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 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.

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/S04 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/S04 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, lcelpmeal 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 I (/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 IL/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/S04 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/Mig/SO4 component may be Dynamate or a combination of Dynamate and Dyna-KO.

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, buclcwheat, 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 slcill 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-KO 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-MateO, Dyna-KO, 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 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.

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/S04 component, C) a K/Mg/S04 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, shrubs, 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 lilce 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 (plant: 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 Lan ? inaria 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 polishing ; 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 middling, and wheat millrun; clover9 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 art. 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, CaHPO4 or 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 known 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/S04 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 Dynamate0. In a further embodiment, the K/Mg/SO4 component may comprise a combination of Dynamate0 and Dyna-K@. Dynamate and Dyna-K@ may be obtained from any supplier Imown 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/S04 component itself may comprise about 22% sulfur, about 18% potassium and about 1 1% 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 known 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, or 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 an N : 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 lcnown 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 6"heavy metal9' 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 0.1% 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 lcnown 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/S04 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/S04 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 kgs Dyna-Mate@ : 56 kgs Dyna-KO : 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-KO : 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 0 ppm Molybdenum 0 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 10Q0 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 (soybean 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 SoyaBean Qil 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: 1 Okg 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 0 ppm Cobalt 0 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. Sprinkle 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.) sprinkled 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 rate of application: Use twice yearly once in the spring and once in the 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: Kl. 70 kg Nitrogen Solution2 (23%) 26.9 kg Kelp Extract 2 kg Yellow Coloring Agent. 100 kg Vinegar (5%) 1kg 100 lcg 1A solution mixture of N : P: K 10: 20: 10 comprising food or feed grade ingredients, phosphoric acid, diammonium phosphate, urea and potassium hydroxide.

2A 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 lcg 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 (KZ) 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 (P205) 12% Soluble Potash (K20) 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 lkg/l Om2 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 lcg Corn Gluten Meal 310 kg Soybean Oil 5 kg Growers Solution 8 kg Sulfur 57 lcg 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 known 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 shrubs, 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 (P20s) 4% Soluble Potash (K20) 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. 4mg/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 Dyna 12kg 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 nitrogen Available Phosphate (P205) 6% Soluble Potash (K20) 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 The present invention also contemplates compositions that comprise about the same, or lower amounts of heavy metals as defined above.

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 nitrogen Available Phosphate (P205) 5% Soluble Potash (K2°) 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 present invention also contemplates compositions that comprise about the same, or lower amounts of heavy metals as defined above.

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 (P205) 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 sprinlcled 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: All 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 (P205) 2% Soluble Potash (K20) 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/lcg Cadmium (Cd) <1 Cobalt (Co) <5 Copper (Cu) 37 Chromium (Cr) 37 Lead (Pb) <5 Molybdenum (Mb) 3 Mercury (Hg) <0.02 Nickel (Ni) 14 Selenium (Se) 0.25 Zinc (Zn) 168 The present invention also contemplates compositions that comprise about the same, or lower amounts of heavy metals as defined above.

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% water insoluble nitrogen Available phosphate (P205) 1% Soluble Potash (K20) 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 The present invention also contemplates compositions that comprise about the same, or lower amounts of heavy metals as defined above.

EXAMPLE 23: Spring Fertilizer Composition 12-0-4 Sulfate of Potash 79 kg Sodium Nitrate 550kg Corn gluten Meal 371 kg Analysis Nitrogen (N) 12% 8.9% nitrate nitrogen 3. 1% water insoluble nitrogen Soluble Potash (K20) 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 The present invention also contemplates compositions that comprise about the same, or lower amounts of heavy metals as defined above.

EXAMPLE 24: Summer Fertilizer Composition 10-0-8 Sulfate of potash 157 lcg Sodium nitrate 400 kg Corn gluten meal 443 kg Analysis Nitrogen (N) 10% 5% nitrate nitrogen 5% water insoluble nitrogen Soluble Potash (K20) 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 AMPLE 25 : Fall Fertilizer 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 (K20) 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 Chromium (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 (P20s) 3% Soluble Potash (K20) 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 The present invention also contemplates compositions that comprise about the same, or lower amounts of heavy metals as defined above.

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