Delayed-activation, hydration maintenance apparatus and method

A method for composing an additive for injection into the earth, the method comprising:

• providing a carrier comprising granules distinct from one another, having a first effective diameter;
• selecting an absorber formed as a powder having a second effective diameter less than the first diameter, and formed of an absorber material distinct from the carrier and the earthen material into which the carrier is to be injected;
• selecting a binder;
• coating the granules of the carrier individually with the binder;
• and
• adhering the powder to the binder on each granule.

A method for introducing a material into the earth, the method comprising:

• providing a substrate of a first material as granules;
• coating the granules individually with a binder;
• providing a second material, in powder form, selected to comprise a polymer that is hydrophilic;
• coating the binder on the individual granules with the powder;
• injecting the granules into the earth.