aggregates of cellulose - containing particles , such as particles of waste paper and optional other vegetation or waste particles are used as a carrier for additives such as insecticides , herbicides , fertilizers and nutrients . the particles can be also used as a carrier for insect repellants , preferably naturally occurring insect repellants , to repel insects from rooms , buildings , plants , and outdoor areas , and to carry adhered seeds onto an area to be planted with seeds .