CA2100017A1 - Composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement composition - Google Patents
Composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement compositionInfo
- Publication number
- CA2100017A1 CA2100017A1 CA002100017A CA2100017A CA2100017A1 CA 2100017 A1 CA2100017 A1 CA 2100017A1 CA 002100017 A CA002100017 A CA 002100017A CA 2100017 A CA2100017 A CA 2100017A CA 2100017 A1 CA2100017 A1 CA 2100017A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- weight percent
- composition
- source
- sugar
- nitrogen
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C05—FERTILISERS; MANUFACTURE THEREOF
- C05G—MIXTURES OF FERTILISERS COVERED INDIVIDUALLY BY DIFFERENT SUBCLASSES OF CLASS C05; MIXTURES OF ONE OR MORE FERTILISERS WITH MATERIALS NOT HAVING A SPECIFIC FERTILISING ACTIVITY, e.g. PESTICIDES, SOIL-CONDITIONERS, WETTING AGENTS; FERTILISERS CHARACTERISED BY THEIR FORM
- C05G5/00—Fertilisers characterised by their form
- C05G5/30—Layered or coated, e.g. dust-preventing coatings
Abstract
A composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement comprising about 0.5 to about 45 weight percent of a water soluble nitrogen source and about 0.25 to about 45 weight percent of a sugar wherein the ratio of nitrogen source to sugar source is between 1:1 and 20:1 on a dry matter basis. The water soluble nitrogen source and sugar are encapsulated in a hydrophilic polysaccharide having a molecular weight greater than 10,000. The composition can also include a source of soil bacteria, a buffer system, a potassium and other nutrient source, and an insoluble nitrogen source.
Description
COMPOSITE SLOW RELEASE FERTILIZER AND
SOIL SUPPLEMENT COMPOSITION
Cro~e-Reference to Related AP~lication~
Thig iB a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Serial No. 07/823,058, filed January 17, 1992, which i8 a continuation of U.S. patent application Serial No. 07/359,224, filed May 31, 1989, now abandoned.
Field of the Invention Thi~ invention relate6 generally to ~oil supplement6 and fertilizer6. More narrowly, the present invention i~ directed to a combination slow relea6e fertilizer and 60il 6upplement composition which create6 an environment that drives a natural bacterial slow nitrogen release mechani6m in the ~oil. T~l~
composition sustains and im~ ves the physical condition ~ r the 60il while promoting and ~.~taining plant quality.
Backqround of ~he Invention Owners of commercial sod farms, golf course~, parks, s~i areas, and residential home~ de6ire lush, green grass. To this end, the use of fertilizers is widespread. Typically, the~e fertilizers are highly soluble mixtures of nitrogen containing, potassium containing and phosphorus containin~
compounds such as urea, potas6ium pho6phates and potassi sulfates. The~e types of basic fertilizers are commonl available and normally used becau~e of their low co~t.
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~lU~017 Increasingly, however, the exce~sive use of ~uch highly soluble fertilizer6 h~s been linked to ground and sur~ace water contamination and other detrimental ecological effects.
Highly soluble fertilizers also require more frequent 5 application in order to sustain available nitrogen levels.
Each application increa~es the cost ba~ed on purchase of the fertilizer plu8 labor and machinery expenses associated with applying each dose.
A recognized detrimental impact of highly soluble fertilizers, which contain urea, is their tendency to decrease the overall microbial activity of the soil over time;
Microbial activity is important in maintaining good soil structure and organic matter levels within the soil. These two characteristics are important for proper water and nutrient retention.
To solve problems associated with the high ~olubility of fertilizers, past research and development efforts have been directed to processes for slowing the release of nitrogen from fertilizers. For example, Moore et al. in U.S. Patent No.
4,969,947 disclose the use of a polymer coating on solid fertilizer particles to retard the relea~e of nitrogen.
Vlatny et al. further disclo~e in U.S. Patent No. 5,030,267 a process for coating fertilizers with 6ilicic acid colloid and cement to retard nitrogen release. Goertz, in U.S. Patent No.
4,411,6a3 describes the chemical modification of urea with formaldehyde and ~ugar to retard nitrogen release.
-` ~10~017 Each of the above patent~ rely on phy~ical or chemlcal me~n~ of modifying the rele~e of nitrogen from a fertillzer.
While it iB recognized that these method~ may cau~e a ~lower release of urea and ammoniacal nitrogen from the fertilizer, it iB still believed that the overall health and vigor of the turf is often adversely affected by dimini~hed microbiological activity in the soil. At be~t, these fertilizers fail to improve the physical condition of the soil.
Microbes are nature~ soil conditioners. Adequate eoil microbial activity break6 down dead organic matter and forms polysaccharide6 which improve soil porosity and aggregation.
Inventions relating to the conditioning of soil to achieve improved plant growth conditions are not new. For example, Lovne6s ~U.S. Patent 4,119,429), which is co-owned with the present invention and which i~ hereby incorporated by reference, discloses a 80il 6upplement containing a combination of microorganisms, enzymes, an organic protein source, an organic carbohydrate ~ouree, a 6eque~tering agent, and water. The presence of the microorganisms aids in breaking down dead organic matter in the soil and converts the organic matter to a form useable to plants.
By-products of the microbiological activity condition the soil by providing additional organic matter. However, most of the component~ are insoluble in water and vary widely in avai}ability. Increased solubility of the components allows an applicator to dissolve the soil supplement in water and U I) 1 7 spray it onto the soil and plant ~urPace~. Since tho nitrogen and carbohydrate sources are of an in~oluble nature, plant fertilization occur 6trictly by a slow time release mechanism, Witt et al. ~U.S. Patent 2,822,643) discloee a ~oil conditioner and stabilizer consisting of dextran. This dextran soil conditioning formula does not manufacture the necessary proteins and nutrients to condition the soil and sustain plant growth.
Novak et al. (U.S. Patent 2,826,002) disclose a soil conditioner in combination with a fertilizer. Dextran is synthesized and applied to the soil to improve the soil structure. This 6ynthesis does not occur in the soil. The preferred fertilization substrate~ are inorganic. Relatively large quantities of dextran (ranging between 0.3 and 0.6 percent by weight of soil) are neces6ary to achieve the desired soil condition. This conditioner does not generate organic matter or break down organic matter into forms ueable by plants. - -~
Hiler (u.s. Patent 2,901,~64) discloses a soil conditioner and method of using the conditioner. Hiler discloses a method of producing a culture medium conducive to dextran growth. The dextran does little to encourage the growth of beneficial microorganism6 that break down organic matter to provide more natural soil conditioning.
' A method of making a nutrient promoting culture/soil conditioner is disclosed by Durell (U.S. Patent 3,762,910).
` ~lUl)017 The ~oil i~ converted into an active ionle state by a sequence of organic reactions. Durell requiree multiple process steps that cannot be completed in the ground. The ~upplement must be transferred from the soil to containers, and back to the soil.
Both Coty (U.S. Patent 3,387,964) and Coty (U.S. Patent 3,393,063) disclose method6 for fixing nitrogen using two 6pecific bacteria. The 6train6 of bacteria con6ume hydrocarbon6 rather than carbohydrate~.
French Patent No. 1,310,974 discloses a bioloqical fertilizer product and describee a method of aerobic fermentation. The invention provide~ a ~ource of fertilization for plants, and doee not improve the overall condition of the ~oil.
Lovnes6 (U.S. Patent 4,032,318) disclo6e6 a combination of microorganism6 , enzymes, protein, and carbohydrates for use a6 a composin~ mixture. The product iB added to organic matter to promote natural decay. Lovnes6' di~closure is not directed to a 60il supplement. Degradation of the organic matter ie achieved in the absence of 60il.
Accordingly, the need exists for a compo6ite ~low relea6e fertilizer and 60il 6upplement compo6ition. The compo6ition should sustain and improve the physical condition of the soil while promoting and sustaining plant quality. The composition ~hould increase microbial activity while also fertilizing the plant or turf. The composition should continue ~upplying 6uch ::; ~,' .'' "' ~'`~ '~'`
.. - . . . .. . . ..
~l~IU~17 beneficial effecte over an extended period of time at controlled levels to reduce the ~requency of application.
Finally, the composition should utilize natural component~
which do not have adveree long term environmental effects.
5The present invention addresee~ the~e need~ a~ well ss other problems associated with existing fertilizers and eoil supplements. The present invention al~o offers further advantages over the prior art and solves problems associated therewith. ~ ~-Summary of the Invention -The present invention is directed to a composite ~lo~ ;~
release fertilizer and soil supplement composition. In it~ -broadest sens~ the composition of the present invention i8 ;1 granular slow r~leage fertilizer and soil supplement which incorporates a wat~r ~oluble nitrogen source, a sugar 60urce, such as a mono-, di-, or tri- saccharide and combinations or mixtures thereof, and a hydrophilic polysaccharide wherein the polysaccharide encapsulates the sugar and the nitrogen source.
20In preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of nitrogen -source to sugar source i~ between about l:l to about 20:1 on a dry matter basis. Ratios les~ than l:l may cause immobiliæation of nitrogen in the soil and starve the turf.
Ratios greater than 20:1 may reduce the efficiency of the microbial ùtilization of urea. Nitrogen i8 expre6sed as weight of nitrogen available regardless of specific source.
6 ~ ~ ;
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" ~lUU~17 The hydrophilic poly~accharlde i~ preferably o~ a molecular weight greater than 10,000.
A source of nutrients consieting of a variety of mineral~
can also be added to the ~upplement to provide essential micronutriente for plant and microbiological growth. For example, pho6phorus and potas6ium may be incorporated to be utilized by the microorgani6m population and plants a6 a food source.
In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention further include6 a buffer syetem which 6erve6 to control the pH of the ~oil and turf environment. Phosphates, acetates, nitrates, 6ulfate salt6, and combinations thereof are recognized buffers which may be incorporated.
A 60urce of bacteria or microorganism can also be incorporated into the compo6ition. Supplementing the microorgani6m population can be critical in compositions utilized to supplement and 6ustain soil which has been damaged due to over fertilization.
A relatively water-insoluble nitrogen source can also be incorporated into the present co~po6ition. A water-in601uble nitrogen 60urce can provide ~upplemental nitrogen over an extended period of time as it i6 broken down by microbial action.
It ha6 been di6covered that a compo6ite slow relea6e fertilizer and soil 6upplement compo6ition incorporating the above ingredients provides a "microbiological media" type .. , . , . . . ~ , .
~ U 0 1 7 fertilizer which causes a substantial portion o~ the nitrogen and sugar source to be consumed by the microorgani6m, then stored in the cell mass of the soil bacteria or microorganisms and finally ~lowly released to the plant or turf as they die and lyse. In order for this slow release to occur, the present composition use6 a sugar source for energy, natural and 6ynthetic nitrogen as a nutrient, and a water absorbing polyeaccharide in combination to hold the ingredients together creatinq "media~' for microbial growth and provide slow release. In preferred embodiments a buffer system, other nutrients, a water-insoluble nitrogen ~ource and a bacteria or microorganism source are also incorporated.
The resulting granules serve as a pH controlled microfermentation unit for 60il bacteria. After the fertilizer granule is wetted in the turf canopy, the polysaccharide absorbs water and slowly releases the water soluble nitrogen and sugar components to the soil bacteria.
This slow release action, along with the balanced pH
controlled growth media, cause soil microbial populations to rise dramatically. This action results in the storing of nitrogen in the form of protein within the protopla~m of the microorganisms for release over time. The rise in soil microbial activity produces beneficial substance6 such as polysaccharides to aid in increasing soil pQrosity and aggregation. This action is in great contrast to the soil microbial inhibition which takes place when readily soluble ~' ~ 1 U U ~ 1 ~
nitrogen sources such a~ urea are used in commerclally available fertilizer compo~itions.
It ha~ also been found that a soil supplement and fertilizer composition which incorporate~ the above compo6ition results in a three 6tage release of nitrogen to the turf and i8 capable of sustaining growth and plant quality over a 12-16 week period. In the first stage, an initial amount of water soluble nitrogen is released upon wetting which results in nitrogen going direct to the plants. This action i6 believed to peak in a 2-3 day period. Thus, an immediate improvement in turf qualit~ is achieved. A second ~tage release occurs due to the breakdown of the water insoluble nitrogen by microbial activity. It iB believed thi~
release peaks in a period of 7-21 days after application. The third ~tage release is due to lysing of the microbial population which extend6 out for the 12-16 week period. It is believed the~e three nitrogen release mechanisms and stages overlap at various rates to accompli6h continued supplementation of plant growth at an acceptable rate with a single application.
These and various other advantages and features of novelty which characterize the present composition are pointed out with particularity in the claim6 annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a better under6tanding of the invention, its advantages, and the objects obtained by its u~e, reference should be made to the accompanying descriptive .. ,..: . , .
::, . .
matter and experimental reeult~ in wh~ch there are illu~trated and de6cribed preferred embodiments of the preaent inventlon.
Detailed DescriPtion of the Preferred Embodiments Detailed embodiments of the pre6ent invention are di6closed herein. However, it i~ to be underetood that the di6clo6ed embodiment6 are merely exemplary of the present invention which may be embodied in various sy6tems.
Therefore, ~pecific details disclo6ed herein are not to be interpreted a6 limiting, but rather ae a basis for the claims and a6 a representative ba6is for teaching one of 6kill in the art to variously practice the invention.
The present invention i6 directed to a compo6ite 610w relea6e fertilizer and 60il supplement compo6ition which includee a water 601uble nitrogen 60urce, a 6ugar 60urce, and a water ab60rbing or hydrophilic poly6accharide. In preferred embodiments the composition further include6 a buffer 6y~tem, a water in601uble nitrogen 60urce, potassium and a 60urce of Bacillus 60il bacteria. The compo6ition is formed into a water absorbing fertilizer granule. The resulting granule drive6 a natural bacterial 610w nitrogen releaee mechani6m in the eoil. The use of this type of fertilizer enhance6 the quality of turf by creating an active microbiological 80il environment using a natural proce6s.
AB applied to ~oil and turf, the compo6ition6 of the 2S pre6ent invention are believed to 6et up a unique microbiological media. It i6 believed that the combination of ` ~l()U017 ingredients ~ets up an ongoing proces~ whlch continue~ to improve and enhance soil structure while fllso feeding the turf. The use of a polysaccharide serves multiple purposes.
Pirst, the polysaccharide bonds the other ingredients into a granular form to maintain intimate contact among the ingredients. Further, the polysaccharide is hydrophilic and therefore absorbs water which assists in solubilizing the nitrogen source and sugar source for use while swelling to hold such source6 in close proximity to the microorqanisms for consumption. A further purpo6e of the polyeaccharide i8 to provide an additional enérgy source as the polysaccharide iB
broken down over an extended period of time. This breakdown . ..
occurs by action of the microorganisms. Finally, the polysaccharide provides increased cation exchange capability by providinq weak bonds to such positively charged cations as potassium and ammonia ions.
It is generally referred to herein that the polysaccharide encapsulates the other constituents of the compo~ition. ~y encapsulation it is meant that the polysaccharide binds together and coats at least a portion of the other constituentg. A portion of the constituents enter the soil based on solubility with water on an initial wetting of the granule. ~
The microbiological media set up by a granule of the ~ ~-present invention is initiated by exposure of the granule to water upon application to the soil and turf. It is believed J U 1) 1 ~
that the mechanism of long term elow release of nutrient~ and of fertilizer to th~ turf and ~oil take6 pl~ce in three overlapping ~tages.
The first stage involve~ the dissolving of a portion of the water ~oluble nitrogen source and sugar 60urce by initial contact of the granule with water. A portion of granule constituentE which are in contact with the surface of the granule i6 readily relea~ed. These constituents directly feed the turf. It is believed that this fir~t 6tage phenomenon occurs during the first 2-3 days after application of the fertilizer granule in conjunction with watering. It i6 further believed that this direct feeding of nitrogen and nutrient6 to the plant continues to occur over an extended period of time as the polysaccharide is 810wly di~601ved or con6umed by microorganifims making additional soluble nitrogen available to the turf which i~ in exces~ of that consumed by the microorgani6ms.
The second stage in the microbiological media process is believed to occur as water insoluble nitrogen is released.
The relea6e of this nitrogen is driven by the microorganisms.
It is believed that the ~econd stage of the process peak6 during 7-21 day6 after application. It iB however understood that a certain quantity of nitrogen will continue to be relea6ed from the water insoluble nitrogen source to the plant ov~r an extended period of time as ~uch water insoluble nitrogen source is further expo6ed due to breakdown or . , ;, .
dissolving of khe poly~accharide.
The third stage of the process is believed to occur through lysing of the microbial population. A portion of the water soluble nitrogen and water insoluble nitrogen along with the ~ugar source are utilized by the microbials and ~tored in the cell mass of the bacteria. The cell population grows dramatically as 6ugar and nitrogen are available. The nitrogen tied up in the cell bioma6s iB then 810wly released to the plant or turf as the microbials die and ly~e. It i8 al~o believed that the polysaccharides provide a source of energy to the microbials over an extended period of time as they are broken down. It ha6 been found that continued feeding of the turf by lysing of the microbials continues over a 12-16 week period.
Granule6 of the compo6ition of the present invention are readily made utilizing known technologies for pelletizing fertilizers and 60il supplements. In a preferred method, the water soluble nitrogen source is added to a mixer, while mixing with a quantity of fat such as 80y bean oil. A
quantity of polysaccharide is then added to the mixer and mixing is continued. Any other remaining ingredients may then be added, including such components as the carbohydrate or sugar 60urce, con6tituent6 compri6ing a buffer sy6tem, water insoluble nitrogen, potaesium, other nutrient6 and a 60urce of bacteria or microorgani6m~
Alternatively, it i6 recognized that the poly6accharide ;~ 1 U ~
may be added after the sugar ~ource and water eoluble nitrogen 60urce have been blended and achieve the same result.
However, it i5 believed additional polysaccharide must be utilized. The final mixture iB pelletized, followed by granulation to a standard 6/10 me~h particle size. The particle size may vary depending on the application situation.
No steam is utilized in the pelletizing proces~.
The present invention provides a culture of beneficial microorganisms and a food source for the bacteria such that application to the soil will improve the 60il ' B overall condition. The bacteria aids in breaking down dead plant material and causes fioil particles to adhere together, generally improving the condition of the 80il. In addition, the amount of decayed organic matter presen~ in the soil increa~es the 60il's ability to retain moisture and important nutrients. The beneficial microorgani6ms "tie up" the remaining unused fertilizer to provide ongoing soil conditioning and slow time release fertilization.
The rel~tivr solubilities of the nitrogen and carbohydrate ~ources are important to the objects of thi6 invention. The least soluble material i~ the lim.iting factor in the microbial breakdown of the two components. When the solubilities of the two component~ are similar, the microorganisms rapidly consume the nitrogen and carbohydrate sources producing proteins and cellular constituents for new cell production as well a~ enzymes. These enzymes facilitate lU~0~7 reactions which affect the av~ilabillty of nutrlente ~uch a nitroqen, phosphate, sulfur ~nd iron. Afl theHe mlcrobee dle off, the cell~ are lysed relea~ing nutrient~ for uptake by plants.
As previously disclosed, a source of microbials can be incorporated into compositions of the present invention. It is recognized that any soil ~acillus bacteria, including such species as the licheniformis, subtillis and/or megaterium and combinations thereof may be utilized. Actinomycetes and related genera may also be utilized. A preferred microbial content for the fertilizer iB 1 X 109 colony forming units per pound of fertilizer.
It is however further recognized that all applications will not require the addition of a bacteria or microbial source to the fertilizer composition. The necessity of such addition is dictated by the condition of the soil onto which the composition is applied. If the soil bacteria population is too low, the population must be supplemented within the composition to properly augment the soil and turf.
A culture of beneficial microorganisms in combination with an adequate food supply produce enzymes which break down organic matter to form a source of nutrients to plants. The ~ -~
microorgani~m culture surrounds the plants with beneficial bacteria that discourage other forms of unbenefical microbial growth.
While a wide range of microorganisms may be used as " ' ~
beneficial microorganisms in ~he soil ~upplement of the pre~ent invention, the following microorganisms have al00 been found to be very satisfactory. The particular microorganism cultureR have been disclosed in Lovne~s U.S. Patent 4,119,429.
Microorganism~ - about 0.5 to about 10 percent by weight of 15 to 20 billion cell count per gram of microorgani6ms for a granular formulation from the group consi6tin~ of: Azobacter, Pseudomonadaceae, Actinomycetes, Streptomycetace6ae, gram negative Chemolithotropics, Bacillaceae, Norcardiaceae, Phycomycetes, Ascomycetes, Basidiomycetes, Fungi imperfecti, Zygomycete6, and nitrifying bacteria of the oxidizing type of microorganisms 6uch as Nitrosomonas or Nitro bacter.
The presence of a water soluble carbohydrate source, a sugar, i~ an essential element of the present invention. The carbohydrate source must be soluble enough to di6solve rapidly in water at concentration6 suitable for 60il application. In addition, the carbohydrate ~ource should be of similar ~olubility to the nitrogen source in order to maximize beneficial microbial ~rowth. The preferred carbohydrate source of the preæent invention is crude mola6ses, a by-product of the sugar beet industry. Molasse6 is utilized a6 a supply food 60urce for the beneficial microorgani6ms and i5 the primary ra~ material in the 80il supplement mixture.
Other carbohydrate rich sub6trates 6uch a6 corn by-products may also be u~ed. ~l~UUl ~
A carbohydrate or 6ugar source may be generally described as any mono-, di-, or tri- saccharide and combinations or mixtures thereof. These may include such compounds as dextrose, starch, sucrose, molas6es, maltodextrines and mixtures thereof. The concentration of sugar on a weight percent basis can range from about 0.25 weight percent to about 45 weight percent. In preferred compositions the concentration of sugar ranges from about 10 percent to about 20 percent.
Compositions of the present invention incorporate a water soluble nitrogen source. The compositional range i6 from about 0.5 weight percent to about 45 weight percent as expres6ed in nitrogen content. A preferred concentration of nitrogen is from about 4 weight percent to about 45 weight percent. Preferred water soluble nitrogen sources include urea and/or ammonium sulfate and mixtures thereof. These nitrogen sources are selected on the basis of lower cost. It is however recognized that potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, ammonium phosphate, and protein hydrolysates could be utilized.
In alternative embodiments, a water insoluble nitrogen source can also be incorporated into compositions of the pre~ent invention. Water insoluble nitrogen from a natural protein source can enhance microbial activity. Such compounds as feathermeal, leather 6crap6, ~oybean meal, blood meal, ,....... . . .
lUUU~7 poultry waste and mixtures thereof m~y be utillzed. It is recognized that a preferred r~nge of concentration i~ from about 5 percent to about 40 percent by weight of the overall composition.
It has been found that a key to useful formulation~ of the above composition is to keep the ratio of water soluble nitrogen to sugar on a dry matter basis in a range suitable for maximal microbial ~ctivity. In preferred compositions the ratio of water soluble nitrogen source to sugar i8 between about 1:1 to about 20:1 on a dry matter basis. It is recognized that the preferable range i8 a ratio of nitrogen to sugar of 1:1 to about 10:1. A mo6t preferred range is about 3:1 to 6:1.
The present invention contemplates the use of an inorganic nitrogen source for the primary purpose of supplying an adequate nitrogen supply to its microbiological component.
Upon wetting, a small portion of the synthetic nitrogen is released to the plant before the microbes can use it. There-fore, 60me of the water soluble nitrogen is fed directly to the plants. The microor~anisms "tie up" a portion of the nitrogen and make it available to the plant6 by a slow time-release mechanism.
A hydrophilic polysaccharide is utilized to bind and augment the slow release of the con~tituents of the present 'co~p,osite slow relea~e fertilizer and 60il supplement compo6ition. A hydrophilic polysaccharlde iB one which attracts or absorbs water with ~ub0equent swell~ng and retention of the water. Preferred polysaccharldes have a molecular weight greater than 10,000. A~ previously discloeed, the poly~accharide encapeulatee the sugar and nitrogen source6.
The hydrophilic poly6accharides are alternatively referred to a6 gums. U6eful polysaccharides include agar agar, alginates, arabic, carrageenans, carboxy methyl cellulose, furcelleran, ghatti, guar, karaya, locust bean, pectins, p6yllium, carob, xanthan, tragacanth and combinations : , , or mixtures thereof. It i8 recognized that the polysaccharide will generally be selected on the ba~is of cost. Guar is recognized a~ the most economical to use and iB preferred in embodiments of the present invention.
In preferred embodiments, a buffer system is incorporated into the slow release fertilizer and ~oil supplement composition to maintain the pH in the range of about 5.0 to about 8Ø This component may also provide P205 and K20 to the fertilizer nutriejnt composition. Known buffers include phosphates, acetates, nitrates, eulfate salts, and combinations thereof.
~ he quantity of ~um added to the composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement composition will affect the rate at which the water soluble nitrogen and sugars will leave thé fertilizer granule. When wet, the gum forms a gel which actually forms a leaching resi~tant barrier in the fertilizer . - .
, -` ~10U017 granule. It is known that weak intermolecular bond~ng properties of polyeaccharlde structure~ aleo hold compounde euch ae sugars and soluble nitrogen compounds. It i~
there~ore poesible to 810w the rate of turf re~pon~e by adding more than about 2 weight percent gum to the product. Field testing has determined that a 2 weight percent gum product will give an adequate response in turf for 8-12 weeks under normal midwestern rainfall. The level of gum ueed in southern climates will be in the 3-4 weight percent range to 810w release under the higher rainfall conditions. Under normal conditions, the preferred range of gum in the product would be in the range of about 0.25 percent to about 10 percent by weight. It i8 al60 understood that gum concentration may be increa~ed up to about 50 weight percent or more under highly water stres6ed conditions.
Potassium and phosphorus are aleo preferably added to auqment microorganism growth. Potassium in the preferred embodiment is added to the composition in the form of potaseium eulfate. Many other forms of potaeeium are suitable for supplying the potas6ium sub6trate. For example, potassium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate, potassium sulfate, and potassium nitrate are suitable potassium source~.
Diammonium phosphate is a preferred phosphorous source of the present invention. Many other phosphorous sources such as potassium phosphate and dipota6sium phosphate, for example, are also suitable subetrates. Both potas6ium and phosphorous -` ~lUU017 are nece6sary for plant growth. Potasslum and phosphorous are made available to plant~ mainly through the plant'e root structure. The polysaccharide enhances the retention of potassium and other cation~. It ie known that eoil lacking the proper condition has poor cation exchange capacity characteri6tic6. The presence of beneficial microorganism6, -~
and resulting increases in the column of organic matter, :
improve the cation exchange capacity of the soil. Thus potassium and other po6itively charged ions are more available ~ ~-to the plant6 when the soil is negatively charged.
Fertilizer compositions are generally called out on the basi~ of the ratio of nitrogen to phosphorus to potassium, or NPK. A preferred 16-2-4 ratio composition on the basis of NPK
for the present invention includes~
InaredientPercent by Weiqht Dried Molasses 12.50 -~
Diammonium Phosphate 3.20 ~ ~-Potassium Sulfate8.00 Urea(45%N) 16.70 --Ammonium Sulfate30.00 -Microbials o.so Feather Meal 19.00 Wheat Midds 8.10 Guar Gum 2.00 _ -100.00% ,, ,~
As an alternative formulation, an NPK ratio of 32-4-8 ~, " , includes the following composition: - ~-Ingredient Percent bY Weiaht Urea (45%N)72.0 -Dried Molasses 15.0 ~40% invert sugar) - ~ll)U!~:17 Monopota~sium Pho~phate 5.0 Dipotas~ium Pho~phate 5.0 Bacillue Bacteria PMX 1.0 (lxlO/9 per gm.) Guar Gum 2.0 100.00~
The objects of this invention may be more fully under6tood by a review of several compar~tive test~ of preferred fo,rmulations of the pre6ent composition.
~periment Example 1: ~H Volatility StudY
Urea i~ known for its ability to volatilize to ammonia ga~ under normal field conditions. Many of the fertilizers in the marketplace are known to contain large amount~ of urea which basically evaporates as ammonia gas after application.
The increase in soil pH due to the free ammonia can also inhibit fioil bacterial populations. This i~ a very poor agronomic way to fertilize a lawn. It has been determined through laboratory testing that the incorporation of ~ugar~ -and gums to urea,containing fertilizer6 greatly reduce the amount of urea volatilization and increa6e soil microbial populations which store temporarily nitrogen. The volatility of urea in fertilizers can eaEily be determined by placing the urea containing fertilizer under wet conditions and tracking pH. , The following information wa6 taken from Parr and 'Engibous, in Anhydrous Ammonia Agronomy Workshop, presented in 1966 at Memphis, Tennessee, pp. 4-1 to 4-8:
~ -.: :' ` i ~lUl3~17 PH of solution ~ercent f ree ~mmorai~
6 o.l 7 l.o 8 lo.o 9 50.0 To demonBtrate that urea volatility i8 reduced by the inclusion of a poly~accharide and ~ugar in the formulation, the followinq formulations were tested: ~-10Composition A: 16-2-4 Composition as previously disclosed.
Composition B: 16-2-4 Composition a8 previously disclosed without gum or molasses ~ sugar ) .
In the laboratory, 20 gram~ of 80il was placed into separate small petri dishes along with a 2#N/1000 6q ft of -~
each of the above formulations. To each dish, 20 ml6 of water was added to aimulate wet field condition~. pH readings were taken and recorded at the following times:
Time A B
Ohr~. 6.6 6.6 25 72hrs. 6.5 6.8 ~ -g6hr6. 6.5 7.6 120hrs. 6.7(3.0X10/9C~U/GM~ 9.0~1.6X10/9CFU/GM) 168hrs. 7.3 8.9 -~
It can be noted that formulation B (without gum and ~ -molasses/6ugar) experienced a sharp pH increase at 96 hrs due to liberation of free ammonia. Formulation B (with gum and molaases) remained below pl~ 7.5 for the duration of the test which indicatea low ammonia volatility. The buffer/6ugar/gum ~l~UI)17 sy~tem in Formulation B works together to tie up the ammoniacal nitrogen quickly which reduces ammonia volatility.
Note that the plate count (colony forming unit~ per gram of soil after four days incubation) i8 doubled for formulation A
over formulation B. ~his parameter demonstrates the ability of formulation A to convert ammoniacal nitrogen to cell mass for long term storage in the 60il.
Example 2: Comparative Field Test of 16-2-4 ComDo6ition to Commercially Available Compositions A recognized industry test for evaluating turf quality i6 the Visual Turfgrass Evaluation Protocol. The sy~tem is used by researchers when evaluating turfgra66 treatment re6pon6es and is a subjective visual turf color and/or quality rating ecale. The scale wa6 developed by turfgrass researchers and standardized for use by United States Department of Agriculture re6earchers for the National Turfgras6 Evaluation Program ~NTEP). Almo6t all turfgrass re~earchers in the U.S.
and internationally use this 6ystem.
The rating is as follow:
Turf Color 1-9 scale with 1=brown turf, 5=acceptable turf, and 9=dark or ideal color turf Turf Ouality (color, den6ity, 6moothne6s, uniformity, texture, and growth habit) .
1-9 scale with 1=poorest quality, 5=acceptable quality,~and 9=
best or ideal quality turf The repeatability of this sy6tem is actually quite high ~ ~ ;
when repeated with a single re~earcher and when repeated among ' eystem in Formulation ~ works together to tie up the ammoniacal nitrogen quickly which reduces ammonia volatility.
Note that the plate count ~colony forming unit~ per gram of soil after four days incubation) is doubled for formulation A
over formulation B. This parameter demonstrates the ability of formulation A to convert ammoniacal nitr*gen to cell mass for long term storage in the soil.
Example 2: Comparative Field Test of 16-2-4 ComPosition to Commercially Available Compo~itions A recognized industry test for evaluating turf quality is the Visual Turfgrass Evaluation Protocol. The system i8 used -~
by researchers when evaluating turfgrass treatment responses and is a subjective visual turf color and/or quality rating 15 scale. The scale was developed by turfgrass researchers and ;
standardized for use by United States Department of Agriculture researchers for the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP). Almost all turfgra~s re~earchere in the U.S.
and internationally use this system.
The rating i8 as follow:
Turf Color 1-9 scale with l=brown turf, 5zacceptable turf, and 9=dark or ideal color turf ~ ;
Turf Qualitv (color, density, smoothne~s, uniformity, texture, and growth habit) 1-9 scale with 1=poorest quality, 5=acceptable quality, and 9=
best or ideal quality turf The repeatability of this system is actually quite high when repeated with a single researcher and when repeated among -'~
lllU~17 a group of re~earcher~.
The ultimate measure of turf color and for the most part quality i5 recogniæed as subjective ~ince the function of turf to a large degree i~ ae~thetic. Variability ie high among homeowners when turf i8 evaluated with this ~ystem, however, researchere well experienced using this rating sy~tem normally report low to very low variability. Therefore a ~tatistical ~eparation of means often shows significance between values less than one point apart.
FALL FERTILIZATION STUDY
A fall fertilization study was conducted to compare the effectivene~s of several commercially available fertilizers to the 16-2-4 composition of the present invention as previou61y disclosed. The study included two fall applications of various fertilizer~ and the 16-2-4 compo~ite ~low relea~e fertilizer and soil supplement composition at various levels.
Evaluations of turf quality were completed in the fall (after 1 application) and again in the spring (af er both fall applications). Evaluations were conducted by three individuals utilizing the above protocol and averaged.
For each group, the applications were completed on September 15, 1992 and November 22, 1992.
.. ...
(#N/lOOOSQ FT)~AVE~ 17 ~AVE OF 3) TREA~MENT10-22-92 EVA~UATION ~-29-93 EVALUATION
51# 1# 6.5 5.5 1# 2# 6.5 6.5
SOIL SUPPLEMENT COMPOSITION
Cro~e-Reference to Related AP~lication~
Thig iB a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Serial No. 07/823,058, filed January 17, 1992, which i8 a continuation of U.S. patent application Serial No. 07/359,224, filed May 31, 1989, now abandoned.
Field of the Invention Thi~ invention relate6 generally to ~oil supplement6 and fertilizer6. More narrowly, the present invention i~ directed to a combination slow relea6e fertilizer and 60il 6upplement composition which create6 an environment that drives a natural bacterial slow nitrogen release mechani6m in the ~oil. T~l~
composition sustains and im~ ves the physical condition ~ r the 60il while promoting and ~.~taining plant quality.
Backqround of ~he Invention Owners of commercial sod farms, golf course~, parks, s~i areas, and residential home~ de6ire lush, green grass. To this end, the use of fertilizers is widespread. Typically, the~e fertilizers are highly soluble mixtures of nitrogen containing, potassium containing and phosphorus containin~
compounds such as urea, potas6ium pho6phates and potassi sulfates. The~e types of basic fertilizers are commonl available and normally used becau~e of their low co~t.
.. ... j .
~lU~017 Increasingly, however, the exce~sive use of ~uch highly soluble fertilizer6 h~s been linked to ground and sur~ace water contamination and other detrimental ecological effects.
Highly soluble fertilizers also require more frequent 5 application in order to sustain available nitrogen levels.
Each application increa~es the cost ba~ed on purchase of the fertilizer plu8 labor and machinery expenses associated with applying each dose.
A recognized detrimental impact of highly soluble fertilizers, which contain urea, is their tendency to decrease the overall microbial activity of the soil over time;
Microbial activity is important in maintaining good soil structure and organic matter levels within the soil. These two characteristics are important for proper water and nutrient retention.
To solve problems associated with the high ~olubility of fertilizers, past research and development efforts have been directed to processes for slowing the release of nitrogen from fertilizers. For example, Moore et al. in U.S. Patent No.
4,969,947 disclose the use of a polymer coating on solid fertilizer particles to retard the relea~e of nitrogen.
Vlatny et al. further disclo~e in U.S. Patent No. 5,030,267 a process for coating fertilizers with 6ilicic acid colloid and cement to retard nitrogen release. Goertz, in U.S. Patent No.
4,411,6a3 describes the chemical modification of urea with formaldehyde and ~ugar to retard nitrogen release.
-` ~10~017 Each of the above patent~ rely on phy~ical or chemlcal me~n~ of modifying the rele~e of nitrogen from a fertillzer.
While it iB recognized that these method~ may cau~e a ~lower release of urea and ammoniacal nitrogen from the fertilizer, it iB still believed that the overall health and vigor of the turf is often adversely affected by dimini~hed microbiological activity in the soil. At be~t, these fertilizers fail to improve the physical condition of the soil.
Microbes are nature~ soil conditioners. Adequate eoil microbial activity break6 down dead organic matter and forms polysaccharide6 which improve soil porosity and aggregation.
Inventions relating to the conditioning of soil to achieve improved plant growth conditions are not new. For example, Lovne6s ~U.S. Patent 4,119,429), which is co-owned with the present invention and which i~ hereby incorporated by reference, discloses a 80il 6upplement containing a combination of microorganisms, enzymes, an organic protein source, an organic carbohydrate ~ouree, a 6eque~tering agent, and water. The presence of the microorganisms aids in breaking down dead organic matter in the soil and converts the organic matter to a form useable to plants.
By-products of the microbiological activity condition the soil by providing additional organic matter. However, most of the component~ are insoluble in water and vary widely in avai}ability. Increased solubility of the components allows an applicator to dissolve the soil supplement in water and U I) 1 7 spray it onto the soil and plant ~urPace~. Since tho nitrogen and carbohydrate sources are of an in~oluble nature, plant fertilization occur 6trictly by a slow time release mechanism, Witt et al. ~U.S. Patent 2,822,643) discloee a ~oil conditioner and stabilizer consisting of dextran. This dextran soil conditioning formula does not manufacture the necessary proteins and nutrients to condition the soil and sustain plant growth.
Novak et al. (U.S. Patent 2,826,002) disclose a soil conditioner in combination with a fertilizer. Dextran is synthesized and applied to the soil to improve the soil structure. This 6ynthesis does not occur in the soil. The preferred fertilization substrate~ are inorganic. Relatively large quantities of dextran (ranging between 0.3 and 0.6 percent by weight of soil) are neces6ary to achieve the desired soil condition. This conditioner does not generate organic matter or break down organic matter into forms ueable by plants. - -~
Hiler (u.s. Patent 2,901,~64) discloses a soil conditioner and method of using the conditioner. Hiler discloses a method of producing a culture medium conducive to dextran growth. The dextran does little to encourage the growth of beneficial microorganism6 that break down organic matter to provide more natural soil conditioning.
' A method of making a nutrient promoting culture/soil conditioner is disclosed by Durell (U.S. Patent 3,762,910).
` ~lUl)017 The ~oil i~ converted into an active ionle state by a sequence of organic reactions. Durell requiree multiple process steps that cannot be completed in the ground. The ~upplement must be transferred from the soil to containers, and back to the soil.
Both Coty (U.S. Patent 3,387,964) and Coty (U.S. Patent 3,393,063) disclose method6 for fixing nitrogen using two 6pecific bacteria. The 6train6 of bacteria con6ume hydrocarbon6 rather than carbohydrate~.
French Patent No. 1,310,974 discloses a bioloqical fertilizer product and describee a method of aerobic fermentation. The invention provide~ a ~ource of fertilization for plants, and doee not improve the overall condition of the ~oil.
Lovnes6 (U.S. Patent 4,032,318) disclo6e6 a combination of microorganism6 , enzymes, protein, and carbohydrates for use a6 a composin~ mixture. The product iB added to organic matter to promote natural decay. Lovnes6' di~closure is not directed to a 60il supplement. Degradation of the organic matter ie achieved in the absence of 60il.
Accordingly, the need exists for a compo6ite ~low relea6e fertilizer and 60il 6upplement compo6ition. The compo6ition should sustain and improve the physical condition of the soil while promoting and sustaining plant quality. The composition ~hould increase microbial activity while also fertilizing the plant or turf. The composition should continue ~upplying 6uch ::; ~,' .'' "' ~'`~ '~'`
.. - . . . .. . . ..
~l~IU~17 beneficial effecte over an extended period of time at controlled levels to reduce the ~requency of application.
Finally, the composition should utilize natural component~
which do not have adveree long term environmental effects.
5The present invention addresee~ the~e need~ a~ well ss other problems associated with existing fertilizers and eoil supplements. The present invention al~o offers further advantages over the prior art and solves problems associated therewith. ~ ~-Summary of the Invention -The present invention is directed to a composite ~lo~ ;~
release fertilizer and soil supplement composition. In it~ -broadest sens~ the composition of the present invention i8 ;1 granular slow r~leage fertilizer and soil supplement which incorporates a wat~r ~oluble nitrogen source, a sugar 60urce, such as a mono-, di-, or tri- saccharide and combinations or mixtures thereof, and a hydrophilic polysaccharide wherein the polysaccharide encapsulates the sugar and the nitrogen source.
20In preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of nitrogen -source to sugar source i~ between about l:l to about 20:1 on a dry matter basis. Ratios les~ than l:l may cause immobiliæation of nitrogen in the soil and starve the turf.
Ratios greater than 20:1 may reduce the efficiency of the microbial ùtilization of urea. Nitrogen i8 expre6sed as weight of nitrogen available regardless of specific source.
6 ~ ~ ;
:: `
" ~lUU~17 The hydrophilic poly~accharlde i~ preferably o~ a molecular weight greater than 10,000.
A source of nutrients consieting of a variety of mineral~
can also be added to the ~upplement to provide essential micronutriente for plant and microbiological growth. For example, pho6phorus and potas6ium may be incorporated to be utilized by the microorgani6m population and plants a6 a food source.
In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention further include6 a buffer syetem which 6erve6 to control the pH of the ~oil and turf environment. Phosphates, acetates, nitrates, 6ulfate salt6, and combinations thereof are recognized buffers which may be incorporated.
A 60urce of bacteria or microorganism can also be incorporated into the compo6ition. Supplementing the microorgani6m population can be critical in compositions utilized to supplement and 6ustain soil which has been damaged due to over fertilization.
A relatively water-insoluble nitrogen source can also be incorporated into the present co~po6ition. A water-in601uble nitrogen 60urce can provide ~upplemental nitrogen over an extended period of time as it i6 broken down by microbial action.
It ha6 been di6covered that a compo6ite slow relea6e fertilizer and soil 6upplement compo6ition incorporating the above ingredients provides a "microbiological media" type .. , . , . . . ~ , .
~ U 0 1 7 fertilizer which causes a substantial portion o~ the nitrogen and sugar source to be consumed by the microorgani6m, then stored in the cell mass of the soil bacteria or microorganisms and finally ~lowly released to the plant or turf as they die and lyse. In order for this slow release to occur, the present composition use6 a sugar source for energy, natural and 6ynthetic nitrogen as a nutrient, and a water absorbing polyeaccharide in combination to hold the ingredients together creatinq "media~' for microbial growth and provide slow release. In preferred embodiments a buffer system, other nutrients, a water-insoluble nitrogen ~ource and a bacteria or microorganism source are also incorporated.
The resulting granules serve as a pH controlled microfermentation unit for 60il bacteria. After the fertilizer granule is wetted in the turf canopy, the polysaccharide absorbs water and slowly releases the water soluble nitrogen and sugar components to the soil bacteria.
This slow release action, along with the balanced pH
controlled growth media, cause soil microbial populations to rise dramatically. This action results in the storing of nitrogen in the form of protein within the protopla~m of the microorganisms for release over time. The rise in soil microbial activity produces beneficial substance6 such as polysaccharides to aid in increasing soil pQrosity and aggregation. This action is in great contrast to the soil microbial inhibition which takes place when readily soluble ~' ~ 1 U U ~ 1 ~
nitrogen sources such a~ urea are used in commerclally available fertilizer compo~itions.
It ha~ also been found that a soil supplement and fertilizer composition which incorporate~ the above compo6ition results in a three 6tage release of nitrogen to the turf and i8 capable of sustaining growth and plant quality over a 12-16 week period. In the first stage, an initial amount of water soluble nitrogen is released upon wetting which results in nitrogen going direct to the plants. This action i6 believed to peak in a 2-3 day period. Thus, an immediate improvement in turf qualit~ is achieved. A second ~tage release occurs due to the breakdown of the water insoluble nitrogen by microbial activity. It iB believed thi~
release peaks in a period of 7-21 days after application. The third ~tage release is due to lysing of the microbial population which extend6 out for the 12-16 week period. It is believed the~e three nitrogen release mechanisms and stages overlap at various rates to accompli6h continued supplementation of plant growth at an acceptable rate with a single application.
These and various other advantages and features of novelty which characterize the present composition are pointed out with particularity in the claim6 annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a better under6tanding of the invention, its advantages, and the objects obtained by its u~e, reference should be made to the accompanying descriptive .. ,..: . , .
::, . .
matter and experimental reeult~ in wh~ch there are illu~trated and de6cribed preferred embodiments of the preaent inventlon.
Detailed DescriPtion of the Preferred Embodiments Detailed embodiments of the pre6ent invention are di6closed herein. However, it i~ to be underetood that the di6clo6ed embodiment6 are merely exemplary of the present invention which may be embodied in various sy6tems.
Therefore, ~pecific details disclo6ed herein are not to be interpreted a6 limiting, but rather ae a basis for the claims and a6 a representative ba6is for teaching one of 6kill in the art to variously practice the invention.
The present invention i6 directed to a compo6ite 610w relea6e fertilizer and 60il supplement compo6ition which includee a water 601uble nitrogen 60urce, a 6ugar 60urce, and a water ab60rbing or hydrophilic poly6accharide. In preferred embodiments the composition further include6 a buffer 6y~tem, a water in601uble nitrogen 60urce, potassium and a 60urce of Bacillus 60il bacteria. The compo6ition is formed into a water absorbing fertilizer granule. The resulting granule drive6 a natural bacterial 610w nitrogen releaee mechani6m in the eoil. The use of this type of fertilizer enhance6 the quality of turf by creating an active microbiological 80il environment using a natural proce6s.
AB applied to ~oil and turf, the compo6ition6 of the 2S pre6ent invention are believed to 6et up a unique microbiological media. It i6 believed that the combination of ` ~l()U017 ingredients ~ets up an ongoing proces~ whlch continue~ to improve and enhance soil structure while fllso feeding the turf. The use of a polysaccharide serves multiple purposes.
Pirst, the polysaccharide bonds the other ingredients into a granular form to maintain intimate contact among the ingredients. Further, the polysaccharide is hydrophilic and therefore absorbs water which assists in solubilizing the nitrogen source and sugar source for use while swelling to hold such source6 in close proximity to the microorqanisms for consumption. A further purpo6e of the polyeaccharide i8 to provide an additional enérgy source as the polysaccharide iB
broken down over an extended period of time. This breakdown . ..
occurs by action of the microorganisms. Finally, the polysaccharide provides increased cation exchange capability by providinq weak bonds to such positively charged cations as potassium and ammonia ions.
It is generally referred to herein that the polysaccharide encapsulates the other constituents of the compo~ition. ~y encapsulation it is meant that the polysaccharide binds together and coats at least a portion of the other constituentg. A portion of the constituents enter the soil based on solubility with water on an initial wetting of the granule. ~
The microbiological media set up by a granule of the ~ ~-present invention is initiated by exposure of the granule to water upon application to the soil and turf. It is believed J U 1) 1 ~
that the mechanism of long term elow release of nutrient~ and of fertilizer to th~ turf and ~oil take6 pl~ce in three overlapping ~tages.
The first stage involve~ the dissolving of a portion of the water ~oluble nitrogen source and sugar 60urce by initial contact of the granule with water. A portion of granule constituentE which are in contact with the surface of the granule i6 readily relea~ed. These constituents directly feed the turf. It is believed that this fir~t 6tage phenomenon occurs during the first 2-3 days after application of the fertilizer granule in conjunction with watering. It i6 further believed that this direct feeding of nitrogen and nutrient6 to the plant continues to occur over an extended period of time as the polysaccharide is 810wly di~601ved or con6umed by microorganifims making additional soluble nitrogen available to the turf which i~ in exces~ of that consumed by the microorgani6ms.
The second stage in the microbiological media process is believed to occur as water insoluble nitrogen is released.
The relea6e of this nitrogen is driven by the microorganisms.
It is believed that the ~econd stage of the process peak6 during 7-21 day6 after application. It iB however understood that a certain quantity of nitrogen will continue to be relea6ed from the water insoluble nitrogen source to the plant ov~r an extended period of time as ~uch water insoluble nitrogen source is further expo6ed due to breakdown or . , ;, .
dissolving of khe poly~accharide.
The third stage of the process is believed to occur through lysing of the microbial population. A portion of the water soluble nitrogen and water insoluble nitrogen along with the ~ugar source are utilized by the microbials and ~tored in the cell mass of the bacteria. The cell population grows dramatically as 6ugar and nitrogen are available. The nitrogen tied up in the cell bioma6s iB then 810wly released to the plant or turf as the microbials die and ly~e. It i8 al~o believed that the polysaccharides provide a source of energy to the microbials over an extended period of time as they are broken down. It ha6 been found that continued feeding of the turf by lysing of the microbials continues over a 12-16 week period.
Granule6 of the compo6ition of the present invention are readily made utilizing known technologies for pelletizing fertilizers and 60il supplements. In a preferred method, the water soluble nitrogen source is added to a mixer, while mixing with a quantity of fat such as 80y bean oil. A
quantity of polysaccharide is then added to the mixer and mixing is continued. Any other remaining ingredients may then be added, including such components as the carbohydrate or sugar 60urce, con6tituent6 compri6ing a buffer sy6tem, water insoluble nitrogen, potaesium, other nutrient6 and a 60urce of bacteria or microorgani6m~
Alternatively, it i6 recognized that the poly6accharide ;~ 1 U ~
may be added after the sugar ~ource and water eoluble nitrogen 60urce have been blended and achieve the same result.
However, it i5 believed additional polysaccharide must be utilized. The final mixture iB pelletized, followed by granulation to a standard 6/10 me~h particle size. The particle size may vary depending on the application situation.
No steam is utilized in the pelletizing proces~.
The present invention provides a culture of beneficial microorganisms and a food source for the bacteria such that application to the soil will improve the 60il ' B overall condition. The bacteria aids in breaking down dead plant material and causes fioil particles to adhere together, generally improving the condition of the 80il. In addition, the amount of decayed organic matter presen~ in the soil increa~es the 60il's ability to retain moisture and important nutrients. The beneficial microorgani6ms "tie up" the remaining unused fertilizer to provide ongoing soil conditioning and slow time release fertilization.
The rel~tivr solubilities of the nitrogen and carbohydrate ~ources are important to the objects of thi6 invention. The least soluble material i~ the lim.iting factor in the microbial breakdown of the two components. When the solubilities of the two component~ are similar, the microorganisms rapidly consume the nitrogen and carbohydrate sources producing proteins and cellular constituents for new cell production as well a~ enzymes. These enzymes facilitate lU~0~7 reactions which affect the av~ilabillty of nutrlente ~uch a nitroqen, phosphate, sulfur ~nd iron. Afl theHe mlcrobee dle off, the cell~ are lysed relea~ing nutrient~ for uptake by plants.
As previously disclosed, a source of microbials can be incorporated into compositions of the present invention. It is recognized that any soil ~acillus bacteria, including such species as the licheniformis, subtillis and/or megaterium and combinations thereof may be utilized. Actinomycetes and related genera may also be utilized. A preferred microbial content for the fertilizer iB 1 X 109 colony forming units per pound of fertilizer.
It is however further recognized that all applications will not require the addition of a bacteria or microbial source to the fertilizer composition. The necessity of such addition is dictated by the condition of the soil onto which the composition is applied. If the soil bacteria population is too low, the population must be supplemented within the composition to properly augment the soil and turf.
A culture of beneficial microorganisms in combination with an adequate food supply produce enzymes which break down organic matter to form a source of nutrients to plants. The ~ -~
microorgani~m culture surrounds the plants with beneficial bacteria that discourage other forms of unbenefical microbial growth.
While a wide range of microorganisms may be used as " ' ~
beneficial microorganisms in ~he soil ~upplement of the pre~ent invention, the following microorganisms have al00 been found to be very satisfactory. The particular microorganism cultureR have been disclosed in Lovne~s U.S. Patent 4,119,429.
Microorganism~ - about 0.5 to about 10 percent by weight of 15 to 20 billion cell count per gram of microorgani6ms for a granular formulation from the group consi6tin~ of: Azobacter, Pseudomonadaceae, Actinomycetes, Streptomycetace6ae, gram negative Chemolithotropics, Bacillaceae, Norcardiaceae, Phycomycetes, Ascomycetes, Basidiomycetes, Fungi imperfecti, Zygomycete6, and nitrifying bacteria of the oxidizing type of microorganisms 6uch as Nitrosomonas or Nitro bacter.
The presence of a water soluble carbohydrate source, a sugar, i~ an essential element of the present invention. The carbohydrate source must be soluble enough to di6solve rapidly in water at concentration6 suitable for 60il application. In addition, the carbohydrate ~ource should be of similar ~olubility to the nitrogen source in order to maximize beneficial microbial ~rowth. The preferred carbohydrate source of the preæent invention is crude mola6ses, a by-product of the sugar beet industry. Molasse6 is utilized a6 a supply food 60urce for the beneficial microorgani6ms and i5 the primary ra~ material in the 80il supplement mixture.
Other carbohydrate rich sub6trates 6uch a6 corn by-products may also be u~ed. ~l~UUl ~
A carbohydrate or 6ugar source may be generally described as any mono-, di-, or tri- saccharide and combinations or mixtures thereof. These may include such compounds as dextrose, starch, sucrose, molas6es, maltodextrines and mixtures thereof. The concentration of sugar on a weight percent basis can range from about 0.25 weight percent to about 45 weight percent. In preferred compositions the concentration of sugar ranges from about 10 percent to about 20 percent.
Compositions of the present invention incorporate a water soluble nitrogen source. The compositional range i6 from about 0.5 weight percent to about 45 weight percent as expres6ed in nitrogen content. A preferred concentration of nitrogen is from about 4 weight percent to about 45 weight percent. Preferred water soluble nitrogen sources include urea and/or ammonium sulfate and mixtures thereof. These nitrogen sources are selected on the basis of lower cost. It is however recognized that potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, ammonium phosphate, and protein hydrolysates could be utilized.
In alternative embodiments, a water insoluble nitrogen source can also be incorporated into compositions of the pre~ent invention. Water insoluble nitrogen from a natural protein source can enhance microbial activity. Such compounds as feathermeal, leather 6crap6, ~oybean meal, blood meal, ,....... . . .
lUUU~7 poultry waste and mixtures thereof m~y be utillzed. It is recognized that a preferred r~nge of concentration i~ from about 5 percent to about 40 percent by weight of the overall composition.
It has been found that a key to useful formulation~ of the above composition is to keep the ratio of water soluble nitrogen to sugar on a dry matter basis in a range suitable for maximal microbial ~ctivity. In preferred compositions the ratio of water soluble nitrogen source to sugar i8 between about 1:1 to about 20:1 on a dry matter basis. It is recognized that the preferable range i8 a ratio of nitrogen to sugar of 1:1 to about 10:1. A mo6t preferred range is about 3:1 to 6:1.
The present invention contemplates the use of an inorganic nitrogen source for the primary purpose of supplying an adequate nitrogen supply to its microbiological component.
Upon wetting, a small portion of the synthetic nitrogen is released to the plant before the microbes can use it. There-fore, 60me of the water soluble nitrogen is fed directly to the plants. The microor~anisms "tie up" a portion of the nitrogen and make it available to the plant6 by a slow time-release mechanism.
A hydrophilic polysaccharide is utilized to bind and augment the slow release of the con~tituents of the present 'co~p,osite slow relea~e fertilizer and 60il supplement compo6ition. A hydrophilic polysaccharlde iB one which attracts or absorbs water with ~ub0equent swell~ng and retention of the water. Preferred polysaccharldes have a molecular weight greater than 10,000. A~ previously discloeed, the poly~accharide encapeulatee the sugar and nitrogen source6.
The hydrophilic poly6accharides are alternatively referred to a6 gums. U6eful polysaccharides include agar agar, alginates, arabic, carrageenans, carboxy methyl cellulose, furcelleran, ghatti, guar, karaya, locust bean, pectins, p6yllium, carob, xanthan, tragacanth and combinations : , , or mixtures thereof. It i8 recognized that the polysaccharide will generally be selected on the ba~is of cost. Guar is recognized a~ the most economical to use and iB preferred in embodiments of the present invention.
In preferred embodiments, a buffer system is incorporated into the slow release fertilizer and ~oil supplement composition to maintain the pH in the range of about 5.0 to about 8Ø This component may also provide P205 and K20 to the fertilizer nutriejnt composition. Known buffers include phosphates, acetates, nitrates, eulfate salts, and combinations thereof.
~ he quantity of ~um added to the composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement composition will affect the rate at which the water soluble nitrogen and sugars will leave thé fertilizer granule. When wet, the gum forms a gel which actually forms a leaching resi~tant barrier in the fertilizer . - .
, -` ~10U017 granule. It is known that weak intermolecular bond~ng properties of polyeaccharlde structure~ aleo hold compounde euch ae sugars and soluble nitrogen compounds. It i~
there~ore poesible to 810w the rate of turf re~pon~e by adding more than about 2 weight percent gum to the product. Field testing has determined that a 2 weight percent gum product will give an adequate response in turf for 8-12 weeks under normal midwestern rainfall. The level of gum ueed in southern climates will be in the 3-4 weight percent range to 810w release under the higher rainfall conditions. Under normal conditions, the preferred range of gum in the product would be in the range of about 0.25 percent to about 10 percent by weight. It i8 al60 understood that gum concentration may be increa~ed up to about 50 weight percent or more under highly water stres6ed conditions.
Potassium and phosphorus are aleo preferably added to auqment microorganism growth. Potassium in the preferred embodiment is added to the composition in the form of potaseium eulfate. Many other forms of potaeeium are suitable for supplying the potas6ium sub6trate. For example, potassium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate, potassium sulfate, and potassium nitrate are suitable potassium source~.
Diammonium phosphate is a preferred phosphorous source of the present invention. Many other phosphorous sources such as potassium phosphate and dipota6sium phosphate, for example, are also suitable subetrates. Both potas6ium and phosphorous -` ~lUU017 are nece6sary for plant growth. Potasslum and phosphorous are made available to plant~ mainly through the plant'e root structure. The polysaccharide enhances the retention of potassium and other cation~. It ie known that eoil lacking the proper condition has poor cation exchange capacity characteri6tic6. The presence of beneficial microorganism6, -~
and resulting increases in the column of organic matter, :
improve the cation exchange capacity of the soil. Thus potassium and other po6itively charged ions are more available ~ ~-to the plant6 when the soil is negatively charged.
Fertilizer compositions are generally called out on the basi~ of the ratio of nitrogen to phosphorus to potassium, or NPK. A preferred 16-2-4 ratio composition on the basis of NPK
for the present invention includes~
InaredientPercent by Weiqht Dried Molasses 12.50 -~
Diammonium Phosphate 3.20 ~ ~-Potassium Sulfate8.00 Urea(45%N) 16.70 --Ammonium Sulfate30.00 -Microbials o.so Feather Meal 19.00 Wheat Midds 8.10 Guar Gum 2.00 _ -100.00% ,, ,~
As an alternative formulation, an NPK ratio of 32-4-8 ~, " , includes the following composition: - ~-Ingredient Percent bY Weiaht Urea (45%N)72.0 -Dried Molasses 15.0 ~40% invert sugar) - ~ll)U!~:17 Monopota~sium Pho~phate 5.0 Dipotas~ium Pho~phate 5.0 Bacillue Bacteria PMX 1.0 (lxlO/9 per gm.) Guar Gum 2.0 100.00~
The objects of this invention may be more fully under6tood by a review of several compar~tive test~ of preferred fo,rmulations of the pre6ent composition.
~periment Example 1: ~H Volatility StudY
Urea i~ known for its ability to volatilize to ammonia ga~ under normal field conditions. Many of the fertilizers in the marketplace are known to contain large amount~ of urea which basically evaporates as ammonia gas after application.
The increase in soil pH due to the free ammonia can also inhibit fioil bacterial populations. This i~ a very poor agronomic way to fertilize a lawn. It has been determined through laboratory testing that the incorporation of ~ugar~ -and gums to urea,containing fertilizer6 greatly reduce the amount of urea volatilization and increa6e soil microbial populations which store temporarily nitrogen. The volatility of urea in fertilizers can eaEily be determined by placing the urea containing fertilizer under wet conditions and tracking pH. , The following information wa6 taken from Parr and 'Engibous, in Anhydrous Ammonia Agronomy Workshop, presented in 1966 at Memphis, Tennessee, pp. 4-1 to 4-8:
~ -.: :' ` i ~lUl3~17 PH of solution ~ercent f ree ~mmorai~
6 o.l 7 l.o 8 lo.o 9 50.0 To demonBtrate that urea volatility i8 reduced by the inclusion of a poly~accharide and ~ugar in the formulation, the followinq formulations were tested: ~-10Composition A: 16-2-4 Composition as previously disclosed.
Composition B: 16-2-4 Composition a8 previously disclosed without gum or molasses ~ sugar ) .
In the laboratory, 20 gram~ of 80il was placed into separate small petri dishes along with a 2#N/1000 6q ft of -~
each of the above formulations. To each dish, 20 ml6 of water was added to aimulate wet field condition~. pH readings were taken and recorded at the following times:
Time A B
Ohr~. 6.6 6.6 25 72hrs. 6.5 6.8 ~ -g6hr6. 6.5 7.6 120hrs. 6.7(3.0X10/9C~U/GM~ 9.0~1.6X10/9CFU/GM) 168hrs. 7.3 8.9 -~
It can be noted that formulation B (without gum and ~ -molasses/6ugar) experienced a sharp pH increase at 96 hrs due to liberation of free ammonia. Formulation B (with gum and molaases) remained below pl~ 7.5 for the duration of the test which indicatea low ammonia volatility. The buffer/6ugar/gum ~l~UI)17 sy~tem in Formulation B works together to tie up the ammoniacal nitrogen quickly which reduces ammonia volatility.
Note that the plate count (colony forming unit~ per gram of soil after four days incubation) i8 doubled for formulation A
over formulation B. ~his parameter demonstrates the ability of formulation A to convert ammoniacal nitrogen to cell mass for long term storage in the 60il.
Example 2: Comparative Field Test of 16-2-4 ComDo6ition to Commercially Available Compositions A recognized industry test for evaluating turf quality i6 the Visual Turfgrass Evaluation Protocol. The sy~tem is used by researchers when evaluating turfgra66 treatment re6pon6es and is a subjective visual turf color and/or quality rating ecale. The scale wa6 developed by turfgrass researchers and standardized for use by United States Department of Agriculture re6earchers for the National Turfgras6 Evaluation Program ~NTEP). Almo6t all turfgrass re~earchers in the U.S.
and internationally use this 6ystem.
The rating is as follow:
Turf Color 1-9 scale with 1=brown turf, 5=acceptable turf, and 9=dark or ideal color turf Turf Ouality (color, den6ity, 6moothne6s, uniformity, texture, and growth habit) .
1-9 scale with 1=poorest quality, 5=acceptable quality,~and 9=
best or ideal quality turf The repeatability of this sy6tem is actually quite high ~ ~ ;
when repeated with a single re~earcher and when repeated among ' eystem in Formulation ~ works together to tie up the ammoniacal nitrogen quickly which reduces ammonia volatility.
Note that the plate count ~colony forming unit~ per gram of soil after four days incubation) is doubled for formulation A
over formulation B. This parameter demonstrates the ability of formulation A to convert ammoniacal nitr*gen to cell mass for long term storage in the soil.
Example 2: Comparative Field Test of 16-2-4 ComPosition to Commercially Available Compo~itions A recognized industry test for evaluating turf quality is the Visual Turfgrass Evaluation Protocol. The system i8 used -~
by researchers when evaluating turfgrass treatment responses and is a subjective visual turf color and/or quality rating 15 scale. The scale was developed by turfgrass researchers and ;
standardized for use by United States Department of Agriculture researchers for the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP). Almost all turfgra~s re~earchere in the U.S.
and internationally use this system.
The rating i8 as follow:
Turf Color 1-9 scale with l=brown turf, 5zacceptable turf, and 9=dark or ideal color turf ~ ;
Turf Qualitv (color, density, smoothne~s, uniformity, texture, and growth habit) 1-9 scale with 1=poorest quality, 5=acceptable quality, and 9=
best or ideal quality turf The repeatability of this system is actually quite high when repeated with a single researcher and when repeated among -'~
lllU~17 a group of re~earcher~.
The ultimate measure of turf color and for the most part quality i5 recogniæed as subjective ~ince the function of turf to a large degree i~ ae~thetic. Variability ie high among homeowners when turf i8 evaluated with this ~ystem, however, researchere well experienced using this rating sy~tem normally report low to very low variability. Therefore a ~tatistical ~eparation of means often shows significance between values less than one point apart.
FALL FERTILIZATION STUDY
A fall fertilization study was conducted to compare the effectivene~s of several commercially available fertilizers to the 16-2-4 composition of the present invention as previou61y disclosed. The study included two fall applications of various fertilizer~ and the 16-2-4 compo~ite ~low relea~e fertilizer and soil supplement composition at various levels.
Evaluations of turf quality were completed in the fall (after 1 application) and again in the spring (af er both fall applications). Evaluations were conducted by three individuals utilizing the above protocol and averaged.
For each group, the applications were completed on September 15, 1992 and November 22, 1992.
.. ...
(#N/lOOOSQ FT)~AVE~ 17 ~AVE OF 3) TREA~MENT10-22-92 EVA~UATION ~-29-93 EVALUATION
51# 1# 6.5 5.5 1# 2# 6.5 6.5
2# 2# 6.2 7.2 1# 1# 5.8 4.7 1# 2# 5.5 5.8 2# 2# 5.2 6.5 WINTERIZER FERTILIZER NON-NATURAL BASED
lS 1# 1# 6.5 5.2 1# 2# 6.0 6.0 2# 2# 6.3 6.7 10-2-6 NATURAL FERTILIZER -- .-1# 1# 5.5 4.5 ~ -1# 2# 5.5 5.8 2# 2# 5.0 6.8 .
TURF FERTILIZER NON-NATURAL ~ASED
251# 1# 6.5 5.5 1# 2# 6.3 6.2 2# 2# 6.0 7.0 The above data shows that the 16-2-4 Formulation of the 30 present invention performs equally to the available non- -.
natural based fertilizers and better than the natural based fertilizers at all application rates after 1 treatment. The ~ -spring evaluation 6how~ that the 16-2-4 Formulation performs better than all other classes of fertilizers at all rates.
35 The formulation of the 16-2-4 compo6ition was succe6sful in ::-providing good initial and long term turf quality due to the - ~
biological elow relea6e of nitrogen to the turf. ~.
New characteristics and advantages of the invention covered by this documents have been set forth in the foregoing 40 description. It will be understood, however, that thi6 - -:~
.
-` ~lU~017 diaclo0Ure iB~ in many re0pecte, only illustratlve. Changes may be made in compoeitional rangee for eome component~
without exceeding the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is, of course, defined in the language in which S the appended claims are expreeeed.
.. .. . ~ .. .
- ~
lS 1# 1# 6.5 5.2 1# 2# 6.0 6.0 2# 2# 6.3 6.7 10-2-6 NATURAL FERTILIZER -- .-1# 1# 5.5 4.5 ~ -1# 2# 5.5 5.8 2# 2# 5.0 6.8 .
TURF FERTILIZER NON-NATURAL ~ASED
251# 1# 6.5 5.5 1# 2# 6.3 6.2 2# 2# 6.0 7.0 The above data shows that the 16-2-4 Formulation of the 30 present invention performs equally to the available non- -.
natural based fertilizers and better than the natural based fertilizers at all application rates after 1 treatment. The ~ -spring evaluation 6how~ that the 16-2-4 Formulation performs better than all other classes of fertilizers at all rates.
35 The formulation of the 16-2-4 compo6ition was succe6sful in ::-providing good initial and long term turf quality due to the - ~
biological elow relea6e of nitrogen to the turf. ~.
New characteristics and advantages of the invention covered by this documents have been set forth in the foregoing 40 description. It will be understood, however, that thi6 - -:~
.
-` ~lU~017 diaclo0Ure iB~ in many re0pecte, only illustratlve. Changes may be made in compoeitional rangee for eome component~
without exceeding the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is, of course, defined in the language in which S the appended claims are expreeeed.
.. .. . ~ .. .
- ~
Claims (18)
1. A composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement composition comprising:
(a) about 0.5 to about 45 weight percent of a water soluble nitrogen source, said concentration expressed as nitrogen content;
(b) about 0.25 to about 45 weight percent of a sugar source said sugar source including a mono-, di-, or tri- saccharide and mixtures thereof, said sugar concentration expressed as total weight of sugar, wherein the ratio of said nitrogen source to said sugar is between about 1:1 to about 20:1 on a dry matter basis; and (c) about .25 to about 50 weight percent of a hydrophilic polysaccharide, said polysaccharide having a molecular weight greater than about 10,000, wherein said polysaccharide encapsulates said sugar and said nitrogen source.
(a) about 0.5 to about 45 weight percent of a water soluble nitrogen source, said concentration expressed as nitrogen content;
(b) about 0.25 to about 45 weight percent of a sugar source said sugar source including a mono-, di-, or tri- saccharide and mixtures thereof, said sugar concentration expressed as total weight of sugar, wherein the ratio of said nitrogen source to said sugar is between about 1:1 to about 20:1 on a dry matter basis; and (c) about .25 to about 50 weight percent of a hydrophilic polysaccharide, said polysaccharide having a molecular weight greater than about 10,000, wherein said polysaccharide encapsulates said sugar and said nitrogen source.
2. The composition of claim 1 further comprising a buffer system, said buffer system including compounds selected from the group consisting of phosphates, acetates, nitrates, sulfate salts and combinations thereof in sufficient quantity to maintain the soil pH between about 5 to about 8.
3. The composition of claim 1 further comprising a potassium source, said potassium source selected from the group consisting of: potassium phosphates, potassium sulfates, potassium chlorides, potassium nitrates and combinations thereof.
4. The composition of claim 1 further comprising an insoluble nitrogen source selected from the group consisting of: feathermeal, leather scraps, soybean meal, blood meal poultry waste and mixtures thereof.
5. The composition of claim 1 wherein said hydrophilic polysaccharide has a molecular weight between 10,000 and about 100,000.
6. The composition of claim 5 wherein said hydrophilic polysaccharide is selected from the group consisting of:
agar, alginates, arabic, carrageenans, carboxy methyl cellulose, furcelleran, ghatti, guar, karaya, locust bean, pectins, psyllium, carob, xanthan, tragacanth and mixtures thereof.
agar, alginates, arabic, carrageenans, carboxy methyl cellulose, furcelleran, ghatti, guar, karaya, locust bean, pectins, psyllium, carob, xanthan, tragacanth and mixtures thereof.
7. The composition of claim 1 wherein said ratio of said nitrogen source to said sugar is between about 2:1 to about 6:1
8. A composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement composition comprising:
(a) about 0.5 to about 45 weight percent of a water soluble nitrogen source, said concentration expressed as nitrogen;
(b) about 0.25 to about 45 weight percent of a sugar source said sugar source including mono-, di-, or tri- saccharides and mixtures thereof, said sugar concentration expressed as total weight of sugar, wherein the ratio of said nitrogen source to said sugar is between about 1:1 to about 20:1 on a dry matter basis; and (c) about .25 to about 50 weight percent of a hydrophilic polysaccharide, said polysaccharide having a molecular weight greater than about 10,000, wherein said polysaccharide encapsulates said sugar and said nitrogen source.
(d) a soil Bacillus source.
(a) about 0.5 to about 45 weight percent of a water soluble nitrogen source, said concentration expressed as nitrogen;
(b) about 0.25 to about 45 weight percent of a sugar source said sugar source including mono-, di-, or tri- saccharides and mixtures thereof, said sugar concentration expressed as total weight of sugar, wherein the ratio of said nitrogen source to said sugar is between about 1:1 to about 20:1 on a dry matter basis; and (c) about .25 to about 50 weight percent of a hydrophilic polysaccharide, said polysaccharide having a molecular weight greater than about 10,000, wherein said polysaccharide encapsulates said sugar and said nitrogen source.
(d) a soil Bacillus source.
9. The composition of claim 8 further comprising a buffer system, said buffer system including compounds selected from the group consisting of phosphates, acetates, nitrates, sulfate salts and combinations thereof in sufficient quantity to maintain the soil pH between about 5 to about 8.
10. The composition of claim 9 further comprising a potassium source, said potassium source selected from the group consisting of: potassium phosphates, potassium sulfates, potassium chlorides, potassium nitrates and combinations thereof.
11. The composition of claim 10 further comprising an insoluble nitrogen source selected from the group consisting of: feathermeal, leather scraps, soybean meal, blood meal poultry waste and mixtures thereof.
12. The composition of claim 11 wherein said hydrophilic polysaccharide has a molecular weight between 10,000 and about 100,000.
13. The composition of claim 12 wherein said hydrophilic polysaccharide is selected from the group consisting of:
agar, alginates, arabic, carrageenans, carboxy methyl cellulose, furcelleran, ghatti, guar, karaya, locust bean, pectins, psyllium, carob, xanthan, tragacanth and mixtures thereof.
agar, alginates, arabic, carrageenans, carboxy methyl cellulose, furcelleran, ghatti, guar, karaya, locust bean, pectins, psyllium, carob, xanthan, tragacanth and mixtures thereof.
14. The composition of claim 13 wherein said ratio of said nitrogen source to said sugar is between about 2:1 to about 6:1
15. A composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement composition comprising:
(a) about 5 weight percent to about 20 weight percent dried molasses;
(b) about 5 weight percent to about 20 weight percent 45 percent nitrogen urea;
(c) about 15 weight percent to about 45 weight percent ammonium sulfate;
(d) about 1 weight percent to about 4 weight percent guar gum;
(e) about 10 weight percent to about 30 weight percent feather meal; and (f) about 0.25 weight percent to about 1.0 weight percent microbial source.
(a) about 5 weight percent to about 20 weight percent dried molasses;
(b) about 5 weight percent to about 20 weight percent 45 percent nitrogen urea;
(c) about 15 weight percent to about 45 weight percent ammonium sulfate;
(d) about 1 weight percent to about 4 weight percent guar gum;
(e) about 10 weight percent to about 30 weight percent feather meal; and (f) about 0.25 weight percent to about 1.0 weight percent microbial source.
16. The composition of claim 15 further comprising:
(a) about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent diammonium phosphate;
(b) about 5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent potassium sulfate; and (c) about 2 weight percent to about 15 weight percent wheat midds.
(a) about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent diammonium phosphate;
(b) about 5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent potassium sulfate; and (c) about 2 weight percent to about 15 weight percent wheat midds.
17. A composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement composition comprising:
(a) about 60 weight percent to about 75 weight percent 45 percent nitrogen urea;
(b) about 10 weight percent to about 20 weight percent dried molasses;
(c) about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent guar gum; and (d) about 0.25 weight percent to about 1.5 weight percent microbial source.
(a) about 60 weight percent to about 75 weight percent 45 percent nitrogen urea;
(b) about 10 weight percent to about 20 weight percent dried molasses;
(c) about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent guar gum; and (d) about 0.25 weight percent to about 1.5 weight percent microbial source.
18. The composition of claim 17, further comprising:
(a) about 2 weight percent to about 10 weight percent monopotassium phosphate; and (b) about 2 weight percent to about 10 weight percent dipotassium phosphate.
(a) about 2 weight percent to about 10 weight percent monopotassium phosphate; and (b) about 2 weight percent to about 10 weight percent dipotassium phosphate.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US8518293A | 1993-06-30 | 1993-06-30 | |
| US08/085,182 | 1993-06-30 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2100017A1 true CA2100017A1 (en) | 1994-12-31 |
Family
ID=22189985
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002100017A Abandoned CA2100017A1 (en) | 1993-06-30 | 1993-07-07 | Composite slow release fertilizer and soil supplement composition |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2100017A1 (en) |
Cited By (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6231895B1 (en) * | 2000-03-01 | 2001-05-15 | Agway, Inc | Feedstock for ruminants with controlled-release non-protein nitrogen |
| US6432155B1 (en) | 2000-08-11 | 2002-08-13 | Cp Kelco U.S., Inc. | Compositions containing phosphate and xanthan gum variants |
| WO2004037748A1 (en) * | 2002-10-22 | 2004-05-06 | Tyson Foods, Inc. | Use of feathers as a plant growing media component or soil amendement |
| US7816561B2 (en) | 2004-06-30 | 2010-10-19 | Yara International Asa | Method of improving the crushing strength and reducing the dust formation and the caking tendency of urea, and urea composition |
| CN102617249A (en) * | 2012-03-31 | 2012-08-01 | 山东喜丰田生态肥业有限公司 | Novel polysaccharide gel water retaining and slow release fertilizer |
| WO2013128080A1 (en) | 2012-02-28 | 2013-09-06 | Biokasvu Oy | A fertilizer, its use and process for preparing it |
| CN114907863A (en) * | 2022-06-29 | 2022-08-16 | 中国农业科学院烟草研究所 | Chlorine-control soil conditioner special for tobacco and preparation method and application thereof |
-
1993
- 1993-07-07 CA CA002100017A patent/CA2100017A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (9)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6231895B1 (en) * | 2000-03-01 | 2001-05-15 | Agway, Inc | Feedstock for ruminants with controlled-release non-protein nitrogen |
| US6432155B1 (en) | 2000-08-11 | 2002-08-13 | Cp Kelco U.S., Inc. | Compositions containing phosphate and xanthan gum variants |
| WO2004037748A1 (en) * | 2002-10-22 | 2004-05-06 | Tyson Foods, Inc. | Use of feathers as a plant growing media component or soil amendement |
| US7816561B2 (en) | 2004-06-30 | 2010-10-19 | Yara International Asa | Method of improving the crushing strength and reducing the dust formation and the caking tendency of urea, and urea composition |
| WO2013128080A1 (en) | 2012-02-28 | 2013-09-06 | Biokasvu Oy | A fertilizer, its use and process for preparing it |
| US9394207B2 (en) | 2012-02-28 | 2016-07-19 | Biokasvu Oy | Fertilizer, its use and a process for preparing it |
| EA029342B1 (en) * | 2012-02-28 | 2018-03-30 | Биокасву Ой | Fertilizer, its use and process for preparing it |
| CN102617249A (en) * | 2012-03-31 | 2012-08-01 | 山东喜丰田生态肥业有限公司 | Novel polysaccharide gel water retaining and slow release fertilizer |
| CN114907863A (en) * | 2022-06-29 | 2022-08-16 | 中国农业科学院烟草研究所 | Chlorine-control soil conditioner special for tobacco and preparation method and application thereof |
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