The present invention comprises bio-degradeable seed growth enhancer compositions that provide enhanced seed protection and propagation characteristics that can be formulated and tailored to the plant or crop species for best results. The formulations comprise a naturally - derived hydrophilic protein hydrogel with a sulfated or neutral non-sulfated polysaccharide incorporated therein together with an azeotropic drying agent. The drying agent is a preferably a low molecular weight alcohol or ketone which insures uniform application and adherence qualities of the coating when the hydrogel is dried onto the seed.