Composition for the treatment of seeds

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of the treatment of seeds, in particular seeds for silviculture. In one aspect, the invention provides a composition for the treatment of seeds, in particular seeds for silviculture. The composition according to the invention can be contained in a seed body in a seed body matrix (102), the seed body matrix (102) for example surrounding a single seed (204).

Description

[0001] Composition for the treatment of seeds

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The invention lies in the field of seed treatment, in particular forestry seed. The seed is treated with a composition, in particular, the treatment involves incorporating the seed into the composition. The treated seed is particularly suitable for sowing by air application.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] The treatment of seeds, e.g. with germination or growth-promoting substances, is used particularly for agricultural seeds and can provide an efficient method for increasing crop yields.

[0006] This treatment often takes the form of seed dressing. During seed dressing, the seeds of a plant are treated with the desired substances, such as pesticides, in such a way that they surround the seeds. The most commonly used seed dressing types are dry seed dressing, wet seed dressing, and suspension seed dressing.

[0007] In dry dressing, the seed is treated with a dry powder. For this purpose, the seed is mixed with the respective dressing powder and blended until all the seeds are coated with the dry dressing. In wet dressing, the seed is immersed in a bath of dressing agents. In suspension dressing, the seed is placed in a chamber and the seeds are sprayed with a finely atomized dressing agent. A special form of dressing is so-called pilling. In pilling, the seed is surrounded by a coating containing, for example, pesticides and fertilizers in such a way that each treated seed has a uniform weight and size. For this purpose, the seeds are pilled many times in layers, particularly with suspensions. The result is a calibratable, machine-compatible seed pill that is mainly used in agriculture, e.g. for sugar beet and cabbage, or in ornamental plant cultivation, e.g. for orchids.In the agricultural sector, for example, the layered structure is designed to allow insecticides and fungicides to be applied to the seeds in lamellae, encasing them with a protective color layer, for example to protect the user. Additionally, biostimulants, nutrients, and repellents can be incorporated. The evenly calibrated seed pellet can be mechanically placed in the prepared seedbed. Pelleted seeds often have a spherical shape of standardized size and are particularly suitable for single-seed sowing.

[0008] However, for very small or very light seeds, as is often the case with forestry seeds, these previously known treatment methods and substances are unsuitable, particularly if the seeds in question, especially forestry seeds, are to be sown by air, i.e. are to be evenly distributed from the air. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is assumed here that previously known methods from the field of agricultural dressing / pelleting prove to be unsuitable in this context for the following reasons: lack of swelling effect of the substances used, limited material structure of the coating and, in the case of forestry seeds, use of substances unsuitable for forestry seeds and processing processes that are harmful to forestry seeds.

[0009] The present invention is therefore based on the object of mitigating the above disadvantages and of enabling the treatment of seeds, in particular forestry seeds, wherein the treated seeds can be sown in particular by means of air application.

[0010] Summary of the invention

[0011] The solution according to the invention comprises the provision of a composition for treating seeds, in particular forestry seeds, comprising: a) potassium humates, b) pyrolysis carbon, c) clay mineral, d) sodium alginates, e) brown algae meal and f) plant fibers.

[0012] The solution according to the invention also includes the use of the composition according to the invention for treating seeds, in particular forest seeds.

[0013] The solution according to the invention additionally includes the provision of a method for producing one or more seed bodies, in particular one or more seed bodies containing forestry seed, comprising the following steps: a) providing a composition according to the invention, b) providing seed, c) combining the composition and the seed, and d) forming one or more seed bodies in which the seed is incorporated into a seed body matrix containing the composition. The solution according to the invention additionally includes the provision of seed bodies which comprise a seed body matrix which comprises the composition according to the invention, and seed, in particular forestry seed, wherein the seed is incorporated into the seed body matrix. The seed bodies according to the invention can in particular be produced using the method according to the invention.Seed bodies according to the invention can contain, in particular, a single seed, a plurality of identical seeds (pure seed), or a plurality of different seeds (mixed seed). The seed bodies according to the invention are particularly suitable for containing microseeds as seed. For the purposes of the present invention, the terms seed body and seed pellet are used synonymously. For the purposes of the present invention, the terms seed body matrix and seed pellet matrix are used synonymously.

[0014] The solution according to the invention also includes the use of the seed bodies according to the invention for sowing by means of air application and a method for sowing seed bodies according to the invention.

[0015] For the purposes of the present invention, the term seed refers to generative reproductive organs, such as seeds, where the seed contains the complete germ cell of the plant resulting from fertilization. For the purposes of the present invention, the term forest seed refers to seed of trees, in particular seed of trees that are sown in forests, in particular German forests. By way of example, reference is made here to the Forest Reproduction Act (FoVG), which lists the trees that may be sown in German forests, particularly in the appendix in Section 7, which refers to the regulation in Section 2 No. 1.

[0016] For the purposes of the present invention, the term embedded, in the context of the seed being embedded in the seed body matrix, refers to a state in which the seed cannot be removed from the seed body matrix without damaging the integrity of the seed body matrix.

[0017] For the purposes of the present invention, the term microseed refers to seeds in which the diameter of the individual seeds is on average less than 20 pm, determined by sieving and microscopic measurement.

[0018] For the purposes of the present invention, the term aerial sowing refers to sowing from the air, i.e. the treated or untreated seed is dropped from the air and lands on the soil surface.

[0019] Short description of the characters

[0020] Figure 1 shows a seed body (100) with microseeds (101) in a seed body matrix (102) comprising plant fibers (103).

[0021] Figure 2 shows a seed body (200) with a single seed (204) in a seed body matrix (102) comprising plant fibers (103).

[0022] Figure 3 shows a seed body (300) with microseeds (101) and individual seeds (304) in a seed body matrix (102) and an outer layer (305).

[0023] Figure 4 shows a seed body (400) with a single seed (404) in a seed body matrix (102) comprising plant fibers (103) and an outer layer (305).

[0024] Figure 5 shows a seed body (500) with a single seed (404) in a seed body matrix (102) comprising plant fibers (103), a functional layer (506), and an outer layer (305). Figure 6 shows a treated single seed (600) with a single seed (404) treated with a seed body matrix (102).

[0025] Figure 7 shows a seed body (700) with a single seed (404) in a seed body matrix (102) comprising plant fibers with an average length of more than 120 pm (703), and an outer layer (705) comprising plant fibers with an average length of less than 120 pm (not shown).

[0026] Figure 8 shows the moistening with water (left arrow) and the re-drying (right arrow) of the seed body (700) from Figure 7.

[0027] The invention is not limited to the specific embodiments and / or examples shown in the figures. The figures do not necessarily represent the specific embodiments and / or examples shown to scale.

[0028] Description of the invention

[0029] In one aspect, the invention provides a composition for treating seeds, in particular forestry seeds, which composition comprises: a) potassium humates, b) pyrolysis carbon, c) clay mineral, d) sodium alginates, e) brown algae meal and f) plant fibers.

[0030] The composition according to the invention comprises potassium humates. Potassium humates comprise salts of humic acids; potassium humates and their preparation are known to the person skilled in the art.

[0031] In one embodiment, conventional potassium humates can be used, which can be produced by known processes. In particular, high-purity crystalline potassium humates can be used. In particular, the potassium humates can contain more than 60 wt.%, in particular more than 65 wt.%, of humic acid-derived components, based on the total weight of the potassium humates used. In particular, the potassium humates can contain more than 4 wt.%, in particular more than 5 wt.%, in particular between 5 and 6 wt.%, of fulvic acid-derived components, based on the total weight of the potassium humates used. In particular, the potassium humates can have a pH of 8 to 12, in particular a pH of 9 to 11, in particular a pH of 9.5 to 10.5.

[0032] It has been found that potassium humates in the composition according to the invention increase the bonding between the individual components, stimulate the symbiosis of microorganisms and mychorriza, promote seed germination and improve the heat, cold and drought tolerance of the seedling.

[0033] In one embodiment, the weight proportion of potassium humates is 0.1 to 5 wt.%, in particular 0.5 to 3 wt.%, in particular 1 to 2 wt.%, based on the total weight of the composition according to the invention.

[0034] The composition according to the invention comprises pyrolysis coal. Pyrolysis coal is obtained by pyrolytic carbonization of biological starting materials; pyrolysis coal and its production are known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, conventional pyrolysis coal, which can be produced using known processes, can be used. For example, it can be obtained from raw material consisting of softwood from short rotation coppice plantations (SRPs). In particular, pollutant-free and finely ground raw material can be used in the production process. For the purposes of the present invention, the term finely ground raw material refers to raw material in which 90% or more by weight, based on the total weight of the raw material, has an average diameter determined by sieving of less than 0.1 mm. In particular, the pyrolysis coal can contain uncharged carbon, i.e. carbon that has been charged neither with microorganisms nor with nutrients.

[0035] It has been found that pyrolysis coal in the composition according to the invention increases the storage capacity of water, nutrients and microorganisms.

[0036] In one embodiment, the weight proportion of the pyrolysis coal is 2 to 30 wt.%, in particular 5 to 20 wt.%, in particular 10 to 15 wt.%, based on the total weight of the composition according to the invention.

[0037] The composition according to the invention comprises clay minerals. Clay minerals and their extraction are known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, conventional clay minerals extracted by known methods can be used. In particular, highly swellable clay minerals with high cation exchange capacity and high sorption capacity can be used. In particular, the clay minerals can be present in a concentration of 20 to 30 wt. %, in particular 22 to 28 wt. %, in particular 24 to 26 wt. Contain kaolinite, based on the total weight of the clay minerals used. In particular, the clay minerals can contain from 30 to 50 wt.%, in particular from 35 to 45 wt.%, in particular from 38 to 42 wt.%, of illite, based on the total weight of the clay minerals used. In particular, the clay minerals can contain from 25 to 45 wt.%, in particular from 30 to 40 wt.%, in particular from 33 to 37 wt.%, of smectite, based on the total weight of the clay minerals used. In particular, the clay minerals can have a water absorption of more than 90 wt.%, in particular more than 95 wt.%, in particular more than 97 wt.%, based on the total weight of the clay minerals used. In particular, the clay minerals can have a bulk density according to DIN 53468 of 550 to 750 g / L, in particular of 600 to 700 g / L, in particular of 630 to 670 g / L.In particular, the clay minerals can have grain sizes according to Sedigraph 5100 of < 63 pm (100%), < 40 pm (99%), < 20 pm (92%), < 10 pm (80%), < 6 pm (74%), < 2 pm (60%), < 1 pm (54%) and < 0.5 pm (45%).

[0038] It has been found that clay mineral in the composition according to the invention increases the bonding to the seed and between the individual components and provides micronutrients for the seed.

[0039] In one embodiment, the weight proportion of the clay minerals is 30 to 80 wt.%, in particular 40 to 70 wt.%, in particular 50 to 60 wt.%, based on the total weight of the composition according to the invention.

[0040] The composition according to the invention comprises sodium alginates. Sodium alginates comprise salts of alginic acids, which are naturally formed, for example, by some bacteria and algae.

[0041] Sodium alginates and their preparation are known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, conventional sodium alginates can be used, which can be prepared by known processes. In particular, the sodium alginates can have a Brookfield LVT viscosity (60 rpm) of 450 to 650 mPa in a 1% solution (60 rpm) of 400 to 600 mPa, in particular 350 to 550 mPa. In particular, the sodium alginates can have a pH of 4.0 to 10, in particular a pH of 4.5 to 9.0, in particular a pH of 5.5 to 8.0. In particular, the sodium alginates can have a residual moisture content of less than 20 wt.%, in particular less than 17 wt.%, in particular less than 15 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sodium alginates used. In particular, the sodium alginates can be in the form of particles which have a particle size distribution in which at least 80% by weight of the particles, in particular at least 90% by weight.-%, in particular at least 95 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sodium alginates used, have a diameter of less than 200 pm, determined by sieving.

[0042] It has been found that sodium alginates in the composition according to the invention increase the bonding to the seed and between the individual components and increase the water storage capacity.

[0043] In one embodiment, the weight proportion of sodium alginates is 0.1 to 6 wt.%, in particular 0.5 to 4 wt.%, in particular 1 to 3 wt.%, based on the total weight of the composition according to the invention.

[0044] The composition according to the invention comprises brown algae flour. Brown algae flour is obtained from brown algae. For this purpose, the brown algae are generally cleaned, dried, and ground. Brown algae flour and its production are known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, conventional brown algae flour can be used, which can be produced by known methods. In particular, the brown algae flour can be obtained from the brown algae Ascophyllum nodosum, especially in the form of granules. This brown algae is a free-flowing, water-binding macroalgae of the Fucaceae family, which can be used as a bioactivator. In particular, the brown algae flour can contain antioxidants, amino acids, mannuronic acid, and guluronic acid. In particular, the brown algae flour can contain mannuronic acid and guluronic acid in a weight ratio of 1.00 to 2.50, in particular in a weight ratio of 1.20 to 2.20, in particular in a weight ratio of 1.40 to 1.95.In particular, the brown algae flour can be in the form of particles which have an average diameter determined by sieving of 50 μm to 600 μm, in particular of 80 μm to 500 μm, in particular of 100 μm to 400 μm. In particular, the brown algae flour can have a pH of 4.0 to 8.0, in particular a pH of 5.0 to 7.0, in particular a pH of 4.5 to 6.5. In particular, the brown algae flour can have a crude protein content of 1 to 20 wt.%, in particular of 2 to 15 wt.%, in particular of 3 to 12 wt.%, based on the total weight of the brown algae flour used. In particular, the brown algae flour can be in the form of particles, whereby a sieve analysis of the particles according to DIN EN ISO 4610 with an air jet sieve with a clear mesh size of > 1000 gm provides less than 1 wt.% based on the total weight of the brown algae flour used, with a clear mesh size of > 500 gm less than 5 wt.-% based on the total weight of the brown algae flour used and with a clear mesh size of > 200 gm, between 30 and 70 wt.% based on the total weight of the brown algae flour used.

[0045] It has been found that brown algae flour in the composition according to the invention increases the bond to the seeds and stimulates symbioses.

[0046] In one embodiment, the weight proportion of the brown algae flour is 0.1 to 10 wt.%, in particular 1 to 7 wt.%, in particular 2 to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the composition according to the invention.

[0047] The composition according to the invention comprises plant fibers.

[0048] Plant fibers are fibers of plant origin, where in addition to

[0049] Wood can also be used as a starting material for other fiber plants, such as cotton, flax, hemp, and jute. Plant fibers and their production are known to those skilled in the art.

[0050] In one embodiment, the weight proportion of the plant fibers is 7 to 70 wt . % , in particular 15 to 50 wt . % , in particular 25 to 40 wt . % , based on the total weight of the composition according to the invention.

[0051] The plant fibers in the composition according to the invention can be long plant fibers, short plant fibers or mixtures thereof. For the purposes of the present invention, the term long plant fibers refers to plant fibers whose average length is > 120 gm, in particular > 150 gm, in particular > 180 gm, in particular > 210 gm, in particular > 250 gm, in particular > 300 gm. For the purposes of the present invention, the term short plant fibers refers to plant fibers whose average length is < 120 gm, in particular < 100 gm, in particular < 80 gm, in particular < 60 gm, in particular < 40 gm, in particular < 20 gm. The length of the plant fibers is determined by microscopic analysis.

[0052] It has been found that plant fibers in the composition according to the invention increase moisture transfer and water storage capacity. It has also been found that long plant fibers in particular in the composition according to the invention improve the incorporation of small particles, such as microseeds, for example in eddy current processes. Thus, microseeds, for example, can be incorporated into the composition according to the invention and thus form granules which, in addition to the composition according to the invention, contain microseeds, for example. It has also been found that long plant fibers in particular in combination with pyrolysis charcoal, clay mineral and sodium alginates in the composition according to the invention provide the function of a double capillary function (bipolar).

[0053] Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is assumed here that the uniform structure of plant fibers in combination with clay minerals ensures capillary moisture transport. This can be particularly true for the rapid degradation of moisture during the drying of moistened compositions. The homogeneous distribution of water after moistening of the compositions according to the invention can prevent tight bonds in the compositions according to the invention, which could, for example, lead to the germination of a seed incorporated into the composition according to the invention.

[0054] In some embodiments of the composition according to the invention, wood fibers, cotton fibers, flax fibers, hemp fibers, jute fibers, and mixtures can be used as plant fibers. Such plant fibers, which are obtained directly without further processing, are referred to as natural plant fibers in the context of the present invention. In particular, the wood fibers can be obtained from spruce and / or beech wood by milling.

[0055] In particular, the plant fibres, in particular wood fibres, can be from 30 to 50 wt.%, in particular from 35 to 45 wt.%, in particular from 38 to 42 wt. Alphacellulose, based on the total weight of the plant fibers used, especially wood fibers. In particular, the plant fibers, especially wood fibers, can contain from 15 to 35 wt.%, especially from 20 to 30 wt.%, especially from 22 to 28 wt.%, of hemicellulose, based on the total weight of the plant fibers used, especially wood fibers.

[0056] In particular, the plant fibers, in particular wood fibers, can contain from 15 to 35 wt.%, in particular from 20 to 30 wt.%, in particular from 22 to 28 wt.%, of lignin, based on the total weight of the plant fibers, in particular wood fibers, used. In particular, the plant fibers, in particular wood fibers, can have a pH of 4.0 to 8.0, in particular a pH of 5.0 to 7.0, in particular a pH of 4.5 to 6.5. In particular, the plant fibers, in particular wood fibers, can have a bulk density according to DIN EN ISO 60 of 100 to 300 g / L, in particular from 150 to 240 g / L, in particular from 180 to 210 g / L. In particular, the plant fibers, in particular wood fibers, can have a water absorption of more than 100% by weight, in particular more than 200% by weight, in particular more than 300% by weight, based on the total weight of the plant fibers used, in particular wood fibers.In particular, the plant fibers, especially wood fibers, can undergo a sieve analysis according to DIN EN ISO 4610.

[0057] Air jet sieve in which, with a clear mesh size of > 100 pm, less than 0.5 wt.% based on the total weight of the plant fibers used, in particular wood fibers, are delivered and with a clear mesh size of > 45 pm, less than 10 wt.% based on the total weight of the plant fibers used, in particular wood fibers, are delivered.

[0058] In one embodiment of the composition according to the invention, further processed plant fibers can be used; these include, among others, cellulose fibers. Cellulose fibers can be obtained from wood; for this purpose, lignin is generally removed from the wood fibers and thermally split. Further processing methods for plant fibers and in particular the methods for producing cellulose fibers are known to the person skilled in the art. In particular, the cellulose fibers can be obtained from high-purity cellulose from beechwood. In particular, the cellulose fibers can contain more than 97% by weight, in particular more than 99% by weight, in particular more than 99.5% by weight, of cellulose, based on the total weight of the cellulose fibers used. In particular, the cellulose fibers can have an average fiber length of 100 to 500 gm, in particular of 200 to 400 gm, in particular of 250 to 350 gm.The fiber length of the cellulose fibers is determined by microscopic analysis. In particular, the cellulose fibers can have an average fiber thickness of 5 to 50 gm, in particular 10 to 40 gm, in particular 15 to 30 gm. The fiber thickness of the cellulose fibers is determined by microscopic analysis. In particular, the cellulose fibers can have a pH value of 3.0 to 9.0, in particular a pH value of 4.0 to 8.0, in particular a pH value of 5.0 to 7.0. In particular, the cellulose fibers can have a bulk density according to DIN EN ISO 60 of 20 to 200 g / L, in particular 50 to 120 g / L, in particular 70 to 90 g / L.

[0059] Further processed plant fibers, in particular cellulose fibers, can be used alternatively to or in combination with natural plant fibers in the composition according to the invention.

[0060] In some embodiments of the composition according to the invention, wood fibers can be used as plant fibers, so that the composition comprises: a) potassium humates, b) pyrolysis carbon, c) clay mineral, d) sodium alginates, e) brown algae flour and fl) wood fibers, in particular long wood fibers.

[0061] In some embodiments of the composition according to the invention, cellulose fibers can be used as plant fibers, so that the composition comprises: a) potassium humates, b) pyrolysis carbon, c) clay mineral, d) sodium alginates, e) brown algae meal and f.2) cellulose fibers, in particular long cellulose fibers.

[0062] In some embodiments of the composition according to the invention, wood fibers and cellulose fibers can be used as plant fibers, so that the composition comprises: a) potassium humates, b) pyrolysis carbon, c) clay mineral, d) sodium alginates, e) brown algae meal and f) wood fibers, in particular short wood fibers, and f.2) cellulose fibers, in particular long cellulose fibers.

[0063] In some embodiments of the inventive

[0064] The individual components can be used in the following weight proportions in the composition, so that the composition comprises: a) 0.1 to 5% by weight of potassium humates, b) 2 to 30% by weight of pyrolysis coal, c) 30 to 80% by weight of clay mineral, d) 0.1 to 6% by weight of sodium alginates, e) 0.1 to 10% by weight of brown algae meal and f) 7 to 70% by weight of plant fibers, in particular f) 2 to 30% by weight of wood fibers and f.2) 5 to 40% by weight of cellulose fibers, whereby all data in % by weight relate to the total weight of the composition according to the invention.

[0065] In some embodiments of the inventive

[0066] The individual components can be used in the following weight proportions in the composition, so that the composition comprises: a) 0.5 to 3% by weight of potassium humates, b) 5 to 20% by weight of pyrolysis carbon, c) 40 to 70% by weight of clay mineral, d) 0.5 to 4% by weight of sodium alginates, e) 1 to 7% by weight of brown algae meal and f) 15 to 50% by weight of plant fibers, in particular fl) 5 to 20% by weight of wood fibers and f.2) 10 to 30% by weight of cellulose fibers, whereby all data in % by weight relate to the total weight of the composition according to the invention.

[0067] In some embodiments of the inventive

[0068] The individual components can be used in the following weight proportions in the composition, so that the composition comprises: a) 1 to 2% by weight of potassium humates, b) 10 to 15% by weight of pyrolysis carbon, c) 50 to 60% by weight of clay mineral, d) 1 to 3% by weight of sodium alginates, e) 2 to 5% by weight of brown algae meal and f) 25 to 40% by weight of plant fibers, in particular fl) 10 to 15% by weight of wood fibers and f.2) 15 to 25% by weight of cellulose fibers, all data in % by weight relating to the total weight of the composition according to the invention.

[0069] The composition according to the invention can, in particular, be in the form of a homogeneous mixture. Homogeneous mixtures of the composition according to the invention can be produced, for example, using known eddy current processes. For this purpose, the individual components of the composition according to the invention are homogeneously mixed, for example, in a forced-flow mixer. Conventional, well-known forced-flow mixers can be used for this purpose. An example of a suitable forced-flow mixer is the R15 forced-flow mixer from Eirich. The components can be introduced into the rotating container of the forced-flow mixer, with the direction of rotation being possible either in cocurrent or countercurrent.

[0070] The composition according to the invention for treating seed can generally be used with any common type of seed. For example, the composition according to the invention can be used for seed dressing. An example of this is shown in Figure 6. Figure 6 shows a treated individual seed (600). Here, the composition according to the invention was used for dressing an individual seed (404) with a seed body matrix (102).

[0071] In particular, the seed for use with the composition according to the invention is cleaned seed that has been manually and / or mechanically cleaned of weed seeds and other contaminants and, if appropriate, sorted into uniform grain sizes. The methods used are those that are well known in the field of seed processing.

[0072] The seed, in particular purified seed, for use with the composition according to the invention can also be untreated or pretreated seed. Pretreated seed includes, for example, seed whose surface has been treated with water and / or other substances well known in the field of seed processing. Pretreated seed also includes, for example, pelleted seed.

[0073] The composition according to the invention for treating seeds is particularly suitable for use with forest seeds.

[0074] The composition according to the invention is particularly suitable for incorporating the seed into the composition, in particular for incorporation by means of build-up agglomeration on a pelletizing plate.

[0075] All substances used in the composition according to the invention can be harmless for introduction into the environment, both alone and in combination; in particular, all substances used in the composition according to the invention can be ecologically harmless in forests. The composition according to the invention can be composed in such a way that it does not contain any substances that, alone or in combination, promote ingestion by animals or enable or promote the growth of harmful fungi.

[0076] One or more common additives may additionally be added to the composition according to the invention in order to achieve a concrete adaptation to the specific requirement profile of the intended application of the composition according to the invention, e.g. one or more biostimulating substances which in particular increase the germination rate of seeds and achieve a faster symbiosis with microorganisms and soil fungi.

[0077] The composition according to the invention can be used extremely flexibly, since targeted adaptation of the individual components and in particular their exact concentrations makes individual adaptation to the specific requirements profile of the desired application, i.e. in particular of the seed to be treated, possible. However, the composition according to the invention can not only be adapted to the specific seed to be treated, but also enables further, explicit adaptation to the specific targeted sowing conditions, such as area size, soil properties, and general climatic conditions, with particular consideration of the time of year.

[0078] In a further aspect, the invention provides a method for producing one or more seed bodies, in particular one or more seed bodies containing forestry seed, which method comprises the following steps: a) providing the composition according to the invention, b) providing seed, c) combining the composition and the seed, and d) forming one or more seed bodies in which the seed is incorporated into a seed body matrix containing the composition.

[0079] In the process according to the invention, any common type of seed can generally be used, including the cleaned and / or untreated or pretreated seed described above. In particular, forest seed and seed of shrubby or herbaceous plants can be used in the process according to the invention. Furthermore, the seed used in the process according to the invention can additionally or alternatively be moistened.

[0080] In the process according to the invention, what is known as swelling of the composition according to the invention can also take place. In this case, the composition according to the invention absorbs moisture in particular. For swelling, water or an aqueous solution can be added to the composition according to the invention and the resulting aqueous composition can be left to stand for a certain time. In particular, 10 to 60 wt. % of water or an aqueous solution can be added to the composition according to the invention for swelling, in particular 15 to 50 wt. % and in particular 25 to 40 wt. % based on the total weight of the composition according to the invention. In particular, the resulting aqueous composition can be left to stand for swelling for 1 to 600 minutes, in particular 2 to 120 minutes and in particular 3 to 30 minutes.In particular, the swelling of the composition according to the invention can take place after the provision in step (a) or after the combination with the seed in step (c).

[0081] The swelling of the composition can take place, for example, in a forced-action mixer. In particular, in a forced-action mixer, water or an aqueous solution can be added dropwise over a defined period of time, in particular over a period of 1 to 600 seconds, in particular over a period of 20 to 200 seconds, in particular over a period of 30 to 10 seconds. Granules can be obtained by swelling the composition in a forced-action mixer.

[0082] The combination of the composition and the seed in step (c) can be carried out, for example, in a forced mixer of the type described above. In this case, prior swelling of the composition according to the invention is generally omitted, thus allowing better miscibility of the seed and the composition according to the invention to be achieved. Combining in the dry state is particularly suitable for very small seeds, since these are generally capable of forming a homogeneous mixture and / or granules with the composition according to the invention.

[0083] Swelling of the composition according to the invention after the composition and the seed have been combined in step (c) can also take place in a compulsory mixer. If the composition and the seed have already been combined in step (c) in a compulsory mixer, all components can remain in the compulsory mixer and the swelling can take place in the same compulsory mixer. This enables a particularly efficient way of conducting the process. Alternatively or additionally, the composition and the seed can also be combined by other means, for example on a pelletizing plate. This is particularly suitable if larger seeds are to be used.If microseeds and larger seeds are used together, the composition according to the invention can first be combined with the microseed in the dry state, for example in a forced mixer, and only then can it be combined with the larger seed by other means, for example on a pelletizing disc. An example of this can be found in Figure 3. Here, a seed pellet (300) was produced using the method according to the invention, in which, in addition to a microseed (101), larger individual seeds (304) are incorporated into the seed pellet matrix (102).

[0084] In addition to or as an alternative to a compulsory mixer, the combining in step (c) can take place, for example, on a pelletizing plate, in particular after prior swelling of the composition according to the invention. In particular, the combining in step (c) can take place by adding the seed to the composition located on the inclined and rotating pelletizing plate. An example of a suitable pelletizing plate is the TRI O pelletizing plate from Eirich. A suitable inclination of the pelletizing plate can be 40 to 60 degrees. A suitable rotation of the pelletizing plate can be 12 to 20 rpm.

[0085] Such pelletizing discs are also suitable for forming one or more seed bodies in step (d). Alternatively or additionally, the formation of one or more seed bodies in step (d) can also be brought about by other known means. If the formation of one or more seed bodies in step (d) takes place on a pelletizing disc, the successive buildup is based on the known principle of buildup agglomeration. During buildup agglomeration, larger agglomerates are formed by rolling movements of the starting particles. This form of material buildup is reflected in the structure of the resulting agglomerates / pellets, as will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. A suitable inclination of the pelletizing disc can be 40 to 60 degrees. A suitable rotation of the pelletizing disc can be 12 to 20 rpm.

[0086] During the formation of one or more seed bodies in step (d) on a pelletizing plate, the agglomeration process and its speed, and thus the formation of the agglomeration pellets, i.e. the seed pellets / seed bodies, can be controlled by the targeted addition of water or an aqueous solution. The rotation of the plate can form a material stream, with the even finer fractions remaining at the bottom of the plate. By adding water or an aqueous solution to this ultrafine material, this ultrafine material can be gradually incorporated into the material stream, so that the pellets can form via the agglomeration buildup.

[0087] By adding a further composition which differs from the composition according to the invention provided in step (a), a further layer which differs from the seed body matrix can be integrated into the seed pellet by means of build-up agglomeration. Even if the further composition differs from the composition provided in step (a), the further composition can also be a composition according to the invention. An example of this can be found in Figure 5. Here, a seed pellet (500) was produced using the method according to the invention, into which an additional functional layer (506) was integrated, which surrounds the seed body matrix (102). Such a functional layer (506) can, for example, additionally contain substances which repel mice or birds.

[0088] During the formation of one or more seed bodies in step (d) on a pelletizing disc, the build-up agglomeration can be stopped by so-called dusting. For this purpose, a so-called dusting composition can be added. In particular, the dusting composition can be a dry composition; the one or more seed bodies can thus be given a dry surface, which can stop the build-up agglomeration.

[0089] The powdering composition may be a composition according to the invention. In particular, the powdering composition and the composition provided in step (a) may be the same. In this case, the seed pellet does not have a distinguishable outer layer. The seed body matrix forms the surface of the seed body. Examples of this can be found in Figures 1 and 2. Here, seed pellets that do not have distinguishable outer layers were produced using the method according to the invention.

[0090] The powdering composition and the composition provided in step (a) can also be different. In this case, the seed pellet can have a differentiable outer layer. The seed body matrix does not form the surface of the seed body, but an outer layer made of the powdering composition can be formed on the surface of the seed body. Examples of this can be found in Figures 3 to 5 and 7. Here, seed pellets (300, 400, 500, 700) having differentiable outer layers (305, 705) were produced using the method according to the invention. In the specific example of Figure 7, a composition with long plant fibers with an average length of more than 120 pm (703) was provided in step (a). The long plant fibers (703) are located in the seed body matrix (102). The powdering composition, in contrast, contained short plant fibers with an average length of less than 120 pm (not shown).The short plant fibers are located in the outer layer (705) .

[0091] The seed bodies produced by the process according to the invention can also be dried very quickly and gently. Drying is particularly suitable if the seed bodies are to be stored initially and are not intended for immediate sowing. Drying should take place under the gentlest possible conditions, in particular to avoid premature germination of the seed during the drying process. Appropriate drying can take place at temperatures of 20 to 40 °C. The seed bodies can be dried, in particular, to a residual moisture content of 3 to 20 wt.%, in particular to a residual moisture content of 5 to 15 wt.%, in particular to a residual moisture content of 6 to 12 wt.%, whereby all data in wt.% refer to the total weight of the seed bodies. Drying can, for example, take place over a period of 5 hours to 3 days.

[0092] The process according to the invention can be used extremely flexibly because it can be carried out as a batch process. This allows for easy adaptation of the individual process steps depending on the requirements profile of the specific desired product, i.e., the treated seed. However, the process according to the invention can not only be adapted to the specific seed used, but also allows for further specific adaptation to the specific targeted sowing conditions, such as area size, soil composition, and general climatic conditions, with particular consideration of the time of year.

[0093] In one embodiment, for example, particularly large or misshapen seeds with protruding components, such as maple seeds with wings, or seeds that are difficult to incorporate into seed bodies due to their shape or their oily, terpene-containing, or hydrophobic surface, e.g., fir seeds, can be treated by the controllable adhesive function of the composition according to the invention (Figure 6). Thus, due to their controllable adhesive function, the compositions according to the invention can also be used with seeds that are usually difficult to treat.

[0094] In another embodiment, for example, germination can be accelerated and optimized by adjusting the dosage of biostimulants. More biostimulants can be added in spring than with fall sowing, since the seeds are meant to be stored over the winter in fall sowings, whereas germination should begin as quickly as possible in spring. Additionally, depending on the season, colonization with symbiotic partners can be optimized by adjusting the brown algae flour concentration in the composition.

[0095] In a further embodiment, for example when using a pelletizing disc for build-up agglomeration, larger calibers can be built up through the targeted addition of moisture than are accessible with known methods. In such larger calibers, for example, 30-80 small tree-like and / or shrub-like pioneer seeds, e.g. birch seeds, or 50-200 herbaceous plant seeds can be incorporated. In this way, a clump-like sowing can be achieved. An example of this is shown in Figure 3. The composition according to the invention and the method according to the invention for treating seed are coordinated with one another in such a way that the method according to the invention is particularly well suited to treating seed with the composition according to the invention and the composition according to the invention is particularly well suited for use in the method according to the invention for treating seed.

[0096] In particular, the method according to the invention enables specific seeds which are covered with natural fibers, such as fine hairs and / or wings, e.g. seeds of willow, birch and / or wood willowherb, to be incorporated into the desired product together with these natural fibers. These natural fibers, which are often cotton-like, bind a great deal of moisture and thus form the main disturbance factor for controlled agglomeration. In order to enable the material flow on the pelletizing plate, for example when using a pelletizing plate, it may be necessary to add considerable amounts of water or aqueous solutions. This moisture should then be removed as quickly as possible in a drying process if premature germination is to be prevented.At the same time, depending on the seed, drying may only take place within a temperature range of, for example, up to 40°C, sometimes even as low as 20°C, in order not to damage or even kill sensitive seeds. In particular, the compositions according to the invention, especially using the method according to the invention, enable the treatment of seeds that are usually difficult to treat.

[0097] Furthermore, the composition according to the invention in particular ensures an extremely rapid moisture transfer in the treated seed under gentle conditions, which ensures a rapid and / or gentle re-drying of the seed during the drying step of the method according to the invention (right arrow, Figure 8), which in turn can prevent premature and undesired germination of the seed.

[0098] The targeted adaptation of the individual components and in particular their exact concentrations in the composition according to the invention in combination with the targeted adaptation of the individual process steps of the method according to the invention enable the provision of treated seed with tailor-made properties for the specifically desired requirement profile, such as e.g. type of seed, area size, soil properties and general climatic conditions with particular consideration of the time of year. In other words, the present invention, in particular the combination of the composition according to the invention and the method according to the invention for treating seed, provides a maximum of flexibility and specificity.

[0099] In a further aspect, the invention provides seed bodies comprising a seed matrix and seeds, in particular forest seeds or seeds of shrubby and herbaceous plants, wherein the seeds are incorporated into the seed matrix comprising the composition according to the invention. The seed bodies according to the invention can be produced in particular by means of the method according to the invention described herein.

[0100] In particular, the seed body matrix of the seed body according to the invention can consist of the composition according to the invention for treating seed. In particular, the seed body matrix can surround the seed in the seed bodies according to the invention, i.e. completely enclose it, so that the entire surface of the seed in the seed body according to the invention is covered by the seed body matrix. For incorporation of the seed into the seed body matrix within the meaning of the present invention, such complete enclosure is not absolutely necessary, since in some cases it can also be sufficient for only part of the surface of the seed in the seed body according to the invention to be covered by the seed body matrix in order to ensure that the seed cannot be removed from the seed body matrix without damaging the integrity of the seed body matrix.

[0101] The seed body according to the invention can contain one or more additional layers in addition to the seed body matrix. An example of this can be found in Figure 5. This shows a seed body (500) according to the invention that contains an additional functional layer (506) and an outer layer (305) surrounding the seed body matrix (102). Such a functional layer (506) and / or outer layer (305) can, for example, additionally contain substances that repel mice or birds.

[0102] The seed bodies according to the invention can, in particular, have a particle size determined by sieving of 0.1 mm to 100 mm, in particular of 0.5 mm to 50 mm, in particular of 1 mm to 35 mm. Sieving can be carried out manually and / or mechanically, in particular with particle sizes of 0.1 to 1.4 mm, 1.4 to 1.6 mm, 1.6 to 2.25 mm, 2.25 to 5.0 mm, 5.0 to 10.0 mm, 10.0 to 20.0 mm, 20.0 to 50.0 mm, and / or 50.0 to 100.0 mm.

[0103] The seed matrix which comprises the composition according to the invention can react to moisture in a controlled manner and enable rapid moisture transfer in the seed bodies according to the invention. An adjustment of the reaction to moisture and an adjustment of the moisture transfer in the seed bodies according to the invention can be achieved by targeted adjustments of the individual components and in particular their exact concentrations in the composition according to the invention and / or by targeted adjustments of the individual process steps of the process according to the invention. The reaction to moisture can be adjusted, for example, via the ratio of clay mineral to plant fibers and can be influenced by the duration and amount of moisture used, for example during the agglomeration process on a pelletizing plate. In addition, the reaction to moisture can be achieved by a special composition of the outer shell, e.g.B . by outer shells containing hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC ).

[0104] On the one hand, an efficient moisture transfer through the seed matrix comprising the composition according to the invention can be beneficial for rapid redrying of the seeds during the possible drying step of the process according to the invention (right arrow, Figure 8), since this can prevent premature and undesired germination of the seeds during the production of the seeds. On the other hand, an efficient moisture transfer through the seed matrix after sowing, e.g. during rainfall, can ensure an effective germination rate, since the presence of water can be beneficial for effective germination of the seeds (left arrow, Figure 8).

[0105] The seed bodies according to the invention can additionally be designed in such a way that the seed body matrix, which comprises the composition according to the invention, can break up as a specific reaction to moisture. In other words, the seed body matrix can have a moisture-induced bursting or disintegration effect. This can be particularly beneficial after sowing, since the germs growing in the presence of moisture can die if the breaking up of the seed body matrix is ​​delayed for too long. For example, the homogeneous incorporation of cellulose fibers into the seed body matrix can enable moisture to be transported from the inside, away from the seed, for rapid and gentle re-drying, as well as inwards, towards the seed.When the seed pellet comes into contact with dew, rain, or snow after sowing, this moisture can be homogeneously absorbed into the seed matrix, transported to the seed, and stimulated there, at the right temperature. By using two- and three-layer clay minerals and cotton-like cellulose fibers, additional water storage capacity can be achieved and a high swelling capacity of the clay mineral can be ensured.

[0106] The combination of substances used in the composition according to the invention, which is located in the seed matrix, can ensure optimization of germination and promote growth in the seeds according to the invention.

[0107] The seed bodies according to the invention can be particularly suitable for sowing by air delivery, without damaging the seed, in particular for forestry seed. In particular, the seed bodies according to the invention can be suitable for sowing by air delivery using a drone. Suitable drones are known. In principle, sowing can be carried out using any drone that has a factory-fitted release mechanism for seeds or pellets that is suitable for dropping pellets. For example, the Agras T30 drone from DJI can be used. In addition, drones with a sufficient payload can be used, to which a release mechanism for pellets can be attached. Sufficient payload means that the drone can carry the release mechanism and additionally a sufficient quantity of seeds or pellets for the planned sowing and is therefore dependent on the user and their wishes.An example is the Alta X drone from Freefly Systems with a maximum payload of 15.9 kg.

[0108] Various studies have shown that the seeds of the seed bodies according to the invention not only remain viable even after sowing by air application, but also show optimized germination and growth rates.

[0109] Particularly due to the nature of the composition according to the invention, the seed bodies according to the invention can be lightweight despite their relatively high material density. This has the advantage, among other things, that sowing can be carried out highly efficiently. Particularly when sowing by aerial drone, a very high area coverage per filling can be achieved.

[0110] The seed bodies according to the invention can also be suitable for conventional sowing, e.g. hand sowing, mechanical sowing, horse sowing, wet sowing, wet sowing, hydroseeding or spraying.

[0111] The present invention thus makes it possible: a) to incorporate very small, light, delicate and / or bulky seeds, as is often the case for forestry seeds and seeds of herbaceous and shrubby plants, evenly into a machine-processable seed body, b) to provide production in a batch process that can be adapted to the respective area, in particular its size, soil conditions, climatic environment and further requirements, c) to provide seed bodies that contain mixtures of seeds, in particular homogeneous mixtures of seeds, d) to provide seed bodies that are calibratable, e) to provide seed bodies that can store moisture over a considerable period of time and thus can particularly promote germination, f) to provide seed bodies that react to moisture in a controlled manner and can enable rapid moisture transfer, in particular rapid,gentle re-drying of the seeds, g) providing seed bodies that react to moisture in a controlled manner and can enable rapid seed release in the event of moisture, e.g. during rainfall, by means of a burst effect, h) providing seed bodies whose drift in the air when sown by air application can be modified by adjusting their weight depending on the area requirements, whereby in particular either spot or area sowing can be achieved, i) providing seed bodies that can be protected from being eaten by birds, mice and snails, j) providing seed bodies that can optimise the germination of seeds, especially forest seeds, and promote growth, and k) providing seed bodies that contain biostimulating substances that can further increase the germination rate and achieve faster symbiosis with microorganisms and soil fungi. Examples,

[0112] The following embodiments are intended to contribute to an understanding of the present invention, but do not limit it in any way:

[0113] Example 1 - Composition for treating seeds: A composition for treating seeds was prepared, the composition consisting of 1.0 wt% potassium humate with a bulk density of 0.583 kg / L, 15.0 wt% pyrolysis coal with a bulk density of 0.227 kg / L, 50.0 wt% clay minerals with a bulk density of 0.745 kg / L, 1.0 wt% sodium alginate with a bulk density of 0.510 kg / L, 2.0 wt% brown algae meal with a bulk density of 0.440 kg / L, 14.0 wt% wood fibers with a bulk density of 0.183 kg / L and 17.0 wt% cellulose fibers with a bulk density of 0.132 kg / L, all data in wt% relating to the total weight of the composition.For this purpose, 0.5 kg of potassium humate, 7.5 kg of pyrolysis coal, 25.0 kg of clay minerals, 0.5 kg of sodium alginate, 1.0 kg of brown algae flour, 7.0 kg of wood fiber, and 8.5 kg of cellulose fiber were placed in the rotating container of an Eirich R15 forced-action mixer and mixed in countercurrent until a homogeneous mixture was obtained. The resulting composition was isolated.

[0114] Example 2 - Seed body:

[0115] Silver fir seeds (Ables Alba) were treated with the composition from Example 1. For this purpose, 25.0 kg of the composition from Example 1 were placed in an R08W production mixer (Eirich) with a rotating mixing vessel with an eccentrically arranged, rapidly rotating, variable-direction mixing tool and fixed wall and bottom scrapers. The production mixer had a capacity of 75 L / 120 kg, a mixing vessel diameter of 80 cm, a mixing vessel drive power of up to 3 kW, a mixing tool drive power of up to 24 kW, and continuously adjustable speeds for the mixing vessel and mixing tool. First, the composition was mixed for 1 minute at a vortex speed of 20 m / s and a vessel speed of 1 m / s in countercurrent (GGS). The composition was then moistened.For this purpose, 9000 ml of water were added manually over a period of 2 minutes at a vortex speed of 20 m / s and a container speed of 1 m / s, in countercurrent flow (GGS). The composition was then compacted and granulated. For this purpose, the production mixer was set for 5 minutes at a vortex speed of 20 m / s and a container speed of 1 m / s, in countercurrent flow (GGS). The composition was transferred to a TRIO pelletizing disc (Eirich) with a fixed bottom scraper, rotating deflector, and liquid injection. The pelletizing disc had a disc diameter of 100 cm, a continuously variable disc speed, and a disc drive power of up to 1.1 kW. The silver fir seeds (Ables Alba) were added.Pelleting then took place on the disc, with a total of 10 L of water added via spray nozzles at a disc tilt of 50 degrees and a rotation speed of 14 rpm, until all material had agglomerated into pellets. The resulting seeds were isolated.

[0116] Embodiments

[0117] The present invention may additionally or alternatively also relate to one or more of the following numbered embodiments: Composition for treating seed comprising: a) potassium humate, b) pyrolysis carbon, c) clay mineral, d) sodium alginate, e) brown algae meal and f) plant fibers. Composition according to numbered embodiment 1, wherein the plant fibers have an average length > 120 gm, in particular > 150 gm, in particular > 180 gm, in particular > 210 gm, in particular > 250 gm, in particular > 300 gm, or wherein the plant fibers have an average length < 120 gm, in particular < 100 gm, in particular < 80 gm, in particular < 60 gm, in particular

[0118] < 40 gm, in particular < 20 gm. Composition according to numbered embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the plant fibers comprise at least a first portion of plant fibers and a second portion of plant fibers, wherein the first portion of plant fibers and the second portion of plant fibers are different. Composition according to numbered embodiment 3, wherein the first portion of plant fibers has an average length

[0119] > 120 gm, in particular > 150 gm, in particular > 180 gm, in particular > 210 gm, in particular > 250 gm, in particular

[0120] > 300 gm, and / or the second portion of plant fibers has an average length of < 120 gm, in particular < 100 gm, in particular < 80 gm, in particular < 60 gm, in particular

[0121] <40 gm, in particular <20 gm. Composition according to one of numbered embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the plant fibers comprise wood fibers, cellulose fibers, or mixtures thereof. Composition according to numbered embodiment 5, wherein the plant fibers consist of wood fibers, cellulose fibers, or mixtures thereof. Composition according to numbered embodiment 5 or 6, wherein the wood fibers have an average length of <120 gm and the cellulose fibers have an average length of >120 gm. Composition according to one of the numbered embodiments 1 to 7 comprising: a) 0.1 to 5 wt.% potassium humate, b) 2 to 30 wt.% pyrolysis carbon, c) 30 to 80 wt.% clay mineral, d) 0.1 to 6 wt.% sodium alginate, e) 0.1 to 10 wt.% brown algae meal and f) 7 to 70 wt.% plant fibers, in particular f) 2 to 30 wt.% wood fibers and f.2) 5 to 40 wt.% cellulose fibers, where all data are in wt.-% of the total weight of the composition.

[0122] Composition according to numbered embodiment 8 comprising: a) 0.5 to 3 wt.% potassium humate, b) 5 to 20 wt.% pyrolysis carbon, c) 40 to 70 wt.% clay mineral, d) 0.5 to 4 wt.% sodium alginate, e) 1 to 7 wt.% brown algae meal and f) 15 to 50 wt.% plant fibers, in particular f) 5 to 20 wt.% wood fibers and f.2) 10 to 30 wt.% cellulose fibers, where all data in wt.% relate to the total weight of the composition. Composition according to numbered embodiment 9 comprising: a) 1 to 2 wt.% potassium humate, b) 10 to 15 wt.% pyrolysis carbon, c) 50 to 60 wt.% clay mineral, d) 1 to 3 wt.% sodium alginate, e) 2 to 5 wt.% brown algae meal and f) 25 to 40 wt.% plant fibers, in particular f) 10 to 15 wt.% wood fibers and f.2) 15 to 25 wt.% cellulose fibers, where all data in wt.% relate to the total weight of the composition.Composition according to one of numbered embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the treatment of seed comprises incorporating the seed into the composition, in particular incorporating by means of build-up agglomeration on a pelletizing plate. Composition according to one of numbered embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the seed comprises forestry seed, in particular is forestry seed. Use of the composition according to one of numbered embodiments 1 to 12 for treating seed. Use according to numbered embodiment 13, wherein the treatment of seed comprises incorporating the seed into the composition, in particular incorporating by means of build-up agglomeration on a pelletizing plate. Use according to numbered embodiment 13 or 14, wherein the seed comprises forestry seed, in particular is forestry seed.A method for producing one or more seed bodies, comprising the steps of: a) providing the composition according to one of numbered embodiments 1 to 12, b) providing seed, c) combining the composition and the seed, and d) forming one or more seed bodies in which the seed is incorporated into a seed body matrix containing the composition. Method according to numbered embodiment 16, wherein the seed provided in step (b) is moistened and / or pretreated seed. Method according to numbered embodiment 16 or 17, wherein the composition is admixed with water or an aqueous solution for swelling after being provided in step (a) or after being combined with the seed in step (c). Method according to one of the numbered embodiments 16 to 18, wherein the combining in step (c) takes place on a pelletizing plate or in a compulsory mixer.Method according to numbered embodiment 19, wherein the combining in step (c) takes place on a pelletizing plate by adding the seed to the composition located on the inclined and rotating pelletizing plate. Method according to one of numbered embodiments 16 to 20, wherein at least part of the formation of one or more seed bodies in step (d) takes place on a pelletizing plate. Method according to numbered embodiment 21, wherein the formation of one or more seed bodies in step (d) takes place by means of build-up agglomeration on the pelletizing plate. Method according to numbered embodiment 22, wherein the formation of one or more seed bodies in step (d) takes place by means of build-up agglomeration on the pelletizing plate with the addition of water or an aqueous solution.Method according to one of numbered embodiments 21 to 23, wherein the build-up agglomeration on the pelletizing plate for forming one or more seed bodies in step (d) is stopped by adding a powdering composition. Method according to numbered embodiment 24, wherein the powdering composition is a composition according to one of numbered embodiments 1 to 12. Method according to numbered embodiment 25, wherein the powdering composition and the composition provided in step (a) are the same. Method according to numbered embodiment 24 or 25, wherein the powdering composition and the composition provided in step (a) are different.Process according to numbered embodiment 27, wherein the composition provided in step (a) comprises plant fibers with an average length > 120 pm and the powdering composition comprises plant fibers with an average length < 120 pm. Process according to one of numbered embodiments 16 to 28, wherein the one or more seed bodies are dried after formation in step (d). Process according to numbered embodiment 29, wherein the one or more seed bodies are dried at 20 to 40 °C over a period of 5 hours to 3 days. Process according to numbered embodiment 29 or 30, wherein the one or more seed bodies are dried to 3 to 20 wt. % residual moisture, in particular 5 to 15 wt. % residual moisture, in particular 6 to 12 wt. % residual moisture, all data in wt. % relating to the total weight of the seed bodies.Method according to one of numbered embodiments 16 to 31, wherein the seed comprises forestry seed, in particular is forestry seed. Seed body comprising seed and a seed body matrix having the composition according to one of numbered embodiments.

[0123] Embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the seed is incorporated into the seed body matrix. Seed body according to numbered embodiment 33, wherein the seed body can be produced by the method according to one of numbered embodiments 16 to 32. Seed body according to numbered embodiment 33 or 34, wherein the seed body matrix consists of the composition according to one of numbered embodiments 1 to 12. Seed body according to one of numbered embodiments 33 to 35, wherein the seed body matrix surrounds the seed. Seed body according to one of numbered embodiments 33 to 36, wherein the seed body further comprises an outer layer surrounding the seed body matrix, wherein the outer layer and the seed body matrix are different. Seed body according to numbered embodiment 37, wherein the outer layer comprises a composition according to any one of numbered embodiments 1 to 12.Seed body according to numbered embodiment 38, wherein the outer layer consists of a composition according to one of numbered embodiments 1 to 12. Seed body according to one of numbered embodiments 37 to 39, wherein the seed body matrix comprises plant fibers with an average length > 120 pm and the outer layer comprises plant fibers with an average length < 120 pm. Seed body according to one of numbered embodiments 33 to 40, wherein the seed is a single seed, a plurality of identical seeds or a plurality of different seeds. Seed body according to numbered embodiment 41, wherein the seed comprises a microseed, in particular is a microseed. Seed body according to one of the numbered embodiments 33 to 42, wherein the seed body has a grain size of 0.1 mm to 100 mm, in particular of 0.5 mm to 50 mm, in particular of 1 mm to 35 mm.Seed body according to one of numbered embodiments 33 to 43, wherein the seed body can be applied by air delivery. Seed body according to numbered embodiment 44, wherein the seed body can be applied by air delivery by drone. Seed body according to one of numbered embodiments 33 to 45, wherein the seed comprises forestry seed, in particular is forestry seed. Use of one or more seed bodies according to one of numbered embodiments 33 to 46 for sowing by air delivery. Use according to numbered embodiment 47 for sowing by air delivery in a forest area. Use according to numbered embodiment 47 or 48 for sowing by air delivery by drone. A method for sowing one or more seed bodies, comprising the steps of: a) providing one or more seed bodies according to one of the numbered embodiments 33 to 46, and b) sowing the seed bodies. 51.Method according to numbered embodiment 50, wherein the sowing in step (b) is carried out by air application.

[0124] 52. Method according to numbered embodiment 51, wherein the sowing in step (b) is carried out by airborne application in a forest area.

[0125] 53. Method according to numbered embodiment 51 or 52, wherein the sowing in step (b) is carried out by aerial delivery by drone.

[0126] The invention is not limited to the specific embodiments and / or examples described and / or illustrated, but also encompasses, for example, all embodiments and / or examples having the same effect within the meaning of the invention. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to the specifically described and / or illustrated feature combinations, but can also be defined by any other combination of disclosed features of all individual features described and / or illustrated as a whole, provided that the individual features do not exclude one another or a specific combination of individual features is not explicitly excluded.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Composition for the treatment of seeds comprising: a) potassium humates, b) pyrolysis charcoal, c) clay mineral, d) sodium alginates, e) brown algae meal and f) plant fibers.

2. Composition according to claim 1, wherein the plant fibers comprise at least a first proportion of plant fibers and a second proportion of plant fibers, wherein the first proportion of plant fibers and the second proportion of plant fibers are different, wherein in particular the first proportion of plant fibers has an average length > 120 pm, in particular > 150 pm, in particular > 180 pm, in particular > 210 pm, in particular > 250 pm, in particular > 300 pm, and / or the second proportion of plant fibers has an average length < 120 pm, in particular < 100 pm, in particular < 80 pm, in particular < 60 pm, in particular < 40 pm, in particular < 20 pm, exhibits .

3. Composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plant fibers comprise wood fibers, cellulose fibers or mixtures thereof, in particular wood fibers with an average length < 120 pm and cellulose fibers with an average length > 120 pm. A composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3 comprising: a) 0.1 to 5 wt.% potassium humates, b) 2 to 30 wt.% pyrolysis charcoal, c) 30 to 80 wt.% clay mineral, d) 0.1 to 6 wt.% sodium alginates, e) 0.1 to 10 wt.% brown algae meal, and f) 7 to 70 wt.% plant fibers, in particular f) 2 to 30 wt.% wood fibers and f) 5 to 40 wt.% cellulose fibers, wherein all values ​​in wt.% refer to the total weight of the composition. A composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the treatment of seeds comprises incorporating the seeds into the composition and / or the seeds comprise forest seeds. Use of the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5 for the treatment of seeds, wherein in particular the treatment of seeds comprises incorporating the seeds into the composition.A method for producing one or more seed bodies comprising the steps of: a) providing the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, b) providing seed, c) combining the composition and the seed, and d) forming one or more seed bodies in which the seed is embedded in a seed body matrix containing the composition. The method of claim 7, wherein the seed provided in step (b) is moistened and / or... pretreated seed and / or wherein the composition is provided in step (a) or after being combined with the seed in step (c) for swelling with water or an aqueous solution and / or wherein the combining in step (c) takes place on a pelletizing plate or in a forced mixer. Method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the formation of one or more seed bodies in step (d) is carried out by means of build-up agglomeration on a pelletizing plate, in particular with the addition of water or an aqueous solution.A method according to claim 9, wherein the build-up agglomeration on the pelletizing plate for the formation of one or more seed bodies in step (d) is stopped by the addition of a dusting composition, in particular the dusting composition is a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in particular the dusting composition and the composition provided in step (a) are the same or different. A method according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the one or more seed bodies are dried after formation in step (d), in particular wherein the one or more seed bodies are dried at 20 to 40 °C for a period of 5 hours to 3 days.Seed body comprising seed and a seed body matrix comprising the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the seed is embedded in the seed body matrix, in particular the seed body is producible according to the method according to any one of claims 7 to 11 and / or has a particle size of 0.1 mm to 100 mm. In particular, from 0.5 mm to 50 mm, and in particular from 1 mm to 35 mm. Seed body according to claim 12, wherein the seed body further comprises an outer layer surrounding the seed body matrix, wherein the outer layer and the seed body matrix are different, in particular the outer layer comprises a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Use of one or more seed bodies according to claim 12 or 13 for sowing by aerial delivery, in particular for sowing by aerial delivery via drone. Method for sowing one or more seed bodies comprising the steps of: a) providing one or more seed bodies according to claim 12 or 13, and b) sowing the seed bodies, in particular by aerial delivery via drone.

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