Fertilizer composition

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of providing a fertilizer composition that enables the enrichment of essential nutrients in soil and the timely supply of essential nutrients to plants at a time. According to the technical means, compost and fertilizers except compost are matched in the fertilizer composition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] It is known that for the normal growth of plants, 16 - 17 elements (essential nutrients) represented by carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen are required. Among them, six elements, namely carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, are required in large quantities for plant growth, and thus are also referred to as major primary elements among essential nutrients.

[0002] Among these major primary elements, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen exist in the form of water and carbon dioxide in the growth environment, so in almost all cases of plant growth, they do not need to be artificially supplied. In addition, nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potassium contribute to plant elongation and hypertrophy, so they are also referred to as "the three major elements of fertilizers". However, although each element of the three major elements is required in large quantities for plant growth, it hardly exists in a state that plants can utilize in the growth environment, so it needs to be supplied in a state that plants can utilize.

[0003] In order to supply nitrogen, phosphorus, and / or potassium in a state that plants can utilize, the following methods can be used: a method of using slow - acting or long - acting soil improvement materials such as organic compost, growing plants in soil enriched with these elements, and thus supplying these elements to plants; a method of using quick - acting fertilizers such as inorganic fertilizers to supply these elements to plants, etc. However, slow - acting or long - acting soil improvement materials have the advantage of long - lasting effects, but on the other hand, they have disadvantages such as low quick - acting property and sometimes being unable to fully supplement all essential nutrients. On the other hand, quick - acting fertilizers such as inorganic fertilizers are easily soluble in water and have quick - acting properties, so they have the advantage of being able to obtain effects in a timely manner. However, on the other hand, they are easily mobile and lack the persistence of effects. In addition, due to the small amount of organic matter, there are disadvantages such as sometimes causing soil problems if used for a long time.

[0004] In this way, each method has various advantages, but on the other hand, it also has disadvantages. Therefore, in most cases, these methods are used in combination. That is, it is a common method at present to use slow - acting or long - acting soil improvement materials before planting or transplanting plants to enrich essential nutrients in the soil, and then use quick - acting fertilizers after planting to appropriately supply the insufficient essential nutrients.

[0005] However, in such a method, there is a problem of generating labor costs, economic costs, and time costs because it is necessary to supply essential nutrients at least twice at different time points. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] Under such circumstances, enriching essential nutrients in the soil at one time and timely supplying essential nutrients to plants exist as a technical problem.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a fertilizer composition that can enrich essential nutrients in such soil and supply essential nutrients to plants in a timely manner at one time.

[0009] Means for Solving the Problem

[0010] The present inventors conducted in-depth research and as a result obtained the following insight: By incorporating compost and fertilizers other than compost in the fertilizer composition, the above problems can be solved. The present invention is based on the above insight. That is, the gist of the present invention is as described below.

[0011] [1] A fertilizer composition containing compost and a fertilizer (excluding compost).

[0012] [2] The fertilizer composition according to [1], wherein the fertilizer contains one or more selected from nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

[0013] [3] The fertilizer composition according to [1] or [2], wherein the fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

[0014] [4] The fertilizer composition according to [3], wherein the concentration of nitrogen in the fertilizer is 1 to 20% by mass, the concentration of phosphorus equivalent to phosphorus pentoxide is 1 to 60% by mass, and the concentration of potassium equivalent to potassium oxide is 1 to 20% by mass.

[0015] [5] The fertilizer composition according to [3] or [4], wherein the fertilizer further contains magnesium, and regarding the concentration of magnesium in the fertilizer, the concentration equivalent to magnesium oxide is 1 to 40% by mass.

[0016] [6] The fertilizer composition according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the pH of the fertilizer is 6 to 8.

[0017] [7] The fertilizer composition according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the fertilizer is a solid fertilizer.

[0018] [8] The fertilizer composition according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the fertilizer is a slow-release or delayed-release fertilizer.

[0019] [9] The fertilizer composition according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the content of the fertilizer in the fertilizer composition is 5 to 50% by mass in terms of solid components.

[0020]

[10] The fertilizer composition according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein the content of the compost in the fertilizer composition is 15 to 80% by mass in terms of solid components.

[0021]

[11] The fertilizer composition according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein the water content in the fertilizer composition is greater than 20% by mass and less than 35% by mass.

[0022]

[12] The fertilizer composition according to any one of [1] to

[11] , further comprising a soil improvement material (excluding compost and fertilizer) capable of adhering to at least a part of the compost and the fertilizer.

[0023]

[13] The fertilizer composition according to

[12] , wherein the content of the soil improvement material in the fertilizer composition is 10 to 50% by mass.

[0024]

[14] The fertilizer composition according to any one of [1] to

[13] , which is a solid fertilizer composition.

[0025] Effects of the present invention

[0026] According to the present invention, a fertilizer composition can be provided that can enrich essential nutrients in soil and supply essential nutrients to plants in a timely manner at one time. Detailed Description

[0027] [Fertilizer Composition]

[0028] The fertilizer composition of the present invention contains compost and a fertilizer other than compost as active ingredients. Hereinafter, each component will be specifically described. It should be noted that in this specification, the "solid component" refers to the solid component (non-volatile component) obtained by removing water from the object.

[0029] (Compost)

[0030] In the fertilizer composition, the compost can be used without particular limitation as long as it is a fertilizer classified as a "special fertilizer" in the laws related to ensuring fertilizer quality in Japan. That is, as the compost, not only the compost classified as a "special fertilizer" in this law can be used, but also other fertilizers classified as "special fertilizers" can be used.

[0031] In the fertilizer composition, preferably, as the compost, a fertilizer obtained by piling up, fermenting, and maturing organic materials (i.e., the compost listed as a "special fertilizer" in the laws related to ensuring fertilizer quality in Japan) is used. As the organic materials, organic materials derived from plants and organic materials derived from animals can be cited, and either one of them can be used alone, or both can be used in combination.

[0032] As the plant-derived organic material, the whole and / or part of a plant can be used. As the part of a plant, roots, flowers, leaves, branches, trunks, barks, seeds, seed coats, etc. can be cited, for example. As the compost specifically using the plant-derived organic material, bark compost, rice husk compost, pruning compost, leaf mold, etc. can be cited, for example. Generally, the compost using the plant-derived organic material has a large number of voids. Therefore, by blending the compost using the plant-derived organic material in the fertilizer composition, good air permeability, drainage property, and water retention property can be imparted to the fertilizer composition. Furthermore, by making the fertilizer composition have these properties, these properties can be imparted to the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied.

[0033] As the animal-derived organic material, the whole and / or part of an animal can be used, and furthermore, the excreta (urine and feces) of an animal can also be used. As the animal, livestock animals such as cows, pigs, horses, sheep, goats, chickens, etc. can be cited, for example. As the compost specifically using the animal-derived organic material, cow dung compost, pig manure compost, chicken manure compost, etc. can be cited, for example. Generally, the compost using the animal-derived organic material contains a large amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and / or potassium. Therefore, by blending the compost using the animal-derived organic material in the fertilizer composition, the content of nitrogen, phosphorus, and / or potassium in the fertilizer composition can be increased. Furthermore, by applying the fertilizer composition containing a large amount of these essential nutrients to the soil, these essential nutrients in the soil can be effectively enriched.

[0034] The compost contains at least one element selected from 17 elements that are essential nutrients for plants, namely nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, oxygen, hydrogen, carbon, magnesium, sulfur, iron, manganese, boron, zinc, molybdenum, copper, chlorine, and nickel (hereinafter also simply referred to as "essential nutrients"). The compost preferably contains two or more kinds, more preferably contains three or more kinds, further preferably contains four or more kinds, and particularly preferably contains five or more kinds of the above-mentioned essential nutrients. Among the essential nutrients, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contribute to the elongation and hypertrophy of plants and are particularly important for the growth of plants. Therefore, the compost preferably contains one or more of these elements, more preferably contains two or more of them, and further preferably contains all three of them.

[0035] The content of nitrogen in the compost can be appropriately set according to the content of nitrogen in the fertilizer other than the compost described later, the total desired nitrogen content in the fertilizer composition, the type of the plant to be grown, etc. The content of nitrogen in the compost is preferably 0.1 to 15% by mass, more preferably 0.3 to 10% by mass, and further preferably 0.5 to 5% by mass relative to the solid component of the compost.

[0036] The ratio of carbon to nitrogen (C / N ratio) in the compost is not particularly limited and is preferably 1 to 40, more preferably 3 to 25, and further preferably 5 to 20.

[0037] The phosphorus content in the compost can be appropriately set according to the phosphorus content in fertilizers other than the compost described later, the total desired phosphorus content in the fertilizer composition, the type of plant to be grown, and the like. The phosphorus content in the compost, in terms of the content equivalent to phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5), is preferably 0.1 to 20% by mass, more preferably 0.3 to 15% by mass, and still more preferably 0.5 to 10% by mass, relative to the solid components of the compost.

[0038] The potassium content in the compost can be appropriately set according to the potassium content in fertilizers other than the compost described later, the total desired potassium content in the fertilizer composition, the type of plant to be grown, and the like. The potassium content in the compost, in terms of the content equivalent to potassium oxide (K2O), is preferably 0.1 to 15% by mass, more preferably 0.2 to 10% by mass, and still more preferably 0.3 to 5% by mass, relative to the solid components of the compost.

[0039] The manner of manifestation (dissolution property in soil) of the effects of each essential nutrient contained in the compost is not particularly limited, and the quick-acting property, slow-acting property, slow-release property, etc. can be appropriately set according to the content of each essential nutrient in the compost, the content of each essential nutrient in fertilizers other than the compost described later, the dissolution property, the nature of the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, the type of plant to be grown, and the like. When the compost contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and / or potassium, it is preferable that at least one of these elements is slow-acting or slow-release.

[0040] In addition to the above essential nutrients, the compost may contain other elements. Examples of other elements include sodium, silicon, selenium, cobalt, aluminum, vanadium, and the like.

[0041] The water content in the compost can be appropriately set according to the water content in fertilizers other than the compost described later, the total desired water content in the fertilizer composition, and the like. For example, when the shape of the fertilizer composition is solid, from the viewpoint of mixing and granulating the compost and fertilizers other than the compost, the water content in the compost is preferably 30 to 80% by mass, more preferably 40 to 65% by mass, and still more preferably 40 to 50% by mass, relative to the total mass of the compost.

[0042] The content of the compost in the fertilizer composition can be appropriately set according to the composition of the compost, the composition of fertilizers other than the compost described later, the desired composition in the fertilizer composition, the type of plant to be grown, and the like. The content of the compost in the fertilizer composition, based on the solid components of the compost, is preferably 15 to 80% by mass, more preferably 20 to 70% by mass, and still more preferably 30 to 60% by mass.

[0043] As described above, by containing the compost in the fertilizer composition, the fertilizer composition can supply essential nutrients to the soil and improve its chemical properties.

[0044] Furthermore, since compost contains organic materials, a fertilizer composition containing such compost can supply organic materials as substrates for the metabolism of organisms (such as microorganisms, etc.) living in the soil, promote the growth and proliferation of such organisms, and enrich the soil biota. As a result, the fertilizer composition containing compost can inhibit the reproduction of harmful organisms (such as pests, pathogenic bacteria, etc.) in the soil and improve the biological properties of the soil.

[0045] Furthermore, compost, especially compost made from plant-derived organic materials, usually has a large number of pores. Therefore, by including compost in the fertilizer composition, it is possible to impart good air permeability, drainage, and water retention to the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, and improve the physical properties of the soil.

[0046] The compost can be a compost prepared by appropriately selecting organic materials containing the above essential nutrients and other elements, or a commercially available product can be used.

[0047] (Fertilizer)

[0048] In addition to the above compost, the fertilizer composition further includes fertilizers other than the above compost (hereinafter, also simply referred to as "fertilizers"). In addition, fertilizers include not only fertilizers classified as "ordinary fertilizers" in the Fertilizer Control Law of Japan, but also fertilizers classified as "special fertilizers". The fertilizers can be organic fertilizers or inorganic fertilizers, and one of them can be used alone, or both can be used in combination. As the fertilizer, it is preferable to use an inorganic fertilizer alone.

[0049] The fertilizer contains at least one element selected from the 17 elements as the above essential nutrients. The fertilizer preferably contains two or more, more preferably three or more, still more preferably four or more, and particularly preferably five or more of the above essential nutrients. In addition, the fertilizer preferably contains one or more, more preferably two or more, and even more preferably all three of the elements selected from nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

[0050] The content of nitrogen in the fertilizer can be appropriately set according to the content of nitrogen in the above compost, the desired total nitrogen content in the fertilizer composition, the type of plant to be grown, etc. The content of nitrogen in the fertilizer is preferably 1 to 20% by mass, more preferably 2 to 15% by mass, and still more preferably 5 to 10% by mass relative to the solid component of the fertilizer. In the fertilizer, it is preferable that a part of the nitrogen is contained in the form of ammoniacal nitrogen (ammonium salt).

[0051] The phosphorus content in the fertilizer can be appropriately set according to the phosphorus content in the above compost, the total desired phosphorus content in the fertilizer composition, the type of plant to be grown, etc. The phosphorus content in the fertilizer, expressed as the content equivalent to phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5), is preferably 1 to 60% by mass, more preferably 10 to 55% by mass, and further preferably 20 to 50% by mass, relative to the solid components of the fertilizer. In the fertilizer, phosphorus is preferably contained at least partly in the form of citric acid-soluble phosphoric acid and partly in the form of water-soluble phosphoric acid.

[0052] In the fertilizer, when phosphorus is contained in the forms of citric acid-soluble phosphoric acid and water-soluble phosphoric acid respectively, the mass ratio of citric acid-soluble phosphoric acid to water-soluble phosphoric acid can be appropriately set according to the phosphorus content and form in the above compost, the properties of the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, the type of plant to be grown, etc. The mass ratio of citric acid-soluble phosphoric acid to water-soluble phosphoric acid (mass of citric acid-soluble phosphoric acid: mass of water-soluble phosphoric acid) in the fertilizer is preferably 1:1 to 15:1, more preferably 2:1 to 12:1, further preferably 3:1 to 10:1, and particularly preferably 4:1 to 8:1. When the mass ratio of citric acid-soluble phosphoric acid to water-soluble phosphoric acid in the fertilizer is within the above range, the degree of slow-release property of the fertilizer becomes sufficient, and the phosphorus contained in the fertilizer can be continuously and slowly supplied to the plant after the application of the fertilizer composition.

[0053] The potassium content in the fertilizer can be appropriately set according to the potassium content in the above compost, the total desired potassium content in the fertilizer composition, etc. The potassium content in the fertilizer, expressed as the content equivalent to potassium oxide (K2O), is preferably 1 to 20% by mass, more preferably 2 to 15% by mass, and further preferably 5 to 10% by mass, relative to the solid components of the fertilizer. In the fertilizer, potassium is preferably contained at least partly in the form of citric acid-soluble potassium and partly in the form of water-soluble potassium.

[0054] In the fertilizer, when potassium is contained in the forms of citric acid-soluble potassium and water-soluble potassium respectively, the mass ratio of citric acid-soluble potassium to water-soluble potassium can be appropriately set according to the potassium content and form in the above compost, the properties of the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, the type of plant to be grown, etc. The mass ratio of citric acid-soluble potassium to water-soluble potassium (mass of citric acid-soluble potassium: mass of water-soluble potassium) in the fertilizer is preferably 0.1:1 to 2:1, more preferably 0.3:1 to 1.5:1, further preferably 0.4:1 to 1.2:1, and particularly preferably 0.6:1 to 1:1. When the mass ratio of citric acid-soluble potassium to water-soluble potassium in the fertilizer is within the above range, the degree of slow-release property of the fertilizer becomes sufficient, and the potassium contained in the fertilizer can be continuously and slowly supplied to the plant after the application of the fertilizer composition.

[0055] The fertilizer preferably contains, in addition to nitrogen, phosphorus and / or potassium, one or more elements selected from calcium, magnesium and sulfur, more preferably two or more elements, and still more preferably all three elements.

[0056] The content of magnesium in the fertilizer can be appropriately set according to the content of magnesium in the above compost, the total desired content of magnesium in the fertilizer composition, etc. The content of magnesium in the fertilizer, in terms of the content equivalent to magnesium oxide (MgO), is preferably 1 to 40% by mass, more preferably 5 to 30% by mass, and still more preferably 10 to 20% by mass relative to the solid components of the fertilizer. In the fertilizer, magnesium is preferably contained at least partly in the form of citrate-soluble magnesium and partly in the form of water-soluble magnesium.

[0057] In the fertilizer, when magnesium is contained in the forms of citrate-soluble magnesium and water-soluble magnesium respectively, the mass ratio of citrate-soluble magnesium to water-soluble magnesium can be appropriately set according to the content of magnesium in the above compost, the form, the properties of the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, the type of plant to be grown, etc. The mass ratio of citrate-soluble magnesium to water-soluble magnesium (mass of citrate-soluble magnesium: mass of water-soluble magnesium) in the fertilizer is preferably 3:1 to 30:1, more preferably 5:1 to 25:1, and still more preferably 10:1 to 20:1.

[0058] In addition to the above 17 elements as essential nutrients, the fertilizer may also contain other elements. Examples of other elements include sodium, silicon, cobalt, aluminum, etc.

[0059] In addition to the above essential nutrients and other elements, the fertilizer may also contain components commonly used in the preparation of fertilizers. Examples of such components include the materials described in Article 4, Paragraph 1, Item 4 of the Enforcement Regulations of the Law concerning Quality Assurance, etc. of Fertilizers in Japan (e.g., anti-caking materials, anti-precipitation materials, composition homogenization promoting materials, granulation promoting materials, coloring materials, etc.), surfactants, etc.

[0060] The manner of manifestation (dissolution property in soil) of the effects of each essential nutrient contained in the fertilizer is not particularly limited, and the quick-acting property, slow-acting property, slow-release property, etc. can be appropriately set according to the content of each essential nutrient in the fertilizer, the content of each essential nutrient in the above compost, the dissolution property, the properties of the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, etc. When the fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorus and / or potassium, it is preferable that at least a part of at least one of these elements is slow-acting or slow-release, and the other part is quick-acting. Thus, at least a part of nitrogen, phosphorus and / or potassium contained in the fertilizer is slow-acting or slow-release, and the other part is quick-acting. Thereby, not only can these essential nutrients be supplied to plants immediately after the fertilizer composition is applied, but also these essential elements can be continuously and slowly supplied to plants after application.

[0061] The water content in the fertilizer can be appropriately set according to the water content of the above compost, the total desired water content in the fertilizer composition, etc. For example, when the shape of the fertilizer composition is solid, from the perspective of mixing and granulating the compost and the fertilizer, the water content in the fertilizer is preferably 5% by mass or less, more preferably less than 5% by mass, further preferably less than 3% by mass, and particularly preferably less than 1% by mass with respect to the total mass of the fertilizer.

[0062] The content of the fertilizer in the fertilizer composition can be appropriately set according to the composition of the fertilizer, the composition of the above compost, the desired composition in the fertilizer composition, the type of plant to be grown, etc. The content of the fertilizer in the fertilizer composition is preferably 5 - 50% by mass, more preferably 10 - 40% by mass, and further preferably 15 - 30% by mass in terms of the solid component of the fertilizer.

[0063] The shape of the fertilizer is not particularly limited, and examples include liquid, solid (such as pellet, flake, spherical, approximately spherical, granular, particulate, fine granular, powdery, etc.). As the fertilizer, a solid fertilizer is preferably used.

[0064] The pH of the fertilizer is not particularly limited and can be appropriately set according to the pH of the above compost, the nature of the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, the desired soil pH, the type of plant to be grown, etc., and can be any of strongly acidic, weakly acidic, neutral, weakly alkaline, strongly alkaline, etc. Generally, most composts are neutral to alkaline. Therefore, when the fertilizer is acidic, the components contained in the fertilizer react with the components contained in the compost, and sometimes their original effects cannot be exerted. Therefore, the fertilizer is preferably near acidic to neutral, the pH is preferably 5 - 8, more preferably 5.5 - 7.5, further preferably 6 - 7.5, and particularly preferably 6.5 - 7. By making the pH of the fertilizer within the above range, it is possible to inhibit the reaction between the components contained in the fertilizer and the components contained in the compost and exert their original effects.

[0065] As the fertilizer, a fertilizer prepared by appropriately selecting the above essential nutrients and other elements can be used, or a commercially available product can be used. As commercially available products of fertilizers, for example, the Magamp (registered trademark) series manufactured by Hyponex Japan Co., Ltd. can be cited.

[0066] (Soil improvement material)

[0067] In addition to the above-mentioned compost and fertilizers, the fertilizer composition may further contain a soil improvement material (hereinafter also simply referred to as "soil improvement material") other than the above-mentioned compost and fertilizers. The soil improvement material preferably can adhere to at least a part of the above-mentioned compost and / or fertilizer. By using a soil improvement material to which at least a part of the above-mentioned compost and / or fertilizer can adhere as the soil improvement material, when the fertilizer composition is in a solid state, the granulation property of the fertilizer composition can be improved during the manufacturing process of the fertilizer composition, and the formability can be improved (the tendency to collapse easily can be reduced).

[0068] As the soil improvement material, for example, mineral-derived soil improvement materials, pyroclastic materials, peat and its pulverized products, burned products of plant-derived organic matters, etc. can be cited. They can be used alone in one kind, or two or more kinds can be used in combination.

[0069] As the mineral-derived soil improvement materials, for example, zeolite, vermiculite, perlite, bentonite, diatomaceous earth, etc. can be listed.

[0070] As the pyroclastic materials, for example, pumice such as Kanuma soil, Akadama soil, black soil, etc. can be cited.

[0071] As the peat and its pulverized products, for example, peat moss etc. can be cited.

[0072] As the burned products of plant-derived organic matters, for example, smoked charcoal such as rice husk smoked charcoal etc. can be listed.

[0073] The soil improvement material preferably has a large number of voids. By incorporating a soil improvement material having a large number of voids into the fertilizer composition, good air permeability, drainage property, and water retention property can be imparted to the fertilizer composition. Furthermore, by the fertilizer composition having these properties, these properties can be imparted to the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, and the physical properties of the soil can be improved. Each of the above-listed soil improvement materials usually has a large number of voids, so the fertilizer composition containing these soil improvement materials has good air permeability, drainage property, and water retention property, and can improve the physical properties of the soil.

[0074] The content of the soil improvement material in the fertilizer composition can be appropriately set according to the type and content of the compost and / or fertilizer in the fertilizer composition, the desired properties of the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, the type of the plant to be grown, etc. The content of the soil improvement material in the fertilizer composition is preferably 10 to 50% by mass, more preferably 15 to 45% by mass, and even more preferably 20 to 40% by mass in terms of the solid component of the soil improvement material.

[0075] (Other components)

[0076] In addition to the above components, the fertilizer composition may further contain lime materials for adjusting the pH of the soil, pesticides for protecting plants from harmful organisms (such as pests, pathogenic bacteria, weeds, etc.), and the like.

[0077] Examples of the lime materials include quicklime, slaked lime, magnesia lime, organic lime, etc. Since the lime materials are all alkaline, by incorporating them into the fertilizer composition and applying it to the soil, the pH of the soil can be increased.

[0078] Examples of the pesticides include fungicides, mildew-proof agents, insecticides, herbicides, rodenticides, plant growth regulators (such as phytohormone agents, etc.).

[0079] The content of other components in the fertilizer composition is not particularly limited and can be appropriately set according to the types of other components, the target effects, the properties of the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, the types of plants to be grown, and the like.

[0080] The shape of the fertilizer composition is not particularly limited, and a solid shape is preferred. As specific shapes of the fertilizer composition, for example, pill shape, sheet shape, spherical shape, substantially spherical shape, granular shape, particulate shape, fine granular shape, powder shape, etc. can be cited. From the viewpoint of ease of operation when the fertilizer composition is applied to the soil, etc., the shape of the fertilizer composition is preferably pill shape, sheet shape, spherical shape, substantially spherical shape, granular shape, and particularly preferably pill shape.

[0081] When the fertilizer composition is in a solid state, its size (particle diameter) is not particularly limited. From the viewpoints of ease of operation when the fertilizer composition is applied to the soil and ease of dissolution of the essential nutrients contained in the fertilizer composition, etc., it is, for example, 0.5 to 20 mm, 1 to 15 mm in particle diameter. It should be noted that for a solid fertilizer composition, the "particle diameter" refers to the longest diameter of the particles of the solid fertilizer composition, and in the case of multiple particles, it refers to the average value of their particle diameters. When the fertilizer composition is in pill shape, the average particle diameter of the pill-shaped fertilizer composition can be, for example, 2 to 10 mm, 3 to 8 mm, 4 to 6 mm, etc. In addition, when the fertilizer composition is in granular shape, the average particle diameter of the granular fertilizer composition can be, for example, 1 to 10 mm, 1.5 to 7 mm, 2 to 4 mm, etc.

[0082] When the fertilizer composition is in solid form, the water content in the fertilizer composition is not particularly limited, preferably greater than 20% by mass and less than 35% by mass, more preferably 21 - 34% by mass, further preferably 21% by mass or more and less than 30% by mass, and particularly preferably 25 - 35% by mass. By making the water content in the solid fertilizer composition exceed 20% by mass, the granulation property of the fertilizer composition can be improved during its manufacturing process, and the moldability (reduction of easy collapsibility) can be improved. On the other hand, by making the water content in the solid fertilizer composition less than 35% by mass, the proliferation of microorganisms (such as fungi like mold, bacteria, etc.) and pests in the fertilizer composition can be inhibited. In particular, since the compost contains organic materials, microorganisms and pests that can use such organic materials as metabolic substrates are likely to grow and proliferate. Therefore, from the viewpoints of storage stability of the fertilizer composition, etc., it can be said that making the water content in the solid fertilizer composition within the above range is extremely important.

[0083] As a method for increasing the water content in the fertilizer composition, for example, methods such as appropriately adding water and / or water-containing components to the fertilizer composition can be cited.

[0084] On the other hand, as a method for reducing the water content in the fertilizer composition, for example, methods such as drying the fertilizer composition can be cited.

[0085] The pH of the fertilizer composition is not particularly limited and can be appropriately set according to the properties of the soil to which the fertilizer composition is applied, the desired soil pH, the type of plant to be grown, etc., and can be any one of strongly acidic, weakly acidic, neutral, weakly alkaline, strongly alkaline, etc. Generally, weakly acidic (pH 5.5 - 6.5) soil is suitable for the normal growth of plants. In acidic soil, sometimes obstacles such as root damage, incomplete phosphorus absorption, and reduction in the ability of microorganisms living in the soil to metabolize (decompose) organic materials may occur. On the other hand, alkaline components in the soil are easily dissolved in water and lost from the soil. Especially in Japan with a large amount of rainfall, this tendency is significant, and there is a tendency for the soil to be acidic. Therefore, the fertilizer composition is preferably near neutral to strongly alkaline, the pH is preferably 6 - 12, more preferably 6 - 10, further preferably 6.5 - 8, and particularly preferably 7 - 7.5. By making the pH of the fertilizer composition within the above range, the pH of the soil with a tendency to be acidic can be increased and adjusted to a pH suitable for the normal growth of plants.

[0086] [Manufacturing method of fertilizer composition]

[0087] The fertilizer composition can be manufactured, for example, according to the following steps using the above-mentioned compost and fertilizers, and soil improvement materials and / or other components as needed.

[0088] First, in combination with compost and fertilizers, soil improvement materials and / or other components, the soil improvement materials and / or other components are further mixed. It should be noted that the compost is preferably dried at least in part before mixing. In addition, when mixing, before mixing, and / or after mixing the respective components, water can be added or dried as needed to adjust the water content, but it is preferred not to add water after mixing the respective components. Next, the obtained mixture is formed into granules to obtain a fertilizer composition. The formation into granules can be carried out using devices commonly used in the production of fertilizer compositions. For example, in the case of producing a pellet-shaped fertilizer composition, the formation into granules can be carried out by extruding the mixture using a pellet-forming device (e.g., FMP-500NS manufactured by Chiyoda Machinery Co., Ltd.) and cutting it into thin strips at regular intervals. It should be noted that when granulating, before granulating, and / or after granulating, water can be added or dried as needed to adjust the water content. In addition, during the mixing and / or formation into granules of the above-mentioned respective components, at least a part of the compost, fertilizer, and / or other components can be used as soil improvement materials, and preferably at least a part of the compost and / or fertilizer adheres to the soil improvement materials.

[0089] [Examples]

[0090] Hereinafter, examples are listed to explain the present invention in more detail, but the present invention is not limited to the examples.

[0091] The details of the respective components of the fertilizer composition in this example are as follows.

[0092] Fertilizer

[0093] Magamp (registered trademark) K small granules (manufactured by Hyponex Japan Co., Ltd.)

[0094] Compost

[0095] Cow dung compost (total nitrogen 2.1% by mass, total phosphoric acid 3.5% by mass, total potassium 2.7% by mass)

[0096] Horse dung compost (total nitrogen 2.1% by mass, total phosphoric acid 1.8% by mass, total potassium 0.2% by mass)

[0097] Soil improvement material

[0098] Smoked charcoal (substance obtained by burning rice husks)

[0099] Zeolite (cation exchange capacity 173 meq / 100 g of dry matter)

[0100] Peat moss (organic matter content 53.93% by mass, humic acid 9.7% by mass)

[0101] Vermiculite (unit volume mass 132 kg / m2 )

[0102] Kanuma soil (powder)

[0103] [Preparation of fertilizer composition]

[0104] Use a mixer or a wheel loader to mix the components of the above fertilizer composition in the amounts shown in Table 1 below. It should be noted that, in the case of using a mixer, the components are metered and then put into the mixer for mixing. In the case of using a wheel loader, the components are metered and the bucket (shovel) part of the wheel loader is used to repeatedly lift and drop each component multiple times, and then stirred and mixed. Then, use a pelletizing device (FMP-500NS manufactured by Chiyoda Machinery Co., Ltd.) to pelletize the obtained mixture into pellets with an average particle size of 4.5 mm, and prepare the respective pelletized fertilizer compositions of Examples 1 to 4.

[0105] Table 1

[0106]

[0107] [Evaluation 1 of fertilizer composition effect]

[0108] For the fertilizer compositions of Examples 1 and 2, evaluate the enrichment of essential nutrients in the soil and the effect of the supply of essential nutrients to plants according to the following steps.

[0109] Mix the basic culture soil (adjusted sphagnum moss: akadama soil: perlite = 4:3:3 (mass ratio), add water in a volume of 5 relative to the volume of the basic culture soil, stir and extract the liquid with a pH of 5.8 and a conductivity of 0.07 mS / cm, manufactured by Hyponex Japan Research & Development Center Co., Ltd.) and the fertilizer composition of Example 1 or Example 2 so that the application rate of Magamp (registered trademark) K small granules becomes the amount shown in Table 2 below, and make a mixture of the fertilizer composition and the basic culture soil. Then, fill each mixture or Magamp (registered trademark) K small granules into a 4-L capacity planting box at the application rates shown in Table 2 below to make various planting boxes for evaluation (Treatment areas 1-A to 1-D in Table 2). It should be noted that for each treatment area in Table 2, 2 planting boxes were made.

[0110] Table 2

[0111]

[0112] In various planting boxes for evaluation, seeds of Komatsuna (Brassica rapa var. perviridis (original Japanese text: Natsurakuten)) were sown at equal intervals at 4 locations. Note that 4 to 5 seeds were sown at 1 location. After sowing the seeds in the basic culture soil in a plastic greenhouse, germination was allowed to occur depending on environmental conditions (weather) without adjusting the O2 concentration, CO2 concentration, or light irradiation. After the cotyledons unfolded, thinning was carried out so that there was 1 plant at each location. Note that the temperature was adjusted to 15 to 30 °C (the temperature was lowered to 25 to 30 °C during the day when the ventilation fan was operating, and raised to 15 °C at night when the heater was operating). In addition, whenever the basic culture soil became dry, an amount of water sufficient to fill the basic culture soil with water (the basic culture soil was fully moistened) was irrigated. Approximately 1.5 months after sowing the seeds, the fresh weight of the above-ground parts of the growing Komatsuna was measured. The measurement results are shown in Table 3. Note that the measurement results for each treatment area are the average of the fresh weights of the above-ground parts of all the Komatsuna in two planting boxes in the same treatment area.

[0113] Table 3

[0114] Treatment area Treatment content Above-ground fresh weight (g / planting box) 1-A Example 1 94.2 1-B Example 2 95.3 1-C Magasop K small granules 3.75 g / L 56.5 1-D Magasop K small granules 1.25 g / L 46.9

[0115] Based on the results shown in Table 3, in Treatment Areas 1-A and 1-B where the fertilizer compositions of Example 1 and Example 2 were respectively applied, the fresh weight of the above-ground parts of the Komatsuna was greater than that in Treatment Areas 1-C and 1-D where an equal amount of Magamp (registered trademark) K small granules was applied. These results indicate that in Treatment Areas 1-A and 1-B, in addition to supplying the necessary nutrients to the Komatsuna in a timely manner through Magamp (registered trademark) K, the necessary nutrients in the soil were enriched through compost and soil improvement materials and the Komatsuna was continuously supplied with the necessary nutrients based on this, as a result, further promoting the growth of the Komatsuna. Note that in any of the treatment areas, no obstacles caused by each treatment, phytotoxicity caused by foreign substances, etc. were confirmed.

[0116] [Evaluation 2 of the Effect of the Fertilizer Composition]

[0117] By the same procedure as in Evaluation 1 of the effect of the above fertilizer composition, various planting boxes for evaluation (Treatment Areas 2-A to 2-D) were prepared. Note that for each treatment area, 2 planting boxes were prepared.

[0118] Except for replacing the sown seeds from Komatsuna (Brassica rapa var. perviridis) with cherry radishes (Japanese variety: Akamaru Nijukkan), the sowing of the seeds, the growth after sowing, and the measurement of the fresh weight of the above-ground parts after growth were carried out in the same manner as in Evaluation 1 of the effect of the above fertilizer composition. The measurement results are shown in Table 4. Note that the measurement results for each treatment area are the average of the fresh weights of the above-ground parts of all the cherry radishes in 2 planting boxes in the same treatment area.

[0119] Table 4

[0120] Treatment area Treatment content Above-ground fresh weight (g / planting box) 2-A Example 1 144.6 2-B Example 2 156.7 2-C Magamp K small granules 3.75 g / L 118.8 2-D Magamp K small granules 1.25 g / L 109.7

[0121] Based on the results shown in Table 4, in Treatment Zones 2-A and 2-B where the fertilizer compositions of Example 1 and Example 2 were respectively applied, the above-ground fresh weight of the cherry radishes was greater than that in Treatment Zones 2-C and 2-D where the same amount of Magump (registered trademark) K small granules was applied. These results indicate that in Treatment Zones 2-A and 2-B, in addition to timely supplying essential nutrients to the cherry radishes using Magump (registered trademark) K, compost and soil improvement materials were also used to enrich the essential nutrients in the soil and continuously supply essential nutrients to the cherry radishes based on this. As a result, the growth of the cherry radishes was further promoted.

[0122] [Evaluation 3 of the Effects of the Fertilizer Composition]

[0123] Replace the 4L-capacity planting box with a No. 6 deep pot with a capacity of 2.5L, and replace the application amount for the No. 6 deep pot with the amounts shown in Table 5 below. Except for this, through the same steps as in Evaluation 1 of the effects of the above fertilizer composition, various deep pots for evaluation (Treatment Zones 3-A to 3-D) were produced. It should be noted that for each treatment zone, 2 deep pots were produced.

[0124] Table 5

[0125]

[0126] At the same time and place as in Evaluation 3 of the effects of the above fertilizer composition, plant 1 seedling of Petunia (Petunia prism sunshine) in each planting box for evaluation. After planting, let each seedling grow in the same environment as in Evaluation 3 of the effects of the above fertilizer composition, and cut off the blooming flowers on the 30th day, 56th day, and 100th day, and count the number of blooming flowers (the number of cut-off flowers). The counting results are shown in Table 6. It should be noted that the counting results for each treatment zone are the average values of the number of blooming flowers of Petunia in the 2 deep pots of the same treatment zone.

[0127] Table 6

[0128] Treatment area Treatment content Number of flowers (flowers / plant) 3-A Example 1 58 3-B Example 2 38 3-C Magasop K small granules 3.75 g / L 38.5 3-D Magasop K small granules 1.25 g / L 14

[0129] Based on the results shown in Table 6, in treatment areas 3-A and 3-B where the fertilizer compositions of Example 1 and Example 2 were respectively applied, the number of flowers of Petunia hybrida was more than that in treatment areas 3-C and 3-D where the same amount of Magamp (registered trademark) K small granules was applied. These results indicate that in treatment areas 3-A and 3-B, in addition to supplying essential nutrients to Petunia hybrida in a timely manner using Magamp (registered trademark) K, the enrichment of essential nutrients in the soil using compost and soil improvement materials and the continuous supply of essential nutrients to Petunia hybrida based on this were also carried out. As a result, the number of flowers of Petunia hybrida increased. It should be noted that in any treatment area, no obstacles caused by each treatment, phytotoxicity caused by foreign substances, etc. were confirmed.

[0130] [Evaluation of Reactivity of Fertilizer Composition]

[0131] For the fertilizer composition of Example 3, the reactivity of the components was evaluated according to the following steps.

[0132] The contents of nitrogen component, phosphorus component, potassium component and water in the fertilizer composition of Example 3 just after production were respectively measured according to the following steps.

[0133] The total nitrogen (TN) in the fertilizer composition was measured by the combustion method based on the fertilizer test method using a carbon / nitrogen simultaneous determination device CN corder MT-700 Mark2 (manufactured by Yanaco Instrument Development Laboratory Co., Ltd.). In addition, the ammonium nitrogen (AN) was measured by the distillation method based on the fertilizer test method.

[0134] The total phosphoric acid (TP) in the fertilizer composition was measured by the ammonium molybdate vanadate spectrophotometry based on the fertilizer test method using an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer UV-1200V (manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation). In addition, the citric acid-soluble phosphoric acid (CP) and water-soluble phosphoric acid (WP) were measured by the ICP emission spectrometry based on the fertilizer test method using a multi-type ICP emission spectrometer ICPE-9000 (manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation).

[0135] The total potassium (TK), citric acid-soluble potassium (CP) and water-soluble potassium (WK) in the fertilizer composition were all measured by the flame photometry based on the fertilizer test method using a flame photometer AnA-135 (manufactured by Tokyo Photoelectric Co., Ltd.).

[0136] The water content in the fertilizer composition was measured by the drying loss method using a moisture meter based on the fertilizer test method using an infrared moisture meter FD-610 (manufactured by Kett Science Laboratory Co., Ltd.).

[0137] Next, approximately 700 g was filled into a bag unipack (registered trademark) I (manufactured by a Japanese company, [Company Name]) with a chuck, and the chuck was closed for sealing to produce two sealed fertilizer compositions for evaluation. One of the two sealed fertilizer compositions (treatment area 4-A) was stored statically at room temperature, and the other (treatment area 4-B) was stored statically in an incubator EYELA FL-2000 (manufactured by Tokyo Rika Kikai Co., Ltd.) set at 40°C. The contents of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and water in each sealed fertilizer composition were measured one month after the start of storage. The results are shown in Tables 7-1 and 7-2 below.

[0138] Table 7-1

[0139] Treatment area 4-A

[0140]

[0141] Table 7-2

[0142] Treatment area 4-B

[0143]

[0144] From the results shown in Tables 7-1 and 7-2, it can be seen that for the fertilizer composition of Example 3, no significant change in components was observed when stored at either room temperature or high temperature (40°C). These results indicate that the fertilizer composition of Example 3 hardly undergoes chemical reactions of components at room temperature (treatment area 4-A) and high temperature (treatment area 4-B), and after application, it can exert stable effects for a long time in various temperature environments and can withstand long-term storage.

[0145] [Study 1 on the water content of the fertilizer composition]

[0146] For each fertilizer composition of Examples 1 and 2, the relationship between the water content and the generation of pests was studied according to the following procedure.

[0147] For each of the fertilizer compositions of Examples 1 and 2, an infrared moisture meter FD-610 (Kett Scientific Co., Ltd.) was used to measure by the drying loss method using a moisture meter based on fertilizer test methods. The water content of all fertilizer compositions was about 35% by mass. Subsequently, each fertilizer composition was dried by a constant temperature dryer and sun drying in a plastic greenhouse to produce fertilizer compositions with water contents of about 30% by mass, about 25% by mass, and about 20% by mass. 2.1 kg of the fertilizer composition with each water content was filled into a 5 L polyethylene bag and sealed by heat sealing to produce two sealed fertilizer compositions for evaluation. One of the two sealed fertilizer compositions was stored statically at room temperature (Treatment areas 5-A to 5-D and 5-I to 5-L in Table 8), and the other was stored statically in a plastic greenhouse (Treatment areas 5-E to 5-H and 5-M to 5-P in Table 8).

[0148] Table 8

[0149]

[0150] Visual confirmation was made of the presence or absence of mold in each sealed fertilizer composition 3 months after the start of storage. The results are shown in Table 9 below.

[0151] Table 9

[0152] Treatment area Moldy or not 5-A × 5-B × 5-C × 5-D × 5-E ○ 5-F × 5-G × 5-H × 5-I × 5-J × 5-K × 5-L × 5-M ○ 5-N ○ 5-0 × 5-P ×

[0153] Based on the results shown in Table 9, for the fertilizer composition of Example 1, regardless of the water content being any value from 20 to 35% by mass, no mold was confirmed during long-term storage at room temperature (Treatment areas 5-A to 5-D). On the other hand, in the case where the water content was 35% by mass, mold was confirmed during long-term storage in a plastic greenhouse at a temperature higher than room temperature (Treatment area 5-E), but in the case where the water content was from 20 to 30% by mass, no mold was confirmed even during long-term storage in a plastic greenhouse (Treatment areas 5-F to 5-G).

[0154] In addition, regarding the fertilizer composition of Example 2, in any case where the water content was from 20 to 35% by mass, no mold was confirmed during long-term storage at room temperature (Treatment areas 5-I to 5-L). On the other hand, in the cases where the water content was 30% by mass and 35% by mass, mold was confirmed during long-term storage in a plastic greenhouse at a temperature higher than room temperature (Treatment areas 5-M and 5-N) respectively, but in the cases where the water content was 20% by mass and 25% by mass, no mold was confirmed even during long-term storage in a plastic greenhouse (Treatment areas 5-O and 5-P) respectively.

[0155] These results indicate that in order to inhibit the generation of pests, the water content in the fertilizer composition is preferably less than 35% by mass, and particularly preferably less than 30% by mass.

[0156] [Study on the Water Content of Fertilizer Compositions 2]

[0157] The relationship between the water content and components in the fertilizer composition was studied according to the following steps.

[0158] For each of the fertilizer compositions of Examples 1, 3, and 4 having the compositions shown in Table 10-1, after granulating and forming into pellets, without passing through a drying process, the water content was immediately measured using an infrared moisture meter FD-610 (Kett Scientific Co., Ltd.) by the drying loss method using a moisture meter based on the fertilizer test method. The results are shown in Table 10-2. In addition, for the components of each fertilizer composition, the water content was measured in the same manner as above. The results are shown in Table 10-3.

[0159] Table 10-1

[0160]

[0161] Table 10-2

[0162]

[0163] Table 10-3

[0164]

[0165] From the results shown in Table 10-3, it can be seen that the water contents of cow manure compost, horse manure compost, smoked charcoal, and peat moss are relatively high, and the water contents of Magamp (registered trademark) K, zeolite, and vermiculite are relatively low. The results shown in Tables 10-2 and 10-3 indicate that by blending components with relatively low water contents such as zeolite and vermiculite in the fertilizer composition, an increase in the water content of the fertilizer composition can be suppressed, and the water content can be adjusted to about 25% by mass even without passing through a drying process after forming.

[0166] Industrial Applicability

[0167] According to the present disclosure, a fertilizer composition can be provided that can enrich essential nutrients in the soil and supply essential nutrients to plants in a timely manner at one time.

Claims

1. A fertilizer composition containing compost and a fertilizer other than compost.

2. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, wherein The fertilizer contains one or more selected from nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

3. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, wherein, The fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

4. The fertilizer composition according to claim 3, wherein, The concentration of nitrogen in the fertilizer is 1 to 20% by mass, the concentration of phosphorus equivalent to phosphorus pentoxide is 1 to 60% by mass, and the concentration of potassium equivalent to potassium oxide is 1 to 20% by mass.

5. The fertilizer composition according to claim 3, wherein, The fertilizer further contains magnesium, and regarding the concentration of magnesium in the fertilizer, the concentration equivalent to magnesium oxide is 1 to 40% by mass.

6. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, wherein, The pH of the fertilizer is 6 to 8.

7. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, wherein, The fertilizer is a solid fertilizer.

8. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, wherein, The fertilizer is a slow-release or delayed-release fertilizer.

9. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, wherein, The content of the fertilizer in the fertilizer composition is 5 to 50% by mass in terms of solid components.

10. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, wherein, The content of the compost in the fertilizer composition is 15 to 80% by mass in terms of solid components.

11. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, wherein, The water content in the fertilizer composition is greater than 20% by mass and less than 35% by mass.

12. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, wherein, It further contains a soil improvement material other than compost and fertilizer, and the soil improvement material can adhere to at least a part of one or both of the compost and the fertilizer.

13. The fertilizer composition according to claim 12, wherein, The content of the soil improvement material in the fertilizer composition is 10 to 50% by mass.

14. The fertilizer composition according to claim 1, which is a solid fertilizer composition.

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