TESTED AND PROVEN
Research
PUBLISHED STUDIES
TOMATO STUDY #1
Use of Gelatin Capsules as a Form of Seed Enhancement in Tomato
This study explored a new way to plant tomatoes: placing the seed inside a gelatin capsule instead of planting it directly into the soil. The goal was to see if this method could protect the seed, deliver fertilizer more effectively, and improve how the plant grows.
TOMATO STUDY #2
Enhanced Plant Performance in Tomato through Seed Encapsulation with Controlled-Release Fertilizers
Tomatoes are a widely grown crop, often relying on conventional fertilizers that contribute to pollution. This study explored an alternative: planting tomato seeds and controlled-release fertilizers together in gelatin capsules to reduce fertilizer waste. The objectives were to assess the impact of encapsulation on seedling emergence and growth, and the potential of this method for fertilizer delivery. Seed encapsulation minimally affected emergence. Encapsulated plants, especially those with added controlled-release fertilizer, showed greater height and biomass than controls. The findings suggest that seed encapsulation is a promising method for fertilizer delivery, potentially leading to a reduction in the necessary quantity of fertilizers for tomato cultivation.
FERTILIZER ENCAPSULATION
Gelatin Capsules as a Delivery System for Tomato Seed Enhancements
This study tested a new way to plant tomatoes by putting seeds inside gelatin capsules instead of using traditional sprays or coatings. Researchers found that the capsules act as a natural biostimulant, helping plants grow taller and produce larger fruit. While the capsules slightly delayed the first sprouts by a day or two, adding controlled-release fertilizers directly inside the capsule significantly boosted the plant's overall weight and root strength. This method is a helpful tool for farmers because it protects workers from chemicals and gives young plants a "starter pack" of nutrients to grow stronger from the very beginning.
BIOSTIMULANTS
Enhanced Plant Performance: Seed Encapsulation with Controlled-Release Fertilizers
This research explores the use of biostimulants, specifically protein hydrolysates (like gelatin), as a method to improve plant vigor without relying solely on traditional fertilizers. The study found that gelatin, a collagen-based material, acts as a natural booster that enhances early plant development when applied through seed encapsulation. Even without added nutrients, plants grown in gelatin-based capsules were significantly taller and produced larger fruit compared to non-encapsulated control plants. The findings suggest that biostimulants work by up-regulating plant metabolic processes and increasing root surface area, allowing young tomatoes to absorb water and existing soil nutrients more efficiently from the moment they sprout.
FERTILIZER ENCAPSULATION STUDY #2
A Different Way to Sow: Seed Enhancements Involving Gelatin Encapsulation with Controlled-Released Fertilizers Improve Seedling Growth in Tomato
This study investigated an innovative planting technique for tomatoes using gelatin capsules as a delivery system for controlled-release fertilizers. Researchers found that while the gelatin slightly delayed seed germination by 2 to 3 days, it significantly boosted long-term plant performance, increasing height by up to 75% and dry mass by 460%. A breakthrough finding was that high levels of encapsulated fertilizer (800 mg or more) accelerated flower induction by up to 3 weeks compared to standard planting methods. By combining seeds and nutrients into a single plantable unit, this method improves fertilizer efficiency, reduces environmental runoff, and protects the young roots from the chemical "burn" often caused by traditional fertilizers.
IN PROGRESS AND PENDING STUDIES
CONTROLLED RELEASE FERTILIZERS
STUDY 01
We have demonstrated improved seedling vigor in different crops (e.g., tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, and cucurbits, etc.) when sowing seeds encapsulated with fertilizers.
BIOSTIMULANTS
STUDY 02
We have demonstrated faster plant growth and better performance when incorporating biostimulants within capsules. This includes the biostimulant properties of gelatin, a base material for some capsules.
PLANT HORMONES
STUDY 03
We continue to evaluate the role of seed encapsulation with plant hormones (gibberellic acid) and other plant growth regulators in improving germination and plant vigor.
HYDROPHILIC AGENTS & HYDROGELS
STUDY 04
We continue to explore the use of water-active agents and hydrogels as a means to control localized soil moisture around germinating seeds and seedling roots.
BACTERIAL INOCULUM
STUDY 05
Using seed encapsulation with bacteria, we were able to deliver beneficial microbes (e.g., Rhizobacteria). We have also explored using Bacillus thuringiensis (BTi) to control fungus gnats and mosquitoes in greenhouses and hydroponic systems.
MICRONUTRIENT ADDITIVES
STUDY 06
In addition to macronutrients (N, P, K), seed encapsulation can also deliver specific micronutrients that are either required by specific crops or are deficient in soil or growth media.
BENEFICIAL FUNGI
STUDY 07
We continue to explore the importance of encapsulating beneficial fungi (e.g., Trichoderma, and mycorrhizal fungi) to improve plant pathogen resistance and plant growth.
AGROCHEMICALS
STUDY 08
We are developing and refining the use of seed encapsulation as a means to deliver targeted agrochemicals (e.g., fungicides, insecticides) that enhance seed and seedling performance while limiting human exposure to these chemicals.
TIME-DELAY AGENTS
STUDY 09
Exploring the possible use of controlled release agents that prolong the activity of agrochemicals or other plant benefiting components.
SEEDS & PESTICIDES
STUDY 10
Employ encapsulation as a possible delivery mechanism for seeds and pesticides (e.g., nematicides) including controlled release pesticides.
PROLONGED SEED VIABILITY & STORAGE
STUDY 11
We continue to evaluate seed encapsulation, which maintain comparatively stable low moisture conditions, as a means to prolong seed storage.
REDUCE CHEMICAL LOADS
STUDY 12
With seed encapsulation, we have demonstrated improved seedling vigor and performance through direct/ targeted application of fertilizers at the plant’s root system that may reduce overall chemical loads on farmlands. We continue to assess use of seed encapsulation as a means to reduce the levels of other agrochemicals necessary for crop production.
The KAPSOL™ Platform has been 20 years in the making.
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PATENT INFORMATION
KAPSOL™ is the exclusive Intellectual Property of Klondike Agricultural Products and protected under patents #US8683742B1, #US10524427B2
