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Mineral composition to support plant growth

Image of a woman and a man smiling, squatting with a tree between the two of them, a modern grey and white building in the background

Photograph: AGH University

Mineral composition to support plant growth
environment

An innovative mineral composition developed by AGH University Professor Tomasz Gawenda and Dr Agata Stempkowska from the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Resource Management supports plant growth under the most unfavourable conditions, improves the structure of soil, and combines fertilisation and watering. This is a perfect example of a novel eco solution to help consciously and sustainably shape the environment.

The composition may be used in the cultivation of trees, shrubs, ornamental plants, and vegetables. It may be used in the ground as well in containers such as vases, pots, and planters. It is particularly useful in urban planting where lawn space is limited and plants often grow near the pavement.

The composition, also referred to as the core, is made up of minerals which are by-products of aggregate treatment and purification. Although they could be considered waste, in fact these materials are rich in bioavailable minerals essential for plants. The production process encompasses grinding raw materials to reach a certain grain size, then screening in a double deck vibration screen to obtain a narrow fraction, and the separation of grains by shape into flat and cubic aggregates with the use of specialised multi-deck screens.

Photograph: AGH University

Image of four types of aggregates in a white bowl placed on a metal table

Flat grains are characterised by higher water adsorption and permeability in comparison to cubic grains. These properties translate into flat aggregates having a very good effect on plant roots, especially their aeration and water retention, which is essential for healthy growth.

The mineral composition consists of a few layers:

  • external layer, which may be made of mesh, fabric, or a perforated cardboard, depending on the desired core life,
  • external ring made from flat aggregates with high water adsorption and permeability, adapted to the needs of a given plant (for example limestone aggregates for plants that prefer de-acidified soil),
  • internal ring with flat aggregates, bone and horn meal fertilisers rich in hydroxyapatite, and special granules produced in a granulator, rich in minerals, containing granulated fertiliser.

Cores may be implemented in various ways. When planting, a core may be placed next to the plant and covered with soil. In case of large trees, especially those near paved, concreted areas, drillings are made in the ground, the core is introduced into the holes, and then covered. At slopes, where water flows down quickly, the cores may be placed in the shape of a double T, to catch water effectively and introduce it deeper into the soil.

The first cores have already been installed on the AGH University campus, where they sustain the growth of oaks cared after by the Site Management Department.

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