Delivery of bioactive molecules in protective coatings of surface layers of organically enhanced inorganic fertilizers

Abstract

The invention is directed to fertilizers and manufacturing methods using organically enhanced inorganic fertilizer granules that incorporate a coating of one or more layers containing a bioactive agent in a carrier. The bioactive agent may be an herbicide, pesticide, plant growth regulator, microorganism, or beneficial element. Manufacture of conventional fertilizers involves stresses such as pH, heat, and pressure that are overcome by providing a protective carrier that facilitates and extends functional survival/effectiveness. Many carriers, such as liquefied dried milk, bind actively to the granule surface and contribute to the total carbon base. The release of the bioactive agent from the coating and or the surface of the fertilizer granule preferably results in a two-phased release, a first fast release and a second extended or slow-release into the soil metering the bioavailability of the bioactive agent for crop growth or protection, and/or for controlling unwanted vegetation or pests.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.