The subject invention provides compositions and methods for reducing the carbon footprint of producing biofuels. Microbe-based soil treatment compositions are utilized to reduce greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the agricultural practices of producing feedstock crops.

Methods for improving the efficiency and productivity of hybrid corn seed production are provided herein. Various methods to improve the transfer of pollen from male corn plants to female corn plants, and thus increase yield, are provided herein. Without being limiting, these methods include varying the height of male and female corn plants in a field, as well as varying the number, arrangement, and ratio of male-to-female rows in a field.

Methods for improving the efficiency and productivity of hybrid corn seed production are provided herein. Various methods to improve the transfer of pollen from male corn plants to female corn plants, and thus increase yield, are provided herein. Without being limiting, these methods include varying the height of male and female corn plants in a field, as well as varying the number, arrangement, and ratio of male-to-female rows in a field.

The present invention relates to the promotion of the growth of at least one plant by providing a fertilizer composition-comprising at least one zeolite, into the pores of which at least one basic L-amino acid has been adsorbed; adding the fertilizer composition to a medium for plant growth; and culturing a plant therein. The invention will provide the release of nitrogen from the fertilizer composition during culture of the plant at a rate which is advantageously used by the plant. The invention also relates to a fertilizer composition as such, optionally combined with a medium for plant growth to make up a growth-promoting material. The invention is advantageously used to reduce the resources required in the fertilization of slowly growing plants, where repeated supply of nutrients as well as leakage of nitrogen amounts to large costs to society.

Methods for delayed harvesting of corn fields are provided herein. These methods provide an extended, flexible period of time to harvest corn. The methods allow growers to harvest their corn at the optimal time for drying down or accessing seed, without increasing the risk of losing yield to lodging.

Methods for delayed harvesting of corn fields are provided herein. These methods provide an extended, flexible period of time to harvest corn. The methods allow growers to harvest their corn at the optimal time for drying down or accessing seed, without increasing the risk of losing yield to lodging.