Compositions and methods for buffered growing media
AssigneeWoods End Laboratories, Inc.
InventorWilliam F. Brinton, Jr.
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Techniques and tools reduce pH drift downward in growth media triggered by plant growth or ammoniated fertilizers. Methods and compositions provide growing media with buffering potential to prevent pH drifts in the growing media. A compost composition has a buffering potential against pH changes. A carbonate index test provides information on a buffering potential of a compost composition. A growing medium includes a compost composition with a buffering potential to provide a stable pH that is conducive to plant growth in the growing medium.
Claims20
A plant growing medium having a pH buffering potential and comprising:
- a) a compost composition having a predetermined level of natural free carbonate;
- and
- b) a growth composition mixed with the compost composition;
- wherein the predetermined level of natural free carbonate is a limestone equivalent of at least 0.5%.
A method of reducing pH drift downward in a growth composition triggered by plant growth or ammoniated fertilizers in the growth composition, the method comprising:
- a) obtaining a compost composition having a predetermined level of natural free carbonate, wherein the predetermined level of natural free carbonate is a limestone equivalent of at least 0.5%;
- and
- b) combining the compost composition with the growth composition to form a plant growing medium having a pH buffering potential.
A method of reducing pH drift downward in a growth composition triggered by plant growth or ammoniated fertilizers in the growth composition, the method comprising:
- a) obtaining a compost composition having a predetermined level of natural free carbonate, comprising:
- i) adding exchangeable and soluble calcium to at least one organic material prior to composting the organic material;
- and
- ii) composting the organic material having a predetermined combined level of calcium and magnesium to form the compost composition, wherein the predetermined combined level of calcium and magnesium is sufficient to form the predetermined level of natural free carbonate by the composting, wherein the predetermined level of natural free carbonate is a limestone equivalent of at least 0.5%;
- and
- b) combining the compost composition with the growth composition to form a plant growing medium having a pH buffering potential.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.