WO2004085343A1

WO2004085343A1 - Plant growth compositions

Info

Publication number: WO2004085343A1
Application number: PCT/CA2004/000457
Authority: WO
Inventors: James L. Lewis
Original assignee: Ceres Environmental Solution Industry Inc
Current assignee: Ceres Environmental Solution Industry Inc
Priority date: 2003-03-26
Filing date: 2004-03-26
Publication date: 2004-10-07
Anticipated expiration: 2005-09-26

Abstract

The present invention provides plant growth compositions, more specifically fertilizers, amendments, conditioners and supplements that may be used for or to assist in the growth of plants. Also disclosed are plant growth compositions comprising a nitrogen-micronutrient component and one or more components selected from the group consisting of: a Ca/P component, a K/SO4 component, a K/Mg/SO4 component, a non-protein nitrogen source and calcium carbonate. Also disclosed are compositions comprising combinations of aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient components and plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient components.

Description

Plant Growth Compositions

The present invention relates to plant growth compositions. More specifically, the present invention relates to plant growth compositions such as fertilizers, amendments, conditioners and supplements that may be used to aid in the growth of plants.

Background of the Invention

Plant growth compositions such as fertilizers, soil amendments, conditioners and additives have been employed for many years in areas of poor soil quality to improve growing conditions for plants. Many fertilizer compositions have been specifically formulated to address problems of nutrient deficiencies in the soil. For example, there are several means known in the art for increasing the nitrogen content of soil to assist in plant growth, including supplementing soils with plant matter, animal matter or synthetic chemicals.

Plant matter such as alfalfa has been widely used in crop rotation to increase the nitrogen content of the soil. Further, US 6,458,747 discloses slow release fertilizer compositions comprising agricultural products such as alfalfa, fruit stems, rice bran, cotton seeds and nut shells in combination with a high nitrogen fertilizer such as urea and a surfactant. The patent also discloses the use of ground alfalfa meal and alfalfa pellets as fertilizers for some flowers as well as organic vegetable gardening. Similarly, US 4,767,440 discloses the use of pulverized wheat straw and alfalfa as a potential substitute for peat moss and as a nitrogen enhancing composition.

Animal matter such as blood meal, feather meal, and bone meal have also been used as ingredients in fertilizer compositions to enhance the quality of soils. For example US 6,503,287 discloses topsoil comprising complete organic fertilizer including blood meal, feather meal, and steamed bone meal. A problem with fertilizer compositions or the like that employ animal matter is that the such compositions may carry infectious agents, for example bovine spongiform encephalitis (Mad Cow Disease), scrappie or other viral agents that may be transmitted by animal matter.

A second type of animal matter that is often used in fertilizers is animal manure. Animal manure is relatively cheap, natural by-product from animals that contains nutrients and compounds that aid in plant growth. Also, due to the high levels of nitrogen present in animal manure, it is often employed as a fertilizer to increase the nitrogen of soil. However, there are problems with the use of manure in fertilizers. For example, animal manure comprises large amounts of bacteria that may be a significant concern, especially when applied to food crops that are destined for human consumption. Further, manure based fertilizers often are malodorous and attract flies, and may not be suitable for lawns, gold courses and other public places where human traffic or human activities are high.

Other means of supplementing or enhancing the nitrogen content of the soil are also known. For example, US 5,102,440 discloses the use of nitrogen compounds such as ammonia, urea, urea formaldehyde or other derivatives of urea, to increase the nitrogen content of the soil. However, water soluble, fast release nitrogen fertilizers such as urea or ammonia by themselves may be easily washed away after being applied to the soil. Therefore, there is a need in the art for plant growth compositions that slowly release nitrogen into the soil.

There is a need in the art for novel plant growth compositions such as fertilizers, soil supplements, conditioner and amendments. Further there is a need in the art for novel plant growth compositions that comprise food or feed-grade components and that are well accepted by the public. There is also a need in the art for plant growth compositions that slowly release nutrients and other plant growth elements such as nitrogen into the soil. Further there is a need in the art for plant growth compositions comprising aquatic and plant-based micronutrient components to provide a more balanced composition to aid in plant growth. It is an object of the present invention to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

The above object may be met by a combination of features of the main claims. The sub claims disclose further advantageous embodiments of the invention.

Summary of the Invention

In an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a plant growth composition comprising a nitrogen-micronutrient component and one or more components selected from the group consisting of: a Ca/P component, a K/SO₄ component, a K/Mg/SO₄ component, a non-protein nitrogen component and calcium carbonate. The plant growth composition may also include other components as described herein.

Further, according to the present invention as defined above, the nitrogen-micronutrient component may be present in an amount of about 5% to about 80% by weight of the composition. Further still, the nitrogen-micronutrient component may comprise an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component, a plant based nitrogen-micronutrient component, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component, and the plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component are present in a ratio of between about 50:1 to about 1:50 by weight, respectively. However, other ratios outside this range are also contemplated.

The present invention also provides a plant growth composition as defined above, wherein the composition comprises a K/SO₄ component, preferably in an amount of about 0.1% to about 30% by weight. Further, the present invention provides a plant growth composition as defined above, wherein the composition comprises a non-protein nitrogen component, preferably nitrate of soda in an amount between about 0.1% and about 50% by weight of the composition.

The present invention also comprises a plant growth composition as defined above wherein the nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises between about 30% and about 60% by weight.

Further, according to the present invention, there is provided a plant growth composition as defined above comprising nitrate of soda in an amount of about 47% by weight, corn gluten in an amount of about 45% by weight, sulfate of potash in the amount of about 8% by weight and granulated lime powder in an amount of about 0.2% by weight. In an alternate embodiment, the composition may comprise nitrate of soda in an amount of about 31% by weight, corn gluten in an amount of about 50% by weight, sulfate of potash in the amount of about 16% by weight, kelpmeal in an amount of about 3% by weight, and granulated lime powder (calcium oxide) in an amount of about 1% by weight. In still a further embodiment, which is not meant to be limiting, the plant growth composition may comprise corn gluten in an amount of about 40% by weight, sulfate of potash in the amount of about 24% by weight, kelpmeal in the amount of 2.5% by weight, and granulated lime powder in an amount of about 34% by weight.

Also, according to the present invention there is provided a plant growth composition comprising a Ca/P component, calcium carbonate and further comprising a K/Mg/SO₄ component.

In a further embodiment of the present invention there is provided a plant growth composition comprising a nitrogen-micronutrient component, a Ca/P component, a K/Mg/SO₄ component and calcium carbonate. Preferably, calcium carbonate is present in an amount between about 0% to 60% by weight, preferably 5% to about 60% by weight, the nitrogen-micronutrient component is present in an amount of between about 5% to 50% by weight, the K/Mg/SO₄ component is present in an amount of between about 5% to 25% by weight and the Ca/P component is present in an amount of between about 5% to 40% by weight. In a further embodiment the nitrogen-micronutrient component is present in an amount between about 7% to 30% by weight, the Ca/P component is present in an amount of between about 10% to 35% by weight and the K/Mg/SO₄ component is present in an amount of between about 5% to 10% by weight.

Also according to the present invention as defined above, there is provided a plant growth composition wherein the K/Mg/SO₄ component comprises potassium sulfate, magnesium sulfate and optionally potassium chloride. Further, the K/Mg/SO₄ component may itself comprise sulfur in the amount of about 22% by weight, potassium in an amount of about 18% by weight and magnesium in an amount of about 11 % by weight. In a further embodiment, which is not meant to be considered limiting in any manner, the K/Mg/SO₄ component may be Dynamate or a combination of Dynamate and Dyna-K®.

Also provided by the plant growth composition of the present invention as defined above, the Ca/P component may comprise, but is not limited to monodicalcium phosphate, phosphate rock, or a combination thereof.

Also contemplated by the plant growth composition of the present invention as defined above, the nitrogen-micronutrient component may comprise an aquatic nitrogen- micronutrient component, a plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment of the present invention, the nitrogen- micronutrient component comprises both an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component and a plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component. The aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component may comprise one or more algaes or extracts of algaes, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the algaeis kelp and is dehydrated and processed into a meal. The plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient, if employed may be derived from alfalfa, barley, beets, brewer's grains, distiller's grains, canola, coconut, corn, cottonseed, linseed, oats, oatmeal, peanuts, rice, sunflowers, wheat, buckwheat, clover or a combination thereof. Preferably the plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component is processed into a meal or is pelletized as would be understood by a person of skill in the art. Further, the plant- based nitrogen-micronutrient material may be processed to remove a portion of starch or soluble sugars. In an embodiment of the present invention, both an aquatic nitrogen- micronutrient source and a plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient source are employed in the plant growth composition. Preferably, the aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component is kelp meal and the plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises alfalfa meal, corn gluten meal or a combination thereof.

Also contemplated by the present invention as defined above, the plant growth composition may further comprise other components, for example, but not wishing to be limiting, a non-protein nitrogen component in the amount of between about 0 to 40% by weight and optionally, a dust control agent in an amount of between about 0 to about 10% by weight. The non-protein nitrogen component may be selected from the group consisting of urea, urea derivatives, nitrate of soda, ammonium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate or a combination thereof. In an embodiment wherein a non-protein nitrogen component is present, preferably it is present in an amount of between about 10% to about 40% by weight. In an embodiment wherein the dust control agent is present, preferably it is present in an amount between about 1.5% and about 5% by weight.

Also contemplated by the present invention, the plant growth composition may comprise a liquid fertilizer, for example, but not limited to in an amount of about 0% to about 25% by weight, preferably 0.1 % to about 10% by weight. In an embodiment, the liquid fertilizer may comprise aN:P:K ratio of about 10:20:10. Further, it is also contemplated that a liquid fertilizer may be employed as a dust-control agent as described herein, or combinations of liquid fertilizer and one or more dust control agents may be employed in the plant growth compositions of the invention. The liquid fertilizer may also provide a source of nutrients to plants and the like. In an embodiment of the invention the plant growth composition comprises:

1) urea in an amount of about 10.7 % by weight;

2) monodicalcium phosphate in an amount of about 17.8 % by weight;

3) Dyna-Mate® in an amount of about 5.6 % by weight;

4) Dyna-K® in an amount of about 2.0 % by weight;

5) kelp meal in an amount of about 2.5 % by weight;

6) calcium carbonate in an amount of about 54.9 % by weight;

7) dust control agent in an amount of about 1.5 % by weight;

8) dehydrated alfalfa meal in an amount of about 5% by weight.

Preferably, the urea, monodicalcium phosphate, Dyna-Mate®, Dyna-K®, kelp meal, calcium carbonate, dust control agent and alfalfa meal are feed-grade quality or better.

In a further embodiment which is not meant to be limiting, the plant growth composition comprises:

1) urea in an amount of about 36.1 % by weight;

2) monodicalcium phosphate in an amount of about 26.9 % by weight;

3) Dyna-Mate® in an amount of about 5 % by weight;

4) Dyna-K® in an amount of about 0.9 % by weight;

5) kelp meal in an amount of about 5 % by weight;

6) calcium carbonate in an amount of about 19.6 % by weight;

7) dust control agent in an amount of about 1.5 % by weight;

8) dehydrated alfalfa meal in an amount of about 5 % by weight.

In a further embodiment the plant growth composition comprises:

1) urea in an amount of about 23.8 % by weight;

2) monodicalcium phosphate in an amount of about 19 % by weight;

3) Dyna-Mate® in an amount of about 10.2 % by weight; 4) kelp meal in an amount of about 7.5 % by weight;

5) calcium carbonate in an amount of about 15.5 % by weight;

6) dust control agent in an amount of about 4 % by weight;

7) dehydrated alfalfa meal in an amount of about 20 % by weight.

The present invention also contemplates a plant growth composition comprising a nitrogen-micronutrient component and calcium carbonate. Preferably the nitrogen- micronutrient component is present in an amount between about 5% to 70% by weight and the calcium carbonate is present in an amount between about 25% to 90% by weight. The nitrogen-micronutrient component may be an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component, a plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component or a combination thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the nitrogen-micronutrient component is kelp meal in an amount of about 10% by weight and calcium carbonate is present in an amount of about 86.5% by weight.

In an alternate embodiment of the invention, the plant growth composition comprises calcium carbonate in an amount of about 66.5% by weight, kelp meal in an amount of about 10% by weight, alfalfa meal in an amount of about 10% by weight, corn gluten meal in an amount of about 10% by weight and a dust control agent in an amount of about 1% by weight.

In a further embodiment, the plant growth composition comprises kelp meal in an amount of about 10% by weight, calcium carbonate in an amount of about 76.5% by weight, alfalfa meal in an amount of about 10% by weight, and dust control agent in an amount of about 1% by weight.

In still an alternate embodiment, the plant growth may comprise kelp meal in an amount of about 15% by weight, calcium carbonate in an amount of about 47.5% by weight, and corn meal in an amount of about 31.5% by weight. In a further embodiment, the plant growth composition comprises kelp meal in the amount of about 9.1% by weight, calcium carbonate in an amount of about 25.8% by weight, alfalfa meal in an amount of about 25.8% by weight, corn gluten meal in an amount of about 25.8% by weight and a dust control agent in an amount of about 10% by weight.

Also contemplated by the present invention, there is provided a liquid plant growth composition comprising

1) A liquid fertilizer comprising an N/P/K ratio of 10/20/10 in an amount of about 70% by weight;

2) CERES N Solutions (23%) in an amount of about 26.9 % by weight;

3) CERES S.P. Extract in an amount of about 2 % by weight;

4) vinegar (about 5% acetic acid by weight) in an amount of about 1% by weight and optionally,

5) yellow coloring agent in an amount of about 0.1% by weight.

In an embodiment which is not meant to be limiting, the liquid fertilizer is Growers N.S. 10/20/10 (Growers Solution).

In still a further embodiment, the liquid plant growth composition comprises,

1) A liquid fertilizer comprising an N/P/K ratio of 10/20/10 in an amount of about 40% by weight;

2) CERES N Solutions (23%) in an amount of about 50 % by weight;

3) CERES Sea Product Extract in an amount of about 10 % by weight.

In still a further embodiment, the present invention contemplates compositions as defined herein, except that calcium carbonate is omitted from the composition. As such, the proportions by weight change accordingly as would be known to a person of skill in the art. This summary does not necessarily describe all necessary features of the invention but that the invention may also reside in a sub-combination of the described features.

Detailed Description

According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a plant growth composition comprising 1) a nitrogen-micronutrient component and one or more of A) a Ca/P component, B) a K/SO₄ component, C) a K/Mg/SO₄ component, D) a non-protein nitrogen component and E) calcium carbonate. In an alternate embodiment, which is not meant to be limiting in any manner, the plant growth composition may comprise a nitrogen-micronutrient component, a Ca/P component, a K/Mg/SO₄ component and calcium carbonate.

By the term "plant growth composition" it is meant a fertilizer, amendment, supplement or conditioner that may be employed for the growth or to assist in the growth of plants, trees, slirubs, flowers, or grasses such as, but not limited to lawns and the like. Preferably, the components of the plant growth composition are not derived from animals and are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by an appropriate regulatory agency, for example, but not limited to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the American Association of Feed Control Agents, or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN). It is also preferred that the individual components of the plant growth composition are "feed-grade" or "food grade" quality or higher.

By the term "nitrogen-micronutrient component" it is meant a composition capable of providing nitrogen and micronutrients to plants. Preferably, the component is a slow release, non-animal derived nitrogen source. For example, but not wishing to be considered limiting or bound by theory, the nitrogen-micronutrient component may comprise nitrogen in the form of one or more proteins which must be degraded, metabolized or the like before the nitrogen is available for use by plants. The nitrogen- micronutrient component may be present in the plant growth composition in an amount of from about 5% to about 80% by weight. In an embodiment of the present invention, which is not to be considered limiting in any manner, the nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises a combination of 1) an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component and 2) a plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component. When both a plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component and an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component are employed together, they may be employed in a ratio of from about 50:1 to about 1:50 (plan aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component).

The aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component may comprise one or more algaes or extracts of algaes. Seaweeds or kelps from the division Phaeophyta, such as, but not limited to Laminaria and Fucus are preferred. In an alternate embodiment, the nitrogen- micronutrient component may additionally comprise chlorophyta (green algae). The aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component may be obtained from any suitable source known in the art. For example, but not wishing to be limiting, kelp may be obtained by Distrival Canada, Ltee, Fourtierville Quebec.

The plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component may be derived from: alfalfa for example, but not limited to alfalfa meal, alfalfa leaf meal, dehydrated alfalfa meal, dehydrated alfalfa leaf meal, barley such as, but not limited to Malt Sprout barley and West Coast barley; beet pulp; brewer's dried grains; canola such as but not limited to canola meal; coconut, such as, but not limited to coconut meal and Copra meal; corn, such as, but not limited to processed corn cobs, corn germ meal, wet milled corn meal, corn and cob meal, corn gluten feed, corn gluten, and corn silage; cottonseed, such as, but not limited to cottonseed hulls and cottonseed meal; distiller's dried grains such as, but not limited to distiller's dried grains with solubles, and distiller's dried corn solubles; linseed, for example, but not limited to linseed meal, hydraulic or expeller, and solvent of linseed meal; oats; oatmeal, peanuts such as, but not limited to peanut meal, hydraulic or expeller; rice, preferably broken, rice bran, solvent of rice brans, rice polishings; soybean such as, but not limited to soybean meal, soybean solvent, and dehulled soybean meal; sunflowers, such as sunflower meal with or without hulls; wheat such as hard wheat, soft wheat, Western wheat, wheat bran, wheat middlings, and wheat millrun; clover; or a combination thereof. Preferably the plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component is processed into a meal or other similarly suitable material.

Preferred plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient components include alfalfa meal, corn gluten meal, wheat middling meal, clover meal, or a combination thereof. Further, plants such as corn, which may be high in sugars, are preferably processed to remove starches, sugars and oils. Processing of the plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient material may be accomplished by any method known in the ait. For example, but not to be considered limiting in any manner, alfalfa may be pulverized, chopped, rolled, dehydrated, suncured, wet milled, extracted or ground and optionally processed further for example, as described in US 6,458,747 which is herein incorporated by reference. Similarly, corn gluten may be purchased commercially or it may be processed from corn and corn meal, for example, as described in US 5,030,268, which is herein incorporated by reference.

In an alternate embodiment, the plant growth composition of the present invention may comprise yeast, such as, but not limited to dried brewer's yeast. Plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient components may be purchased from any suitable supplier known in the art. For example, feed-grade dehydrated alfalfa meal may be purchased from Les Luzerniers Belcan, Ste. Marthe, Quebec. Similarly, corn gluten meal may be purchased from R.S. Allison and Sons, Ltd, Winchester Springs, Ontario, or any other suitable supplier.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises a combination of kelp meal and alfalfa meal. In an alternate embodiment the nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises a combination of corn gluten and granulated lime powder (calcium oxide) and optionally kelpmeal.

By the term "Ca/P component" it is meant a compound or composition comprising calcium and phosphate. In an embodiment of the present invention, which is not to be considered limiting in any manner, the Ca/P component may comprise rock phosphate. Alternatively, the Ca/P component may comprise monodicalcium phosphate (Ca(HPO₄)₂, CaHPO₄or both), preferably of feed grade, food grade or pharmaceutical grade quality or higher. In alternate embodiments the Ca/P component may comprise one or more of calcium phosphate monobasic monohydrate, calcium phosphate, calcium phosphate dibasic, monocalcium phosphate, dicalcium phosphate and calcium phosphate dibasic dihydrate. The Ca/P component may be purchased from any suitable supplier known in the art. For example, but not to be considered limiting in any manner, feed-grade monodicalcium phosphate may be purchased from a variety of suppliers lαiown in the art, for example, but not limited to, G. Rouleau Ltee, Montreal, Quebec.

In an embodiment of the present invention wherein one or more Ca/P components are employed in the composition of the present invention, preferably the Ca/P component is present in the plant growth composition in an amount from about 5% to about 40% by weight, for example between about 10% to about 35% by weight, or between about 15% to about 30% by weight. By the term "K/SO₄ component" it is meant a compound comprising potassium and sulfur, for example in the form of sulfate. In an embodiment wherein the K/SO₄ component is present in the composition of the present invention, preferably the K/ SO₄ component is sulfate of potash and is present in an amount of between about 0.1% and about 30 % by weight, more preferably about 5% to about 25% by weight.

By the term "K/Mg/SO₄ component" it is meant a compound comprising sulfur, potassium, and magnesium, for example, but not limited to K₂SO₄ and MgSO₄. The K/Mg/SO₄ component may also comprise other compounds such as, but not limited to KCl. In an embodiment of the present invention the K/Mg/SO₄ component may comprise Dynamate®. In a further embodiment, the K/Mg/SO₄ component may comprise a combination of Dynamate® and Dyna-K®. Dynamate and Dyna-K® may be obtained from any supplier known in the art, for example, but not limited to IMC Feed Ingredients, Illinois, USA or G.Rouleau Ltee, Montreal, QC.

The K/Mg/SO₄ component may be present in the plant growth composition in an amount between about 0.1% to about 25% by weight, preferably about 5% to about 25% by weight, more preferably about 5% to 10% by weight.

In an embodiment of the present invention, which is not to be considered limiting in any manner, the K/Mg/SO₄ component itself may comprise about 22% sulfur, about 18% potassium and about 11% magnesium by weight.

The plant growth composition may optionally comprise calcium carbonate, preferably feed or food-grade quality, or better. In the event that calcium carbonate is employed in the compositions of the present invention, preferably the calcium carbonate comprises from about 0% to about 60% by weight, preferably 5% to about 60% by weight of the composition. Calcium carbonate may be obtained from any suitable supplier lαiown in the art, for example, but not limited to Graymont (Portneuf), St. Marc-des-Carrieres, Quebec. The plant growth composition may optionally comprise additional compounds or compositions, for example, but not limited to one or more non-protein nitrogen components, liquid fertilizers, dust control agents, and iron-containing compounds.

For plant growth compositions which optionally comprise a non-protein nitrogen component, preferably, the non-protein nitrogen component is nitrate of soda, urea, or a combination thereof. In an alternate embodiment, which is not to be considered limiting in any manner, the non-protein nitrogen component may comprise a derivative of urea. In an alternate embodiment, the non-protein nitrogen component may be ammonium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, of a combination thereof. In an embodiment wherein the a non-protein nitrogen component is employed in the compositions of the present invention, preferably the urea or other non-protein nitrogen component is feed-grade or pharmaceutical-grade and is employed in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 50% by weight, for example about 10% to 50% by weight.

The plant growth composition may comprise a liquid fertilizer, preferably a food-grade liquid fertilizer comprising diammonium phosphate and potassium hydroxide. In a preferred embodiment, the liquid fertilizer has anN:P:K ratio of about 10/20/10. In a further embodiment the liquid fertilizer may comprise urea, phosphoric acid, diammonium phosphate, and potassium hydroxide in a carrier such as water, seawater or other suitable carrier as would be understood by a person of skill in the art. In embodiments in which a liquid fertilizer is employed in a composition of the present invention, preferably the liquid fertilizer is employed in an amount of about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight. In a specific embodiment of the invention, which is not meant to be limiting in any manner, the plant growth composition may comprise Growers N.S. available from Jim Lewis of Agr-Nutrition 1984 Inc, Ontario, Canada.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the liquid fertilizer may also be employed as a dust control agent. However, other dust control agents as would be lαiown to those of skill in the art may also be employed in the plant growth composition. Preferably the dust control agent, if used is a non-animal, natural product, for example, but not limited to mineral oil, seed oil, or vegetable oil, preferably of food or feed grade quality. In an embodiment wherein a dust control agent is employed in the compositions of the present invention, preferably the dust control agent is present in the plant growth composition in an amount of about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight, for example about 0.1% to about 5% by weight, or for example about 1.5% to about 5% by weight.

The plant growth composition of the present invention may further comprise one or more iron-containing compounds, for example, but not limited to ferric sulfate, ferrous sulfate, ferrous oxide, ferrous glutamate or a combination thereof.

It is also preferred that the plant growth composition exhibits reduced levels of heavy metals or toxins which may be detrimental to plant growth. More preferably, the plant growth composition is substantially free of heavy metals or toxins. By the "heavy metal" it is meant a metal having a specific gravity greater than about 5. Representative examples of heavy metals include, but are not limited to lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and mercury (Hg).

Some representative plant growth compositions, which are not considered to be limiting in any manner are described in Examples 1-3.

Soil Amendments/Conditioners/Supplements

In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a plant growth composition comprising a nitrogen-micronutrient component in the amount of about 5% to about 70% by weight and calcium carbonate from about 20% to about 90 % by weight. For example, but not to be considered limiting in any manner, the plant growth composition may be a soil conditioner comprising between about 5% to about 15% by weight, for example about 10% by weight aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component, between about 75% and about 95%, for example about 85% by weight calcium carbonate, between about 01% to about 5% by weight dust control agent, for example about 1% by weight soybean oil and about 0.25%) to about 5% by weight, for example about 2.5% by weight sulfur. A representative example of such a soil conditioner, which is not meant to be considered limiting in any manner is described in Example 4. As will be evident to someone of skill in the art, the analysis of constituents in the conditioner may vary depending on the method used to determine the chemical constituents.

In an alternate embodiment, the plant growth composition as defined above may comprise a combination of an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component and a plant- based nitrogen-micronutrient component. In such an embodiment, the ratio of aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component to plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component is preferably in the range of about 50:1 to about 1:50. For example, but not to be considered limiting, the plant growth composition may comprise: about 30% by weight nitrogen-micronutrient component; about 65% by weight calcium carbonate and; about 1% by weight dust control agent. In a further embodiment, the 30% by weight nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises about 10% by weight aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component, preferably kelp meal and about 20% by weight plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component, preferably a mixture of both alfalfa meal and corn gluten meal, more preferably about 10% by weight alfalfa meal and about 10% by weight corn gluten meal. A representative example of such of plant growth composition is described in Example 5.

In an alternate embodiment, the plant growth composition comprises about 20% by weight nitrogen-micronutrient component, about 75% by weight calcium carbonate and about 1% dust control agent. In a further embodiment, the 20% by weight nitrogen micronutrient component comprises about 10% by weight kelp meal and about 10% by weight alfalfa meal. A representative example of such a plant growth composition is described in Example 6 In still a further embodiment, the plant growth composition comprises about 50% by weight nitrogen-micronutrient component, about 50% by weight calcium carbonate and about 1% by weight dust control agent. In a further embodiment, the nitrogen- micronutrient component comprises about 15% by weight aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient source and about 35% by weight plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component, preferably corn gluten meal. A representative example of such plant growth compositions is described in Example 7.

In an alternate embodiment, the plant growth composition comprises urea in an amount of about 10% by weight, a nitrogen-micronutrient component in the amount of about 60% by weight, and calcium carbonate in an amount of about 25% by weight. In a further embodiment, the nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises about 10% by weight kelp meal, about 25% by weight alfalfa meal and about 25% by weight corn gluten meal. A representative example, which is not meant to be limiting in any manner is described in Example 8.

The plant growth compositions of the present invention may be applied in an amount of about 5 kg to 100 kg per 300 square meters, preferably about 10 to 50 kg per 300 square meters, more preferably about 25 kg per 279 square meters (about 3000 square feet). As will be evident to someone of skill in the art, different compositions may be used in different amounts and optionally for different purposes than those indicated in the Examples.

Liquid Fertilizers

In an alternate embodiment of the present invention there is provided a liquid plant growth composition comprising: i) a liquid fertilizer; ii) a nitrogen-containing solution and; iii) an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient extract.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the liquid fertilizer comprises diammonium phosphate and potassium hydroxide and has an N:P:K ratio of about 10/20/10. Further, the liquid fertilizer may be present in an amount of about 10% to about 80% by weight, preferably about 20% to 80% by weight, more preferably about 30% to about 70% by weight of the liquid plant growth composition. In a preferred embodiment the liquid fertilizer is Growers N.S. available from Jim Lewis of Agr-Nutrition 1984 Inc, Ontario, Canada.

The nitrogen-containing solution for example comprises about 23% nitrogen. The nitrogen-containing solution may be employed in an amount of about 20% to about 60% by weight, or for example at about 25% to about 50% by weight of the liquid plant growth composition. The nitrogen-containing solution may be CERES N solution (23%) available from Ceres Corp.

The aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient extract is an extract of algae similar to that described previously for the aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component. The aquatic nitrogen- micronutrient component is present in the liquid plant growth composition in an amount of about 1% to about 20% by weight, preferably about 2% to about 10 % by weight relative to the liquid plant growth composition. The aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient extract may be CERES S.P. Extract.

The liquid plant growth composition may also comprise additional components, for example, but not limited to coloring agents, vinegar, acetic acid or combinations thereof. For example, a coloring agent may be present to impart or change the color of the liquid plant growth composition, for example, but not limited to Green Brilliant #7051, Christmas Red #7071, or other coloring as would be lαiown in the art. In an embodiment of the invention, which is not meant to be considered limiting, the coloring agent may be a yellow coloring agent and be present in the amount of about 0.1% by weight of the liquid plant growth composition.

The liquid plant growth composition may also comprise vinegar (5% acetic acid in water). If present, vinegar may be present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 2%, preferably about 1% by weight of the liquid plant growth composition.

Preferably, the liquid plant growth composition is filtered during packaging or filling to remove large pieces of insoluble material. The liquid plant growth composition may be filtered through nylon filters, milk line filters, inline filters such as, but not limited to Banjo inline strainer 100 mesh screen, or a combination thereof.

The liquid plant growth composition may be employed to fertilize plants including, but not limited to lawns, shrubs, flowers and trees, for example, but not limited to fruit and nut trees.

Representative examples of liquid fertilizer compositions are described in Examples 9 and 10. These examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be limiting in any manner.

Additional Plant Growth Formulations

In an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a composition comprising one or more plant nitrogen-micronutrient components, a K/SO₄ component, and optionally a non-protein nitrogen component, an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component or a combination thereof. The one or more plant nitrogen-micronutrient components may comprise, for example, but not limited to corn gluten. Corn gluten may be employed in an amount of between about 30% and about 60% by weight, preferably about 40 to about 50% by weight of the composition. Granulated lime powder (calcium oxide) may be used in an amount of about 0.01% to about 40% by weight of the composition. The K/SO₄ component may comprise sulfate of potash in an amount of about 5 to 30% by weight, for example about 8 to 24% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the composition may comprise nitrate of soda in an amount of about 47% by weight, corn gluten in an amount of about 45% by weight, sulfate of potash in an amount of about 8% by weight and granulated lime powder in an amount of about 0.2 % by weight. The composition may be applied in an amount of about 9kg per 2400 square feet. Further information pertaining to this particular embodiment is shown in Example 11.

In an alternate embodiment of the present invention there is provided a composition comprising nitrate of soda in an amount of about 31% by weight, corn gluten in an amount of about 50%, sulfate of potash in the amount of about 16%, kelp meal in the amount of about 3% and granulated lime powder in the amount of about 1 % by weight of the composition. The composition may be applied in an amount of about 9kg per 2400 square feet. Further information pertaining to this particular embodiment is shown in Example 12.

In still a further embodiment, there is provided a composition comprising corn gluten in an amount of about 40% by weight, sulfate of potash in an amount of about 24% by weight, kelpmeal in an amount of about 3% by weight and granulated lime powder in an amount of about 34% by weight of the composition. The composition may be applied in an amount of about 9kg per 2400 square feet. Further information pertaining to this particular embodiment is shown in Example 13.

The present invention will be further illustrated in the following examples.

EXAMPLES: The examples listed below are representative of plant growth compositions as defined herein and are not meant to be limiting in any manner. Formulation analyses are also representative of specific compositions defined and are not meant to limit the specific plant growth compositions claimed. Also, preferred usage and rates of application are provided for general guidance and are not meant to be limiting in any manner.

EXAMPLE 1: Lawn fertilizer

Urea (preferably feed/pharmaceutical-grade): 107 kgs

Monodicalcium phosphate: 178 l gs

Dyna-Mate®: 56 kgs

Dyna-K®: 20 kgs

Kelp Meal: 25 kgs

Calcium Carbonate (preferably feed/pharmaceutical-grade): 549 kgs Dust Control agent: 15 kgs

Dehydrated Alfalfa meal: 50kgs

1000 kgs

Formulation analysis:

Nitrogen 5% Boron 6 ppm

Phosphorus 4% Iron 2729 ppm

Potassium 2% Manganese 226 ppm

Calcium 24% Copper 17 ppm

Magnesium .87%

Sodium .19% Zinc 25 ppm

Sulphur 1.32% Bicarbonate 300 ppm

Molybdenum 2 ppm

Cobalt 1 ppm

Preferred directions for use: fall application Preferred rate of application: about 20kg per 745 square meters (8000 sq feet).

EXAMPLE 2: Lawn Fertilizer

Urea (preferably pharmaceutical-grade): 361 kgs

Monodicalcium phosphate: 269 kgs

Dyna-Mate®: 50 kgs

Dyna-K®: 9 kgs

Kelp Meal: 50 kgs

Calcium Carbonate (preferably feed/pharmaceutical-grade): 196 kgs Dust Control agent: 15 kgs

Dehydrated Alfalfa meal: 50kgs

1000 kgs

Formulation Analysis:

Nitrogen 17% Boron 48 ppm

Phosphorus 6% Iron 3899 ppm

Potassium 1.80% Manganese 167 ppm

Calcium 12.46% Copper 6 ppm

Magnesium .81%

Sodium .24% Zinc 37 ppm

Sulphur 1.24% Bicarbonate O ppm

Molybdenum O ppm

Cobalt 2 ppm

Preferred directions for use: spring application.

Preferred rate of application: about 20kg per 745 square meters (8000 square feet).

EXAMPLE 3: Lawn Fertilizer Urea (preferably pharmaceutical-grade): 238 kgs Monodicalcium phosphate: 190 kgs Dyna-Mate®: 102 kgs Kelp Meal: 75 kgs

Calcium Carbonate (preferably feed/pharmaceutical-grade): 155 kgs Dust Control agent: 40 kgs

Dehydrated Alfalfa meal: ^ 200kgs

1000 kgs

Formulation Analysis:

Nitrogen 12% Boron 7 ppm

Phosphorus 5% Iron 2950 ppm

Potassium 3% Manganese 132 ppm

Calcium 10% Copper 10 ppm

Magnesium 1.4%

Sodium .35% Zinc 33 ppm

Sulphur 2.49% Bicarbonate 53 ppm

Molybdenum 1 ppm

Cobalt 2 ppm

Preferred directions for use: midsummer application.

Preferred rate of application: about 30kg per 745 square meters (8000 square feet)

EXAMPLE 4: Soil Conditioner

Kelp Meal: 100kg

Calcium Carbonate: 865kg SoyaBean Oil: 10kg

Sulfur: 25kg Formulation Analysis:

Calcium (Ca) 33%

Sulphur (S) 2.70%

Boron 8 ppm

Iron 361 ppm

Manganese 243 ppm

Copper 2 ppm

Zinc 5 ppm

Preferred Use and Rate of Application:

Broadcast evenly over lawn at a rate of about 2.5 kg per 30 square meters. Preferably apply early spring and fall. During drought conditions, a mid-summer application may be beneficial. Light watering of treated area for 15 minutes is also suggested.

EXAMPLE 5: Soil Amendment

Kelp meal: 100kg

Calcium carbonate: 665kg

Dust control agent (soyabean oil): 10kg

Alfalfa meal: 100kg

Corn Meal: 100kg

Sulfur: 25kg

Formulation Analysis

Total Nitrogen (N) 1.46%

Calcium (Ca) 25.00%

Sulphur (S) 2.74%

Potassium 2.6% Boron 8 ppm

Iron 351 ppm

Manganese 193 ppm

Copper 20 ppm

Zinc 12 ppm

Preferred Use and Rate of Application:

Soil amendment may be used in early spring to inhibit the germination of unwanted vegetation. Preferably, apply in early spring during periods high moisture in the soil. Preferred Rate of Application: About 25 kg per 279 square meters (3,000 square feet)

EXAMPLE 6: Soil supplement/amendment

Kelp meal: 100kg

Calcium carbonate: 765kg

Alfalfa meal: 100kg

S oyaB ean Oil : 10kg

Sulfur: 25kg

The soil supplement for may be used for indoor plants and flowers. The soil supplement may also be used for other plants, as would be understood by a person of skill in the art.

Analysis

Nitrogen 4%

Phosphorus .09%

Potassium .48%

Calcium 29%

Magnesium .14%

Sulphur 2.74% Boron 8 ppm

Iron 307 ppm

Manganese 220 ppm

Copper 20 ppm

Zinc 7 ppm

Preferred Use and Rate of Application:

Houseplants: Monthly application. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon into large pots, one half tablespoon into medium pots and one quarter into the smaller pots. Continue watering at regular intervals.

Gardens: Bi-annual application. Manually or mechanically broadcast over garden. First application at plants emergence, second application before frost.

Preferred rate of application: about 2.5 kg per 30 sq meters.

Metals Analysis:

Arsenic (As) 0.46 mg/kg

Cadmium (Cd) <1

Cobalt (Co) <5

Copper (Cu) 23

Chromium (Cr) 19

Lead (Pb) <5

Molybdenum (Mb) 2.4

Mercury (Hg) <0.02

Nickel (Ni) 9.4

Selenium (Se) <0.25

Zinc (Zn) 46

The present invention also contemplates compositions that comprise about the same, or lower amounts of heavy metals as defined above.

EXAMPLE 7: Soil Supplement

Kelp meal: 150kg

Calcium carbonate: 475 kg Corn gluten meal : 315kg

SoyaBean Oil: 50kg

Sulfur: 10kg

The supplement may be employed to promote and sustain healthy growth and aid the remediation of environmental damage to plants such as, but not limited to trees, shrubs and hedges.

Formulation Analysis

Nitrogen 3.25% Boron 12 ppm

Phosphorus .11% Iron 317 ppm

Potassium .52% Manganese 38 ppm

Calcium 18% Copper 30 ppm

Magnesium .27% Zinc 20 ppm

Sodium .52% Bicarbonate 0 ppm

Sulphur 5.34% Molybdenum O ppm

Cobalt O ppm

Preferred directions for use:

Apply early spring and fall. During drought conditions, a mid-summer application followed by a watering may be beneficial. Broadcast manually or mechanically at the drip line of trees or large shrubs.

Trees:

Preferably, apply 2.5 kg. per average mature tree increasing by 20% to 40% for larger trees and for those showing signs of environmental damage or stress.

Cedar Hedges: Preferably, apply 750 gm. (3/4 kg) per linear meter. Sprinlde liberally at base of hedge. Increase application by 20% to 40% where signs of environmental damage or stress are evident.

Small Ornamental Shrubs:

Preferably apply 750 gm. (3/4 kg.) sprinlded at base of plant. Increase application rate by

20% to 40% where signs of environmental damage or stress are showing.

EXAMPLE 8: Soil Conditioner

Urea: 100kg

Kelp meal: 91kg

Calcium carbonate: 258kg

Alfalfa meal: 258kg

Corn meal: 258kg

SoyaBean Oil: 10kg

Sulfur: 25kg

Formulation Analysis

Total Nitrogen (N) 8.00%

Calcium (CA) 10.00%

Sulfur (S) 2.70%

Potassium .94%

Boron 7 ppm

Iron 297 ppm

Manganese 85 ppm

Copper 91 ppm

Zinc 22 ppm

Preferred Usage and i rate of application: Use twice yearly once in the spring and once in tlie fall.

Preferred Rate of Application: About 25 kg per 279 square meters (3,000 square feet)

EXAMPLE 9: Liquid fertilizer

A solution mixture of N:P:K\ 70 kg

Nitrogen Solution² (23%) 26.9 kg

Kelp Extract 2 kg

Yellow Coloring Agent .100 kg

Vinegar (5%) 1 kg

100 kg

¹ A solution mixture of N:P:K 10:20:10 comprising food or feed grade ingredients, phosphoric acid, diammonium phosphate, urea and potassium hydroxide.

² A nitrogen solution of urea and water (50/50 weight percent).

Formulation Analysis:

Total Nitrogen 13 %

Available Phosphoric Acid (P₂0₅) 14%

Soluble Potash (K₂) 4%

EXAMPLE 10: Liquid Grass Fertilizer

Growers N.S. 10/20/10 40 kg

CERES N Solution (23%) 50 kg

CERES Sea Product Extract 10 kg

100 kg

Formulation Analysis: Total Nitrogen 17%

Available Phosphoric Acid (P₂0₅) 7%

Soluble Potash (K₂) 4%

EXAMPLE 11: Spring Green Up Composition 12-0-4

Component Amount (kg)

Nitrate of soda 469

Corn gluten 450

Sulfate of potash 79

Granulated lime powder 2

Formulation Analyses:

Organic matter: 36% (w/w)

Sulfur: 1.4%

Slow Release nitrogen component: 37%

The composition is preferably applied in spring at an amount of about 9kg per 2400 square feet. However, other application times and rates are also possible and within the scope of the present invention.

EXAMPLE 12: Late Spring/Early Summer Composition 10-0-8

Component Amount (kg)

Nitrate of soda 311

Corn gluten 500

Sulfate of potash 155

Kelpmeal 25

Granulated lime powder 9 Formulation Analyses: Organic matter: 40%

Sulfur: 2.7% .

Slow Release: 50%

The composition is preferably applied in late spring/early summer at an amount of about 9kg per about 1000 to about 2400 square feet. However, other application times and rates are also possible and within the scope of the present invention.

EXAMPLE 13: Late Summer/Early Fall Composition 4-0-12

Component Amount (kg)

Corn gluten 400

Sulfate of potash 236

Kelpmeal 25

Granulated lime powder 339

Formulation Analyses:

Organic matter: 32%

Sulfur: 4.2%

Slow Release: 4%

The composition is preferably applied in the late summer or early fall at an amount of about 9kg per 2400 square feet. However, other application times and rates are also possible and within the scope of the present invention.

EXAMPLE 14: Tomato Fertilizer Composition 8-12-14

Urea 174 kg

Mono-di-calcium phosphate 248 kg Dyna-Mate 65 kg

Dyna-K 207 kg

Calcium carbonate 296 kg

Soybean oil 10 kg

Analysis

Total Nitrogen 8%

Available Phosphate (P₂O₅) 12%

Soluble Potash (K₂O) 14%

Calcium (Ca) 10%

Sulfur (S) 0.7%

The composition is preferably used for tomatoes but may be employed as a fertilizer for other fruit and vegetable plants, lawns, grasses, gardens, shrubs, trees, bushes, flowers or a combination thereof.

The composition is preferably applied in an amount of between about 1kg/ 10m² to about lkg/15m² of a row of tomato, or other plants. The composition is also preferably worked thoroughly into the soil in late spring/early summer. The composition may also be employed in similar or different amounts, for example at the first sight of blossom or at mid growing stage. The composition may be applied with a drop spreader or turned into the soil.

EXAMPLE 15: Soil Supplement Composition

Dyna Mate: 5 kg

Kelp meal: 100 kg

Calcium Carbonate 415 kg

Corn Gluten Meal 310 kg

Soybean Oil 5 kg

Growers Solution 8 kg Sulfur 57 kg

Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal 100kg

Preferably, the composition is applied to soil for trees and shrubs. However, the composition may be applied for any other type of plant, lawn, grass or flower lαiown in the art. It is preferred that the composition is used in the early spring and fall. During drought conditions, a midsummer application followed by watering may be followed. The composition may be broadcast manually or mechanically at the drip line of trees or large shrubs. Preferably the composition is applied at a rate of about 5 lbs per average mature tree increasing about 20% to about 40% for larger trees. For cedar hedges, preferably the composition is applied in an amount of about 26.5 oz per linear yard sprinkled liberally at the base of the hedge. For small ornamental slirubs, preferably the composition is applied in an amount of about 26.5 oz sprinkled at the base of the plant. The application dose may be increased by about 20% to about 40% where the plant exhibits signs of environmental damage or stress.

EXAMPLE 16: Fall Maintenance/Winter Preparation Fertiliser Composition 5-4-12

Urea 107 kg

Monodicalcium phosphate 80 kg

Dyna Mate 80 kg

Dyna K 165 kg

Kelp Meal 25 kg

Calcium Carbonate 478 kg

Alfalfa meal 50 kg

Growers Solution 15 kg

Analysis

Total Nitrogen 5% 4.9% urea nitrogen 0.1% water insoluble nitrogen

Available Phosphate (P₂O₅) 4%

Soluble Potash (K₂O) 12%

Calcium (Ca) 20%

Sulfur (S) 1.9%

1.9% combined sulfur

Magnesium (Mg) 0.9%

The composition is preferably applied to turf, lawns, grasses, plants and the like before winter sets in. The composition may be applied to any plant, grass or the like. Preferably, the composition is applied in an amount of about 19.8 lbs per about 2500 square feet before winter dormancy.

Metals Analysis:

Arsenic (As) 3.4 mg/kg

Cadmium (Cd) <1

Cobalt (Co) 7.6

Copper (Cu) 267

Chromium (Cr) 34

Lead (Pb) <5

Molybdenum (Mb) 4.3

Mercury (Hg) <0.02

Nickel (Ni) 12

Selenium (Se) 26

Zinc (Zn) 1360

The present invention also contemplates compositions that comprise about the same, or lower amounts of heavy metals as defined above. EXAMPLE 17: Spring Maintenance Fertilizer Composition 17-6-2

Urea 370 kg

Mondicalcium Phosphate 124 kg

Dyna Mate 57 kg

DynaK 12 kg

Kelp meal 50 kg

Calcium carbonate 322 kg

Growers solution 15 kg

Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal 50 kg

Analysis:

Total Nitrogen 17%

16.9% urea nitrogen

0.1% water insoluble nitrog ξen

Available Phosphate (P₂O₅) 6%

Soluble Potash (K₂O) 2%

Calcium (Ca) 14%

Sulfur (S) 1%

The composition is preferably applied to turf, grass, lawns or the like prior to or during the growing season but may be applied to any plant or group of plants including trees, shrubs, flowers and the like. Preferably, the composition is applied in early to mid spring in an amount of about 19.8 lbs per about 3500 square feet.

Metals Analysis:

Arsenic (As) 4.5 mg/kg

Cadmium (Cd) <1

Cobalt (Co) <5

Copper (Cu) 45

Chromium (Cr) 35 Lead (Pb) <5

Molybdenum (Mb) 4.7

Mercury (Hg) <0.02

Nickel (Ni) 7.7

Selenium (Se) 0.75

Zinc (Zn) 203

EXAMPLE 18: Summer maintenance Lawn Fertilizer Composition 12-5-3

Urea 241 kg

Mondicalcium Phosphate 87 kg

Dyna Mate 110 kg

Calcium carbonate 323 kg

Growers solution 39 kg

Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal 200 kg

Analysis:

Total Nitrogen 12%

11.4% urea nitrogen

0.6% water insoluble nitrog jen

Available Phosphate (P₂O₅) 5%

Soluble Potash (K₂O) 3%

Calcium (Ca) 14%

Magnesium (Mg) 1%

1% water soluble magnesium

Sulfur (S) 2%

2% Combined sulfur The composition is preferably applied to turf, grass, lawns or the like but may be applied to any plant or group of plants including trees, shrubs, flowers and the like. Preferably, the composition is applied before or during summer dormancy in an amount of about 19.8 lbs per about 2500 square feet.

Metals Analysis:

Arsenic (As) 3.1 mg/kg

Cadmium (Cd) <1

Cobalt (Co) <5

Copper (Cu) 31

Chromium (Cr) 38

Lead (Pb) <5

Molybdenum (Mb) 3.5

Mercury (Hg) <0.02

Nickel (Ni) 13

Selenium (Se) 0.42

Zinc (Zn) 94

The composition was tested on overseeded bermudagrass turf plots. The composition provided significantly darker green plots than those plots that received other formulations, for example, Scott's Turf Builder and Milorganite.

EXAMPLE 19: Soil pH Amendment Composition

Calcium Carbonate 925 kg

Growers solution 20 kg

Diatomaceous earth 5 kg

Amino Acid Package 50 kg EXAMPLE 20: Rose Fertilizer Composition 6-14-12

Urea 124 kg

Monodicalcium phosphate 288 kg

Dyna K 192 kg

Kelp meal 25 kg

Calcium carbonate 261 kg

Soybean Oil 10 kg

Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal 100 kg

Analysis

Nitrogen (N) 6%

5.7% urea nitrogen

0.3% water soluble nitrogen

Available phosphate (P₂O₅) 14%

Potash 12%

Calcium (Ca) 9%

The composition is preferably applied to flowers, for example, but not limited to roses and the like, but may be applied to other plants, grasses, shrubs, trees and the like. Preferably, between about 1/2 cup to 1 cup of the composition is sprinlded around new roses. For new hybrids, shrubs and climbing varieties, it may be preferable to use a full cup of the composition. The composition may be mixed into the soil around the flower stem, plant or bush. In a preferred embodiment, which is not meant to be limiting, about 1/2 cup of the composition is applied to the flowers, plant, or the like every month after the first application.

EXAMPLE 21: AU Season Fertilizer Composition 8-2-2 Urea 106 kg

Monodicalcium phosphate 40 kg Dyna Mate 67 kg

Kelp meal 80 kg

Calcium Carbonate 252 kg

Corn Gluten 257 kg

Soyabean Oil 10 kg

Sulfur 13 kg

Dehydrated Alfalfa meal 175 kg

Analysis

Nitrogen (N) 8%

5% urea nitrogen

3% water insoluble nitrogen

Available phosphate (P₂O₅) 2%

Soluble Potash (K₂O) 2%

Calcium (Ca) 5%

Magnesium (Mg) 1%

1% water soluble magnesium

Sulfur (S) 2%

2% combined sulfur

The composition is preferably applied to lawns, grass, turf and the like but may be applied to any plant, flower, tree, bush or the like. The composition is preferably applied twice in early spring about 6 to about 8 weeks apart at an amount between about 9kg per 147 square meters, each time.

Metals Analysis:

Arsenic (As) 2.0 mg/kg

Cadmium (Cd) <1

Cobalt (Co) <5

Copper (Cu) 37 Cliromium (Cr) 37

Lead (Pb) <5

Molybdenum (Mb) 3

Mercury (Hg) <0.02

Nickel (Ni) 14

Selenium (Se) 0.25

Zinc (Zn) 168

EXAMPLE 22: All Season Fertilizer Composition 9-1-4

Sulfate of potash 78 kg

Sodium Nitrate 345 kg

Corn gluten meal 398 kg

Rock phosphate 179 kg

Analysis

Nitrogen (N) 9%

5.5% nitrate nitrogen

3.5%o water insoluble nitrogen

Available phosphate (P₂O₅) 1%

Soluble Potash (K₂O) 4%

Calcium (Ca) 3.5%

Sulfur (S) 1%

1% combined sulfur

The composition is preferably applied to grass, lawns, turf or the like, but may also be applied to any plant, flower, bush, tree, shrub or the like. The composition is preferably applied to established turf in early spring and in the fall, 4 to 6 weeks prior to and after winter dormancy. The composition may be applied in an amount of about 28 lbs per 2500 square feet of turf.

Metals Analysis:

Arsenic (As) 0.75 mg/kg

Cadmium (Cd) <1

Cobalt (Co) <5

Copper (Cu) 9

Chromium (Cr) 21

Lead (Pb) <5

Molybdenum (Mb) 2.8

Mercury (Hg) 0.03

Nickel (Ni) 8.9

Selenium (Se) <0.25

Zinc (Zn) 32

EXAMPLE 23: Spring Fertilizer Composition 12-0-4

Sulfate of Potash 79 kg

Sodium Nitrate 550 kg

Corn gluten Meal 371 kg

Analysis

Nitrogen (N) 12%

8.9% nitrate nitrogen

3.1% water insoluble nitrogen Soluble Potash (K₂O) 4%

Sulfur (S) 1% 1% combined sulfur

The composition is preferably applied to established grass, lawns, turf or the like, but may also be applied to any plant, flower, bush, tree, shrub or the like. The composition is preferably applied to established turf in early spring, prior to the growing season, during the growing season, or combination thereof. The composition may be also applied about 6 to about 8 weeks apart, for example, but not limited to March through May depending on geographic location. The composition may be applied in an amount of about 20 lbs per 2500 square feet of turf.

Metals Analysis:

Arsenic (As) <0.25 mg/kg

Cadmium (Cd) <1

Chromium (Cr) 4.9

Cobalt (Co) <5

Copper (Cu) 4.8

Lead (Pb) <5

Molybdenum (Mb) 1.3

Mercury (Hg) 0.02

Nickel (Ni) 2.8

Selenium (Se) <0.25

Zinc (Zn) 20

EXAMPLE 24: Summer Fertilizer Composition 10-0-8

Sulfate of potash 157 kg

Sodium nitrate 400 kg Corn gluten meal 443 k

Analysis

Nitrogen (N) 10%

5% nitrate nitrogen

5% water insoluble nitrogen

Soluble Potash (K₂O) 8%

Sulfur (S) 2.5%

2.5% combined sulfur

The composition is preferably applied to established grass, lawns, turf or the like, but may also be applied to any plant, flower, bush, tree, shrub or the like. The composition is preferably applied to established turf in late spring through summer. The composition may be also applied about 6 to about 8 weeks apart, for example, but not limited to May through August depending on geographic location. The composition may be applied in an amount of about 10 lbs per 1000 square feet of turf.

EXAMPLE 25: Fall Fertiliser Composition 4-0-12

Sulfate of Potash 234 kg

Sodium Nitrate 32 kg

Corn gluten Meal 400 kg

Dolomtic Lime 309 kg

Kelp meal 25 kg

Analysis

Nitrogen (N) 4%

0.5% nitrate nitrogen

3.5%) water insoluble nitrogen Soluble Potash (K₂O) 12% Calcium (Ca) 6%

Magnesium (Mg) 3.7%

3.7% water insoluble

Sulfur (S) 4%

4% combined sulfur

The composition is preferably applied to established grass, lawns, turf or the like, but may also be applied to any plant, flower, bush, tree, shrub or the like. The composition is preferably applied to established turf in late summer or fall when seasonal temperatures are cooler promoting winter turf dormancy. The composition may be also applied about 6 to about 8 weeks apart, for example, but not limited to August through October depending on geographic location. The composition may be applied in an amount of about 20 lbs per 2500 square feet of turf.

Metals Analysis:

Arsenic (As) 0.46 mg/kg

Cadmium (Cd) <1

Cobalt (Co) <5

Copper (Cu) 12

Cl romium (Cr) 61

Lead (Pb) <5

Molybdenum (Mb) 5.6

Mercury (Hg) 0.03

Nickel (Ni) 31

Selenium (Se) 0.25

Zinc (Zn) 80

The present invention also contemplates compositions that comprise about the same, or lower amounts of heavy metals as defined above. EXAMPLE 26: Corn gluten Composition 8-0-4

Sulfate of Potash 79 kg

Corn gluten Meal 900kg

Dolomtic lime 21 kg

EXAMPLE 27: Garden Fertilizer Composition 3-3-6

Sulfate of potash 78 kg

Sulfate of potash magnesia 77 kg

Sodium nitrate 162 kg

Corn gluten Meal 58 kg

Rock phosphate 600 kg

Kelp meal 25 kg

Analysis

Nitrogen (N) 3%

1.4% nitrate nitrogen

1.6% water insoluble nitrogen

Available phosphate (P₂O₅) 3%

Soluble Potash (K₂O) 6%

Calcium (Ca) 11%

Magnesium (Mg) 1%

0.85% water soluble

Sulfur (S) 3%

3% combined sulfur

The composition is preferably applied to plants, trees, shrubs and gardens but may be applied to grass, lawns, turf and the like. For new plantings, about 2 lbs of the product may be applied to the surface of the soil after the trees, shrubs, evergreen, or the like have been transplanted and the soil replaced. For trees or shrubs, about 1 lbs of the composition may be poured around the base of the tree in spring, late fall, or both, or the composition may be scattered beneath the outer ends of the branches. For gardens,for example, but not limited to vegetable gardens, the composition may be applied at about 2.5 kg per 10 square meters to the soil. Preferably, the soil and composition is mixed.

Metals Analysis:

Arsenic (As) 3.4 mg/kg

Cadmium (Cd) 2.1

Chromium (Cr) 70

Cobalt (Co) <5

Copper (Cu) 15

Lead (Pb) <5

Molybdenum (Mb) 1.8

Mercury (Hg) 0.1

Nickel (Ni) 24

Selenium (Se) <0.25

Zinc (Zn) 53

EXAMPLE 28: Rose Fertilizer Composition 2-4-4

Sulfate of Potash 74 kg

Sodium Nitrate 126 kg

Rock Phosphate 800 kg EXAMPLE 29: Liquid Fertilizer Composition 1-0-0

Agrogreen one part per volume

Water three parts per volume

All citations are herein incorporated by reference.

The present invention has been described with regard to preferred embodiments. However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can be made without departing form the scope of the invention as described herein

Claims

THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION IN WHICH AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:

1. A plant growth composition comprising a nitrogen-micronutrient component and one or more components selected from the group consisting of: a Ca/P component, a K/SO₄ component, a K/Mg/SO₄ component, a non-protein nitrogen component and calcium carbonate.

2. The plant growth composition of claim 1 , wherein the nitrogen-micronutrient component is present in an amount of about 5% to about 80% by weight of the composition.

3. The plant growth composition of claim 1 , wherein said nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component, a plant based nitrogen-micronutrient component, or a combination thereof.

4. The plant growth composition of claim 3, wherein said aquatic nitrogen- micronutrient component, and said plant based nitrogen-micronutrient component are present in a ratio of between about 50:1 to about 1:50 by weight, respectively.

5. The plant growth composition of claim 1, wherein said composition comprises a K/SO₄ component in an amount of about 0.1% to about 30% by weight.

6. The plant growth composition of claim 1, wherein said composition comprises a non-protein nitrogen component and said component is nitrate of soda.

7. The plant growth composition of claim 6, wherein said nitrate of soda is present in an amount between about 0.1% and about 50% by weight of the composition.

8. The plant growth composition of claim 7, wherein said nitrate of soda is present in an amount of about 10% to about 50% by weight of the composition.

9. The plant growth composition of claim 1 , wherein said nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises between about 30% and about 60% by weight.

10. The plant growth composition of claim 1 , wherein said nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises between about 0.01 to about 40% by weight.

11. The composition of claim 1 comprising nitrate of soda in an amount of about 47% by weight, corn gluten in an amount of about 45% by weight, sulfate of potash in the amount of about 8% by weight and granulated lime powder in an amount of about 0.2% by weight.

12. The composition of claim 1 comprising nitrate of soda in an amount of about 31 % by weight, corn gluten in an amount of about 50% by weight, sulfate of potash in the amount of about 16%, kelpmeal in an amount of about 3% by weight, and granulated lime powder in an amount of about 1% by weight.

13. The composition of claim 1 comprising com gluten in an amount of about 40% by weight, sulfate of potash in the amount of about 24% by weight, kelpmeal in the amount of 2.5% by weight, and granulated lime powder in an amount of about 34% by weight.

14. The plant growth composition of claim 1, comprising a Ca/P component, calcium carbonate and further comprising a K/Mg/SO₄ component.

15. The plant growth composition of claim 14, wherein said calcium carbonate is present in an amount between about 5% to 60% by weight, said nitrogen- micronutrient component is present in an amount of between about 5% to 50% by weight, said K Mg/SO₄ component is present in an amount of between about 5% to 25% by weight and said Ca/P component is present in an amount of between about 5% to 40% by weight.

16. The plant growth composition of claim 15, wherein said nitrogen-micronutrient component is present in an amount of between about 7% to 30% by weight, said Ca/P component is present in an amount of between about 10% to 35% by weight and said K/Mg/SO₄ component is present in an amount of between about 5% to 10% by weight.

17. The plant growth composition of claim 14, wherein said K Mg/SO₄ component comprises potassium sulfate, magnesium sulfate and optionally potassium chloride.

18. The plant growth composition of claim 17, wherein said K/Mg/SO₄ component comprises sulfur in the amount of about 22% by weight, potassium in an amount of about 18% by weight and magnesium in an amount of about 11% by weight.

19. The plant growth composition of claim 17, wherein said K/Mg/SO₄ component is Dynamate or a combination of Dynamate and Dyna-K®.

20. The plant growth composition of claim 14, wherein said Ca/P component comprises monodicalcium phosphate, phosphate rock, or a combination thereof.

21. The plant growth composition of claim 15 wherein said nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component, a plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component, or a combination thereof.

22. The plant growth composition of claim 21 wherein said nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises both an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component and a plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component.

23. The plant growth composition of claim 21 , wherein said aquatic nitrogen- micronutrient component comprises one or more algaes, extracts of algaes, or a combination thereof.

24. The plant growth composition of claim 21, wherein said algae is kelp.

25. The plant growth composition of claim 21 , wherein said aquatic nitrogen- micronutrient component is processed into a meal.

26. The plant growth composition of claim 21 , wherein said plant-based nitrogen- micronutrient component is derived from alfalfa, barley, beets, brewer's grains, distiller's grains, canola, coconut, com, cottonseed, linseed, oats, oatmeal, peanuts, rice, sunflowers, wheat, buckwheat, clover or a combination thereof.

27. The plant growth composition of claim 21 , wherein said plant-based nitrogen- micronutrient component is processed into a meal or pelletized.

28. The plant growth composition of claim 21, wherein said plant-based nitrogen- micronutrient component is processed to remove a portion of starch or soluble sugars.

29. The plant growth composition of claim 22, wherein said aquatic nitrogen- micronutrient component is kelp meal and said plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component comprises alfalfa meal, com gluten meal or a combination thereof.

30. The plant growth composition of claim 21, further comprising a non-protein nitrogen component in the amount of between about 0.1% to 40% by weight and a dust control agent in an amount of between about 0.1% to about 10% by weight.

31. The plant growth composition of claim 30, wherein said non-protein nitrogen component is selected from the group consisting of urea, urea derivatives, nitrate of soda, ammonium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate or a combination thereof.

32. The plant growth composition of claim 31 , wherein said non-protein nitrogen component is urea and is present in an amount of between about 10% to about 40% by weight, and said dust control agent is present in an amount between about 1.5% and about 5% by weight.

33. The plant growth composition of claim 30 wherein said dust control agent is a liquid fertilizer.

34. The plant growth composition of claim 33 wherein said liquid fertilizer is present in an amount between about 0.1% to about 25% by weight.

35. The plant growth composition of claim 33 wherein said liquid fertilizer comprises a N:P:K ratio of about 10:20:10.

36. The plant growth composition of claim 30, further comprising an iron-containing compound.

37. The plant growth composition of claim 36, wherein said iron-containing compound is ferric sulfate, ferrous sulfate or a combination thereof.

38. The plant growth composition of claim 36, wherein said iron-containing compound is present in an amount of about 0.001 % to about 0.1 %, or more by weight.

39. The plant growth composition of claim 21 comprising, 1) urea in an amount of about 10.7 % by weight;

2) monodicalcium phosphate in an amount of about 17.8 % by weight;

3) Dyna-Mate® in an amount of about 5.6 % by weight;

4) Dyna-K® in an amount of about 2.0 % by weight;

5) kelp meal in an amount of about 2.5 % by weight;

6) calcium carbonate in an amount of about 54.9 % by weight;

7) dust control agent in an amount of about 1.5 % by weight;

8) dehydrated alfalfa meal in an amount of about 5% by weight.

40. The plant growth composition of claim 39 wherein said urea, monodicalcium phosphate, Dyna-Mate®, Dyna-K®, kelp meal, calcium carbonate, dust control agent and alfalfa meal are feed-grade quality or better.

41. The plant growth composition of claim 21 comprising,

1) urea in an amount of about 36.1 % by weight;

2) monodicalcium phosphate in an amount of about 26.9 % by weight;

3) Dyna-Mate® in an amount of about 5 % by weight;

4) Dyna-K® in an amount of about 0.9 % by weight;

5) kelp meal in an amount of about 5 % by weight;

6) calcium carbonate in an amount of about 19.6 % by weight;

7) dust control agent in an amount of about 1.5 % by weight;

8) dehydrated alfalfa meal in an amount of about 5 % by weight.

42. The plant growth composition of claim 21 comprising,

1) urea in an amount of about 23.8 % by weight;

2) monodicalcium phosphate in an amount of about 19 % by weight;

3) Dyna-Mate® in an amount of about 10.2 % by weight;

4) kelp meal in an amount of about 7.5 % by weight;

5) calcium carbonate in an amount of about 15.5 % by weight; 6) dust control agent in an amount of about 4 % by weight;

7) dehydrated alfalfa meal in an amount of about 20 % by weight.

43. A plant growth composition comprising a nitrogen-micronutrient component and calcium carbonate.

44. The plant growth composition of claim 43 wherein said nitrogen-micronutrient component is present in an amount of between about 5% to 70% by weight and said calcium carbonate is present in an amount between about 25% to 90% by weight.

45. The plant growth composition of claim 43 wherein said nitrogen-micronutrient component is an aquatic nitrogen-micronutrient component, a plant-based nitrogen-micronutrient component or a combination thereof.

46. The plant growth composition of claim 43, wherein said nitrogen-micronutrient component is kelp meal in an amount of about 10% by weight and calcium carbonate is present in an amount of about 86.5% by weight.

47. The plant growth composition of claim 43 comprising calcium carbonate in an amount of about 66.5% by weight, kelp meal in an amount of about 10% by weight, alfalfa meal in an amount of about 10% by weight, corn gluten meal in an amount of about 10% by weight and a dust control agent in an amount of about 1% by weight.

48. The plant growth composition of claim 44 comprising kelp meal in an amount of about 10% by weight, calcium carbonate in an amount of about 76.5% by weight, alfalfa meal in an amount of about 10% by weight, and dust control agent in an amount of about 1% by weight.

49. The plant growth composition of claim 44 comprising kelp meal in an amount of about 15% by weight, calcium carbonate in an amount of about 47.5% by weight, and com meal in an amount of about 31.5% by weight.

50. The plant growth composition of claim 44 comprising kelp meal in the amount of about 9.1% by weight, calcium carbonate in an amount of about 25.8% by weight, alfalfa meal in an amount of about 25.8% by weight, corn gluten meal in an amount of about 25.8% by weight and a dust control agent in an amount of about 10% by weight.

51. A liquid plant growth composition comprising

1) Growers N.S. 10/20/10 in an amount of about 70% by weight;

2) CERES N Solutions (23%) in an amount of about 26.9 % by weight;

3) CERES S.P. Extract in an amount of about 2 % by weight;

4) vinegar (5% acetic acid) in an amount of about 1% by weight and optionally,

5) yellow coloring agent in an amount of about 0.1% by weight.

52. A liquid plant growth composition comprising,

1) Growers N.S. 10/20/10 in an amount of about 40% by weight;

2) CERES N Solutions (23%) in an amount of about 50 % by weight;

3) CERES Sea Product Extract in an amount of about 10 % by weight.

53. The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) urea in an amount of about 174 kg; b) Mono-di-calcium phosphate in an amount of about 248 kg; c) Dyna-Mate in an amount of about 65 kg; d) Dyna-K in an amount of about 207 kg; e) Calcium carbonate in an amount of about 296 kg, and; f) Soybean oil in an amount of about 10 kg.

54. The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Dyna Mate in an amount of about 5 kg; b) Kelp meal in an amount of about 100 kg; c) Calcium Carbonate in an amount of about 415 kg; d) Corn Gluten Meal in an amount of about 310 kg; e) Soybean Oil in an amount of about 5 kg; f) Growers Solution in an amount of about 8 kg; g) Sulfur in an amount of about 57 kg, and; h) dehydrated alfalfa meal in an amount of about 100kg.

55. The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Urea in an amount of about 107 kg; b) Monodicalcium phosphate in an amount of about 80 kg; c) Dyna Mate in an amount of about 80 kg; d) Dyna K in an amount of about 165 kg; e) Kelp Meal in an amount of about 25 kg; f) Calcium Carbonate in an amount of about 478 kg; g) Alfalfa meal in an amount of about 50 kg, and; h) Growers Solution in an amount of about 15 kg.

56) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Urea in an amount of about 370 kg; b) Mondicalcium Phosphate in an amount of about 124 kg; c) Dyna Mate in an amount of about 57 kg; d) Dyna K in an amount of about 12 kg; e) Kelp meal in an amount of about 50 kg; f) Calcium carbonate in an amount of about 322 kg; g) Growers solution in an amount of about 15 kg, and; h) Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal in an amount of about 50 kg. 57) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Urea in an amount of about 241 kg; b) Mondicalcium Phosphate in an amount of about 87 kg; c) Dyna Mate in an amount of about 110 kg; d) Calcium carbonate in an amount of about 323 kg; e) Growers solution in an amount of about 39 kg, and; f) Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal in an amount of about 200 kg.

58) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Urea in an amount of about 124 kg; b) Monodicalcium phosphate in an amount of about 288 kg; c) Dyna K in an amount of about 192 kg; d) Kelp meal in an amount of about 25 kg; e) Calcium carbonate in an amount of about 261 kg; f) Soybean Oil in an amount of about 10 kg, and; g) Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal in an amount of about 100 kg.

59) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Urea in an amount of about 106 kg; b) Monodicalcium phosphate in an amount of about 40 kg; c) Dyna Mate in an amount of about 67 kg; d) Kelp meal in an amount of about 80 kg; e) Calcium Carbonate in an amount of about 252 kg; f) Corn Gluten in an amount of about 257 kg; g) Soyabean Oil in an amount of about 10 kg; h) Sulfur in an amount of about 13 kg, and; i) Dehydrated Alfalfa meal in an amount of about 175 kg.

60) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Sulfate of potash in an amount of about 78 kg; b) Sodium Nitrate in an amount of about 345 kg; c) Corn gluten meal in an amount of about 398 kg, and; d) Rock phosphate in an amount of about 179 kg.

61) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Sulfate of Potash in an amount of about 79 kg; b) Sodium Nitrate in an amount of about 550 kg, and; c) Corn gluten Meal in an amount of about 371 kg.

62) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Sulfate of potash in an amount of about 157 kg; b) Sodium nitrate in an amount of about 400 kg, and; c) Corn gluten meal in an amount of about 443 kg.

63) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Sulfate of Potash in an amount of about 234 kg; b) Sodium Nitrate in an amount of about 32 kg; c) Corn gluten Meal in an amount of about 400 kg; d) Dolomtic Lime in an amount of about 309 kg, and e) Kelp meal in an amount of about 25 kg.

64) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Sulfate of Potash in an amount of about 79 kg; b) Corn gluten Meal in an amount of about 900kg, and; c) Dolomtic lime in an amount of about 21 kg.

65) The composition of claim 1, said composition comprising by weight percent a) Sulfate of potash in an amount of about 78 kg; b) Sulfate of potash magnesia in an amount of about 77 kg; c) Sodium nitrate in an amount of about 162 kg; d) Corn gluten Meal in an amount of about 58 kg; e) Rock phosphate in an amount of about 600 kg, and; f) Kelp meal in an amount of about 25 kg;