THE NOVEL PLANT GROWTH-ENHANCING MULCH WITH HARPIN PROTEIN AND MICROENCAPSULATED NUTRIENT RELEASE

Abstract

This invention relates to a novel biodegradable mulch that enhances plant growth through the integration of harpin protein and microencapsulated nutrients. The mulch is composed of plant-based or biodegradable polymer materials that decompose naturally in soil. Harpin proteins are infused into the mulch to activate plant defense mechanisms, improving resilience against pests and diseases. Additionally, microencapsulated nutrients provide a controlled release of essential macronutrients and micronutrients over time, optimizing nutrient delivery throughout the plant's growth cycle. This innovative mulch not only suppresses weeds and conserves moisture but also contributes to soil health, making it a sustainable solution for agriculture and horticulture, aligning with eco-friendly practices and promoting higher crop yields.

Specification

Description:The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner it
is to be performed.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The technical field of the invention pertains to biodegradable agricultural materials, specifically a plant growth-enhancing mulch that integrates harpin protein for improved plant defense and microencapsulated nutrients for controlled release. This innovation combines biological and nutritional support within a single product, aiming to enhance plant health and resilience while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The invention addresses challenges in nutrient management and environmental sustainability in agriculture and horticulture.
BACKGROUND
[002] Traditional biodegradable mulches primarily serve to suppress weeds and conserve soil moisture, but they often lack active components that enhance plant growth or provide sustained nutritional support. This limitation leaves plants vulnerable to environmental stressors, including pests and diseases, which can lead to decreased yields and increased reliance on chemical treatments.
[003] Harpin proteins have been identified as effective agents for activating plant defense mechanisms, enhancing resistance to a variety of pathogens without negative impacts on the environment. However, current mulch products do not incorporate harpin proteins, missing an opportunity to bolster plant vigor alongside nutrient provision.
[004] US8623111B2 discusses compositions for delivering agricultural chemicals in moist formulations for turfgrass applications. While it emphasizes the use of active ingredients, it does not consider the integration of biological agents like harpin proteins, highlighting a significant gap in existing mulch technology.
[005] RU2615834C2, focuses on pest control through a combination of active compounds, yet it does not address the comprehensive needs for nutrient management or active growth enhancement found in the proposed invention, limiting its effectiveness in sustainable agriculture.
[006] ES2423012T3 addresses seed treatments aimed at inducing plant resistance to herbivorous pests, but it fails to provide a holistic solution that combines growth enhancement, pest resistance, and nutrient supply within a single biodegradable mulch.
[007] The growing demand for sustainable agricultural practices underscores the necessity for biodegradable materials that decompose naturally without leaving harmful residues. Conventional plastic-based mulches contribute to environmental pollution, necessitating the development of eco-friendly alternatives that can improve soil health.
[008] Existing mulch products often provide either physical protection or limited nutrient delivery, but not both, resulting in inefficiencies in agricultural practices. This invention aims to integrate the benefits of harpin proteins and microencapsulated nutrients into a single product to optimize both plant health and productivity.
[009] While there are various solutions in the market addressing specific aspects of agricultural practices, they do not adequately address the interconnected challenges of plant health, nutrient delivery, and environmental sustainability. The proposed invention aims to fill this gap by providing a dual-action mulch that enhances plant growth and resilience through the strategic combination of biological and nutritional components.
SUMMARY
[010] The invention introduces a novel biodegradable mulch that enhances plant growth by integrating harpin protein and microencapsulated nutrients. This combination actively promotes plant health while providing essential nutrients in a controlled manner.
[011] Harpin proteins, infused into the mulch, trigger the plant's defense mechanisms, improving resistance to pests and diseases and promoting overall vigor and growth. This results in healthier plants that can better withstand environmental stresses.
[012] The microencapsulated nutrient system enables a sustained release of macronutrients and micronutrients, ensuring that plants receive optimal nutrition throughout their growth cycle. This targeted delivery minimizes nutrient wastage and enhances absorption efficiency.
[013] The mulch biodegrades naturally, enriching the soil with organic matter and avoiding harmful residues associated with conventional plastic mulches. This contributes to improved soil health and supports sustainable agricultural practices.
[014] Suitable for various applications in agriculture, horticulture, and organic farming, this invention addresses key challenges in nutrient management and plant resilience, offering an eco-friendly alternative that promotes higher crop yields and sustainable farming practices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[015] The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating of the present subject matter, an example of the construction of the present subject matter is provided as figures; however, the invention is not limited to the specific method disclosed in the document and the figures.
[016] The present subject matter is described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to various features of the present subject matter.
[017] Figure 1 provides the working prototype of the invention.
[018] The given figures depict an embodiment of the present disclosure for illustration and better understanding only.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[019] Some of the embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[020] The invention involves a biodegradable mulch made from plant-based or biodegradable polymer materials, such as starch, cellulose, or natural fibers like coir and jute. These materials are selected for their ability to decompose naturally in soil, providing essential benefits like weed suppression, moisture conservation, and temperature regulation.
[021] Harpin proteins are infused into the mulch either as an embedded layer or as a coating on its surface. When exposed to moisture, the harpin proteins are gradually released into the soil, where they activate the plant's innate defense mechanisms, enhancing resistance to pathogens and improving overall plant vigor.
[022] The mulch incorporates a microencapsulated nutrient system that contains essential macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and micronutrients (iron, zinc, magnesium) embedded within biodegradable microcapsules. This technology allows for the controlled release of nutrients over time, tailored to meet the needs of the plants at different growth stages.
[023] In one embodiment it is provided that, the microcapsules are designed to degrade at specific intervals in response to soil conditions such as moisture and microbial activity. This ensures that nutrients are released in a timely manner, reducing the risk of nutrient leaching and ensuring optimal absorption by the plants.
[024] The mulch is engineered to have varied thicknesses, typically ranging from 2 to 5 mm, and can be customized based on specific crop requirements. It is available in rolls or sheets, making it easy to apply in various agricultural settings.
[025] During application, the area is prepared by clearing existing weeds and debris, and the mulch is laid directly on the soil surface around the base of the plants. Proper moisture levels are maintained to activate the harpin proteins and initiate nutrient release from the microcapsules.
[026] In one embodiment it is provided, that Field trials have demonstrated that crops treated with this biodegradable mulch exhibit significant improvements in growth metrics, including increased biomass, root development, and overall plant height when compared to control groups using traditional mulches or chemical fertilizers.
[027] The mulch not only enhances plant growth but also leads to improved resistance to pests and diseases. The activation of systemic acquired resistance pathways through the harpin protein application has resulted in healthier plants that are more resilient to environmental stressors.
[028] Nutrient analysis of the soil has revealed higher availability and uptake rates of essential nutrients in crops utilizing this mulch compared to conventional fertilizers. This optimized nutrient delivery system contributes to improved plant health and productivity.
[029] In one embodiment it is provided, that the biodegradable nature of the mulch leads to minimal environmental impact, with soil assessments indicating no residual buildup of harmful chemicals. As the mulch decomposes, it enriches the soil with organic matter, improving soil structure and water retention.
[030] The invention presents a sustainable solution to the challenges of modern agriculture by integrating biological and nutritional components in a single product. This holistic approach reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides while promoting healthier ecosystems.
[031] The combination of harpin protein and microencapsulated nutrients in this biodegradable mulch not only enhances plant health and resilience but also supports sustainable agricultural practices. The invention stands out in the market by addressing multiple challenges simultaneously, making it a practical and effective option for growers seeking environmentally responsible solutions.
[032] Referring to figure 1, depicts a cross-sectional view of the novel biodegradable mulch, illustrating its layered structure and components. At the base, a substrate made of biodegradable polymer materials such as starch and cellulose provide a sturdy foundation for the mulch. Above this substrate, visible layers show the infusion of harpin proteins, either embedded within the polymer matrix or as a coating on the surface, designed to release gradually into the soil upon moisture exposure. Interspersed throughout the mulch are microencapsulated nutrient particles, depicted as small spheres, which contain essential macronutrients and micronutrients. These microcapsules are engineered to dissolve at specific intervals, allowing for controlled nutrient release over time. The outer layer of the mulch showcases its texture and thickness, designed to suppress weeds and conserve moisture while maintaining biodegradability. Overall, the image effectively conveys the innovative combination of materials and technologies used to enhance plant growth and resilience sustainably.
, Claims:1. A biodegradable mulch comprising:
A. a matrix made of plant-based or biodegradable polymer materials that decomposes naturally in soil;
B. harpin proteins infused within said matrix, capable of activating plant defense mechanisms upon contact with moisture;
C. microencapsulated nutrients embedded within said matrix, designed to release essential macronutrients and micronutrients in a controlled manner over time, thereby promoting plant growth and resilience.
2. The biodegradable mulch of claim 1, wherein the plant-based or biodegradable polymer materials include starch, cellulose, coir, or jute.
3. The biodegradable mulch of claim 1, wherein the harpin proteins are infused as a coating on the surface of the mulch.
4. The biodegradable mulch of claim 1, wherein the microencapsulated nutrients include macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and magnesium.
5. The biodegradable mulch of claim 1, wherein the microcapsules are made from biodegradable polymers that degrade in response to soil moisture and microbial activity.
6. The biodegradable mulch of claim 1, wherein the mulch has a thickness ranging from 2 to 5 mm.
7. The biodegradable mulch of claim 1, wherein the release rates of the microencapsulated nutrients are tailored to match the growth stages of the plants.
8. The biodegradable mulch of claim 1, wherein the mulch biodegrades over a specified timeframe of 3 to 6 months, enriching the soil with organic matter as it decomposes.

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