Abstract Soil is treated prior to planting by spreading water-insoluble, polyolefin pellets having an average cross sectional dimension in the range of 1/16 in. to 3/16 in. and having an average density in the range of 30 pounds per cubic foot to 37.5 pounds per cubic foot over the surface of the soil. The amount of particulate material applied ranges from 0.010 pounds to 0.035 pounds per square foot of soil surface area, as indicated by type of soil and degree of compaction. The soil is then worked so that the polyolefin particles are distributed uniformly within the soil to a depth in the order to about 6 to 8 inches below the surface. The method promotes seed germination, allows faster plant growth, provides more efficient use of moisture and nutrients, reduces erosion and crustation, and thus improves crop yields.
A method of soil treatment prior to planting comprising spreading discrete, pellets of water-insoluble polyolefin material having an average cross sectional dimension in the range of 1/16 in. to 3/16 in. and having an average density in the range of 30 pounds per cubic foot to 37.5 pounds per cubic foot over the surface of the soil to be treated at the range of about 0.010 pounds to 0.035 pounds per square foot of soil surface area, then working the polyolefin pellets into the soil to a depth in the order of about 6 to 8 inches below the surface to evenly distribute the particles throughout the top soil.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
109 words
A method of soil treatment prior to planting comprising spreading discrete, pellets of water-insoluble polyolefin material having an average cross sectional dimension in the range of 1/16 in. to 3/16 in. and having an average density in the range of 30 pounds per cubic foot to 37.5 pounds per cubic foot over the surface of the soil to be treated at the range of about 0.010 pounds to 0.035 pounds per square foot of soil surface area, then working the polyolefin pellets into the soil to a depth in the order of about 6 to 8 inches below the surface to evenly distribute the particles throughout the top soil.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
45 words
The method of claim 1 wherein said pellets have an average volume of about 0.002 cubic in. and wherein said pellets are spread over the surface of the soil to be treated at about 0.030 pounds of polyolefin material per square foot of soil surface.