irrigation intervals
PolyHART develops soil-integrated materials that act as local water sources within the growing medium. Instead of increasing irrigation, the approach improves how long water remains accessible to plant roots.
Benefits
How it works
PolyHART biodegradable beads store water directly in soil. Driven by natural gradients, roots access this water over time. Initial test on plants demonstrated 2.6x extended plant survival after water stopped, with a release horizon of weeks (12 – 50 days).
Each bead is a soft, porous biodegradable material that stores multiple small water reservoirs. Mixed into soil, the beads retain water near plant roots through capillary retention and physical confinement – unlike hydrogels that bind water tightly, or organics like coconut coir that release water rapidly.
Water release and biodegradation rates are tuned to soil conditions and crop cycles, enabling sustained availability throughout the growing period. The material gradually biodegrades over time, leaving no residue in the soil.
Product
Soil-integrated hydration beads
Mixed directly into growing substrates — no changes to cultivation practices. Typical use ~0.1-1% v/v depending on crop and substrate. Optional versions include integrated nutrient delivery.
Application
Initial focus: nursery and transplant production
Used in growing substrates where irrigation control and early root development are critical. Designed to improve water availability while decreasing irrigation frequency.