Water-soluble fertilizers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fertilizer composition [composition (C), hereinafter] wherein said composition (C) comprises 0.5 to 32.0 weight percent [wt.%, hereinafter] of at least one water-soluble fertilizing nutrient of sulfur (S) selected from the group consisting of sulfur (S) compounds complying with the general formula (I S ) and 1.0 to 20.0 wt.% of water, relative to the total weight of the composition (C); and wherein the composition (C) comprises at least one water-soluble fertilizing nutrient of phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca); and wherein the composition (C) has a total calcium (Ca) content expressed in wt.% of CaO of 0.5 to 32.0 wt.% and a total phosphorus (P) content expressed in wt.% of P2O5 of 3.0 to 65.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C). The present invention also relates to a method for the manufacture of the fertilizer composition and to its use.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an improved fertilizer composition formulated for providing plant nutrition to growing plants, the fertilizer composition comprising at least phosphorous (P), calcium (Ca) and sulphur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients. The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing the fertilizer composition and its use. BACKGROUND

[0002] It is generally accepted that plants require a balanced supply of soluble nutrients for healthy and rapid growth, especially in hydroponic environments. Sulphur is one of the 17 essential elements for plant growth and is the fourth most important element after nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in terms of the amount required by crops. It plays a key role in plant nutrition through its activity in photosynthesis and amino acid synthesis. Like nitrogen, sulphur is a key element in proteins and therefore there is a strong nutritional interaction between these essential elements for plant and crop growth, plant and crop development, plant and crop disease resistance and overall plant and crop quality. Sulphur, like nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium and magnesium, is therefore a macronutrient that must be available in relatively large amounts for good plant growth. These macronutrients must be provided to plants in a form that is suitable for plant uptake, transport and assimilation.

[0003] Sulphur deficiency in plants is becoming more common and this can be visually seen and confirmed by plant analysis (Technical Bulletin: Sulfur in Soils by the Fertiliser Technology Research Centre of The University of Adelaide and The Mosaic Company). In general, sulphur deficient young leaves are pale green to yellow in colour. This sulphur deficiency is becoming more common in agricultural systems due to, amongst other things, tighter controls on sulphur emissions to the atmosphere. Therefore, appropriate fertilization can increase the supply of sulphur from the soil.

[0004] The most common sulphur fertilizers are based on the addition of sulphate (SO4 2-(e.g., gypsum, ammonium sulfate, potassium sulfate, elemental sulfur, etc.) because sulfate is the form of sulfur taken up by plant roots. For example, elemental sulfur or thiosulfate-based fertilizers must first be oxidized to sulfate for plant uptake, and this process relies on microbial activity in the soil. Elemental sulfur-based fertilizers are considered a slow release source of sulfur for crops (not readily leachable), while sulfate-based fertilizers are quick release fertilizers (more readily leachable; sulfates are highly mobile in the soil). In environments with higher rainfall, or when heavy rainfall often occurs after fertilizer addition and before planting (e.g., fall application), leaching can be an important loss mechanism for light soils.

[0005] Initially, liquid fertilizers generally contain the major macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and the micronutrients such as iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, and molybdenum, and often omit the intermediate elements such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur. Some liquid mineral fertilizers that include calcium, magnesium, and sulfur mineral nutrients have limited solubility in water, and therefore, form insoluble precipitates, including insoluble sulfur salts, such as calcium sulfate. When using this type of liquid fertilizer, one experiences imbalanced plant growth and nutrient deficiencies in plants.

[0006] A possible solution to compensate for this insoluble precipitate loss of insoluble sulfur salts to plants is to over-apply the dosage rate. However, this results in phytotoxicity to plants, early senescence of plants, higher costs, and environmental damage.

[0007] Alternatively, the incompatibility between the sulfate and the metal requires multiple fertilizer tanks instead of a single system. For example, to obtain a complete nutritional status for the plant, the feeding program can include at least two nutrient containers of nutrients to avoid or minimize the precipitation of the sulfate prior to application to the plant culture. Two separate concentrated stock solutions must be prepared to prevent the formation of insoluble sulfur precipitates, and they can only be mixed in the final solution that is taken up by the plant. Thus, in a typical setup, two tanks of fertilizer mix are usually required: tank A for materials compatible with calcium, and tank B for materials compatible with sulfur. This is further illustrated by Hoagland’s solution (described in WO 2009151677 A2), a well-known formulation for plant growth. Hoagland’s solution comprises two separate solutions, where the first solution includes potassium nitrate, calcium nitrate, monopotassium phosphate, magnesium sulfate, iron chelate, and the second solution is a micronutrient stock solution including boric acid, manganese chloride, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, and molybdate. Low pH is achieved by applying ammonium. To apply Hoagland’s solution, this two-solution or two-container method requires that the two separate concentrates must be mixed and each concentrate is diluted in the user’s solution to avoid precipitation in order to provide a complete nutrient feed. From a commercial sales perspective, one can have to ship enough water with the concentrates, which adds handling costs over and above the necessary feed.

[0008] In recent years, thiosulfates (such as ammonium thiosulfate and potassium thiosulfate) have become a useful source of sulfur for liquid fertilizers due to their solubility and compatibility with most cations, including calcium. However, a liquid fertilizer containing calcium and phosphorus would require an acidic solution to prevent the formation of insoluble calcium phosphate, in which conditions the thiosulfate would decompose and elemental sulfur would separate out and precipitate.

[0009] While elemental sulfur is obviously the most concentrated and cheapest form of sulfur, it is not soluble in all liquid fertilizers. The most commonly used preferred soluble sulfur compound in liquid fertilizers is the sulfate.

[0010] WO 2009151677 A2 describes a uniformly concentrated water-soluble plant fertilizer suspension comprising water-soluble mineral nutrients (such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur, wherein the total mineral nutrient concentration is at least about 80% and can be as high as 95 wt.% of the suspension), and an organic stabilizing compound or additive. Due to the presence of the organic stabilizing compound, the uniform suspension exhibits sufficient stability over a defined shelf life, such as five days, five weeks, five months and / or one year. The 0.1 to 20 weight percent of the organic stabilizing compound in the plant fertilizer suspension can consist of at least one of the following ingredients: polysaccharides and water-soluble hydrocolloidal polysaccharides (such as starches and celluloses), disaccharides (such as sucrose, malt, molasses and sugar beet vinasse), fulvic acid, digested plant material, digested lignin, soluble seaweed, compost tea extract, worm castings and chitosan. The plant fertilizer suspension can include sulfur at 0.1 to 10 weight percent of the plant fertilizer suspension.

[0011] EP 0 949 221 A1 describes concentrated liquid fertilizers in which all six major plant nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur) are combined. In these liquid fertilizers, sulfur is present in the form of polythionic acid of the general formula H2S n O6or a salt thereof. One of the disadvantages is that these polythionic acid compounds and their salts need to be stored at low temperatures, such as about 4°C.

[0012] In view of all the above, there is a continuing need to provide an improved concentrated liquid fertilizer composition in which the major plant nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and sulfur (S) can all be combined in one single concentrate without precipitating any insoluble salts, such as insoluble calcium phosphates. There is a further need that the fertilizer composition is easy to apply so that all major plant nutrients can be mixed and stored in one single tank prior to plant application, foliar or root supply. This single tank approach would simplify production, reduce handling costs and increase overall yield. SUMMARY

[0013] Applicants have now surprisingly found that an improved composition can be provided that meets the above needs.

[0014] It is therefore a main object of the present invention to provide a fertilizer composition [composition (C), hereinafter] comprising, relative to the total weight of composition (C):

[0015] a) 0.5 to 32.0 weight percent [wt.%, hereinafter] of at least one sulfur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient selected from the group consisting of sulfur (S) compounds complying with the general formula (I S ) [compound (S), hereinafter]

[0016]

[0017] wherein

[0018] each R is selected from H or an inorganic cation;

[0019] n is an integer in the range of 1, 2 or 3;

[0020] each R1and R2are the same or different from each other and at each occurrence, are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, CF3, OR4, SR4, N(R4)2, Si(R4)3, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2, and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence, is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group;

[0021] each R3is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, C 3-6 cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, (CF2) w CF3, OR5, SR5, N(R5)2, Si(R5)3, C(O)OR5, and CON(R5)2, and wherein the C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, C 3-6 cycloalkyl, and heterocyclyl are optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 3-6 cycloalkyl, CF3, OR5, or N(R5)2, and wherein each R5is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence, is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group, and wherein w is an integer in the range of 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4;

[0022] b) 1.0 to 20.0 wt.% water; and

[0023] wherein the composition (C) comprises at least one water-soluble fertilizing nutrient of phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca), and wherein the composition (C) has a total calcium (Ca) content expressed in wt.% of CaO of 0.5 to 32.0 wt.% and a total phosphorus (P) content expressed in wt.% of P2O5 of 3.0 to 65.0 wt.% relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0024] It is another object of the present application to provide a method of manufacturing the composition (C).

[0025] It is another object of the present application to provide a formulation (F) comprising the composition (C).

[0026] It is another object of the present application to provide the use of the composition (C) and formulation (F) for fertilizing purposes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Composition (C)

[0028] The term "comprising", as used herein, should not be interpreted as being restricted to the means listed thereafter; it does not exclude other elements or steps. It needs to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components as referred to, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps or components, or groups thereof. Thus, the expression "a composition comprising components A and B" should not be interpreted as being restricted to compositions consisting only of components A and B. It means that with respect to the present application, the only relevant components of the composition are A and B. Therefore, the terms "comprising" and "containing" encompass the more restrictive terms "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of".

[0029] As used herein, the term "optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described event or circumstance can or can not occur, and that the description includes situations where the event or circumstance occurs and situations where it does not.

[0030] The inventors surprisingly found that the compound (S) of general formula (I S ) as described above, present in an amount of 0.5 to 32.0 wt.% relative to the total weight of the composition (C), prevents any precipitation of the constituent ions, i.e. the formation of insoluble salts in the composition (C) comprising at least one water-soluble fertilizing nutrient of phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) as described above.

[0031] In the context of the present application, the expression "at least one water-soluble fertilizing nutrient of sulfur (S) selected from the group of sulfur compounds complying with general formula (I S ) [compound (S), hereinafter] means at least one water-soluble fertilizing nutrient of sulfur (S) selected from the group of sulfur compounds complying with general formula (I S) of the compound (S). A mixture of sulfur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients can also be used for the purposes of the present application, wherein each sulfur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient that makes up the mixture is independently selected from the group consisting of the compounds (S) of the general formula (I S ) of the compound (S).

[0032] In the remainder of the text, for the purposes of the present application, the expression "compound (S)" can be understood to mean both the plural and the singular, that is to say that the composition (C) of the present application can comprise one or more compounds (S) of the formula (I S ) of the compound (S).

[0033] In the context of the present application, the expression "0.5 to 32.0 percent by weight [wt.%, hereinafter] of at least one sulfur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient selected from the group consisting of sulfur compounds of the general formula (I S ) of the compound (S). A mixture of sulfur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients can also be used for the purposes of the present application, wherein each sulfur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient that makes up the mixture is independently selected from the group consisting of the compounds (S) of the general formula (I

[0034] As used herein, the terms "alkyl", "alkenyl", and "alkynyl" have the broadest meaning generally understood in the art and can include straight chain or branched chain moieties, or combinations thereof.

[0035] The term "alkyl", alone or in combination, means a straight chain or branched chain alkane derived group, for example, C F-G Alkyl is defined as a straight chain or branched chain alkyl group having F to G carbon atoms, for example, C 1-4 Alkyl is defined as a straight chain or branched chain alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, for example, methyl, ethyl, 1 -propyl, 2-propyl (isopropyl), 1 -butyl, 2-butyl, 2-methyl-2-propyl (tert-butyl), 2-methyl- 1 -propyl (isobutyl).

[0036] The term "alkenyl", alone or in combination, means a straight chain or branched chain hydrocarbon containing at least one carbon-carbon double bond, for example, C H-I Alkenyl is defined as a straight chain or branched chain alkenyl group having H to I carbon atoms, for example, C 2-4 Alkenyl is defined as a straight chain or branched chain alkenyl group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms. C 2-4 Examples of alkenyl include ethenyl, propenyl, isopropenyl, butenyl, and the like.

[0037] The term "alkynyl", alone or in combination, means a straight-chain or branched hydrocarbon containing at least one carbon-carbon triple bond, for example C J-K Alkynyl is defined as a straight-chain or branched alkynyl group having J to K carbon atoms, for example C 2-4 Alkynyl is defined as a straight-chain or branched alkynyl group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms. 2-4 Examples of alkynyl include ethynyl, propynyl, butynyl, and the like.

[0038] The term "cycloalkyl", alone or in combination, means a cycloalkane-derived group, for example C L-M Cycloalkyl is defined as a cycloalkyl group having L to M carbon atoms, for example C 3-6 Cycloalkyl is defined as a cycloalkyl group having 3 to 6 carbon atoms, for example cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, and the like.

[0039] The term "heterocyclyl", alone or in combination, means a cyclic alkane-derived group in which at least one carbon atom is replaced by a heteroatom independently selected from the group consisting of oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur, for example pyrrolidine, piperidine, or morpholine, and the like.

[0040] According to the present application, the compound (S) complies with the general formula (I S )

[0041]

[0042] wherein

[0043] each R is selected from H or an inorganic cation;

[0044] each n is an integer in the range of 1, 2, or 3;

[0045] each R1and R2are the same or different from each other and at each occurrence, are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, CF3, OR4, SR4, N(R4)2, Si(R4)3, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2, and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence, is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group;

[0046] each R3is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, C 3-6 cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, (CF2) wCF3, OR5, SR5, N(R5)2, Si(R5)3, C(O)OR5, and CON(R5)2; and wherein the C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, C 3-6 cycloalkyl, and heterocyclyl are optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from the group consisting of halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 3-6 cycloalkyl, CF3, OR5, or N(R5)2; and wherein each R5is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group, and wherein w is an integer ranging from 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.

[0047] Preferably, each R is selected from H or an inorganic cation selected from the group consisting of an alkali metal cation, an alkaline earth metal cation, and an ammonium cation. More preferably, each R is selected from H or an inorganic cation selected from the group consisting of a sodium cation, a potassium cation, a magnesium cation, and a calcium cation. More preferably, each R is selected from H, a sodium cation, or a potassium cation. Even more preferably, R is H.

[0048] Preferably, each n is an integer ranging from 1 or 2.

[0049] Preferably, each R1is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, CF3, OR4, SR4, N(R4)2, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2; and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R1is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-3 alkyl, CF3, OR4, SR4, N(R4)2, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2; and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4alkyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R1is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, CF3, OR4, N(R4)2, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2, and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, t-butyl, isobutyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R1is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, OR4, N(R4)2, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2, and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, t-butyl, isobutyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R1is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, OR4, and C(O)OR4, and wherein each R4is independently selected from hydrogen or methyl.

[0050] Preferably, each R2is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, CF3, OR4, SR4, N(R4)2, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2, and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R2is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-3 alkyl, CF3, OR4, SR4, N(R4)2, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2, and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4alkyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R2is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, CF3, OR4, N(R4)2, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2, and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, t-butyl, isobutyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R2is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, OR4, N(R4)2, C(O)OR4, and CON(R4)2, and wherein each R4is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, t-butyl, isobutyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R2is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, OR4, and C(O)OR4, and wherein each R4is independently selected from hydrogen or methyl.

[0051] Preferably, each R3is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, OR5, SR5, N(R5)2, Si(R5)3, C(O)OR5, and CON(R5)2, and wherein the C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, and C 2-4 alkynyl is optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, OR5, or N(R5)2, and wherein each R5is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl, C 2-4alkyl, Si(R5)3, OR5, and N(R5)2, wherein each R5is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, t-butyl, isobutyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R3is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, Si(R5)3, OR5, and N(R5)2, wherein each R5is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, t-butyl, isobutyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R3is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, OR5, and N(R5)2, and wherein each R5is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from hydrogen or methyl.

[0052] According to certain embodiments of the present application, the compound (S) according to general formula (I S ) is a compound of formula (II S ) [compound (S) of class (I), hereinafter]:

[0053]

[0054] wherein:

[0055] each R is selected from H, a sodium ion, a potassium ion, a magnesium ion, or a calcium ion;

[0056] each m is an integer in the range of 0, 1, or 2;

[0057] each R1is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, and CF3;

[0058] each R2is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, and CF3; and

[0059] each R3is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, and Si(R5’)3, and wherein the C 1-4 alkyl is optionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen or methyl, and wherein each R5’ is, independently from each other and at each occurrence, C 1-4 alkyl.

[0060] Preferably, each R is H.

[0061] Preferably, each R1' is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl and ethyl. More preferably, each R1' is independently selected from hydrogen or methyl. Most preferably, each R1' is H.

[0062] Preferably, each R2' is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl and ethyl. More preferably, each R2' is independently selected from hydrogen or methyl. Most preferably, each R2' is hydrogen.

[0063] Preferably, each R3' is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl and Si(R5')3, and wherein each R5' is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of methyl, ethyl, propyl and isopropyl. More preferably, each R3' is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl and Si(R5')3, and wherein each R5' is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is methyl or ethyl. Even more preferably, each R3' is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl and Si(R5')3, and wherein each R5' is methyl. Yet even more preferably, each R3' is independently selected from hydrogen or methyl. Most preferably, each R3' is hydrogen.

[0064] Preferred compounds of class (I) are selected from the following formula (II S compounds of formula (II S e) those compounds of formula (II

[0065]

[0066] Most preferred compounds of class (I) are selected from the following formula (II S a) those compounds of formula (II

[0067]

[0068] According to another embodiment of the present application, the compound (S) according to general formula (I S ) is a compound of formula (III S ) [compounds (S) of class (II), in the following]:

[0069]

[0070] wherein:

[0071] each R is selected from H, a sodium ion, a potassium ion, a magnesium ion or a calcium ion;

[0072] each j is an integer in the range of 0, 1 or 2;

[0073] each R1" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4alkyl, OR4", N(R4")2, and C(O)OR4", and wherein each R4" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group;

[0074] each R2" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, C 1-4 alkyl, OR4", N(R4")2, and C(O)OR4", and wherein each R4" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group; and

[0075] each R3" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, OR5", SR5", N(R5")2, C(O)OR5", and CON(R5")2, and wherein each R5" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group.

[0076] Preferably, each R is H.

[0077] Preferably, each R1" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, OR4", and C(O)OR4", and wherein each R4" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R1" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, OR4", and C(O)OR4", and wherein each R4" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from hydrogen, methyl, or ethyl. Even more preferably, each R1" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, OR4", and C(O)OR4", and wherein R4" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from hydrogen or methyl. Still more preferably, each R1" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, OR4", and C(O)OR4", and wherein each R4" is hydrogen. Most preferably, each R1" is hydrogen.

[0078] Preferably, each R2" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, OR4", and C(O)OR4", and wherein each R4" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R2" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl, ethyl, OR4", and C(O)OR4", and wherein each R4" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from hydrogen, methyl, or ethyl. Even more preferably, each R2" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, OR4", and C(O)OR4", and wherein each R4" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from hydrogen or methyl. Still more preferably, each R2" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, OR4", and C(O)OR4", and wherein each R4 is hydrogen. Most preferably, each R2" is hydrogen.

[0079] Preferably, each R3" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, OR5", SR5", and N(R5")2, and wherein each R5" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, a hydroxyl protecting group, and an amine protecting group. More preferably, each R3" is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, OR5", and N(R5")2, and wherein each R5" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, and ethyl. Even more preferably, each R3" is independently selected from the group consisting of halogen, OR5", and N(R5")2, and wherein each R5" is the same or different from each other and at each occurrence is independently selected from hydrogen or methyl. More preferably, each R3" is independently selected from OR5" or N(R5")2, and wherein each R5" is hydrogen. Most preferably, each R3" is N(R5")2, and wherein each R5" is hydrogen.

[0080] Preferred compounds of class (II) are selected from the following formula (III S Compounds of formula (III S -j):

[0081]

[0082]

[0083] Most preferred compounds of class (II) are the following compounds of formula (III S Compounds of formula (III

[0084]

[0085] Compounds of formula (I) according to the present applicationS ) can be commercially available or can be chemically synthesized. Said compound (S) of general formula (I S ) can be synthesized using conventional methods known to the person skilled in the art.

[0086] It is further understood that all the definitions and preferences described above for the compound (S) of general formula (I S ) apply equally to this embodiment and to all the other embodiments described hereinafter.

[0087] Advantageously, the amount of compound (S) of general formula (I S ) as detailed above is equal to or greater than 1.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 2.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 3.0 wt.%, more preferably equal to or greater than 3.5 wt.%, more preferably equal to or greater than 4.0 wt.%, more preferably equal to or greater than 4.5 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0088] It is further understood that the amount of compound (S) of general formula (I S ) as detailed above is advantageously equal to or less than 27.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 22.0 wt.%, more preferably equal to or less than 19.0 wt.%, more preferably equal to or less than 17.0 wt.%, more preferably equal to or less than 14.0 wt.%, more preferably equal to or less than 12.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0089] In a preferred embodiment of the composition (C) of the application, the compound (S) of general formula (I S ) as detailed above is present in an amount of 1.0 to 27.0 wt.%, preferably in an amount of 2.0 to 22.0 wt.%, preferably in an amount of 3.00 to 19.00 wt.%, preferably in an amount of 3.5 to 17.0 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of 4.0 to 14.0 wt.%, and more preferably in an amount of 4.5 to 12.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0090] As mentioned above, the composition (C) has a total calcium (Ca) content expressed in wt.% of CaO of 0.5 to 32.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0091] Advantageously, the total Ca content expressed in wt.% of CaO is equal to or greater than 1.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 1.3 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 1.6 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 1.8 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 2.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0092] It should be further understood that the total Ca content is advantageously equal to or lower than 26.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 20.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 14.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 10.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 8.0 wt.%, expressed as wt.% of CaO, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0093] In a preferred embodiment of the composition (C) of the present application, the total Ca content ranges from 1.0 to 26.0 wt.%, preferably from 1.3 to 20.0 wt.%, preferably from 1.6 to 14.0 wt.%, preferably from 1.8 to 10.0 wt.%, preferably from 2.0 to 8.0 wt.%, expressed as wt.% of CaO, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0094] As mentioned above, the composition (C) has a total phosphorus (P) content ranging from 3.0 to 65.0 wt.%, expressed as wt.% of P2O5, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0095] Advantageously, the total P content is equal to or greater than 3.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 4.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 4.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 4.8 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 5.0 wt.%, expressed as wt.% of P2O5, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0096] It should be further understood that the total P content is advantageously equal to or lower than 58.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 50.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 44.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 40.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 38.0 wt.%, expressed as wt.% of P2O5, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0097] In a preferred embodiment of the composition (C) of the present application, the total P content ranges from 3.5 to 58.0 wt.%, preferably from 4.0 to 50.0 wt.%, preferably from 4.5 to 44.0 wt.%, preferably from 4.8 to 40.0 wt.%, preferably from 5.0 to 38.0 wt.%, expressed as wt.% of P2O5, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0098] It goes without saying that the elements Ca and P are present in the form of at least one water-soluble fertilizing nutrient of phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca).

[0099] In the context of the present application, the expression "at least one water-soluble fertilizing nutrient of phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca)" can refer to one or more water-soluble fertilizing nutrients containing both Ca and P in a single water-soluble fertilizing nutrient [hereinafter referred to as Ca-P water-soluble fertilizing nutrient], or to one or more water-soluble fertilizing nutrients containing only Ca [hereinafter referred to as Ca water-soluble fertilizing nutrient], or to water-soluble fertilizing nutrients containing only P [hereinafter referred to as P water-soluble fertilizing nutrient]. Mixtures of Ca-P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, Ca water-soluble fertilizing nutrients and P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients can also be used for the purposes of the present application. In the remainder of the text, the expression "Ca-P water-soluble fertilizing nutrient" is understood in the plural and in the singular for the purposes of the present application. The same applies to the expressions "Ca water-soluble fertilizing nutrient" and "P water-soluble fertilizing nutrient".

[0100] The Ca-P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, Ca water-soluble fertilizing nutrients and P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients are known per se to the person skilled in the art for use in fertilizer compositions, respectively.

[0101] Non-limiting examples of Ca water-soluble fertilizing nutrients include in particular inorganic calcium salts, such as calcium nitrate, calcium chloride, calcium hydroxide, calcium iodate, calcium silicate, calcium cyanamide, nitrolime, calcium carbonate, calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN), or hydrates thereof; and organic calcium salts, such as calcium acetate, calcium citrate, calcium gluconate, calcium lactate, calcium lignosulfonate, or hydrates thereof.

[0102] Preferred Ca water-soluble fertilizing nutrients are inorganic calcium salts selected from calcium nitrate or calcium carbonate or hydrates thereof.

[0103] Non-limiting examples of P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients include in particular phosphorus-based acids, such as phosphoric acid, phosphorous acid, hypophosphorous acid; and phosphorus salts, such as superphosphate, triple superphosphate (CSP), ammoniated superphosphate, ammonium phosphate, monoammonium phosphate (MAP), diammonium phosphate (DAP), triammonium phosphate (TAP), ammonium polyphosphate (APP), nitrophosphate, nitric phosphate, potassium phosphate, monopotassium phosphate (MKP), dipotassium phosphate (DKP), tripotassium phosphate (TKP), and hydrates thereof.

[0104] Preferred P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients are selected from phosphoric acid, monopotassium phosphate (MKP), monoammonium phosphate (MAP), or hydrates thereof.

[0105] Non-limiting examples of Ca-P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients particularly include dicalcium phosphate (DCP), hydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphate (TCP), monocalcium phosphate (MCP), and their hydrates.

[0106] As regards the amounts of Ca-P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, Ca water-soluble fertilizing nutrients and P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients in the composition (C) of the application, it is understood that, depending on the nature of the Ca-P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, Ca water-soluble fertilizing nutrients and P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, their suitable amounts can be determined by the person skilled in the art according to standard practices in the art, in order to reach the total Ca content and the total P content as described above.

[0107] The inventors have surprisingly found that, thanks to the presence of the compound (S) of general formula (I S ) as described above, the amount of water can be kept low, without the risk of precipitation of insoluble salts in the composition (C).

[0108] Therefore, the amount of water is advantageously equal to or lower than 19.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 18.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or lower than 17.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0109] On the other hand, the minimum amount of water is the amount necessary to keep the composition (C) in a liquid form.

[0110] Advantageously, the amount of water is equal to or greater than 2.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 3.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 3.5 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0111] In a preferred embodiment of the composition (C) of the application, the amount of water ranges from 2.0 to 19.0 wt.%, preferably from 3.0 to 18.0 wt.%, preferably from 3.5 to 17.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0112] If necessary, water can be partially replaced by at least one organic solvent, provided that the final properties of the composition (C) are not modified.

[0113] Non-limiting examples of organic solvents particularly include dihydrolevoglucosenone, 5-(dimethylamino)-2-methyl-5-oxopentanoic acid methyl ester and 1 -butylpyrrolidin-2-one.

[0114] Depending on the end use of the composition (C), as a fertilizer for providing plant nutrition to growing plants, as described above, the composition (C) can further comprise other water-soluble fertilizing nutrients selected from nitrogen (N) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, potassium (K) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, or magnesium (Mg) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, different from the Ca-P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, the Ca water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, and the P water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, as described above.

[0115] Non-limiting examples of nitrogen (N) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients particularly include ammonia nitrogen compounds such as urea, monomethylol urea, methylene urea, urea-triazone, isobutylidene diurea, sulfur-coated urea, polymer-coated urea; ammonium salts such as ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate sulfate, ammonium nitrate; nitrate nitrogen compounds such as sodium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate sulfate; and hydrates thereof.

[0116] Non-limiting examples of potassium (K) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients particularly include inorganic potassium salts such as potassium oxide, potassium chloride, potassium sulfate, potassium hydroxide, potassium nitrate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, magnesium potassium sulfate; organic potassium salts such as potassium acetate, potassium citrate, potassium gluconate, potassium lactate, potassium lignosulfonate; and hydrates thereof.

[0117] Non-limiting examples of magnesium (Mg) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients particularly include inorganic magnesium salts such as magnesium sulfate, magnesium nitrate, potassium magnesium sulfate, magnesium oxide, magnesium carbonate, kieserite, magnesium chloride; organic magnesium salts such as magnesium acetate, magnesium citrate, magnesium gluconate, magnesium lactate, magnesium lignosulfonate; and hydrates thereof.

[0118] Depending on the end use of the composition (C), as a fertilizer for providing plant nutrition to growing plants, as described above, the person skilled in the art will select, according to the standard and general practices known to said person skilled in the art, the suitable combination of the different water-soluble fertilizing nutrients as described above and their suitable amounts.

[0119] According to certain embodiments of the application, the composition (C) further has a total nitrogen (N) content, expressed in wt.% of element N, equal to or greater than 2.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 4.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 5.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 6.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 7.0 wt.%, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0120] It is also understood that the total nitrogen (N) content, expressed in wt.% of element N, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C), is advantageously equal to or less than 35.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 30.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 27.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 24.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 22.0 wt.%.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment of the application, composition (C) has a total nitrogen (N) content, expressed in wt.% of element N, ranging from 2.5 to 35.0 wt.%, preferably from 4.0 to 30.0 wt.%, preferably from 5.5 to 27.0 wt.%, preferably from 6.5 to 24.0 wt.%, preferably from 7.0 to 22.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0122] According to certain embodiments of the application, composition (C) also has a total potassium (K) content, expressed in wt.% of K2O, equal to or greater than 2.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 2.2 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 2.4 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 2.6 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 2.8 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 3.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0123] It should be further understood that the total potassium (K) content, expressed in wt.% of K2O, is advantageously equal to or less than 60.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 50.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 45.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 40.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 35.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 30.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0124] In a preferred embodiment of the application, composition (C) has a total potassium (K) content, expressed in wt.% of K2O, ranging from 2.0 to 60.0 wt.%, preferably from 2.2 to 50.0 wt.%, preferably from 2.4 to 45.0 wt.%, preferably from 2.6 to 40.0 wt.%, preferably from 2.8 to 35.0 wt.%, preferably from 3.0 to 30.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0125] According to certain embodiments of the application, composition (C) also has a total magnesium (Mg) content, expressed in wt.% of MgO, equal to or greater than 0.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 1.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 1.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 1.8 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 2.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0126] It should be further understood that the total magnesium (Mg) content, expressed in wt.% of MgO, is advantageously equal to or less than 9.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 8.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 8.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 7.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 7.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0127] In a preferred embodiment of the application, composition (C) also has a total magnesium (Mg) content, expressed in wt.% of MgO, ranging from 0.5 to 9.0 wt.%, preferably from 1.0 to 8.5 wt.%, preferably from 1.5 to 8.0 wt.%, preferably from 1.8 to 7.5 wt.%, preferably from 2.0 to 7.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0128] In the context of the present application, the elements phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), and when present, potassium (K), nitrogen (N), magnesium (Mg) can be present in the form of five separate water-soluble fertilizing nutrients; or in the form of less than five water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, in which case one or more of phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), and when present, potassium (K), nitrogen (N) or magnesium (Mg) are comprised in a single water-soluble fertilizing nutrient. For example, magnesium nitrate comprises the elements magnesium (Mg) and nitrogen (N).

[0129] In the context of the present application, the element sulfur (S) is essentially present in the compound (S) of general formula (I S ) as described above.

[0130] If desired, composition (C) can further comprise at least one additional sulfur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient, different from the compound (S) of general formula (I S ) as described above, in an amount of less than 0.1 wt.%, preferably less than 0.05 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0131] Non-limiting examples of additional sulfur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrients, different from the compound (S) of general formula (I S ) as described above, include in particular ferrous (II) sulfate, ferric (III) sulfate, zinc (II) sulfate, cuprous (I) sulfate, copper (II) sulfate, manganese (II) sulfate, and their hydrates.

[0132] According to certain embodiments of the application, composition (C) has a total sulfur (S) content, expressed in wt.% of SO3, equal to or greater than 0.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 1.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 1.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 2.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 2.5 wt.%, preferably equal to or greater than 3.0 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0133] It should also be further understood that the total sulphur (S) content, expressed in wt.% of SO3, is advantageously equal to or less than 26.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 21.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 17.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 13.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 10.0 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 8.5 wt.%, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0134] In a preferred embodiment of the present application, the composition (C) has a total sulphur (S) content, expressed in wt.% of SO3, ranging from 0.5 to 26.0 wt.%, preferably from 1.0 to 21.0 wt.%, preferably from 1.5 to 17.0 wt.%, preferably from 2.0 to 13.0 wt.%, preferably from 2.5 to 10.0 wt.%, preferably from 3.0 to 8.5 wt.%, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0135] The inventors have also found that, when the compound (S) complying with the general formula (I S ) is present in the composition (C) in which the Ca water-soluble fertilising nutrient, the P water-soluble fertilising nutrient, the nitrogen (N) water-soluble fertilising nutrient, the potassium (K) water-soluble fertilising nutrient and the magnesium (Mg) water-soluble fertilising nutrient are combined in high concentrations, in an amount ranging from 0.5 to 32.0 wt%, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C), the precipitation of the constituent ions is still prevented, i.e. no insoluble salts are formed, as demonstrated by the experiments below.

[0136] Alternatively, the total sulphur (S) content, the total phosphorus (P) content, the total calcium (Ca) content, the total nitrogen (N) content, the total potassium (K) content, the total magnesium (Mg) content comprised in the composition (C) of the present application can also be expressed in N:P:K:Ca:Mg:S rating, wherein N is the total nitrogen (N) content expressed in wt.% of elemental N, P is the total phosphorus (P) content expressed in wt.% of P2O5, K is the total potassium (K) content expressed in wt.% of K2O, Ca is the total calcium (Ca) content expressed in wt.% of CaO, Mg is the total magnesium (Mg) content expressed in wt.% of MgO, S is the total sulphur (S) content expressed in wt.% of SO3, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0137] As used herein, the N:P:K:Ca:Mg:S grade is measured as usual in the fertilizer industry. For example, a composition (C) having an NPKCaMgS grade of 32.0:16.0:12.0:8.0:6.0:4.0 means that the composition (C) has a total nitrogen (N) content in an amount equivalent to 32.0 wt.% of the element N, a total phosphorus (P) content in an amount equivalent to 16.0 wt.% of P2O5, a total potassium (K) content in an amount equivalent to 12.0 wt.% of K2O, a total calcium (Ca) content in an amount equivalent to 8.0 wt.% of CaO, a total magnesium (Mg) content in an amount equivalent to 6.0 wt.% of MgO, and a total sulfur (S) content in an amount equivalent to 4.0 wt.% of SO3, wherein all wt.% are relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0138] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "N:P:K:Ca:Mg:S grade" can also be used in the absence of one or more of the elements N, K or Mg. In this case, the composition (C) can have an NPKCaMgS grade of 0.0:60.0:0.0:13.0:0.0:14.0, which means that the composition (C) has only a total phosphorus (P) content in an amount equivalent to 60.0 wt.% of P2O5, a total calcium (Ca) content in an amount equivalent to 13.0 wt.% of CaO, and a total (S) content in an amount equivalent to 14.0 wt.% of SO3, wherein all wt.% are relative to the total weight of the composition (C). In this case, the elements N, K and Mg are absent.

[0139] The inventors have also found that when the composition (C) of the present invention further comprises at least one gelling agent, the composition (C) is able to form a gel having further improved properties, in particular improved absorption by the plants of the different nutrients contained in the composition (C), further improved compatibility between the different nutrients, allowing to achieve certain combinations of nutrients without the constituent granules and microparticles to settle in said composition (C).

[0140] In general, gels are defined as liquid systems, but due to a three-dimensional crosslinked network in the liquid, they behave like solids and do not flow under steady state.

[0141] In the context of the present invention, the expression "at least one gelling agent" is intended to mean one or more gelling agents. Mixtures of gelling agents can also be used for the purposes of the present invention. In the remainder of the text, for the purposes of the present invention, the expression "gelling agent" is understood in the plural and singular form.

[0142] The gelling agent is known to the person skilled in the art of the field of fertilizer compositions. Non-limiting examples of gelling agents include, in particular, gum arabic, alginic acid, alginates, xanthan gum, guar gum, gum tragacanth, methylcellulose, cellulose ethers, cellulose acetate, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethylmethylcellulose, starch, gelatin, carrageenan, locust bean gum, pectin, succinoglucan and pullulan.

[0143] Generally, the gel is characterized by its high viscosity.

[0144] According to certain embodiments of the application, the composition (C) as described above has a viscosity at 20°C equal to or lower than 100000 mPa s, preferably equal to or lower than 90000 mPa s, preferably equal to or lower than 80000 mPa s, preferably equal to or lower than 70000 mPa s, preferably equal to or lower than 60000 mPa s, preferably equal to or lower than 50000 mPa s.

[0145] It is also understood that the composition (C) as described above has advantageously a viscosity at 20°C equal to or higher than 2000 mPa s, preferably equal to or higher than 2100 mPa s, preferably equal to or higher than 2200 mPa s, preferably equal to or higher than 2300 mPa s, preferably equal to or higher than 2400 mPa s, preferably equal to or higher than 2500 mPa s.

[0146] According to the application, the viscosity of the composition (C) as detailed above is measured by using a Thermo Scientific HAAKE Viscotester iQ (VTiQ) with integrated Peltier temperature control and parallel plate PP 60 mm, as detailed in the experimental section hereafter. TM HAAKE TM Viscotester TM iQ (VTiQ), as detailed in the experimental section hereafter.

[0147] As regards the amount of gelling agent, it is understood that the person skilled in the art will use the gelling agent in a suitable amount so that the composition (C) as detailed above becomes a gel having the desired viscosity as detailed above.

[0148] According to certain embodiments of the application, the composition (C) comprises an amount of gelling agent equal to or higher than 0.05 wt.%, preferably equal to or higher than 0.06 wt.%, preferably equal to or higher than 0.07 wt.%, preferably equal to or higher than 0.08 wt.%, preferably equal to or higher than 0.09 wt.%, preferably equal to or higher than 0.10 wt.%, relative to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0149] It should further be understood that the amount of gelling agent is advantageously equal to or less than 5.00 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 4.00 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 3.00 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 2.00 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 1.50 wt.%, preferably equal to or less than 1.00 wt.%, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0150] In a preferred embodiment of the present application, the composition (C) comprises gelling agent in an amount ranging from 0.05 to 5.00 wt.%, preferably from 0.06 to 4.00 wt.%, preferably from 0.07 to 3.00 wt.%, preferably from 0.08 to 2.00 wt.%, preferably from 0.09 to 1.50 wt.%, preferably from 0.10 to 1.00 wt.%, with respect to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0151] According to certain embodiments of the present application, the composition (C) as detailed above can further comprise at least one other additional ingredient [ingredient (I C ), hereinafter] to enhance the appearance, storage, handling and / or performance of the composition (C).

[0152] In the context of the present application, the expression "at least one other additional ingredient [ingredient (I C ), hereinafter]” is intended to mean one or more ingredients (I C ). Mixtures of ingredients (I C ) can also be used for the purposes of the present application. In the remainder of the text, for the purposes of the present application, the expression "ingredient (I C )” is understood in the plural and singular form.

[0153] Said ingredient (I C ) is known to the person skilled in the art of fertiliser compositions. Non-limiting examples of ingredient (I C ) include, in particular: micronutrients, surfactants, wetting agents, dispersants, suspending agents and similar ingredients for increasing the shelf life of the product, tackifiers, antioxidants, antifoams, UV stabilisers, antimicrobials, penetration promoters, crystal growth inhibitors, soil conditioners, colourants, pigments, fragrances, solvents, any material that facilitates the application of the composition (C) (such as spreading or sticking agents, anti-freezing agents, evaporation inhibitors, anti-caking agents), as well as any other material commonly used for formulating fertiliser compositions, such as pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, weedicides, miticides, fungicides, acaricides, nematicides, bactericides, rodenticides, growth regulators, urease inhibitors, nitrification inhibitors, etc.

[0154] As non-limiting examples, suitable micronutrient sources include boron (B), iron (Fe), molybdenum (Mo), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and the like, and mixtures thereof, as well as chelates of micronutrient sources, such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), ethylenediamine-N,N'-bis(2-hydroxyphenylacetic acid) (EDDHA), NTA (nitrilotriacetic acid), HEDTA (hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid), TTHA (triethylenetetraaminehexaacetic acid), PDTA (1,3-propanediaminetetraacetic acid), lysine and derivatives thereof, glycine and derivatives thereof, and the like.

[0155] Regarding the amount of component (I C ), it is to be understood that the additional component (I C ) will be used in suitable amounts by the person skilled in the art according to the standard and general practice known to said person skilled in the art.

[0156] Typically, when present, component (I C ) is present in an amount of 0.05 wt.% to 20.00 wt.%, or 0.10 wt.% to 15.00 wt.%, or 0.10 wt.% to 10.00 wt.%, or 0.10 wt.% to 5.00 wt.%, relative to the total weight of composition (C).

[0157] Method of manufacturing composition (C)

[0158] The method of manufacturing composition (C) is also an aspect of the present application.

[0159] It is to be further understood that all definitions and preferences as described above apply equally to all further embodiments as described below.

[0160] The composition (C) of the present application can be prepared by various methods known in the art.

[0161] In one embodiment of the present application, the method for manufacturing the composition (C) as detailed above comprises homogeneously mixing water, at least one sulphur (S) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient selected from the group consisting of compounds (S) of general formula (I S ) as detailed above, at least one phosphorous (P) and calcium (Ca) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient as detailed above, optionally at least one nitrogen (N) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient as detailed above, optionally at least one potassium (K) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient as detailed above, optionally at least one magnesium (Mg) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient as detailed above, optionally at least one gelling agent as detailed above, and optionally at least one additional component (I C ) as detailed above.

[0162] In one embodiment of the present application, the process for manufacturing the composition (C) as above detailed, comprises the intimate admixing of:

[0163] 1.0 to 20.0 wt.% of water;

[0164] 0.5 to 32.0 wt.% of at least one compound (S) as above defined;

[0165] at least one phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient, in an amount such that the composition (C) has a total calcium (Ca) content expressed as wt.% of CaO comprised between 0.5 and 32.0 wt.% and a total phosphorus (P) content expressed as wt.% of P2O5 comprised between 3.0 and 65.0 wt.%;

[0166] optionally, at least one nitrogen (N) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient, in an amount such that the composition (C) has a total nitrogen (N) content expressed as wt.% of elemental nitrogen N comprised between 2.5 and 35.0 wt.%;

[0167] optionally, at least one potassium (K) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient, in an amount such that the composition (C) has a total potassium (K) content expressed as wt.% of K2O comprised between 2.0 and 60.0 wt.%;

[0168] optionally, at least one magnesium (Mg) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient, in an amount such that the composition (C) has a total magnesium (Mg) content expressed as wt.% of MgO comprised between 0.5 and 9.0 wt.%;

[0169] optionally, 0.05 to 5.00 wt.% of at least one gelling agent; and

[0170] optionally at least one additional ingredient (I C ).

[0171] wherein all the wt.% are referred to the total weight of the composition (C).

[0172] Typically, said intimate admixing as above detailed can be carried out by using conventional mixers and blenders, high intensity mixers and electric stirrers.

[0173] It is understood that the intimate admixing will be carried out by the skilled person according to common practices, for example using optimal times, speeds, weights, volumes and batch numbers, in particular.

[0174] Another object of the present application is to provide a formulation [formulation (F), hereinafter] comprising the above composition (C), wherein said formulation (F) is obtained by diluting said composition (C) with a diluent [dil, hereinafter].

[0175] It should be further understood that all the definitions and preferences as described above apply equally to the present embodiment and to all the further embodiments as described below.

[0176] Among the diluents (dil) suitable for the present application, mention can be made in particular of water and water-based solutions. Preferably, the diluents (dil) suitable for the present application are water.

[0177] For the purposes of the present application, the term "water-based solution" is intended to mean a solution comprising water and at least one component selected from the group consisting of a biostimulant, a herbicide, a pesticide, an insecticide, a miticide, an acaricide, a nematicide, a fungicide, a bactericide, a rodenticide and a growth regulator.

[0178] As regards the dilution factor of the composition (C) as described above applied to obtain the formulation (F) according to the present application, it should be understood that the person skilled in the art will carry out said dilution in accordance with the suitable amount of water-soluble fertilizing nutrient as described above.

[0179] In the context of the present application, the dilution factor means the ratio between the weight of the initial composition (C) as described above and the weight of the diluent (dil) as described above.

[0180] Generally, the lower limit of the dilution factor of the composition (C) as described above applied to obtain the formulation (F) as described above is determined according to standard and general practices known to the person skilled in the art.

[0181] The upper limit of the dilution factor of the composition (C) as described above applied to obtain the formulation (F) as described above will be adjusted to avoid leaching or leaching out of the water-soluble fertilizing nutrient comprised in said composition (C) when providing said composition (C).

[0182] According to some embodiments of the present application, the dilution factor of the composition (C) as described above applied to obtain the formulation (F) as described above will be equal to or at least 1 :5, or equal to or at least 1 :10, or equal to or at least 1 :20, or equal to or at least 1 :30, or equal to or at least 1 :40, or equal to or at least 1 :45.

[0183] Advantageously, the composition (C) as described above has a specific pH value to increase the soil nutrient availability and to enhance the nutrient uptake efficiency of the composition (C), in particular in alkaline and saline soils, to further neutralize and dissolve the bicarbonates in the composition (C), to prevent or avoid the formation of precipitates in the composition (C) that can clog or block irrigation systems, emitters, pipes and sprinklers, to keep the irrigation systems clean to extend the life of said systems, to enhance the effect of the pesticides comprised in the composition (C).

[0184] Within the context of the present application, the pH of the composition (C) is measured by first diluting the composition (C) with water until a 10 wt.% solution is formed. Further details on the measurement of the pH value using a Hanna Instruments HI 9126 pH meter will be described in detail in the experimental section below.

[0185] Generally, the composition (C) as detailed above is characterized by having a pH of 1.00 to 3.00, preferably 1.20 to 2.90, preferably 1.40 to 2.80, preferably 1.50 to 2.70, measured according to the method described above.

[0186] According to certain embodiments of the present application, additional ingredients (I C ) as detailed above can also be added to the formulation (F), or alternatively only to the formulation (F), in order to enhance the appearance, storage, handling and / or performance of the formulation (F).

[0187] In the present application, the inventors have now surprisingly found that the formulation (F) as described above is a homogeneous solution without any precipitation of constituent ions, i.e. without any formation of insoluble salts in the formulation (F).

[0188] Use of the composition (C) and the formulation (F)

[0189] Either the composition (C) as detailed above or the formulation (F) as detailed above can be used for fertilization purposes, thereby providing plant nutrition to growing plants.

[0190] Said use is also an aspect of the present application.

[0191] It is further to be understood that all definitions and preferences as detailed above apply equally to all further embodiments as described below.

[0192] The use of the composition (C) as detailed above or the formulation (F) as detailed above comprises providing the composition (C) or the formulation (F) to at least a part of a plant or seed which is growing or will grow. Generally, such growing takes place on a substrate, such as soil (e.g. in a flower pot, in a flower bed, in a field or in an agricultural field) or an artificial medium. The term "grows", "grown", "growing" as used herein includes all physiological processes that lead to an increase in cell size and / or cell number and to cell differentiation.

[0193] The composition (C) as hereinbefore detailed or the formulation (F) as hereinbefore detailed can be applied to a wide area in any suitable conventional manner to provide plant nutrition to growing plants in accordance with standard practice known to those skilled in the art, taking into account factors such as temperature and weather conditions.

[0194] Among the suitable ways for providing the composition (C) as hereinbefore detailed or the formulation (F) as hereinbefore detailed, mention can be made in particular of the use of conventional equipment such as hand pumps, knapsack sprayers, lance sprayers, etc. by spraying, atomizing, evaporating, drenching, watering, jetting, misting, pouring, fumigating, injecting, spreading, seed treatment, coating, impregnating, soaking, etc. Desirably, the composition (C) or the formulation (F) as hereinbefore detailed is provided by spraying and drenching.

[0195] The person skilled in the art will apply the composition (C) as hereinbefore detailed or the formulation (F) as hereinbefore detailed in a dose sufficient to achieve the desired effect. The dose depends on many factors, including the method and conditions of application.

[0196] In the present invention, the inventors have now surprisingly found that the use of the composition (C) as hereinbefore detailed or the formulation (F) as hereinbefore detailed for fertilizing purposes to provide plant nutrition to growing plants involves only minor handling costs, improved ergonomics and a reduction in overall handling costs.

[0197] Examples

[0198] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the following examples, whose purpose is merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0199] Test methods

[0200] Viscosity measurements:

[0201] Viscosity measurements were performed by using a Thermo Scientific HAAKE Viscotester iQ (VTiQ) with integrated Peltier temperature control and parallel plate PP 60 mm. TM HAAKE TM Viscotester TM iQ (VTiQ).

[0202] The gap was set to 2 millimeters to prevent particles present in the real sample from interfering with the measurement. 5.8 mL of sample was placed on the lower plate of the PP60 and the upper plate of the PP 60 mm was carefully lowered onto the sample. Excess sample was removed. The temperature was set to 15 °C and the sample was allowed to adapt to 15 °C within 2 minutes. Since the VTiQ is equipped with a Peltier temperature module, it is possible to plot the behavior of the sample over a defined temperature range. The sample was allowed to equilibrate for 20 seconds at 15 °C.-1 A constant shear rate of 20 s"1is applied to the sample while the temperature is programmed to rise from 15°C to 45°C. This means that the rotor starts to rotate the sample at 20 s"1. The sample resists this rotation by the rotor, so the VTiQ needs to generate an amount of torque to rotate the rotor. The viscosity at 20 s"1is plotted as a function of temperature from 15°C to 45°C. Along the complete curve, the VTiQ calculates the viscosity at each temperature as a function of shear rate and torque. The viscosity at a constant shear rate of 20 s"1is plotted as a function of temperature. -1 -1 A constant shear rate of 20 s"1is applied to the sample while the temperature is programmed to rise from 15°C to 45°C. This means that the rotor starts to rotate the sample at 20 s"1. The sample resists this rotation by the rotor, so the VTiQ needs to generate an amount of torque to rotate the rotor. The viscosity at 20 s"1is plotted as a function of temperature from 15°C to 45°C. Along the complete curve, the VTiQ calculates the viscosity at each temperature as a function of shear rate and torque. The viscosity at a constant shear rate of 20 s"1is plotted as a function of temperature.

[0203] Based on the plotted temperature curve from 15°C to 45°C, the calculated viscosity at 20°C is taken as a comparison point. In addition, various plotted temperature curves from 15°C to 45°C are superimposed in order to compare the calculated viscosity as a function of temperature.

[0204] pH measurement:

[0205] The pH measurement is performed using a Hanna Instruments HI 9126 pH meter.

[0206] First, a 10 wt.% solution of the composition (C) is prepared by diluting the composition (C) with water, for example by adding 450 mL of water to 50 g of the composition (C). The 10 wt.% solution of the composition (C) is continuously stirred until the composition (C) is completely dissolved in the aqueous phase. Then, the pH value of the 10 wt.% solution of the composition (C) is measured with a pH electrode combined with a temperature sensor to automatically correct the pH with respect to the temperature. The reported pH values are uniformly corrected to a temperature of 20°C.

[0207] General method for manufacturing the composition (C):

[0208] Comparative Example 1 (CEx 1) and Examples 2 to 6 (Ex 2-Ex 6) are prepared by mixing and homogenizing the various ingredients (i.e. types and amounts) described in Table 1 with standard additional ingredients (such as gelling agents, micronutrients, surfactants, wetting agents, dispersants and antifoams) within 30 minutes. The mixing of the various ingredients is performed using an electric stirrer.

[0209] In Comparative Example 1 (CEx 1), potassium tetra-thioate (K2S4O6) is used, which is described in EP 0 949 221 A1 as being suitable in compositions as liquid fertilizers.

[0210] In Example 2 (Ex 2), a compound (S) according to the application of formula (III S -g) is used.

[0211] In Examples 3 to 6 (Ex 3 to Ex 6), a compound (S) according to the application of formula (II S ​-a) compound (S).

[0212] All contents in Table 1 are given in wt. % relative to the total weight of the respective fertilizer composition, unless otherwise stated.

[0213] The total contents of the different elements sulfur (S), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N), potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg) are further summarized in Table 1. These total contents are calculated according to the common practice of those skilled in the art of fertilizer compositions.

[0214] The viscosities of Comparative Example 1 (CEx1) and Examples 2 to 6 (Ex2 to Ex6) were respectively measured according to the test method described above, and the results are summarized in Table 1.

[0215] The pH of 10 wt. % solutions in water of Comparative Example 1 (CEx1) and Examples 2 to 6 (Ex2 to Ex6) were respectively measured according to the test method described above, and the results are summarized in Table 1.

[0216] Table 1 : Fertilizer compositions (C): Comparative example 1 (CEx1) and examples 2 to 6 (Ex2 to Ex6)

[0217]

[0218] * Transparency and appearance were evaluated by visual observation.

[0219] The results in Table 1 show that when the selection is in accordance with formula (III S -g) compound (S) (ie Ex2) or a compound conforming to formula (II S When compound (S) of Example 1-a) (i.e., Ex. 3 to Ex. 6) is used as a sulfur macronutrient in a fertilizing composition, it can be combined with various nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium macronutrients in a single concentrate at varying concentrations. In particular, in Ex. 5, a high phosphorus (P) content (25.0 wt.%) can even be combined with a high calcium (Ca) content (3.8 wt.%). In another example, Ex. 6 has high phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) contents of 37.6 wt.% and 17.0 wt.%, respectively, without nitrogen (N) fertilizing nutrients.

[0220] Table 1 further shows that 10 wt.% solutions of Ex2 to Ex6 in water produced clear and homogeneous solutions without any precipitation, whereas a 10 wt.% solution of CEx1 having the same NPKCaMgS grade as Ex2 produced an inhomogeneous turbid solution with a milky and cloudy appearance, while having an unpleasant odor.

Claims

1. A fertilizer composition C, wherein Relative to the total weight of the composition C, the composition C comprises: a) 0.5 to 32.0 weight percent (wt%) of at least one selected from the group consisting of S ) sulfur compounds (compound S) sulfur water-soluble fertilizer nutrients Formula (I S ) in Each R is selected from H or an inorganic cation; n is an integer in the range of 1, 2 or 3; Each R1 and R2 are the same or different from each other and, at each occurrence, are independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, OR4, N(R4)2, Si(R4)3, C(O)OR4 and CON(R4)2, and wherein each R4 is the same or different from each other and is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 The group consisting of an alkyl group, a hydroxy protecting group, and an amine protecting group; Each R3 is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 Alkyl, C 2-4 Alkenyl, C 2-4 alkynyl, OR5, N(R5)2, Si(R5)3, C(O)OR5 and CON(R5)2, and wherein each R5 is the same as or different from each other and is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 The group consisting of an alkyl group, a hydroxy protecting group, and an amine protecting group; b) 1.0 to 20.0 wt% water; and The composition C comprises at least one phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient, and wherein, relative to the total weight of the composition C, the composition C has a total calcium (Ca) content of 0.5 to 32.0 wt%, expressed as wt% of CaO, and a total phosphorus (P) content of 3.0 to 65.0 wt%, expressed as wt% of P2O5.

2. Composition C according to claim 1, wherein the compound S is selected from the following formula (II S ) or (III S ) compounds: Formula (II S ) Formula (III S ) in Each R is selected from H, sodium ion, potassium ion, magnesium ion or calcium ion; Each m is an integer in the range of 0, 1, or 2; Each R1' is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl and isopropyl; Each R2' is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl and isopropyl; Each R3' is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl and Si(R5')3, and wherein each R5' is independent of each other and, at each occurrence, is C 1-4 alkyl; Each j is an integer in the range 0, 1, or 2; Each R1'' is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, OR4'', N(R4'')2 and C(O)OR4'', and wherein each R4'' is the same as or different from each other and is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 The group consisting of an alkyl group, a hydroxy protecting group, and an amine protecting group; Each R2'' is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl, OR4'', N(R4'')2 and C(O)OR4'', and wherein each R4'' is the same as or different from each other and is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 The group consisting of an alkyl group, a hydroxy protecting group, and an amine protecting group; Each R3'' is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, OR5'', N(R5'')2, C(O)OR5 and CON(R5'')2, and wherein each R5'' is the same as or different from each other and, at each occurrence, is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C 1-4 The group consisting of alkyl groups, hydroxyl protecting groups and amine protecting groups.

3. Composition C according to claim 1, wherein the compound S is selected from the following formula (II S -a) to formula (II S -e) or a compound of formula (III S -a) to formula (III S -j) compounds: 。 4. Composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The compound S is present in an amount of 1.0 to 27.0 wt % relative to the total weight of the composition C.

5. Composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The at least one phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient is selected from the group consisting of phosphoric acid, phosphorous acid, hypophosphorous acid, superphosphate, triple superphosphate (CSP), ammoniated superphosphate, ammonium phosphate, monoammonium phosphate (MAP), diammonium phosphate (DAP), triammonium phosphate (TAP), ammonium polyphosphate (APP), nitrophosphate, nitrophosphate, potassium phosphate, monopotassium phosphate (MKP), dipotassium phosphate (DKP), tripotassium phosphate (TKP), calcium nitrate, calcium chloride, calcium hydroxide, calcium iodate, calcium silicate, calcium cyanamide, lime nitrogen, calcium carbonate, calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN), calcium acetate, calcium citrate, calcium gluconate, calcium lactate, calcium lignin sulfonate, dicalcium phosphate (DCP), hydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphate (TCP), monocalcium phosphate (MCP), and hydrates thereof.

6. Composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The composition C has a total calcium (Ca) content of 1.0 to 26.0 wt % relative to the total weight of the composition C, expressed as wt % of CaO.

7. Composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The composition C has a total phosphorus (P) content of 3.5 to 58.0 wt %, expressed as wt % of P 2 O 5 , relative to the total weight of the composition C.

8. Composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The composition C has a total nitrogen (N) content, expressed as wt% of element N, ranging from 2.5 to 35.0 wt% relative to the total weight of the composition C.

9. Composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The composition C has a total potassium (K) content, expressed as wt% of K2O, of 2.0 to 60.0 wt% relative to the total weight of the composition C.

10. Composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The composition C has a total magnesium (Mg) content of 0.5 to 9.0 wt % relative to the total weight of the composition C, expressed as wt % of MgO.

11. Composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The composition C comprises at least one gelling agent selected from the group consisting of gum arabic, alginic acid, alginates, xanthan gum, guar gum, tragacanth gum, methylcellulose, cellulose ethers, cellulose acetate, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethylmethylcellulose, starch, gelatin, carrageenan, locust bean gum, pectin, succinan and pullulan.

12. The composition C according to claim 11, wherein Said at least one gelling agent is present in an amount ranging from 0.05 to 5.00 wt % relative to the total weight of said composition C.

13. Composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The composition C further comprises at least one additional ingredient I C The additional ingredients are selected from the group consisting of trace nutrients, surfactants, wetting agents, dispersants, suspending agents and ingredients for increasing the shelf life of the product, viscosity enhancers, antioxidants, defoamers, UV stabilizers, antimicrobial agents, penetration enhancers, crystal growth inhibitors, soil remediation agents, colorants, pigments, fragrances, solvents, spreading or adhesion agents, antifreeze agents, evaporation inhibitors, anti-caking agents, pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, herbicides, miticides, fungicides, acaricides, nematicides, bactericides, rodenticides, growth regulators, urease inhibitors and nitrification inhibitors.

14. A method for producing the composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein The method comprises uniformly mixing: 1.0 to 20.0 wt% water; 0.5 to 32.0 wt% of at least one compound S as defined in claims 1 to 3; at least one phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient in an amount such that the composition C has a total calcium (Ca) content of 0.5 to 32.0 wt%, expressed as wt% of CaO, and a total phosphorus (P) content of 3.0 to 65.0 wt%, expressed as wt% of P2O5; Optionally, at least one nitrogen (N) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient in an amount such that said composition C has a total nitrogen (N) content, expressed as wt% of elemental N, of 2.5 to 35.0 wt%; Optionally, at least one potassium (K) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient in an amount such that said composition C has a total potassium (K) content, expressed as wt% of K2O, of 2.0 to 60.0 wt%; Optionally, at least one magnesium (Mg) water-soluble fertilizing nutrient in an amount such that said composition C has a total magnesium (Mg) content, expressed as wt% of MgO, of 0.5 to 9.0 wt%; Optionally, 0.05 to 5.00 wt% of at least one gelling agent; and Optionally, at least one additional ingredient I C ; All wt% are relative to the total weight of the composition C.

15. A preparation F obtained by diluting the composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 13 with a diluent.

16. Use of the composition C according to any one of claims 1 to 13 or the preparation F according to claim 15, comprising providing the composition C or preparation F by spraying, atomizing, evaporating, drenching, watering, ejecting, atomizing, pouring, fumigating, injecting, painting, seed treatment, coating, dipping, or soaking.

Images