Super Watering Agent

A new starch-based soil amendment for improved turf establishment has received a U.S. patent that absorbs moisture and water-soluble nutrients, then releases them as demanded by turf plant roots. The result is more vigorous growth and a healthier stand. Flexible application methods and multiple uses for the product include using it as a seed coating to enhance germination, as a soil amendment during initial seeding, or to reduce localized dry spots. Made from natural cornstarch, Zeba from Absorbent Technologies, Inc., is biodegradable, nontoxic and virtually odorless. Each particle can absorb up to 400 times its weight in water, then release and reabsorb water repeatedly as needed by the turf plant for up to one year. This keeps water available to the plant, but prevents over saturation. The company claims the natural starch-based formulation offers up to twice the capacity of synthetic petroleum-based polyacrylamides that are successful at absorbing water, but can't effectively release it. They actually compete with plants for water. For more information, contact www.zeba.com.