| abstract |
A water-rententive matrix composition for growing plants. The composition comprises from about 50 % to about 99 % by dry weight of a bulking agent and from about 1 % to about 25 % by dry weight of a water-retentive polymer having a water absorbency of between 50 and 600 times its weight. The bulking agent includes at least 2 % by dry weight composted rice hulls. Optional components of the composition include a water-soluble binding agent, a nonionic surfactant and/or one or more additives such as pesticides and nutrients. The composition is compressed into articles such as chip-like wafers to simplify shipment, storage and use thereof. |