Multi-layered seed POD and manufacturing method

Abstract

There is described a method for manufacturing a multi-layered seed pod, the method comprising: coating a seed with a coating composition, thereby obtaining a coated seed; pelleting the coated seed with a first layer comprising a first composition and a first binder, thereby obtaining a mono-layered pelleted seed; pelleting the mono-layered pelleted seed with a second layer comprising a second composition and a second binder, thereby obtaining a bi-layered pelleted seed; pelleting the bi-layered pelleted seed with a third layer comprising a third composition and a third binder, thereby obtaining a tri-layered pelleted seed, thereby obtaining the multi-layered seed pod. The corresponding manufactured multi-layered seed pod is also described.

Description

MULTI-LAYERED SEED POD AND MANUFACTURING METHODTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The technical field of the present disclosure generally relates to the field of seeds, seed pods and a production thereof. The disclosure also relates to the field of gardening, individual farming, reforestation and afforestation.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Historically, reforestation and afforestation efforts have relied on manual seeding and the transplantation of saplings. Although widely practiced, these methods often entail significant manual labor and suffer from relatively low plants survival rates. Adverse environmental conditions can impede seed germination and seedling establishment. Furthermore, traditional methods are challenging to implement for the reforestation of remote and difficult to access areas, such as mountains.

[0003] To mitigate these challenges, various seed enhancement methods have been developed. Techniques such as seed priming, which involves pregermination treatments, and single layered seed pelleting, where seeds are coated with nutrients and other substances, have recently been utilized to improve germination rates. However, these enhancements have been falling short in offering long-term protection to seedsBRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] According to a first broad aspect, there is provided a method for manufacturing a multi-layered seed pod, the method comprising: coating a seed with a coating composition, thereby obtaining a coated seed, the coating composition being adapted to provide at least one of: protection of the seed from at least one of a detrimental disease and a pathogen; and a natural growth stimulant for the seed; pelleting the coated seed with a first layer comprising a first composition and a first binder, thereby obtaining a mono-layered pelleted seed; pelleting the mono-layered pelleted seed with a second layer comprising a secondcomposition and a second binder, thereby obtaining a bi-layered pelleted seed; pelleting the bi-layered pelleted seed with a third layer comprising a third composition and a third binder, thereby obtaining a th-layered pelleted seed, the third layer being adapted to protect the multi-layered seed pod from an impact; and drying the th-layered pelleted seed, thereby obtaining the multi-layered seed pod, wherein one of the first layer and the second layer is adapted to at least act as a moisture-retaining layer to promote growth of the seed, and another one of the first layer and the second layer is adapted to at least provide nutrients for the seed.

[0005] In some embodiments, the method further comprises mixing at least one of the first binder, the second binder and the third binder with water.

[0006] In some embodiments, at least one of the first binder, the second binder and the third binder comprises a natural polymer.

[0007] In some embodiments, the natural polymer comprises at least one of starch, agar and natural rubber.

[0008] In some embodiments, the coating composition comprises at least one of a coating nutrient, a coating amino acid, a coating plant hormone, and a fungicide.

[0009] In some embodiments, one of the first composition and the second composition comprises a first substrate, a first nutrient, a first amino acid and a first plant hormone, and another one of the first composition and the second composition comprises a second substrate, a second nutrient, a second amino acid, a second plant hormone and a growth promoting microorganism.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first composition comprises the first substrate, the first nutrient, the first amino acid and the first plant hormone so that the first layer acts at least as the moisture-retaining layer, and wherein the second composition comprises the second substrate, the second nutrient, the second amino acid, the second plant hormone and the growth promoting microorganism so that the second layer is adapted to at least provide the nutrients.

[0011] In other embodiments, the first composition comprises the second substrate, the second nutrient, the second amino acid, the second plant hormone and the growth promoting microorganism so that the first layer is adapted to at least provide the nutrients, and wherein the second composition comprises the first substrate, the first nutrient, the first amino acid and the first plant hormone so that the second layer acts at least as the moisture-retaining layer.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first substrate comprises moss.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first nutrient comprises zinc sulphate, and wherein a weight ratio of said first nutrient in the first composition is 0.3:1000 by a weight of the first substrate.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first plant hormone comprises lndole-3-acetic acid, and wherein a weight ratio of the first plant hormone in the first composition is 0.3:1000 by a weight of the first substrate.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second substrate comprises at least one of moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, sand, compost, hydrogel, and any combination thereof.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second nutrient comprises at least one of alfalfa meal, langbeinite, dolomite, zinc sulphate, and any combination thereof.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second amino acid comprises L-Tryptophan.

[0018] In some embodiments, the growth promoting microorganism comprises at least one of plant probiotics, mycorrhizae, and any combination thereof.

[0019] In some embodiments, the third composition comprises a third substrate.

[0020] In some embodiments, the third substrate comprises at least one of moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, coir, and any combination thereof.

[0021] In some embodiments, the step of drying the tri-layered pelleted seed is performed at an airflow temperature comprised between 26 °C and 29 °C in two ensuing drying sequences of 25 minutes each.

[0022] In some embodiments, at least one of said pelleting the coated seed, said pelleting the mono-layered pelleted seed and said pelleting the bi-layered pelleted seed is repeated.

[0023] In some embodiments, an average radial thickness of the mono-layered pelleted seed excluding the seed thickness is between 1 mm and 2 mm, wherein an average radial thickness of the bi-layered pelleted seed excluding the seed thickness is between 6 mm and 8 mm, and wherein an average radial thickness of the tri-layered pelleted seed excluding the seed thickness is between 8 mm and 10 mm.

[0024] In some embodiments, the method further comprises drying the coated seed before said pelleting the coated seed.

[0025] In some embodiments, the method further comprises at least one of: drying the mono-layered pelleted seed before said pelleting the mono-layered pelleted seed; and drying the bi-layered pelleted seed before said pelleting the bi- layered pelleted seed.

[0026] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a multi-layered seed pod for use with a seed planting device, the multi-layered seed pod comprising: a seed; a coating layer layering the seed, the coating layer being adapted to provide at least one of: protection of the seed from at least one of a detrimental disease and a pathogen; and a natural growth stimulant for the seed; a first layer overlaying the coating layer, the first layer comprising a first binder and a first composition; a second layer overlaying the first layer, the second layer comprising a second binder and a second composition; and a third layer overlaying the second layer, the third layer comprising a third binder and a third composition, the third layer being adapted to protect the multi-layered seed pod from an impact, wherein one of the first layer and the second layer is adapted to at least act as a moisture-retaining layer to promote growth of the seed, and another one of the first layer and the second layer is adapted to at least provide nutrients for the seed.

[0027] In some embodiments, at least one of the first binder, the second binder and the third binder comprises a natural polymer.

[0028] In some embodiments, the natural polymer comprises at least one of starch, agar and natural rubber.

[0029] In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises at least one of: a coating nutrient, a coating amino acid, a coating plant hormone, and a fungicide.

[0030] In some embodiments, one of the first composition and the second composition comprises a first substrate, a first nutrient, a first amino acid and a first plant hormone, and another one of the first composition and the second composition comprises a second substrate, a second nutrient, a second amino acid, a second plant hormone and a growth promoting microorganism.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first composition comprises the first substrate, the first nutrient, the first amino acid and the first plant hormone, the first layer acting at least as the moisture-retaining layer, and wherein the second composition comprises the second substrate, the second nutrient, the second amino acid, the second plant hormone and the growth promoting microorganism, the second layer being adapted to at least provide the nutrients.

[0032] In other embodiments, the first composition comprises the second substrate, the second nutrient, the second amino acid, the second plant hormone and the growth promoting microorganism, the first layer being adapted to at least provide the nutrients, and wherein the second composition comprises the first substrate, the first nutrient, the first amino acid and the first plant hormone, the second layer acting at least as the moisture-retaining layer.

[0033] In some embodiments,, the first substrate comprises moss.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first nutrient comprises zinc sulphate, and wherein a weight ratio of said first nutrient in the first composition is 0.3:1000 by a weight of the first substrate.

[0035] In some embodiments, the first plant hormone comprises lndole-3-acetic acid, and wherein a weight ratio of said first plant hormone in the first composition is 0.3:1000 by a weight of the first substrate.

[0036] In some embodiments, the second substrate comprises at least one of moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, sand, compost, hydrogel, and any combination thereof.

[0037] In some embodiments, the second nutrient comprises at least one of: alfalfa meal, langbeinite, dolomite, zinc sulphate, and any combination thereof.

[0038] In some embodiments, the second amino acid comprises L-Tryptophan.

[0039] In some embodiments, the growth promoting microorganism comprises at least one of: plant probiotics, mycorrhizae, and any combination thereof.

[0040] In some embodiments, the third composition comprises a third substrate.

[0041] In some embodiments, the third substrate comprises at least one of moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, coir, and any combination thereof.

[0042] In some embodiments, an average radial thickness of the first layer is between 1 mm and 2 mm, wherein an average radial thickness of the second layer is between 6 mm and 8 mm, and wherein an average radial thickness of the third layer is between 8 mm and 10 mm.

[0043] In some embodiments and as detailed below, the seed pods are fully customizable and have at least one coating and / or at least one layer. In some embodiments and as detailed below, the layers are offering solutions for instance for enhancing growing efficiency, long-term protection of seeds against fungal attacks, against diseases and protection from external pressure or impact (e.g., from a dropping or being crushed). Furthermore, in some embodiments and asdetailed below, the seed pods may have a low compaction of materials on the seed, helping improving seed germination.

[0044] In some other embodiments, in view of the rising environmental consciousness, the seed pods be made from sustainable materials. For instance, biodegradable polymers and organic substances that both nourish the soil and disintegrate without causing ecological harm may be used.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0045] The accompanying drawings illustrate an embodiment of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 1 is a cross-section view of a multi-layered seed pod showing layers including a seed core, a coating, a moisture-retaining layer, a nutrient-rich layer, and a protective layer, in accordance with a first embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 2 is a plurality of cross-section views of layered seeds at different multi-layered seed pod manufacturing stages, wherein the rightmost multi-layered seed pod corresponds to the multi-layered seed pod shown in FIG. 1 , in accordance with a first method.

[0048] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the first method for manufacturing the multi-layered seed pod shown in FIG. 1.

[0049] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a second method of manufacturing a layered seed pod.

[0050] It is understood that the drawings are for illustration purposes only and may not be to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical embodiments according to the disclosure and therefore should not be considered as limiting. For the sake of simplicity in the following explanations, the multi-layered seed pods illustrated in the Figures may represent both the dried and undried states of the multi-layered seed pods or seeds. It is to be understood that the dried and undried multi-layered seed pods or seeds may have different forms in reality.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The seed pod of the present disclosure is referred to as a “multi-layered seed pod” as it contains coatings or layers that serve multiple beneficial functions for the seed positioned at its core, such as protection against fungal attacks, diseases, external forces, and can further provide nutrient-rich and moistureretaining properties.

[0052] In the following, the terms “seed pod”, “multi-layered seed pod” and “granule” may be used interchangeably.

[0053] In the following, terms such as “layering”, “overlaying”, “pelleting”, “coating” may be used interchangeably and should be interpreted at their broadest definition, as covering at least part of the surface of a first element with a second element.

[0054] In the following, the term “material” or “materials” is used and should be interpreted as referring to any substance or mixture of substances. The “material” or “materials” may be in any state of matter (e.g., liquid, solid or gas) or in any physical form (e.g., powder, granular, homogeneous, heterogeneous, etc.).

[0055] Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary and non- limitative embodiment of a multi-layered seed pod or granule 10, including a seed 100, covered by a coating layer or coating 110, a first layer 120, a second layer 130 and a third layer 140. It will be understood that the thickness of the different elements constituting the seedpod is illustrative only and may vary.

[0056] It will be understood that the seed 100 is illustrated as having a spherical shape in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 for the sake of simplicity. The circular contour of the seed 100 suggests that the seed has a near perfect spherical shape. In reality, seeds come in a variety of shapes. It will be understood that an “irregularly shaped” seed 100 can be used in the context of this disclosure by substantially following the same described methods, even if the resulting non- spherical multi-layered seeds is not entirely uniform.

[0057] The seed 100 may belong to any type of plant, tree or herb, etc. A non- exhaustive and exemplary list of seed plants, trees or herbs includes pine, spruce, larch, wildflowers, maple, vegetables and fruits. It should be noted that the seed plant list is diverse in that some seeds are generally used in agricultural land, while others are more adapted to reforestation or afforestation, which illustrates the versatility of the multi-layered seed pod.

[0058] Referring back to FIG. 1 , the seed 100 is coated with the coating layer or coating 110, which comprises or is made of a given respective composition comprising at least one given respective material (hereinafter referred to as the coating composition) so that substantially the whole seed 100 is covered by the coating 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the thickness of the coating 110 is relatively thinner than that of the first, second and third layers 120, 130, 140. However, the person skilled in the art will understand that other configurations may be possible.

[0059] In some non-limiting embodiments, the composition of the coating 110 is chosen to provide protection from detrimental disease and / or pathogens. The composition of the coating 110 may also provide a natural growth stimulant to initiate healthy and strong seed germination.

[0060] In some embodiments, the coating can include at least one nutrient such as powdered nutrients, at least one amino acid, at least one plant hormone and / or at least one a fungicide. The fungicide may come in the liquid form or in a solid form.

[0061] Referring back to FIG. 1 , the first layer 120 is overlaying the coating 110 so that substantially all of the external surface of the coating 110 is covered by the first layer 120. The first layer 120 is made of a first material which comprises a first composition and a first binder.

[0062] In some non-limiting embodiments, the first material of the first layer 120 is chosen so that the first layer 120 may act as a moisture-retaining layer while preferably also providing nutritional germination stimulants to the seed 100 topromote its growth. The first layer 120 may also advantageously add surface area to the seed 100 for further materials in the subsequent layer to adhere thereon.

[0063] In some embodiments, the first composition can include a substrate which may comprise moss, a nutrient such as powdered nutrient, an amino acid and / or a plant hormone.

[0064] In the some or other embodiments, the first binder is formed from at least one natural polymer dissolved in water.

[0065] Referring back to FIG. 1 , the second layer 130 is overlaying the first layer 120 so that substantially all of the external surface of the first layer 120 is covered by the second layer 130. The second layer 130 is made of a second material which comprises a second composition and second binder.

[0066] In some non-limiting embodiments, the second material of the second layer 130 is chosen so that the second layer 130 may act as a nutrient-rich layer that provides nutrients and supporting plant stimulants for the seed 100.

[0067] In some embodiments, the second composition can include the second substrate, at least one nutrient such as powdered nutrients, at least one amino acid, at least one plants hormone and / or beneficial microorganisms.

[0068] In the some or other embodiments, the second binder is formed from a natural polymer mix dissolved in water.

[0069] In some embodiments, the second substrate of the second composition has balanced water and oxygen transport characteristics. It should be noted that the second layer 130 may not solely contribute nutrients to the seed pod 10. For example, the coating 110 and the first layer 120 can include nutrients, as previously explained. The second layer 130 may encourage strong, healthy growth for the seed 100. The proportions of each ingredient in the composition of the second layer 130 depend at least on the following factors: seed size, seed species, planting season, site ecology and climatic zone.

[0070] Referring back to FIG. 1 , the third layer 140 is overlaying the second layer 130 so that substantially all of the external surface of the second layer 130 is covered by the third layer 140. The third layer 140 is made of a third material which comprises a third composition and a third binder.

[0071] In some non-limiting embodiments, the third material of the third layer 140 is chosen so as to create a rigid, or semi-rigid layer for protecting the seed 100 and underlying layers (i.e., the coating 110, the first layer 120 and the second layer 130) by partially absorbing a shock from an impact of the seed pod 10 falling to the ground for example. Advantageously, in an embodiment described in more details below, the rigid layer, i.e. the third layer 140, can also break down when wet (such as under rain fall), thus exposing the other layers and optionally creating a germination bed in conjunction with other layers. It will be understood that a protective layer is generally more effective as an external layer, or more particularly as a third layer 140 according to the first embodiment.

[0072] In some embodiments, the third composition can include coarse ground (peat) moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite and / or coir, mixed together.

[0073] In the some or other embodiments, the third binder is formed from at least one natural polymer dissolved in water.

[0074] In some non-limiting embodiments, the first layer 120 and the second layer 130 are interchangeable. For instance, the multi-layered seed pod 10 may comprise in the following order, from the seed 100 to the outside, the seed 100, the coating layer 110, the second layer 130, the first layer 120 and the third layer 140 so that the first layer 120 be sandwiched between the second layer 130 and the third layer 140.

[0075] FIG. 2 illustrates the multi-layered seed pod 10 at different stages of its manufacturing process. The coated seed 210 corresponds to the seed 100 when covered with only the coating 110. The mono-layered seed 220 corresponds to the seed 100 covered with the coating 110 and the first layer 120 only or to the coated seed 210 covered with the first layer 120 only. The bi-layered seed 230corresponds to the seed 100 covered with the coating 110, the first layer 120 and the second layer 130 only or to the mono-layered seed 220 covered with the second layer 130 only. The th-layered seed 240 corresponds to the multi-layered seed pod 10 illustrated at FIG. 1.

[0076] FIG. 3 illustrates one exemplary method for manufacturing a multilayered granule or seed pod such as the seed pod 10, 240.

[0077] The first step 310 includes coating or pelleting the seed 100 with the coating 110, which may be in liquid form, to obtain the coated seed 210. In some embodiments, the coating 110 substantially covers the whole surface of the seed 100.

[0078] In some embodiments, step 310 is performed by mixing the seed 100 with the coating composition to produce the coated seed 210. The mixing may be done using any adequate method and / or system.

[0079] In some embodiments, a coating machine or device is used at step 310. Examples of coating machines include rotating or rotational coating machine, a coater, a spin coater, a spray coater, batch treaters, drum coaters, rotary coaters, etc. In embodiments in which the coating machine is rotating, the rotating speed may be variable and controllable. In some embodiments, the coating machine may include a raised central convex platform where liquid, e.g., the coating composition in liquid form, can be dripped in the center of the platform and distributed by centripetal force out to the periphery of the platform where seeds are located. More particularly, while the seeds 100 rotate, a given quantity, such as several drops, of the coating composition are added until the seed 100 is substantially uniformly coated.

[0080] In other embodiments, the coating machine may be chosen from other devices that do not rely on rotation, such as mist coaters (suitable for delicate seeds, for instance), continuous treaters, fluidized bed coaters, etc.

[0081] The coating 110 is prepared from the coating composition. As stated previously, the coating composition can include at least one nutrient, at least oneamino acid, at least one plant hormone and / or at least one fungicide. The fungicide may come in the liquid form or in a solid form. Regarding the proportions in the coating composition, the concentration of the nutrient in the coating composition can be 3 grams per 1 liter of fungicide. The concentration of the amino acid in the coating composition can be 5 grams per 1 liter of fungicide, and the concentration of the plant hormone in the coating composition can be 0.8 per 1 liter of fungicide.

[0082] Referring back to FIG. 3, once the seed 100 has been coated at step 310 to obtain the coated seed 210, the coated seed 210 is dried 320. It should be understood that any adequate method and / system for drying the coated seed 210 may be used. For example, the coated seed 210 may be dried by blowing air into the coating machine. In other examples, the coated seed 210 may be dried using air drying with controlled airflow, dehumidified air drying, convection drying at low temperature, vacuum drying, chemical curing, lyophilization (freeze-drying), etc.

[0083] Still referring to FIG. 3, after drying the coated seed 210, the first layer 120 is deposited on the dried coated seed 210 to produce the mono-layered pelleted seed 220 (referred as the “mono-layered seed” 220) at step 330. In some embodiments, substantially the whole surface of the coated seed 210 is covered with the first layer 120.

[0084] In some embodiments, the addition of the first layer 120 at step 330 is implemented by pelleting or coating the dried coated seed 210 with a mixture of a first composition and a first binder.

[0085] As stated above, the first composition can include a first substrate such as moss, a nutrient, an amino acid and / or a plant hormone. It should be understood that at least one substance constituting the first composition may be a in powdered form.

[0086] In some embodiments, the weight ratio of the nutrient in the first composition for the first layer 120 is 0.3:1000 by weight of the first substrate. For example, the nutrient can include zinc sulphate which may be in powdered form.

[0087] In some embodiments, the weight ratio of the amino acid in the first composition for the first layer 120 is 5:1000 by weight of the first substrate. For example, the amino acid can include L-Tryptophan.

[0088] In some embodiments, the weight ratio of the plant hormone in the first composition for the first layer 120 is 0.3:1000 by weight of the first substrate. For example, the plant hormone can include lndole-3-acetic acid.

[0089] In some embodiments and in order to prepare the first composition, the moss may be grinded into a powder sifted out of coarse materials, leaving a fine powdered moss product. In some embodiments, the fine powdered moss product may be introduced in a rotating drum and mixed with the nutrient(s), the amino acid(s), and / or the plant hormone(s) for a given period of time until thoroughly combined to produce the first composition for the first layer 120. The mixing period of time may be chosen based on a desired thickness for the first layer 120.

[0090] To adhere the first layer 120 on the dried coated seed 210, the first binder (e.g., a binder solution) may be used to bind together the first composition with the underlying layer, as previously mentioned.

[0091] To prepare the first binder, a natural polymer or a natural polymer mixture or blend is added into agitated water, such as boiling water, until the polymer or polymer mixture is entirely dissolved to obtain a binder solution to be used for preparing the first layer material.

[0092] In at least some embodiments, a natural polymer binder can have adhesive characteristics similar to those of a synthetic polymer binder with reduced adverse effects on seed germination and the environment or no adverse effect. The expression “natural polymer” should be interpreted as a polymer that occurs in nature and can be extracted from natural resources such as plants and materials. In some embodiments, the natural polymer includes one or more of the following: starch, agar and natural rubber (e.g., latex).

[0093] Referring back to FIG. 3, the first composition and the first binder are mixed together with the dried coated seed 210 to obtain the mono-layered seed220. It will be understood that any adequate mixing method and / or devices may be used to mix the coated seed 210 with the first composition and the first binder in order to coat the coated seed 210 with the mixture of the first composition and first binder to obtain the mono-layered seed 220.

[0094] In some non-limiting embodiments, the dried coated seed 210 is added into a pelleting machine. The pelleting machine may be a coating machine such as the one described above or a larger variation of the seed coating machine described above, or may be one of the alternatives of the coating machine previously provided.

[0095] According to some embodiments, while the dried coated seed 210 spins in the pelleting machine, a given quantity the first binder, such as several drops of the first binder, is added simultaneously with the first composition. This pelleting process gradually develops the first layer 120 on the dried coated seed 210 to form a pellet (i.e. , a pelleted layer) until the first layer 120 reaches a desired thickness. Optionally, the pelleting process may be repeated until the forming first layer 120 reaches a 1-2 mm radial thickness surrounding the dried coated seed 210. The resulting granular material is the mono-layered seed 220. Excess materials may be sifted out to prevent “false” pelleted seeds from developing and being accidentally retrieved for later use.

[0096] Referring back to FIG. 3, a second drying step 340 is implemented in order to dry the mono-layered seed 220 before step 350. In some embodiments, the second drying step 340 may be implemented following the same conditions as the first drying step 320 of the coating 110 as described above.

[0097] After drying the mono-layered seed 220 at step 340, a second layer 130 is deposited 350 on the dried mono-layered seed 220 to obtain the bi-layered pelleted seed 230 (as referred as the “bi-layered seed” 230). In some embodiments, the second layer substantially covers the whole surface of the mono-layered seed 220.

[0098] In some embodiments, the addition of the second layer 130 at step 330 is implemented by pelleting or coating the dried coated seed 210 with a mixture of a second composition and a second binder.

[0099] As stated above, the second composition for the second layer 130 may include a second substrate, at least one nutrient, at least one amino acids, at least one plants hormone and / or beneficial microorganisms bound altogether. It should be understood that at least one substance constituting the second composition may be in powdered form.

[0100] The second substrate of the second composition for the second layer 130 can include: moss such as coarse moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, sand, compost, hydrogel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0101] The nutrient of the second composition for the second layer 130 can include: alfalfa meal, langbeinite, dolomite, zinc sulphate, and / or any combination thereof.

[0102] The amino acid of the second composition can include L-Tryptophan.

[0103] The beneficial growth promoting microorganisms of the second composition can comprise plant probiotics and / or mycorrhizae.

[0104] In some non-limiting embodiments, the second substrate of the second composition can be prepared separately by mixing all its components into a fine powder.

[0105] In some non-limiting embodiments, the second substrate can include moss such as coarse peat ground moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, sand, compost, hydrogel, and / or any combination thereof. The hydrogel may comprise potassium polyacrylate polymer.

[0106] In embodiments in which the second substrate is not prepared separately, the second substrate is mixed with the nutrients, the amino acids, theplants hormones and / or the beneficial growth promoting microorganisms to produce the second composition for the second layer 130.

[0107] In other embodiments regarding the second composition, the second substrate components and the nutrients, the amino acids, the plants hormones and / or the beneficial growth promoting microorganisms are mixed altogether at the same time to produce the second composition.

[0108] Referring back to FIG. 3, the mono-layered seed 220 is mixed with the second binder and the second composition to produce the bi-layered seed 230. The mixing may be implemented using any adequate method and / or device such as the method and / or device described above with regard to step 330.

[0109] In some non-limiting embodiments, the mono-layered seed 220 is placed into a rotational seed pelleting machine, and as the mono-layered seed 220 rotates therein, the second binder solution is added while concurrently adding the second layer composition. This process develops the second layer 130 on the monolayered seed 220. Moss may be added to bind stray particles to the developing bilayered seed 230. Excess materials may be then sifted out to prevent "false" seed pods from developing. The process of applying the second binder, the second composition, and sifting may be repeated until a desired thickness is obtained for the second layer 230. The resulting granular material is the bi-layered seed 230.

[0110] In some non-limiting embodiments, a third drying step 360 is implemented after step 350 and prior to step 370. In some embodiments, the third drying step 360 may be implemented following the same conditions as those for step 320 or 380.

[0111] Referring back to FIG. 3, after step 360, a third layer 140 is deposited on the dried bi-layered seed 230 to obtain the th-layered pelleted seed 240 (referred as the “th-layered seed” 240), at step 370. In some embodiments, the third layer substantially covers the whole surface of the bi-layered seed 230. It will be understood that any adequate method and / or device for depositing the third layer140 on the bi-layered seed 230 may be used, such as the method and / or device described above with regard to step 330 or 350.

[0112] In some embodiments, the addition of the third layer 140 at step 370 is implemented by pelleting or coating the dried bi-layered seed 230 with a mixture of a third composition and a third binder.

[0113] As stated above, the third composition for the third layer 140 may include moss such as coarse peat ground moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite and coir, and / or any combination thereof, mixed together.

[0114] In some non-limiting embodiments, the dried bi-layered seed 230 is added into a rotational seed pelleting machine, and as the dried bi-layered seed 230 spins, the third binder is added while simultaneously adding the third layer composition. This process develops the third layer 140 on the bi-layered seed 230. The process of applying the third binder and the second layer composition may be repeated until a desired third layer 140 thickness is formed.

[0115] For the coating 110 and / or the layers 120, 130 and / or 140, various types of moss, plant nutrients, plant hormones, fungicide, amino acids and beneficial growth promoting microorganisms may be used. Such examples are provided below.

[0116] In some non-limiting embodiments, the moss used in the layers 120, 130 and / or 140 may be sphagnum peat moss. Other types of moss with similar substrate properties may also be used, such as: carpet moss, mood moss, pincushion moss, fem moss, and / or the like.

[0117] In some non-limiting embodiments, the nutrients may include any adequate fertilizer known in the art of plant science.

[0118] In some non-limiting embodiments, a non-exhaustive list of plant hormones that may be used for the present seed pod may include: Auxins, Gibberellins (GAs), lndole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA), Cytokinins, Ethylene, Abscisic Acid(ABA), Jasmonates, Salicylates, Brassinosteroids, Strigolactones, lndole-3- Butyric Acid (IBA), and / or Naphthaleneacetic Acid (NAA).

[0119] In some non-limiting embodiments, a non-exhaustive list of fungicides that may be used for any previously mentioned composition may include: Thiram, Captan, Carbendazim, Metalaxyl, Mancozeb, Chlorothalonil, Fludioxonil, Mefenoxam, Azoxystrobin, Trichoderma spp., Bacillus subtilis, Streptomyces spp., and / or Pseudomonas fluorescens.

[0120] The above-described mixing steps (i.e. , steps 310, 330, 350 and / or 370) may alternatively be implemented using known mixing devices and techniques. A non-exhaustive list of mixing devices includes: blenders, high shear mixers, paddle mixers, ribbon blenders, planetary mixers, solid suspension impellers, static mixers and slurry mixers. Alternatively, a spindle or fixture may be used to apply the coating and the layers.

[0121] In some embodiments, the coating 110, the first layer 120, the second layer 130, and / or the third layer 140 may alternatively be deposited by spray coating with porous material, by dipping in a porous suspension or by any other way known in the art of coating and layering.

[0122] In some non-limiting embodiments, the first binder, the second binder and the third binder are different and prepared from different binder compositions, i.e., a unique first binder composition, a unique second binder composition and a unique third binder composition. The first binder composition, a second binder composition and a third binder composition may be independently prepared by adding a natural polymer or a natural polymer mixture into agitated water, for instance boiling water, until the polymer is entirely dissolved. The natural polymer or the natural polymer mix may vary from a binder composition to another.

[0123] In some non-limiting embodiments, the first binder, the second binder and the third binder are identical and produced from a single and same binder composition comprising a natural polymer or a natural polymer mixture. The firstbinder, the second binder and the third binder may thus be prepared as explained above.

[0124] In some non-limiting embodiments, the first binder, the second binder and the third binder are configured to bind the components of the first composition together, the components of the second composition together and the components of the third composition together, respectively. Additionally, the first binder, the second binder and the third binder are configured as to bind the different layers altogether with the coated seed 110.

[0125] Referring back to FIG. 3, a final drying step 380 is carried out to dry the th-layered seed 240 and obtain the multi-layered seed pod 10.

[0126] In some non-limiting embodiments, the final drying step 380 is performed similarly to step 320, 340 or 360.

[0127] In other non-limiting embodiments, the drying step 380 is implemented simply by air-drying, without any substantial involvement to accelerate the final drying process.

[0128] In some non-limiting embodiments, and referring back to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, before the final drying step 380, the average radial thickness of the first layer 120 is comprised between about 1 mm and about 2 mm, the average radial thickness of the second layer 130 is comprised between about 5 mm and about 6 mm, and the average radial thickness of the third layer 140 is about 2 mm. It will be understood that those average thicknesses are approximate since the core seed 100 may very well have an irregular shape, as previously explained. These average and approximate thicknesses are determined before the final drying step 380, since a drying process may marginally reduce a layer thickness.

[0129] In other words, and in some non-limiting embodiments, when measured from a center of the seed 100, the average radial thickness of the mono-layered seed 220 (excluding the seed thickness) is between about 1 mm and about 2 mm. The average radial thickness of the bi-layered seed 230 (excluding the seed thickness) is between about 6 mm and about 8 mm. Finally, the average radialthickness of the tri-layered seed 240 (excluding the seed thickness) is between about 8 mm and about 10 mm. Again, those values are measured before any drying steps is applied.

[0130] In some non-limiting embodiments, the tri-layered seed 240 is first dried with a circulating air flow at a drying temperature of about 28 °C during about 25 minutes, then the tri-layered seed 240 is lightly agitated to ensure uniformity of the pelleted layer, and finally the tri-layered seed 240 dried again under the same conditions for about 25 minutes.

[0131] In some non-limiting embodiments, the tri-layered seed 240 is dried with a circulating air flow at a drying temperature of about 28 °C during about 50 minutes.

[0132] In some non-limiting embodiments, the drying temperature may range between about 20 °C and about 40 °C. Yet in other embodiments, a drying time may take more than 25 or 50 minutes. In some other embodiments, the final drying step may be composed of a plurality of drying steps.

[0133] In some non-limiting embodiments, the drying step 380 may be implemented in oxidizing conditions, reducing conditions or in inert conditions.

[0134] In some non-limiting embodiments, the final drying step 380 may be implemented using the exemplary means provided to dry the coated seed 210, as mentioned previously.

[0135] In some embodiments, the drying step 380 may improve the structural integrity of the multi-layered seed pod 10 for further use. For example, the seed pod 10 may be dropped to the ground, resulting in a relatively high force exerted on the seed pod 10. Dried, and thus hardened, layers may better maintain their structural integrity upon impact.

[0136] In some embodiments, at least one the drying steps 320, 340 and 360 may be omitted. For example, step 320 may be omitted so that the first layer 120 may be deposited on the coated seed 210 without drying the coated seed 210 orwaiting for the coated seed 210 to be dried. Similarly, step 340 may be omitted so that the second layer 130 may be deposited on the mono-layered seed 220 without drying the mono-layered seed 220 or waiting for the mono-layered seed 220 to be dried. In another example, step 360 may be omitted so that the third layer 140 may be deposited on the bi-layered seed 230 without drying the bi-layered seed 230 or waiting for the bi-layered seed 230 to be dried.

[0137] In some non-limiting alternative embodiments, the seed pod may have only one coating or layer. The single layer may be one of the above-mentioned coating 110, first (moisture-retaining) layer 120, second (nutrient-rich) layer 130 and third (protective) layer 140.

[0138] In some non-limiting embodiments, the seed pod may have only two coating or layers. The two layers may be independently chosen from one of the above-mentioned coating 110, first layer 120, second layer 130 or third layer 140. For example, the seed pod 10 may only comprise the coating 110, the second layer 130 and the third layer. In this case,

[0139] In some non-limiting embodiments, the seed pod may have more than 3, 4, 5, or more layers. The layers may be independently chosen from one of the above-mentioned coatings or layers.

[0140] In some embodiments, the first layer 120 and the second layer 130 may be interchanged so that step 350 is performed between steps 320 and 340 and step 330 is performed after step 350 between steps 340 and 360.

[0141] In some non-limiting embodiments, the seed pod may have more than 2 layers with the external layer being the third layer 140, as previously mentioned. These embodiments provide, as stated previously, a seed pod 10 having an external rigid, or semi-rigid layer for protecting the seed and underlying layers by partially absorbing a shock from an impact of the seed pod 10 falling to the ground.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 4, the is described a second exemplary method for manufacturing a multi-layered seed pod. A first step 410 of providing a seed is followed by a step 420 of applying N layers. The N layers refer to a natural numberof layers. The layers may also include coating(s). After having applied the N layers 420, the layered pelleted seed is dried 340, in accordance with one of the drying processes explained above (e.g., final drying), resulting in the multi-layered seed pod 10.

[0143] The multi-layered seed pod 10 of the present disclosure may be used in various ways. In some non-limiting embodiments, the seed pod 10 may be manually dropped, “shot”, injected, or deposited on or into the ground.

[0144] In the present disclosure, an embodiment is an example or implementation. The various appearances of “embodiments”, “one embodiment”, "one embodiment”, “an embodiment” or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same implementation or embodiment. Although various features may be described in the context of a single implementation, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate implementations for clarity, it may also be implemented in a single embodiment. Reference in the specification to "some embodiments", "an embodiment", "one embodiment", “some non-limiting embodiments” or "other embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments or embodiment is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments.

[0145] In the present disclosure, a single seed or seed pod is discussed. However, all the information related to this single seed or seed pod structural description and its method of manufacturing may be implemented with a plurality of seeds and seed pods.

[0146] It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are not to be construed as limiting and are for descriptive purpose only. The principles and uses of the teachings of the present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the accompanying description, figures and examples. It is to be understood that the details set forth herein do not construe a limitation to an application of the disclosure.

[0147] The use of the term “about” in the present disclosure is intended to allow for slight variations or approximations that would be recognized by a person skilled in the art as falling within the scope of the claimed invention. When the term “about” is used in connection with a numerical value or range, it is meant to encompass variations of ±10% from the stated value or range, unless otherwise specified. The use of “about” does not imply a lack of precision or certainty in the claimed invention, but rather acknowledges that absolute precision may not always be achievable or necessary in all aspects of the invention. The term “about” is used to account for inherent variability in measurements, manufacturing processes, or environmental conditions that may affect the precise implementation of the present disclosure.

[0148] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the present disclosure may be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the disclosure may be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above. It is to be understood that the terms "including", "comprising", and grammatical variants thereof do not preclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps, or integers or groups thereof and that the terms are to be construed as specifying components, features, steps or integers. If the specification or claims refer to "an additional" element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element. It is to be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference is not to be construed that there is only one of that element. It is to be understood that where the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may", "might", "can" or "could" be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included.

[0149] It will be appreciated that the methods described herein may be performed in the described order, or in any suitable order.

[0150] Several alternative embodiments, implementations and examples have been described and illustrated herein. The embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to be exemplary only. A person of ordinary skill in the art wouldappreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the central characteristics thereof. The present examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the present disclosure is not to be limited to the details given herein. Accordingly, while the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind. The scope of the present disclosure is therefore intended to be limited solely by the scope of the appended claims

[0151] In the present disclosure, non-limitative embodiments of the method are described. Although these embodiments of the assembly and corresponding parts thereof consist of certain geometrical configurations as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components and geometries are essential and thus should not be taken in their restrictive sense. It is to be understood, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art, that other suitable components and cooperation thereinbetween, as well as other suitable geometrical configurations, may be used for the method, as will be briefly explained herein and as can be easily inferred herefrom by a person skilled in the art. Moreover, it will be appreciated that positional descriptions such as “above”, “below”, “left”, “right”, “bottom”, “top”, “end” and the like should, unless otherwise indicated, be taken in the context of the figures and should not be considered limiting.

[0152] Furthermore, in the present disclosure, the same numerical references refer to similar elements. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, namely, so as to not unduly burden the figures with several reference numbers, not all figures contain references to all the components and features, and references to some components and features may be found in only one figure, and components and features of the present disclosure which are illustrated in other figures may be easily inferred therefrom. The embodiments, geometricalconfigurations, materials mentioned and / or dimensions shown in the figures are optional and are given for exemplification purposes only.

[0153] In the present disclosure, an embodiment is an example or embodiment. The various appearances of “one embodiment", "one embodiment", "an embodiment” or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment or embodiment. Although various features may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, it may also be implemented in a single embodiment. Reference in the specification to "some embodiments", "an embodiment", "one embodiment" or "other embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments or embodiment is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments.

[0154] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the disclosure can be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the disclosure can be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above. It is to be understood that the terms "including", "comprising", and grammatical variants thereof do not preclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps, or integers or groups thereof and that the terms are to be construed as specifying components, features, steps or integers. If the specification or claims refer to "an additional" element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element. It is to be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference is not to be construed that there is only one of that element. It is to be understood that where the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may", "might", "can" or "could" be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included.

[0155] Several alternative embodiments, embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated herein. The embodiments of the invention describedabove are intended to be exemplary only. A person of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the central characteristics thereof. The present examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. Accordingly, while the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind. The scope of the invention is therefore intended to be limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method for manufacturing a multi-layered seed pod, the method comprising: coating a seed with a coating composition, thereby obtaining a coated seed, the coating composition being adapted to provide at least one of: protection of the seed from at least one of a detrimental disease and a pathogen; and a natural growth stimulant for the seed; pelleting the coated seed with a first layer comprising a first composition and a first binder, thereby obtaining a mono-layered pelleted seed; pelleting the mono-layered pelleted seed with a second layer comprising a second composition and a second binder, thereby obtaining a bi-layered pelleted seed; pelleting the bi-layered pelleted seed with a third layer comprising a third composition and a third binder, thereby obtaining a th-layered pelleted seed, the third layer being adapted to protect the multi-layered seed pod from an impact; and drying the th-layered pelleted seed, thereby obtaining the multi-layered seed pod, wherein one of the first layer and the second layer is adapted to at least act as a moisture-retaining layer to promote growth of the seed, and another one of the first layer and the second layer is adapted to at least provide nutrients for the seed.

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising mixing at least one of the first binder, the second binder and the third binder with water.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the first binder, the second binder and the third binder comprises a natural polymer.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the natural polymer comprises at least one of starch, agar and natural rubber.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the coating composition comprises at least one of a coating nutrient, a coating amino acid, a coating plant hormone, and a fungicide.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein one of the first composition and the second composition comprises a first substrate, a first nutrient, a first amino acid and a first plant hormone, and another one of the first composition and the second composition comprises a second substrate, a second nutrient, a second amino acid, a second plant hormone and a growth promoting microorganism.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the first composition comprises the first substrate, the first nutrient, the first amino acid and the first plant hormone so that the first layer acts at least as the moisture-retaining layer, and wherein the second composition comprises the second substrate, the second nutrient, the second amino acid, the second plant hormone and the growth promoting microorganism so that the second layer is adapted to at least provide the nutrients.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein the first composition comprises the second substrate, the second nutrient, the second amino acid, the second plant hormone and the growth promoting microorganism so that the first layer is adapted to at least provide the nutrients, and wherein the second composition comprises the first substrate, the first nutrient, the first amino acid and the first plant hormone so that the second layer acts at least as the moisture-retaining layer.

9. The method of any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the first substrate comprises moss.

10. The method of any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the first nutrient comprises zinc sulphate, and wherein a weight ratio of said first nutrient in the first composition is 0.3:1000 by a weight of the first substrate.

11. The method of any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the first plant hormone comprises lndole-3-acetic acid, and wherein a weight ratio of the first plant hormone in the first composition is 0.3:1000 by a weight of the first substrate.

12. The method of claim any one of claims 6 to 11 , wherein the second substrate comprises at least one of moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, sand, compost, hydrogel, and any combination thereof.

13. The method of any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the second nutrient comprises at least one of alfalfa meal, langbeinite, dolomite, zinc sulphate, and any combination thereof.

14. The method of any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein the second amino acid comprises L-Tryptophan.

15. The method of any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein the growth promoting microorganism comprises at least one of plant probiotics, mycorrhizae, and any combination thereof.

16. The method of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the third composition comprises a third substrate.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the third substrate comprises at least one of moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, coir, and any combination thereof.

18. The method of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein said drying the th-layered pelleted seed is performed at an airflow temperature comprised between 26 °C and 29 °C in two ensuing drying sequences of 25 minutes each.

19. The method of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein at least one of said pelleting the coated seed, said pelleting the mono-layered pelleted seed and said pelleting the bi-layered pelleted seed is repeated.

20. The method of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein an average radial thickness of the mono-layered pelleted seed excluding the seed thickness is between 1 mm and 2 mm, wherein an average radial thickness of the bi-layeredpelleted seed excluding the seed thickness is between 6 mm and 8 mm, and wherein an average radial thickness of the th-layered pelleted seed excluding the seed thickness is between 8 mm and 10 mm.

21. The method of any one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising drying the coated seed before said pelleting the coated seed.

22. The method of any one of claims 1 to 21 , further comprising at least one of: drying the mono-layered pelleted seed before said pelleting the monolayered pelleted seed; and drying the bi-layered pelleted seed before said pelleting the bi-layered pelleted seed.

23. A multi-layered seed pod for use with a seed planting device, the multilayered seed pod comprising: a seed; a coating layer layering the seed, the coating layer being adapted to provide at least one of: protection of the seed from at least one of a detrimental disease and a pathogen; and a natural growth stimulant for the seed; a first layer overlaying the coating layer, the first layer comprising a first binder and a first composition; a second layer overlaying the first layer, the second layer comprising a second binder and a second composition; and a third layer overlaying the second layer, the third layer comprising a third binder and a third composition, the third layer being adapted to protect the multilayered seed pod from an impact,wherein one of the first layer and the second layer is adapted to at least act as a moisture-retaining layer to promote growth of the seed, and another one of the first layer and the second layer is adapted to at least provide nutrients for the seed.

24. The multi-layered seed pod of claim 23, wherein at least one of: the first binder, the second binder and the third binder comprises a natural polymer.

25. The multi-layered seed pod of claim 24, wherein the natural polymer comprises at least one of starch, agar and natural rubber.

26. The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the coating layer comprises at least one of: a coating nutrient, a coating amino acid, a coating plant hormone, and a fungicide.

27. The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein one of the first composition and the second composition comprises a first substrate, a first nutrient, a first amino acid and a first plant hormone, and another one of the first composition and the second composition comprises a second substrate, a second nutrient, a second amino acid, a second plant hormone and a growth promoting microorganism.

28. The multi-layered seed pod of claim 27, wherein the first composition comprises the first substrate, the first nutrient, the first amino acid and the first plant hormone, the first layer acting at least as the moisture-retaining layer, and wherein the second composition comprises the second substrate, the second nutrient, the second amino acid, the second plant hormone and the growth promoting microorganism, the second layer being adapted to at least provide the nutrients.

29. The multi-layered seed pod of claim 27, wherein the first composition comprises the second substrate, the second nutrient, the second amino acid, the second plant hormone and the growth promoting microorganism, the first layer being adapted to at least provide the nutrients, and wherein the second composition comprises the first substrate, the first nutrient, the first amino acid and the first plant hormone, the second layer acting at least as the moisture-retaining layer.

30. The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the first substrate comprises moss.31 . The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein the first nutrient comprises zinc sulphate, and wherein a weight ratio of said first nutrient in the first composition is 0.3:1000 by a weight of the first substrate.

32. The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 27 to 31 , wherein the first plant hormone comprises lndole-3-acetic acid, and wherein a weight ratio of said first plant hormone in the first composition is 0.3:1000 by a weight of the first substrate.

33. The multi-layered seed pod of claim any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein the second substrate comprises at least one of moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, sand, compost, hydrogel, and any combination thereof.

34. The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 27 to 33, wherein the second nutrient comprises at least one of: alfalfa meal, langbeinite, dolomite, zinc sulphate, and any combination thereof.

35. The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 27 to 34, wherein the second amino acid comprises L-Tryptophan.

36. The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 27 to 35, wherein the growth promoting microorganism comprises at least one of: plant probiotics, mycorrhizae, and any combination thereof.

37. The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 23 to 36, wherein the third composition comprises a third substrate.

38. The multi-layered seed pod of claim 37, wherein the third substrate comprises at least one of moss, clay, perlite, vermiculite, coir, and any combination thereof.

39. The multi-layered seed pod of any one of claims 23 to 38, wherein an average radial thickness of the first layer is between 1 mm and 2 mm, wherein anaverage radial thickness of the second layer is between 6 mm and 8 mm, and wherein an average radial thickness of the third layer is between 8 mm and 10 mm.

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