System and method for the fertilization of forest, farm and other large

Abstract

A large first package, and method of its production, for providing soluble plant macronutrients and micronutrients in a timed-release form from a contained second package to an extensive plant community. The bale-like first package comprises a biodegradable cellulosic matrix of municipal waste or other energy-rich organic matter within which the second package is supported. The second package contains insoluble rock mineral and rock phosphate particles and bacterial second microorganisms in a nourishing and hydrated microenvironment which allows the microorganisms to grow, and to produce enzymes and organic acids which act on the mineral particles and thereby create soluble nutrient compounds. Alternatively, the second package contains commercially refined fertilizers packaged to dissolve in a timed-release fashion. The biodegradable package functions as it is introduced onto/into soil in association with vector plants. Upon hydration its microbial components become active so that macronutrients and micronutrients emanating from it are transferred first to the vector plants and thence to a series of recipient plants. Plants linked together by interroot microorganisms which provide for the distribution of nutrients to an extensive plant association and constitute active elements in a 'radial cascade' of nutrients along concentration gradients. The microbial interlinked 'source' and 'sink' plants not only serve to buffer and transfer nutrients, but they also protect the soluble nutrient compounds from adsorption and loss to soil constituents.