertilizer with humic acid additive in colloid form.

Abstract: This invention is directed to systems, devices and methods for treating organic-containing sludges and converting such sludges to high value fertilizers containing both inorganic and organic fertilizer components, which creates an inorganically-augmented bioorganic fertilizer. The invention describes methods to create a thixotrophic or paste-like material via the application of mixing energy to the organic sludge followed by an alkaline treatment and a subsequent ammoniation. The invention further describes a method to increase the plant nutrient content in the organic containing product to a level which permits the finished granular fertilizer product to compete in the commercial agricultural fertilizer marketplace. Further, the invention reduces odors associated with said organic-containing sludges.

Abstract: This invention relates to a storage stable fertilizer composition in the form of pellets or granules comprising an organic fertilizer in admixture with a water absorbent polymer. This invention also relates to a process for producing a storage stable fertilizer composition, the process comprising: i) mixing an organic fertilizer and a water absorbent polymer to form a mixture; ii) pelletizing or granulating the mixture; and iii) drying the pellets or granules for a time and under conditions sufficient to form a storage stable fertilizer composition.

Abstract: The invention provides for methods, devices, and systems for pyrolyzing biomass. A pyrolysis unit can be used for the pyrolysis of biomass to form gas, liquid, and solid products. The biomass materials can be selected such that an enhanced biochar is formed after pyrolysis. The biomass can be pyrolyzed under specified conditions such that a selected biochar core is formed. The pyrolysis process can form a stable biochar core that is inert and/or resistant to degradation. The biochar or biochar core can be functionalized to form a functionalized biochar or functionalized biochar core. Functionalization can include post-pyrolysis treatments such as supplementation with microbes or physical transformations including annealing and/or activation.

Abstract: A process for mixing seawater, feather additive, and one or more algae to prepare a nutrient-rich feedstock for cultivating, growing, and harvesting algae. The harvested algae are processed to produce biofuel, oil, nutrient supplements, and polymers used for cosmetics.

Abstract: A method of preparing a fertilizer by feather processing inserts a weighed feather into a reaction container, and then adds caustic potash. Water is then added, and feather disintegration occurs. Phosphoric acid is poured into the mixture, and then the pH is measured—and if necessary improved with phosphoric acid or caustic potash. Epsom salt, vitriol of iron, boric acid, manganic sulphate, zinc sulphate, cuprous sulphate, ammonium molybdate and calcium nitrate are mixed in, and the mixture is partitioned into transportation containers depending on the weight of caustic potash included in the mixture using a drain pump through appropriate filter under constant stirring. The mixture is diluted with water, and the whole mass is perfectly mixed. Humic acids are then mixed into the diluted mixture to form a final keratin fertilizer with humic acid additive in colloid form.

Abstract: A water-dispersible particle is provided that includes organic origin potash in an amount ranging from 5% to 99.9% by weight of the total dry weight of the particle. A binder component is present in an amount from 1% to 95% by weight. The organic origin potash and the binder component on that contact with water causes particle dispersion into more than 100 pieces. A process for making a water-dispersible particle includes mechanical aggregation of the potash into a pellet. A binder component is present in the particle in an amount ranging from 1% to 95% by weight. The potash and the binder component are present in a form such that contact with water causes particle dispersion into more than 100 pieces. The pellet is then dried and ready to be applied.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods of enhancing plant growth, comprising treating seed at least one month prior to planting with an effective amount of a plant signal molecule, wherein upon harvesting the plant exhibits at least one of increased plant yield measured in terms of bushels/acre, increased root number, increased root length, increased root mass, increased root volume and increased leaf area, compared to plants harvested from untreated seed, or compared to plants harvested from seed treated with the signal molecule just prior to or within a week or less of planting.

Abstract: A composter device is provided including a mixer and a grinder commonly driven and commonly located in a composting chamber of the device. A large opening at the top of the composting chamber permits large objects to be inserted into the chamber to permit the object to be ground and left to decompose to produce compost material in the same chamber. The grinder includes grinding elements arranged to produce a shearing action while the mixer includes an auger to produce a churning action when the ground matter requires periodic mixing during the decomposition process to produce compost.

Abstract: This invention is directed to systems, devices and methods for treating organic-containing sludges and converting such sludges to high value fertilizers containing both inorganic and organic fertilizer components, which creates an inorganically-augmented bioorganic fertilizer. The invention describes methods to create a thixotrophic or paste-like material via the application of mixing energy to the organic sludge followed by an alkaline treatment and a subsequent ammoniation. The invention further describes a method to increase the plant nutrient content in the organic containing product to a level which permits the finished granular fertilizer product to compete in the commercial agricultural fertilizer marketplace. Further, the invention reduces odors associated with said organic-containing sludges.

Abstract: An organic mixture for retaining water in soil includes 30 to 38 kg of cellulose fiber waste or paper sludge, 8 to 13 kg of dry sawdust or wood shavings, 30 to 50 kg of top soil, 4 to 6.5 kg of manure, and 11.45 to 20 kg of calcium carbonate.

Abstract: A method of producing an animal feed that is free from transmittable degenerative encephalopathies is provided. Central to the method is alkali treatment of animal material at a pH of at least 8.5 under temperature conditions below 100 C at atmospheric pressure. This method provides a decontaminated animal feed produced under relatively low temperature and pressure conditions that are achievable in standard animal carcass rendering facilities.

Abstract: Methods of treating animal litter and/or bedding material for control of volatile ammonia and soluble phosphorous include applying granular partially hydrated ferric sulfate to the litter. The partially hydrated ferric sulfate ranges from gray to tan in color and is spread onto the litter at a rate effective to reduce ammonia volatilization and reduce soluble phosphorous. Relative to reagent grade ferric sulfate, the partially hydrated ferric sulfate exhibits lower hygroscopicity and higher deliquescence. The ferric sulfate is prepared by a process comprising oxidizing ferrous sulfate with sulfuric acid using a molecular oxygen oxidizing agent at an elevated pressure relative to atmospheric and at a temperature of 60° C. to 140° C. to produce a gray to tan colored granular product.

Abstract: A value-added granulated organic fertilizer produced from poultry litter and biosolids using agglomeration techniques with a pin mixer. The granulated organic fertilizer includes granules biosolids, a nitrification inhibitor, such as dicyandiamide, and a binding agent, such as lignosulfonate, urea formaldehyde, or water. The nitrogen concentration of the granulated organic fertilizer is increased by being fortified with urea. The poultry litter and biosolids formulated into the granulated organic fertilizer aid in flowability, storage, and spreading, while value-added plant nutrient ingredients provide an environmentally safer fertilizer than fresh poultry litter, municipal biosolids and/or many commercially available products commonly used in urban and agricultural systems. The binding agents change the fertilizer granule water soluble phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations and reduce fines and dust.

Abstract: A water-dispersible particle for delivery of fertilizer to a plant is disclosed. After delivery wetting of the particles causes particle dispersion so as to prevent secondary pick up to the particles. Methods for making and using the water-dispersible particle are described.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for aeration of organic material, wherein the organic material undergoes an aerobic composing process, such that air is caused to evenly penetrate the organic material. The organic material is first sealed in a vessel. Air is then delivered to the contents of the vessel such that an air pressure of from about 1 to about 1000 kPa above atmospheric pressure is maintained in the vessel. A pressure differential initially forms and is then allowed to equilibrate over a period of time, in which time air flows from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure in the organic material thus ensuring that aeration is evenly distributed throughout the organic material.

Abstract: This invention is directed to systems, devices and methods for treating organic-containing sludges and converting such sludges to high value fertilizers containing both inorganic and organic fertilizer components, which creates an inorganically-augmented bioorganic fertilizer. The invention describes methods to create a thixotrophic or paste-like material via the application of mixing energy to the organic sludge followed by an alkaline treatment and a subsequent ammoniation. The invention further describes a method to increase the plant nutrient content in the organic containing product to a level which permits the finished granular fertilizer product to compete in the commercial agricultural fertilizer marketplace. Further, the invention reduces odors associated with said organic-containing sludges.

Abstract: Methods and systems for processing organic waste material are provided. These methods and systems include integrating an anaerobic bio-digester and nutrient recovery module with a bio-production facility, which can locally provide feedstock for the bio-production facility, and can locally provide organic material for the anaerobic bio-digester. Methods and systems for integrating an anaerobic bio-digester with a gas cleaner are also provided, which can recover nutrients while cleaning the biogas produced by the anaerobic bio-digester.

Abstract: A method of treating bio waste including the steps of (1) fermenting substantially raw biowaste in a pathogen reduction stage under anaerobic conditions for a predetermined period at a temperature in the mesophillic temperature range and (2) subsequently separating the solid and liquid phases to produce a fermented cake and fermented liquor. The fermented cake has at least 15% solids on dry basis and contains over 500 mg/L ammonia, over 1,000 mg/L total Volatile Fatty Acids (tVFA) and Escherichia coli less than 100,000 cfu per g dry solids. The fermented liquor contains over 10,000 mg/L COD, over 500 mg/L ammonia, over 1,000 mg/L tVFA and less than 5,000 mg/L of suspended solids.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process to purify enzymatically digested heparin-derived protein hydrolysate (peptone) comprising the step of passing the peptone through a nanofilter at a temperature of about ambient to about 130° F. and a pressure of about ambient to about 360 psi resulting in peptone concentrate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for producing nitrogen fertilizer from organic waste products in the liquid phase (suspension, emulsion, solution) and for hygienizing the wastes or reducing the emissions by thermal treatment using mineral or organic additions. According to the invention, this is achieved by a method, wherein the waste product is heated at underpressure to temperatures between 40 and 90° C., the escaping gas containing carbon dioxide and ammonia is cooled down and introduced into an aqueous absorption agent, the nitrogen fertilizer formed thereby is discharged and the excess gas not having been absorbed and containing carbon dioxide is pumped back into the discharge container, wherein the underpressure generated at the beginning of the process by a vacuum pump is autogenously maintained by the progress of the process.

Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for making fertilizer compositions out of potassium phosphate brine solutions recovered from meat processing operations. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method for making a fertilizer composition including filtering a meat-processing waste solution, and measuring the concentration of a salt in the meat-processing waste solution. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method for disposing of a meat-processing brine solution including filtering the meat-processing brine solution, and measuring the concentration of a salt in the meat-processing brine solution.

Abstract: This invention discloses systems and methods for conversion of high moisture waste materials to dry or low moisture products for recycle or reuse. 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 and wherein the processing unit forms the dried material from the dryer vessel into granules, pellets or other desired form for the final product. Optionally, the systems and methods further provide for processing ventilation air from manufacturing facilities to reduce emissions therefrom.

Abstract: An enhanced fertilizer product comprised of nutrients and inert solids wherein the nutrients and inert solids are derived from a source material. The nutrients in the source material are collected with a nutrient capture process. The fertilizer product is agglomerated.

Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention is useful for recycling protein waste and producing fuel from protein waste. Waste is ground by a grinding means and digested by a enzyme digest medium composed of enzymes, preservatives, and inedible egg. The ground proteins are digested with the enzyme in recirculated digest tanks. Fat can be collected from the tank by addition of acid and separation of fat from water with a centrifuge. Alternatively the ground protein and enzyme can be fermented and gas collected from the digest tank in a pressure tank with a compressor. The protein solubles are emulsified, separated from water, and extruded before drying. Either fat or gas can be used to fuel a dryer. The dried proteins are then milled in a hammer mill and screened for uniform size.

Abstract: There are provided a method of treating organic waste, which is excellent in the smooth temperature elevation in the early stage of the treatment and satisfactory in temperature-maintenance in a high temperature range, and by which the stable treatment of organic waste is achieved and the evaporation of moisture is promoted, thereby a stable effect of treating organic waste and an increased treatment scale being achieved; an agent for treating organic waste; and microorganisms to be used therein. The method is characterized by the use of a mesophilic bacterium showing its activity at 15 to 50° C. and a thermophilic bacterium showing its activity at 50 to 70° C. in the organic waste. As the mesophilic bacteria, bacteria which have an exothermic action and form spores under a temperature of 50° C. or higher are preferable and Bacillus subtilis is more preferable. Among these bacteria, a C-3102 strain (FERM BP-1096) is especially preferable.

Abstract: A process for treating an organic matter sludge includes, in a mixing stage, mixing an organic matter sludge and particulate sterilized organic matter, to form an organic matter mixture. This mixture is dried in a drying stage to obtain a homogeneous particulate organic product.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel compositions for preventing caking and crust formation in several types of manures or fertilizers in the form of granular solids. Said compositions comprise at least one phosphoric ester and at least one fatty trialkylamine of formula (III) wherein R1 represents a linear or branched alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl group containing between 6 and 24 carbon atoms, R2 represents an alkyl group containing between 1 and 5 carbon atoms, R3 represents a linear or branched alkyl group containing between 1 and 5 carbon atoms, or alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl group containing between 6 and 24 carbon atoms.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus and a process for treating biomass bearing material including municipal solid waste (MSW). The apparatus includes a reaction vessel held at an angle and configured for rotation and steam injection, with helically arranged internal flights, a self-aligning door closure, and a swing-away door assembly. It also includes a novel structure for shredding biomass bearing material attached to the edges of the flights. This structure is a number of projecting tooth like points and paddles.

Abstract: A method of treating waste matter from animals, the method comprising: a) collecting waste matter from the animals; b) inhibiting urease activity in said collected waste matter; and c) separating said urease-activity inhibited waste matter into a urea-rich fraction and a urea-lean fraction; a system for treating waste matter from animals; a urea-lean biogas fuel product; a urea-rich animal waste-matter product; a method of controlling the content of nitrogen in manure from animals; a method of reducing gaseous ammonia in stables for animals; a stable for animals; a biogas reactor system for producing biogas from waste matter from animals; a method of producing urea from waste matter of animals; a method of producing urea formaldehyde; and a method of producing biogas fuel from waste matter of animals.

Abstract: A method of producing an animal feed that is free from transmittable degenerative encephalopathies is provided. Central to the method is alkali treatment of animal material at a pH of at least 8.5 under temperature conditions below 100 C at atmospheric pressure. This method provides a decontaminated animal feed produced under relatively low temperature and pressure conditions that are achievable instandard animal carcass rendering facilities.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing a plant growth medium comprising the following steps: a) providing an amount of bioorganic matter; b) contacting the bioorganic matter with one or more microbial agents capable of degrading the bioorganic matter to produce a decomposition product; and c) treating the decomposition product produced in step (b) to inhibit the degradation process prior to its completion. The invention further provides a bioreactor and a kit for performing that method, and a plant growth medium. In an embodiment, the plant growth medium is a peat-substitute material.