Methods of improving rice yield and treating rice crop for rice bacterial leaf blight, sheath blight, or combinations thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of increasing the yield of rice from a rice crop relative to the yield of rice from an untreated rice crop, the method comprising applying pelargonic acid choline or a composition comprising pelargonic acid choline to the rice crop, a part thereof or a locus where the rice crop is growing. The present invention also relates to a method of preventing or controlling bacterial leaf blight, sheath blight or a combination thereof of a rice crop or a part thereof, the method comprising applying pelargonic acid choline or a composition comprising pelargonic acid choline to the rice crop, a part thereof or a locus where the rice crop is growing.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention broadly pertains to the agricultural field, and more precisely to the field of rice crop protection. Specifically, this invention relates to a method for preventing or controlling rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof in rice crops or parts thereof. Furthermore, this invention relates to a method for increasing rice yield relative to untreated rice crops. [Background Technology]

[0002] Rice is the staple crop for most of the world's population today. Rice frost, caused by the fungus *Pyricularia oryzae*, is one of the most critical factors hindering rice production in rice-growing regions worldwide. Rice frost can cause yield losses of up to 61% per hectare, or the equivalent of 3.65 tons (Suganda et al., *Jurnal Agrikultura*, 2016, 27(3): 154-159). Rice frost can affect all parts of the rice plant, including leaves, midribs, neck, panicles, and grains, potentially leading to crop failure.

[0003] The symptoms of rice blast disease in rice crops are diverse and depend on the crop's resistance level. In weaker plants, lesions appear, which are moist, grayish-green, and have dark green edges. In more resistant varieties, the lesions are smaller, about 1-2 mm in size, and are brown or dark brown.

[0004] One of the other serious diseases of rice is sheath blight, caused by *Rhizoctonia solani*. It has been reported that in several rice-producing countries worldwide, sheath blight reduces yields by 20-35% (Inagaki, Scl. Rep. Fac. Agric. Meljo Univ., 2001, 37: 57-66). *Rhizoctonia solani* fungal infection affects the grain filling rate, panicle length, and grain filling percentage per panicle. The initial symptom is the appearance of grayish-green lesions on the midrib of leaves near the water surface. These lesions are oval or ovate, 1 cm long, 2-3 cm wide, and tend to clump together. The borders and color variations of the lesions provide a clear pattern on the infected parts of the plant. Under moist conditions, the fungal mycelium appears white, and the fungus forms irregular sclerotia. At optimal humidity, leaves in contact with nearby infected stems can also become infected. These symptoms are usually evident at maturity and can be found on the leaves of the rice plant.

[0005] Recommendations for controlling rice blast and sheath blight include using resistant varieties, balanced fertilization, fungicides, and cultivation practices. The most important control method is the use of resistant varieties. However, fungi such as *Pyricularia oryzae* have proven to adapt rapidly, thus disrupting the resistance established in resistant varieties. Therefore, control through the use of fungicides remains the most reliable method. However, long-term use of fungicides may also lead to the emergence of resistant strains.

[0006] In view of the above problems, further and / or improved methods are still needed in the field to control rice blast and sheath blight in rice crops.

[0007] WO 2020 / 104645 relates to the use of compositions comprising choline salts of C8-C10 fatty acids as fungicides on plants or plant parts. C8-C10 fatty acids (such as caprylic acid, nonanoic acid, or capric acid) are described to exhibit satisfactory fungicidal activity against plants when formulated into choline salts of fatty acids, with a strong reduction or even absence of phytotoxicity, although such fatty acids are generally known to be used as contact herbicides. WO 2020 / 104645 does not address the prevention or control of rice blast or sheath blight. [Summary of the Invention]

[0008] The inventors have discovered that pelargonidin can be used as an effective fungicide to combat rice blast and / or sheath blight on rice or parts thereof. The inventors have found that the resistance to rice blast obtained using pelargonidin is unexpectedly superior to the resistance to rice blast in other crops such as barley.

[0009] Therefore, a first aspect of the present invention relates to a method for preventing or controlling rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof in rice crops or a portion thereof, the method comprising applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown.

[0010] Through extensive experimental testing, the inventors have found that the efficacy of geraniol choline is similar to or even superior to that of commercially available reference products (e.g., Nordox 56WP, Allied Botanical Corporation, Philippines, for preventative treatment of rice blast; Antracol 70WP, Bayer Crop Science, for preventative treatment of sheath blight; or Amistar Top 325S C, Syngenta Bangladesh, for therapeutic treatment of rice blast or sheath blight). Advantageously, the use of geraniol choline to combat rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof results in reduced rice loss and increased rice yield, even surpassing the results obtained using commercially available reference products.

[0011] Therefore, another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for increasing the rice yield of a rice crop relative to untreated rice crops, the method comprising applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown. A related aspect provides the use of pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin for increasing the rice yield of a rice crop relative to untreated rice crops. As shown in the Examples section, the yield effect of rice crops treated with a composition containing pelargonidin according to an embodiment of the present invention surpasses that of untreated rice crops and rice crops treated with a commercially available reference product, while the composition does not cause phytotoxicity to the rice crop or a portion thereof.

[0012] Furthermore, the inventors have discovered that when geraniol is used for preventative treatment, that is, when geraniol is applied to rice plants or parts thereof before the symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight or a combination thereof are manifested, the highest level of efficacy against rice blast, sheath blight or a combination thereof, as well as the highest rice yield, can be obtained.

[0013] Therefore, the present invention preferably provides a method for preventing or controlling rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof on rice or a portion thereof, the method comprising applying geraniol or a composition containing geraniol to the rice or a portion thereof or the location where the rice is grown before symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice or a portion thereof.

[0014] Furthermore, the inventors unexpectedly discovered that pelargonidin (at concentrations that do not cause phytotoxicity) provides complete inhibition of the development of rice blast and sheath blight in rice crops after therapeutic treatment. This discovery is surprising given that the main control methods for rice blast and sheath blight involve the use of systemic fungicides, and pelargonidin is known to be commonly used as a contact (i.e., non-systemic) herbicide. Therefore, it was not anticipated that pelargonidin would be used as a systemic fungicide for therapeutic disease control.

[0015] Therefore, the present invention preferably provides a method for preventing or controlling rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof on rice crops or a portion thereof, the method comprising, after the symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice crop or a portion thereof, preferably before the intensity of the symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof reaches at most 25%, applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown.

[0016] Furthermore, the use of geranylcholine to combat rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof in rice crops or parts thereof does not cause phytotoxicity to rice crops or parts thereof.

[0017] On the other hand, it relates to the use of geraniol choline or compositions containing geraniol choline in the prevention or control of rice blast, sheath blight or combinations thereof in rice or parts thereof.

[0018] The above and other aspects of the present invention, as well as preferred embodiments, are described in the following sections and in the appended claims. The subject matter of the appended claims is specifically incorporated herein by reference.

Detailed Implementation Methods

[0019] As used herein, the singular forms “a / an” and “the” include both singular and plural indicators, unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

[0020] As used herein, the terms "comprising / comprises / comprised of" are synonymous with "including / includes" or "containing / contains" and are inclusive or open-ended, not excluding additional, unlisted members, elements, or method steps. These terms also cover "consisting of" and "substantially composed of".

[0021] The range of values ​​referenced by an endpoint includes all numbers and fractions contained within the corresponding range, as well as the referenced endpoint.

[0022] As used herein, the term "about" when referring to a measurable value, such as a parameter, quantity, duration, or similar value, is intended to encompass a specified value and variations from that specified value, specifically, variations of + / -10% or less, preferably + / -5% or less, more preferably + / -1% or less, and more preferably + / -0.1% or less, provided such variations are suitable for implementation within the disclosed invention. It should be understood that the value referred to by the modifier "about" is itself specifically and preferably disclosed.

[0023] Although the term "one or more," such as one or more members in a group of members, is self-evident, by further illustration, the term specifically covers references to any one of the members or any two or more of the members, such as any ≥3, ≥4, ≥5, ≥6 or ≥7 of the members, and up to all of the members.

[0024] All documents referenced in this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0025] Unless otherwise stated, all terms used to disclose this invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Further guidance may include terminology definitions to better understand the teachings of this invention.

[0026] Through extensive experimental testing, the inventors have discovered that geraniol choline can be used as an effective fungicide for preventive and therapeutic disease control, and to combat rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof in rice or a portion thereof.

[0027] Therefore, a first aspect of the invention relates to a method for treating rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof on rice crops or a portion thereof, the method comprising applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice crop is grown. Preferably, the method is an agricultural method.

[0028] As used in this article, the term "agriculture" refers to the activities or business of growing crops, including rice.

[0029] As used throughout this specification, the term "treatment" refers to the reduction or measurable decrease of one or more measurable symptoms or markers of a disease, such as rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof. A measurable decrease includes any statistically significant reduction in measurable symptoms or markers. Generally, the term encompasses therapeutic treatment and treatments aimed at alleviating symptoms and / or slowing disease progression. These terms cover therapeutic treatment of an already developed disease, as well as preventative or control measures or treatments aimed at preventing or reducing the chance of disease occurrence. In embodiments, the treatment may be a therapeutic treatment. In other embodiments, the treatment may be a preventative treatment. The inventors have surprisingly discovered that applying pelargonidin at high efficacy levels (e.g., at doses that do not cause phytotoxicity) inhibits the development of rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof and allows for increased rice yields, even exceeding the rice yields obtained by preventative and therapeutic treatments with commercially available reference products.

[0030] As used in this article, "preventive treatment," "protective treatment," or "protective agent treatment" refers to preventing or reducing the chances of rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof occurring, such as preventing the occurrence, development, and progression of rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof.

[0031] As used in this article, "therapeutic treatment" refers to the treatment of developed rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof, such as reducing, stabilizing, inhibiting, and curing developed rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof.

[0032] The terms “prevention or control of rice blast disease, sheath blight or combinations thereof” and “treatment of rice blast disease, sheath blight or combinations thereof” are used interchangeably in this document and cover actual treatment of rice blast disease, sheath blight or combinations thereof that have already developed, such as reducing, stabilizing, suppressing and curing rice blast disease, sheath blight or combinations thereof, as well as control or preventive measures aimed at preventing or reducing the chances of rice blast disease, sheath blight or combinations thereof occurring, such as preventing the occurrence, development and progression of rice blast disease, sheath blight or combinations thereof.

[0033] The terms "blast disease", "rice blast", "riceblast disease" or "blight disease" are used interchangeably in this document and refer to rice diseases caused by *Pyrhodotorula oryzae*.

[0034] Rice blast fungus, also known as rice fever fungus, rice rotten neck, rice seedling blight, rice blast, oval leaf spot of graminea, pitting disease, ryegrass blast, Johnson spot, and neck blast, is a plant pathogenic fungus that causes rice fever, affecting rice and cereals, including wheat, rye, barley, and pearl millet. Magnaporia grisea, also known as Pyricularia grisea, Ceratosphaeria grisea, Dactylaria grisea, Dactylaria oryzae, Phragmoporthegrisea, or Trichothecium griseum, is the most commonly used name for this pathogen and is related to different stages in its life cycle: Magnaporia grisea is asexual, while Pyricularia oryzae is sexual.

[0035] Symptoms of rice blast include lesions that can be found on all above-ground parts of the plant (including leaves, leaf rings, necks, panicles, pedicels, and seeds) as well as on the roots. Preferably, symptoms include lesions on the leaves. The initial symptoms are white to grayish-green lesions or spots with darker borders, appearing on all parts of the branch. Older lesions are oval or spindle-shaped, slightly whitish to grayish, with necrotic borders. Lesions may enlarge and merge, killing the entire leaf. Rice blast also prevents the actual grains from maturing.

[0036] Generally, the rice developmental stage range (i.e., BBCH range) at which rice blast symptoms begin to appear can be identified (determined) in each rice-growing area. This BBCH range corresponds to the timing of fungicide treatment. Furthermore, the developmental stage range (i.e., BBCH range) at which rice blast symptoms worsen or increase can be identified. These BBCH ranges correspond to the timing of further fungicide treatment. For example, in Italy, the focus of treatment is on the BBCH ranges: 37-43; 49-53; 61-67. However, the appearance of symptoms may vary (earlier or later) depending on climatic conditions favorable to disease development and host plant invasion. In the examples, symptoms of rice sheath blight appear at BBCH 21 to BBCH 53, such as BBCH 30 to BBCH 53, such as BBCH 30, or later, such as BBCH 31, BBCH 32, BB CH 33, BBCH 34, BBCH 35, BB CH 36, or later. In this embodiment, symptoms of rice sheath blight appear at BB CH 37 to BBCH 43, such as BBCH 37 or later, such as BBCH 38, BBCH 39, BB CH 40, BBCH 41, BBCH 42, or BBCH 43. In this embodiment, symptoms of rice sheath blight appear at BBCH 49 to BBCH 53. In this embodiment, symptoms of rice sheath blight appear at BBCH 61 to BBCH 67.

[0037] The terms "sheath blight", "rice sheath blight", "sheath blight disease" or "rice sheath blight disease" are used interchangeably in this article and refer to rice diseases caused by Rhizoctonia solani.

[0038] Rhizoctonia solani is a plant pathogenic fungus with a wide host range. It is also known as black-spotted Candida aderholdii, rhizoctonia solani, grisea, and napaeae.

[0039] Symptoms of sheath blight include round or oblong lesions on the lower leaves, typically grayish-green and water-soaked. The initial symptom appears as grayish-green spots on the midrib of leaves near the water surface. These spots are oval or ovate, 1 cm long and 2-3 cm wide, and tend to clump together. The borders and color variations of the lesions provide a clear pattern on the infected parts of the plant. Under humid conditions, the fungal mycelium turns white, and the fungus forms irregular sclerotia. At optimal humidity, leaves in contact with nearby infected stems can also become infected.

[0040] In this embodiment, symptoms of rice sheath blight begin to appear during the late tillering to internode elongation stage (BBCH 25-35) and become more aggressive as rice cultivation progresses to the panicle differentiation (reproductive) stage (BBCH > 51). In this embodiment, symptoms of rice sheath blight appear at BBCH 25 to BBCH 35, such as BBCH 25 or later, such as BBCH 26, BBCH 27, BBCH 28, BBCH 29, or BBCH 30 or later, such as BBCH 31, BBCH 32, BBCH 33, BBCH 34, or BBCH 35.

[0041] As mentioned above, rice frost is caused by the fungus *Pyrhoa oryzae*, while rice sheath blight is caused by the fungus *Rhizoctonia solani*.

[0042] Therefore, one aspect relates to a method for preventing or combating fungal infections of rice or parts thereof, wherein the fungal infection is *Pyrrosia lingua*, *Rhizoctonia solani*, or a combination thereof, the method comprising applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice, parts thereof, or the site where the rice is grown.

[0043] The terms “prevention or control of fungal infections” and “treatment of fungal infections” are used interchangeably in this article and encompass the actual treatment of existing fungal infections, such as reducing, controlling, stabilizing and suppressing existing fungal infections, as well as preventive or preventative measures aimed at preventing or reducing the chances of fungal infections, such as preventing the occurrence, development and progression of fungal infections.

[0044] The terms "fungal infection" or "fungal disease" are used interchangeably in this article.

[0045] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the fungal infection is a naturally occurring fungal infection on rice, such as Rhizoctonia solani, Pyridae or a combination thereof.

[0046] The terms "rice cultivation," "rice production plant," or "rice production crop" refer to plants that are capable of producing rice.

[0047] As used herein, “parts of rice cultivation” refers to any one or more of the leaves, stems, roots, panicles, and seeds of rice. Leaves, stems, and roots are vegetative organs. Panicles and seeds are reproductive organs. The term “leaves” may include leaf blades, leaf rings, and leaf sheaths. The term “panicle” may include peduncles (with spikelets) and flowers. The terms “seed,” “grain,” or “paddy” are used interchangeably herein and refer to the rice grain consisting of the husk, endosperm, and germ.

[0048] In this embodiment, the rice crop may be any one or more of the following: leaves (including leaf blades, leaf sheaths, and leaf rings), stems, panicles (including peduncles and flowers), seeds, and roots. In this embodiment, the rice crop may be any one or more of the following: leaves, stems, panicles, and seeds. In this embodiment, the rice crop may be any one or more of the following: leaves and stems.

[0049] In embodiments, when treated according to the methods taught herein, the leaves, stems, panicles, seeds, and roots of the rice plant may be attached to (e.g., growing on) the rice plant. Post-harvest methods for treating the seeds (grains) are not included in the methods taught herein.

[0050] As used in this article, "the location of rice cultivation" or "the area where rice is grown" refers to an area very close to the rice cultivation. For example, the location of rice cultivation can be a circular area around the rice stalk, such as a circular area around the rice stalk with a diameter of up to 1 meter, for example, up to 50 centimeters, up to 40 centimeters, up to 30 centimeters, up to 20 centimeters, up to 10 centimeters, or up to 5 centimeters.

[0051] As used in this article, the term "rice" refers to the seeds of rice.

[0052] As used in this article, rice refers to species of the Poaceae family in the genera *Oryza*, *Zizania*, and *Porteresia*. This term encompasses both staple food rice (including the major staple rice species *Oryza sativa* and West African cultivated rice *Oryza glaberrima*) and wild rice, including *Porteresia coarctata* and the four Poaceae species forming the genus *Zizania*.

[0053] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, rice crops may be selected from the group consisting of: rice (Asian rice), West African cultivated rice (African rice), Australian rice (Oryza australiensis), barthi rice (Oryza barthii), short-flowered rice (Oryza brachyantha), double-arc rice (Oryza coarctata), eichingeri rice (Oryza eichingeri), grandiglum rice (Oryza grandiglumis), broadleaf rice (Oryza latifolia), long-horn rice (Oryza longiglumis), long-herb rice (Oryza longistam inata), meyeriana rice (Oryza meyeriana), micro-particle rice (Oryza minuta), New Caledonian rice (Oryza neocaledonica), Asian rice (Oryza officinalis), East African wild rice (Oryza punctata), litleyi rice (Oryza ridleyi), and perennial rice (Oryza punctata). rufipogon), Oryzaschlechteri, Zizania palustris, Zizania aquatica, Zizania texana, Zizania latifolia, and clump-forming wild rice.

[0054] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, rice cultivation may be selected from the group consisting of: rice (Asian rice), West African cultivated rice (African rice), Australian rice, rice paddy, short-flowered rice, double-arc rice, rice argentea, large-leaved rice, broad-leaved rice, long-leaved rice, long-herb rice, rice malachite rice, micro-particle rice, New Caledonian rice, Asian rice, East African wild rice, Litre rice, ratoon rice, and rice serrata.

[0055] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the rice crop may be rice. In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the rice crop may be indica rice (Oryza sativa indica) or japonica rice (Oryza sativa japonica).

[0056] In embodiments, the methods taught herein include applying (i.e., administering, delivering, providing, placing) geraniol or a composition containing geraniol to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown.

[0057] The terms "pelargoniate choline," "nonanoic acid choline," or "trimethylethanolamine pelargoniate" are used interchangeably and refer to the choline salt of pelargoniate. At the concentrations described herein, pelargoniate choline appears to have no unacceptable toxic or harmful effects on humans, non-target organisms, or the environment; for example, spraying it on rice does not produce unacceptable toxic or harmful effects. Furthermore, as shown in the experimental section, application of compositions containing pelargoniate choline to rice at all test doses for resistance to sheath blight or rice blast (with both preventative and therapeutic treatment options) does not cause phytotoxic symptoms in rice.

[0058] The term "geranic acid" as used in this article can also be called "nonanoic acid," "1-octanecarboxylic acid," or C9 fatty acid, and refers to an organic compound consisting of a nine-carbon chain ending with a carboxylic acid functional group.

[0059] Geraniol choline may be applied as part of a composition herein, specifically an antifungal composition, such as an aqueous composition containing geraniol choline.

[0060] The terms “composition,” “formulation,” or “preparation” are used interchangeably herein and refer to a mixture containing geraniol choline as an active ingredient and one or more adjuvants.

[0061] The terms "active ingredient" or "active component" are used interchangeably and, broadly, refer to a compound or substance that, when provided in an effective amount, achieves the desired result. Typically, the active ingredient referred to herein can achieve such results by interacting with and / or modulating the rice crop, its parts, or the location where the rice crop is grown.

[0062] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the composition may be an aqueous composition or a liquid. In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the composition may contain 0.001% (w / v) to 70% (w / v) geraniol. Typically, compositions containing geraniol may be liquid or aqueous compositions containing 0.001% (w / v) to 70% (w / v) geraniol. For example, compositions containing geraniol may be liquid or aqueous compositions containing 0.005% (w / v) to 65% (w / v), 0.01% (w / v) to 60% (w / v), 0.05% (w / v) to 55% (w / v), or 0.1% (w / v) to 50% (w / v) geraniol.

[0063] The compositions taught herein may comprise a ready-to-use composition that can be applied to plants using suitable apparatus, but may also comprise a concentrate or concentrated formulation that must be diluted with water before use. In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the composition may be a sprayable liquid or a concentrate.

[0064] In embodiments, compositions as taught herein can be formulated into standby forms, such as sprays or sprayable liquids or infusions, containing non-phytotoxic amounts of pelargonidin, which, upon application, effectively inhibit the growth of Rhizoctonia solani and / or Pyrethrum orientalis on rice plants or parts thereof.

[0065] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the composition may be a spray, a sprayable liquid, or an infusion. Preferably, geraniol choline is present in an effective amount in the composition taught herein.

[0066] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the compositions taught herein may be aqueous compositions, particularly sprayable liquids or immersions, comprising 0.001% (w / v) to 5.0% (w / v) geraniol, preferably between 0.001% (w / v) and 2.0% (w / v) geraniol, such as between 0.001% (w / v) and 1.50% (w / v) or between 0.001% (w / v) and 1.0% (w / v) geraniol. In the embodiments, the compositions as taught herein may be aqueous compositions, particularly sprayable liquids or immersions containing 0.001% (w / v) to 4.0% (w / v), between 0.001% (w / v) and 3.5% (w / v), between 0.01% (w / v) and 3.0% (w / v), between 0.01% (w / v) and 2.5% (w / v), or between 0.05% (w / v) and 2.0% (w / v), such as 0.1% (w / v) to 2.5% (w / v), between 0.1% (w / v) and 2.0% (w / v), or between 0.1% (w / v) and 1.0% (w / v). For example, compositions as taught herein can be aqueous compositions, particularly sprayable liquids or extracts, containing pelargonidin choline at concentrations between 0.1% (w / v) and 0.8% (w / v), between 0.2% (w / v) and 0.8% (w / v), between 0.3% (w / v) and 0.8% (w / v), or between 0.4% (w / v) and 0.8% (w / v). Such concentrations advantageously allow for effective treatment of rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof in rice or parts thereof. Compared to no treatment or treatment with commercially available reference products, such concentrations also reduce rice loss and increase rice yield.

[0067] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the composition may be a concentrate.

[0068] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the composition may be a concentrate containing 5.0% (w / v) to 70% (w / v) geraniol, preferably between 10% (w / v) and 60% (w / v) or between 10% (w / v) and 50% (w / v) geraniol. For example, the composition may be a concentrate containing 15% (w / v) to 55% (w / v), between 20% (w / v) and 50% (w / v), between 25% (w / v) and 45% (w / v), between 30% (w / v) and 40% (w / v) or between 30% (w / v) and 35% (w / v) geraniol.

[0069] Advantageously, pelargonidin is a stable compound that can be easily concentrated, stored, and diluted before use. This allows for the production of concentrated compositions containing pelargonidin, which can then be easily diluted, for example with water, to obtain compositions with pelargonidin concentrations that effectively inhibit the growth of one or more plant pathogenic fungi on rice or its parts without phytotoxicity. The availability of concentrated compositions allows for additional benefits in terms of production convenience, transportation, and storage costs. It should be understood that the standby antifungal compositions taught herein contain an active but non-phytotoxic amount of pelargonidin. "Active but non-phytotoxic amount" should mean an amount of pelargonidin sufficient to control or kill unwanted fungi without exhibiting significant phytotoxic symptoms.

[0070] In the embodiments, the composition may be formulated as a powder. In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the composition may be a solid or powder composition.

[0071] The term "powder" refers to a dry, blocky solid composed of many very fine particles that can flow freely when shaken or tilted.

[0072] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the compositions taught herein may be solid or powder compositions comprising 70% (w / w) to 100% (w / w) geraniol. In embodiments, the compositions taught herein may be solid or powder compositions comprising 75% (w / w) to 100% (w / w), 80% (w / w) to 100% (w / w), 90% (w / w) to 100% (w / w), or 95% (w / w) to 99% (w / w) geraniol. In embodiments, the compositions taught herein may comprise at least 70% (w / w), at least 80% (w / w), at least 90% (w / w), at least 95% (w / w), or up to 100% (w / w) geraniol, particularly when formulated as a powder.

[0073] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the composition may further comprise one or more auxiliary agents, such as solvents, carriers, surfactants, adhesives (e.g., additives or adjuvants that improve the adhesive properties of the composition to plants or parts thereof), antifreeze agents, thickeners, buffers, defoamers, antioxidants, preservatives, fragrances, or colorants.

[0074] Suitable adjuvants and inert agents are known in this art and are commercially available. Typically, the active compound (i.e., geraniol choline) can be combined with any solid or liquid additive commonly used for formulation purposes. A carrier should be understood as a natural or synthetic organic or inorganic substance that is mixed or combined with the active compound for better application, particularly to the plant or plant parts. The carrier can be solid or liquid, is generally inert, and should be suitable for agricultural applications. For example, liquid carriers may include water, organic solvents, and mineral and vegetable oils. Suitable liquefied gaseous extenders or carriers are liquids that are gaseous at ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure, such as aerosol propellants like butane, propane, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. Suitable surfactants are emulsifiers, dispersants, or wetting agents, or mixtures of these surfactants, that have ionic or nonionic properties. Colorants such as inorganic pigments, such as iron oxide, titanium dioxide, and Prussian blue; and organic dyes, such as alizarin dyes, azo dyes, and metallic phthalocyanine dyes; and micronutrients, such as iron salts, manganese salts, boron salts, copper salts, cobalt salts, molybdenum salts, and zinc salts, may be used. Stabilizers, such as low-temperature stabilizers, preservatives, antioxidants, light stabilizers, or other agents that improve chemical and / or physical stability, may also be present. The composition may also contain other crop protectants and / or pesticides.

[0075] Examples of typical compositions containing geraniol choline include water-soluble liquids (SL), emulsions (EC), emulsions (EW), suspensions (SC, SE, FS, OD), water-dispersible granules (WG), granules (GR), and capsules (CS), which are known in the art.

[0076] In an embodiment, geraniol or a composition containing geraniol may be applied to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown.

[0077] In an embodiment, geraniol or a composition containing geraniol may be applied to rice in a field, a portion of the rice, or the location where the rice is grown.

[0078] The terms “field” or “farmland” are used interchangeably in this document and refer to land areas used for agricultural purposes, such as the cultivation of crops or rice.

[0079] In an embodiment, when a rice crop portion, such as a leaf, is present or attached to (e.g., growing on) rice, geraniol or a combination thereof, as taught herein, may be applied to that rice crop portion, such as the leaf.

[0080] In embodiments, geraniol or its composition as taught herein may be applied to any one or more of the leaves, stems, panicles, seeds, and roots. In embodiments, the method may include applying geraniol or its composition to the entire aboveground portion of a rice plant. In some embodiments of the method or use as taught herein, geraniol or its composition as taught herein may be applied (e.g., sprayed) to the entire aboveground portion of a rice plant. Therefore, in embodiments, geraniol or its composition as taught herein may be applied (e.g., sprayed) to any one or more of the leaves, stems, panicles, and seeds of a rice plant. In embodiments, geraniol or its composition as taught herein may be applied (e.g., sprayed) to any one or more of the leaves and stems of a rice plant. In embodiments, geraniol or its composition as taught herein may be applied (e.g., sprayed) to the leaves of a rice plant.

[0081] Therefore, one aspect provides a method for preventing or controlling rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof in rice or a portion thereof, the method comprising applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the leaves, leaf rings, necks, and stems of the rice plant.

[0082] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, geraniol choline or compositions as taught herein can be sprayed onto the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant grows. In embodiments, the sprayable liquid can be applied by spraying the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant grows using conventional spraying equipment known in the art, such as aircraft, backpack sprayers, pole-mounted sprayers mounted on tractors, etc.

[0083] In embodiments, the application of pelargonidin or a composition as taught herein to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice crop grows may be carried out directly or by applying conventional treatment methods to the surrounding environment or habitat, such as by soaking, spraying, atomizing, irrigating, evaporating, dusting, misting, spreading, foaming, brushing, sowing, watering (sprinkling), or drip irrigation. In embodiments, the method may include spraying, sprinkling, showering, jetting, dropleting, splashing, dispersing, diffusing, or irrigating the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice crop grows with pelargonidin or a composition as taught herein.

[0084] In embodiments, the application can be a single application or frequent (multiple) applications, with the application time intervals being the same or different. In embodiments, at least one, at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, or at least six applications can be performed. Preferably, at least five applications can be performed. This treatment regimen advantageously induces effective treatment of rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof on rice plants or parts thereof. Compared to untreated or treated with commercially available reference products, such treatment regimens also reduce rice loss and increase rice yield.

[0085] The time interval between two sequential applications can be from three days to four weeks (one month). For example, the time interval between two sequential applications can be four days to three weeks, five days to two weeks, or six days to ten days. The time interval between two sequential applications can be at least four days, at least five days, at least six days, at least seven days (one week), at least eight days, at least nine days, at least ten days, or at least two weeks. Preferably, the time interval between two sequential applications can be at least one week. Preferably, the application can be performed at least twice, such as at least three times, at least four times, or at least five times, and the time interval between two sequential applications can be at least one week. This treatment regimen advantageously induces effective treatment of rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof on rice plants or parts thereof. Compared to untreated or treated with commercially available reference products, such treatment regimens also reduce rice loss and increase rice yield.

[0086] In embodiments of the methods taught herein, the application of geraniol choline or a composition as taught herein may be performed before (“preventive application”) or after (“therapeutic application”) the onset of fungal diseases (particularly rice blast or sheath blight) or their symptoms.

[0087] In embodiments of the methods taught herein, geraniol or the composition may be applied to the rice plant, its parts, or the location where the rice plant is grown before rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appears (or occurs) on the rice plant or its parts. In embodiments, geraniol or the composition may be applied to the rice plant, its parts, or the location where the rice plant is grown before symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear (or occur) on the rice plant or its parts. In embodiments, the method may include the prophylactic application of geraniol or the composition taught herein. In embodiments, the method may include a prophylactic treatment regimen of geraniol or the composition taught herein. The use of pelargonidin (e.g., at a dose that does not cause phytotoxicity) as a preventative application or preventative treatment regimen has been shown to result in highly effective treatment of rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof, and increased rice yield, even exceeding the efficacy and rice yield obtained after preventative or therapeutic treatment with commercially available reference products and after therapeutic treatment with pelargonidin.

[0088] As used herein, "preventive application" means applying geraniol or a combination thereof, as taught herein, to the rice plant, its parts, or the site where the rice plant is grown before or before the appearance (or occurrence, occurrence) of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof on the rice plant or its parts, or before the appearance (or occurrence, occurrence) of symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof.

[0089] As used herein, the term "preventive treatment regimen" refers to a treatment regimen in which a preventive treatment is administered as defined herein.

[0090] In embodiments, the first application of geraniol or a combination thereof as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown may occur before or before symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on or on the rice plant or a portion thereof. In embodiments, when more than one application is made, the sequential application of geraniol or a combination thereof as taught herein is also performed on the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown, before or before symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on or on the rice plant or a portion thereof.

[0091] In embodiments, pelargonidin or the composition may be applied to the rice plant, its portion, or the site where the rice plant is grown after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice plant or its portion. In embodiments, pelargonidin or the composition may be applied to the rice plant, its portion, or the site where the rice plant is grown after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice plant or its portion. In embodiments, the method may include therapeutic application of pelargonidin or the composition as taught herein. In embodiments, the method may include therapeutic treatment regimens of pelargonidin or the composition as taught herein. Although pelargonidin is generally known as a contact herbicide, therapeutic application or therapeutic treatment regimens have unexpectedly resulted in highly effective treatment of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof, and increased rice yield. Therapeutic application or therapeutic treatment regimens using pelargonidin (e.g., at a dose that does not cause phytotoxicity) advantageously outperform the efficacy and rice yield obtained after therapeutic treatment using a commercially available reference product.

[0092] As used herein, "therapeutic application" means applying geraniol or a combination thereof, as taught herein, to the rice plant, its parts, or the site where the rice plant is grown, before or after the appearance (or occurrence, occurrence) of symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof on the rice plant or its parts.

[0093] As used herein, the term "therapeutic treatment regimen" refers to a treatment regimen in which the application is therapeutically applied as defined herein.

[0094] In an embodiment, geraniol or the composition may be first applied to the rice plant, its portion, or the location where the rice plant is grown, after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice plant or its portion, and before the intensity of the symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or the combination thereof reaches at most 25%. In an embodiment, geraniol or the composition may be first applied to the rice plant, its portion, or the location where the rice plant is grown, after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice plant or its portion, and before the intensity of the symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or the combination thereof reaches at most 20%, at most 15%, at most 10%, or at most 5%. For example, pelargonidin or its combination can be first applied to the rice plant, its parts, or the site where the rice plant is grown, after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice plant or its parts, and before the intensity of the symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof reaches at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, or at most 1%. Such therapeutic application or treatment regimen using pelargonidin (e.g., at a dose that does not cause phytotoxicity) results in highly effective treatment of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof, and improved rice yields, exceeding the efficacy and rice yields obtained after therapeutic treatment using commercially available reference products.

[0095] In an embodiment, the first application of pelargonidin or a composition as taught herein to the rice plant, its portion, or the location where the rice plant is grown may be performed on the same day after the initial symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or its portion. In an embodiment, the first application of pelargonidin or a composition as taught herein to the rice plant, its portion, or the location where the rice plant is grown may be performed 1 to 14 days (2 weeks) after the initial symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or its portion, such as 1 to 7 days (1 week), 1 to 4 days, 1 to 3 days, or 1 to 2 days after the initial symptoms appear on the rice plant or its portion. In an embodiment, a second or other application of pelargonidin or a composition as taught herein to the rice plant, its portion, or the location where the rice plant is grown may be performed 7 days (1 week) after the previous application. In embodiments, a second or other application of the pelargonidin or composition as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown may be performed 1 to 4 weeks, such as 1 to 3 weeks or 1 to 2 weeks, following the previous application. In embodiments, a first application of the pelargonidin or composition as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown may be performed on the same day after the first symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or a portion thereof, and a second application of the pelargonidin or composition as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown may be performed 7 days (1 week) following the first application.

[0096] In embodiments, the method may comprise a therapeutic application or therapeutic treatment regimen of pelargonidin or a composition as taught herein, wherein the symptom intensity of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof is at most 25%, at most 20%, at most 15%, at most 10%, or at most 5% upon the first application. In embodiments, the method may comprise a therapeutic application or therapeutic treatment regimen of pelargonidin or a composition as taught herein, wherein the symptom intensity of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof is at most 4.5%, at most 4%, at most 3.5%, at most 3%, at most 2.5%, at most 2%, at most 1.5%, or at most 1% upon the first application.

[0097] In embodiments, the first application of geraniol or its composition as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown may occur after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or a portion thereof, preferably before the symptom intensity reaches at most 25%, at most 20%, at most 15%, at most 10%, or at most 5%. In embodiments, when more than one application is made, the sequential application of geraniol or its composition as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown may occur after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or a portion thereof, preferably before or after the symptom intensity reaches at most 25%, at most 20%, at most 15%, at most 10%, or at most 5%.

[0098] The timing of the onset of symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof depends on many different factors and conditions, including rice species, rice variety, and weather conditions. Based on experience, farmers will know or be able to determine (e.g., predict) the timing of the onset of symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof, based on dominant factors and conditions. The determination (e.g., prediction) of the timing of fungal diseases can be based on the use of Decision Support Systems (DSS), such as those used in Europe and the United States. DSS combines climate data with data from field spore detectors to predict the probability of pathogen invasion. Based on the risk prediction, farmers can apply pelargonidin or a combination thereof, as taught herein.

[0099] Typically, in embodiments, the method may include applying pelargonidin or a composition as taught herein (e.g., for the first time) to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown, between days 15 and 100, 15 and 90, 15 and 80, 15 and 75, or 15 and 70 after sowing rice seeds. Preferably, the method may include applying pelargonidin or a composition (e.g., for the first time) to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown, between days 20 and 65 after sowing rice seeds.

[0100] In one embodiment, preventative application can be performed by applying pelargonidin or a combination thereof (e.g., for the first time) as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown, between 15 and 30 days after sowing rice seeds. In another embodiment, preventative application can be performed by applying pelargonidin or a combination thereof (e.g., for the first time) as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown, between 20 and 30 days after sowing rice seeds.

[0101] In an embodiment, a therapeutic application can be performed by applying pelargonidin or a composition thereof (e.g., for the first time) as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown, on days 31 to 100, 31 to 90, 31 to 80, 31 to 75, or 31 to 70 after sowing rice seeds. In an embodiment, a therapeutic application can be performed by applying pelargonidin or a composition thereof (e.g., for the first time) as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown, on days 31 to 65, 31 to 55, or 31 to 45 after sowing rice seeds. In an embodiment, a therapeutic application can be performed by applying geraniol choline or a combination thereof (e.g., for the first time) as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown, on days 35 to 80, 40 to 75, or 45 to 70 after sowing rice seeds.

[0102] In embodiments, the methods taught herein include applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown in an amount effective in preventing or controlling rice frost, sheath blight, or combinations thereof on the rice plant or a portion thereof. In embodiments, the methods taught herein include applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown in an amount effective in preventing or controlling fungal infections of Rhizoctonia solani and / or Pyrodactylus oryzae on the rice plant or a portion thereof.

[0103] In embodiments, compositions containing pelargonidin may be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 0.1 L / ha to 10 L / ha. In embodiments, compositions containing pelargonidin may be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown at concentrations of 0.5 L / ha to 10 L / ha, 1 L / ha to 10 L / ha, 2 L / ha to 8 L / ha, or 2 L / ha to 6 L / ha. Preferably, pelargonidin or compositions as taught herein are applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 3 L / ha to 7 L / ha, such as 4 L / ha to 6 L / ha. Such dosages advantageously allow for more effective treatment of rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof on the rice plant or a portion thereof compared to commercially available reference products.

[0104] In an embodiment, pelargonidin may be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of at least 0.01 kg / ha. In another embodiment, pelargonidin may be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of at least 0.02 kg / ha, at least 0.04 kg / ha, at least 0.06 kg / ha, at least 0.08 kg / ha, or at least 0.1 kg / ha. For example, pelargonidin may be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of at least 0.2 kg / ha, at least 0.4 kg / ha, at least 0.6 kg / ha, at least 0.8 kg / ha, at least 1.0 kg / ha, at least 1.5 kg / ha, at least 2.0 kg / ha, or at least 2.5 kg / ha.

[0105] In an embodiment, pelargonidin can be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 0.01 kg / ha to 10.0 kg / ha. In another embodiment, pelargonidin can be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown at concentrations of 0.04 kg / ha to 5.0 kg / ha, 0.1 kg / ha to 4.0 kg / ha, or 0.2 kg / ha to 10 kg / ha, 0.4 kg / ha to 8.0 kg / ha, 0.5 kg / ha to 5.0 kg / ha, 0.6 kg / ha to 4.0 kg / ha, 0.8 kg / ha to 4.0 kg / ha, 0.75 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / h, 0.8 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, or 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha. Preferably, pelargonidin is applied to the rice plant, parts thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown at concentrations of 0.8 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, or 1.5 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha. Such dosages advantageously result in more effective treatment of rice blast, sheath blight, or combinations thereof on the rice plant or parts thereof compared to commercially available reference products.

[0106] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating rice blast disease), pelargonidin can be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 0.01 kg / ha to 10 kg / ha, for example, at concentrations of 0.04 kg / ha to 5.0 kg / ha, 0.1 kg / ha to 4.0 kg / ha, 0.8 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, or 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha. The pelargonidin or composition taught herein can be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown before rice blast disease is manifested or before rice blast disease symptoms are manifested on the rice plant or a portion thereof. Preferably, the application can be performed at least twice, and the time interval between the two sequential applications can be at least one week. Such application provides high efficacy in treating rice blast disease in the rice plant or a portion thereof, and thus provides high rice yield.

[0107] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating rice blast), pelargonidin can be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown at concentrations from 0.01 kg / ha to 10 kg / ha, such as from 0.04 kg / ha to 5.0 kg / ha, 0.1 kg / ha to 4.0 kg / ha, 0.8 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, or 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha. The application of pelargonidin or a combination thereof, as taught herein, to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown can occur after rice blast or after the onset of rice blast symptoms, preferably before the symptom intensity reaches at most 25%. Preferably, the application can be performed at least five times, and the time interval between two sequential applications can be at least one week. Such applications provide high efficacy in treating rice blast in rice plants or a portion thereof, and thus provide high rice yields.

[0108] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating sheath blight), pelargonidin choline may be applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown at concentrations from 0.01 kg / ha to 10 kg / ha, such as 0.04 kg / ha to 5.0 kg / ha, 0.1 kg / ha to 4.0 kg / ha, 0.8 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, or 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha. The application of pelargonidin choline or a composition as taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown may occur before sheath blight or sheath blight symptoms are observed on the rice plant or its portion. Preferably, the application may be performed at least twice, and the time interval between the two sequential applications may be at least one week. Such applications provide high efficacy in treating sheath blight on rice plants or their portions, and thus provide high rice yields.

[0109] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating sheath blight), pelargonidin choline may be applied to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown at concentrations from 0.01 kg / ha to 10 kg / ha, such as from 0.04 kg / ha to 5.0 kg / ha, 0.1 kg / ha to 4.0 kg / ha, 0.8 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, or 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha. The application of pelargonidin choline or a composition as taught herein to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown may occur after sheath blight or after the onset of sheath blight symptoms on the rice crop or a portion thereof, preferably before the symptom intensity reaches at most 25%. Preferably, the application may be performed at least four times, and the time interval between two sequential applications may be at least one week. Such applications provide high efficacy in treating sheath blight on rice crops or a portion thereof, and thus provide high rice yields.

[0110] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein, the efficacy level of geraniol choline or the composition taught herein may be at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95%.

[0111] In the embodiments, the crop damage intensity (I) caused by fungal diseases such as rice blast or sheath blight can be calculated using formula (1):

[0112]

[0113] Where I = crop damage intensity; n = number of tillers in each invasion scale; v = invasion scale value for each invasion category; V = specified maximum invasion scale value; N = total number of tillers observed.

[0114] The scale of rice blast infection can be determined as follows: 0 = no infection; 1 = lesion: pinhead size; 2 = lesion: larger than pinhead; 3 = lesion: necrotic patch, round or slightly elliptical, 1-2 mm long, with brown edges; 4 = typical elongated hole, 1-2 mm long, less than 2% of the leaf area affected; 5 = 2-10% of the leaf area affected by typical rice blast infection; 6 = 11-25% of the leaf area affected by typical rice blast infection; 7 = 26-50% of the leaf area affected by typical rice blast infection; 8 = 51-75% of the leaf area affected by typical rice blast infection; 9 = 76-100% of the leaf area affected by typical rice blast infection.

[0115] The extent of sheath blight can be determined as follows: 0 = no infection; 1 = early symptoms of leaf damage; 3 = symptoms of more than 25% damage to the first and second panicles; 5 = symptoms of more than 25% damage to the first, second, and third panicles; 7 = symptoms of more than 25% damage to all panicles; 9 = all tillers are rotten.

[0116] In the embodiments, the efficacy level (percentage) of the fungicide (such as geraniol choline or a composition as taught herein) can be calculated according to formula (2):

[0117] Efficacy level (%) = (ISK - ISP)(ISK) -1 ×100% (2)

[0118] Wherein: ISK = the intensity of fungal disease damage to crops in the control (without fungicide); and ISP = the intensity of fungal disease damage to crops in fungicide treatment. The intensity of crop damage can be calculated using formula (1) provided in this paper.

[0119] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating rice blast disease), the efficacy level of geraniol or the composition taught herein may be at least 65%, at least 70%, or at least 75%, preferably at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95%. Advantageously, in embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating rice blast disease), in preventative treatment regimens taught herein, the efficacy level of geraniol may be at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95%. In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating rice blast disease), in therapeutic treatment regimens taught herein, the efficacy level of geraniol may be at least 65%, at least 70%, or at least 75%, preferably at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95%.

[0120] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating sheath blight), preferably when applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 0.8 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, the efficacy level of geraniol choline may be at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95%. In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating sheath blight), preferably when applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, the efficacy level of geraniol choline may be at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95%.

[0121] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating sheath blight), in preventative treatment regimens taught herein, the efficacy level of geraniol choline may be at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95%. In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating sheath blight), in preventative treatment regimens taught herein, preferably when applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, the efficacy level of geraniol choline may be at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95%. In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for the treatment of sheath blight), in therapeutic treatment regimens taught herein, preferably when applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha, the efficacy level of geraniol choline may be at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95%.

[0122] In the examples, the rice yield after application of pelargonidin or a combination as taught herein can be increased by at least about 5% relative to the rice yield of untreated rice (i.e., untreated control) or the rice yield after application of a commercially available reference fungicide (i.e., compared to it).

[0123] As used in this article, "rice yield" or "dry rice harvest" refers to the average weight of brown rice (harvested dry grain, or GKP) harvested per surface area. Rice yield can be expressed in kg / ha or kg / m². 2 .

[0124] The rice yield of the rice crop treated with the pelargonidin or composition as taught herein can be measured at time points between about 7 to 350 days, about 7 to 300 days, about 7 to 250 days, about 7 to 200 days, about 7 to 150 days, or about 10 to 100 days, such as about 15 to 75 days, about 20 to 60 days, or about 25 to 50 days after application to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice crop is grown. In an embodiment, the rice yield of the rice crop treated with the pelargonidin or composition as taught herein can be measured at the time of harvesting the rice crop to collect its grains or produce, i.e., at the time of collecting mature rice from the field. For example, rice yields of rice crops treated with geraniol choline or a combination as taught herein can be measured at time points between approximately 75 and 200 days after sowing, such as between approximately 100 and 150 days or between approximately 110 and 130 days after sowing. Rice yields of rice crops treated with geraniol choline or a combination as taught herein and rice crops not treated in this way (i.e., untreated controls) will be measured at the same time points.

[0125] The methods and uses taught herein can provide an advantage over untreated plants in which they are treated. "Untreated rice" or "untreated control" refers to rice of the same species (e.g., genotype-same or genetically identical) and grown under substantially the same conditions (e.g., for the same duration, in the same climate, cultivated using the same materials according to the same methods, and yield and other characteristics measured according to the same methods) as rice that has been treated with pelargonidin or its composition as taught herein, except that the untreated rice has not been treated with pelargonidin or its composition as taught herein, its parts, or the location where it was grown. These terms may be used synonymously with "reference plant" or "reference," which is a plant that is genetically identical to the treated plant and manipulated in substantially the same manner except for the treatment under investigation, and thus provides a meaningful and informative control for detecting the effect of the treatment. Therefore, the treated plant and the reference plant may be exposed to substantially the same environmental conditions.

[0126] Examples of commercially available contact fungicides include Nordox 56WP (Allied Botanical Corporation, Philippines; active ingredient: copper oxide), Antracol 70WP (Bayer Crop Science; active ingredient: propineb), Seltima (BASF; active ingredient: piraclostrobin), and Thiopron (UPL Europe Ltd; active ingredient: sulfur).

[0127] Examples of commercially available systemic reference fungicides include Amistar Top 325SC (Syngenta Bangladesh; active ingredients: Azoxystrobin and Difenoconazole)), Zerox (Dhanuka; active ingredient: Propiconazole)), Luna experience (Bayer; active ingredients: Fluopyram and Tebuconazole)), and Roko (Biostadt; active ingredient: Thiophane methyl)).

[0128] In the embodiments, compared with rice yield (e.g., expressed in kg / area) untreated (i.e., untreated control) or rice yield after application of a commercially available reference fungicide (i.e., compared to), the rice yield (e.g., expressed in kg / area) after application of geraniol choline or a combination as taught herein can be increased (i.e., increased) by at least about 5% (i.e., may be at least 1.05 times), at least about 10% (i.e., may be at least 1.10 times), at least about 15% (i.e., 1.15 times), at least about 20% (i.e., 1.20 times), at least about 25% (i.e., 1.25 times), or at least about 30% (i.e., 1.3 times) 0x), at least approximately 35% (i.e., 1.35x), at least approximately 40% (i.e., 1.40x), at least approximately 45% (i.e., 1.45x), at least approximately 50% (i.e., 1.50x), at least approximately 55% (i.e., 1.55x), at least approximately 60% (i.e., 1.60x), at least approximately 65% ​​(i.e., 1.65x), at least approximately 70% (i.e., 1.70x), at least approximately 75% (i.e., 1.75x), at least approximately 80% (i.e., 1.80x), at least approximately 85% (i.e., 1.85x), at least approximately 90% (i.e., 1.90x), at least approximately 95% (i.e., 1.95x), or at least approximately 100% (i.e., 2x).

[0129] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for the treatment of rice blast), the rice yield (e.g., expressed in kg / area) after applying pelargonidin as a preventative treatment as taught herein can be increased (i.e., increased by) at least about 5% relative to the rice yield (e.g., expressed in kg / area) after applying a commercially available reference fungicide or after applying pelargonidin as a therapeutic treatment regimen as taught herein (i.e., compared to the latter). In embodiments of methods or uses as taught herein (such as for treating rice blast), the rice yield (e.g., expressed in kg / area) after applying pelargonidin as taught herein as a preventative treatment can be increased (i.e., by at least about 10%, at least about 1.10 times), at least about 15% (i.e., 1.15 times), at least about 20% (i.e., 1.20 times), at least about 25% (i.e., 1.25 times), or at least about 30% (i.e., 1.3 times) compared to the rice yield (e.g., expressed in kg / area) after applying a commercially available reference fungicide or applying pelargonidin as a therapeutic treatment regimen as taught herein. 0x), at least approximately 35% (i.e., 1.35x), at least approximately 40% (i.e., 1.40x), at least approximately 45% (i.e., 1.45x), at least approximately 50% (i.e., 1.50x), at least approximately 55% (i.e., 1.55x), at least approximately 60% (i.e., 1.60x), at least approximately 65% ​​(i.e., 1.65x), at least approximately 70% (i.e., 1.70x), at least approximately 75% (i.e., 1.75x), at least approximately 80% (i.e., 1.80x), at least approximately 85% (i.e., 1.85x), at least approximately 90% (i.e., 1.90x), at least approximately 95% (i.e., 1.95x), or at least approximately 100% (i.e., 2x).

[0130] In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for the treatment of sheath blight), the rice yield (e.g., expressed in kg / area) after applying a commercially available reference fungicide to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown, or after applying pelargonidin (preferably at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha) as a therapeutic treatment regimen taught herein, can be increased (i.e., by at least about 5%) compared to the rice yield after applying pelargonidin (preferably at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha) as a preventative treatment regimen taught herein (i.e., the rice yield after a preventative treatment regimen taught herein can be at least about 1.05 times). In embodiments of the methods or uses taught herein (such as for treating sheath blight), the rice yield (e.g., expressed in kg / area) after applying a commercially available reference fungicide to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown, or after applying pelargonidin (preferably at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha) as a therapeutic treatment regimen taught herein (i.e., compared to the rice yield after applying pelargonidin (preferably at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha) as a preventative treatment regimen taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown can be increased (i.e., increased) by at least about 10% (i.e., 1.10 times) and at least about 15% (i.e., 1.15 times) as a preventative treatment regimen taught herein to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown. At least approximately 20% (i.e., 1.20x), at least approximately 25% (i.e., 1.25x), at least approximately 30% (i.e., 1.30x), at least approximately 35% (i.e., 1.35x), at least approximately 40% (i.e., 1.40x), at least approximately 45% (i.e., 1.45x), at least approximately 50% (i.e., 1.50x), at least approximately 55% (i.e., 1.55x), at least approximately 60% (i.e., 1.60x), at least approximately 65% ​​(i.e., 1.65x), at least approximately 70% (i.e., 1.70x), at least approximately 75% (i.e., 1.75x), at least approximately 80% (i.e., 1.80x), at least approximately 85% (i.e., 1.85x), at least approximately 90% (i.e., 1.90x), at least approximately 95% (i.e., 1.95x), or at least approximately 100% (i.e., 2x).

[0131] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention provides a method for increasing (i.e., improving) the yield of a rice crop relative to the yield of rice without fungicide treatment (i.e., an untreated control) or the yield of rice after the application of a commercially available reference fungicide, the method comprising applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown.

[0132] On the other hand, it relates to the use of geraniol choline or compositions containing geraniol choline in the prevention or control of rice blast, sheath blight or combinations thereof in rice or parts thereof.

[0133] Therefore, one related party provides the use of geraniol choline or a composition containing geraniol choline in the prevention or resistance to fungal infections of rice or parts thereof, wherein the fungal infection is Rhizoctonia solani or Pyrrosia lingua.

[0134] Therefore, on the one hand, pelargonidin or compositions containing pelargonidin are provided as fungicides against Rhizoctonia solani or Rhizoctonia solani in rice or parts thereof.

[0135] In this embodiment, the fungicide is a contact fungicide. Preferably, the fungicide is a systemic fungicide.

[0136] Therefore, on the one hand, pelargonidin choline or compositions containing pelargonidin choline are provided as systemic fungicides against Rhizoctonia solani or Rhizoctonia solani in rice or parts thereof. This is unexpected given that pelargonidin is known to be used as a contact (i.e., non-systemic) herbicide.

[0137] This application also provides aspects and embodiments as described below:

[0138] 1. A method for preventing or controlling rice blast, rice sheath blight, or a combination thereof in rice or a portion thereof, the method comprising applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice is grown.

[0139] 2. According to the method of statement 1, wherein the rice crop is selected from the group consisting of: rice, West African cultivated rice, Australian rice, rice barley, short-flowered rice, double-arc rice, rice argentiflora, large-leaved rice, broad-leaved rice, long-horned rice, long-herb rice, rice medusae, micro-particle rice, New Caledonian rice, Asian rice, East African wild rice, Litre rice, perennial rice, rice serrata, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice and wild rice clusters.

[0140] 3. The method according to statement 1 or 2, wherein the rice crop is paddy rice; preferably, wherein the rice crop is indica rice or japonica rice.

[0141] 4. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 3, wherein the composition is an aqueous composition.

[0142] 5. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 4, wherein the composition is a sprayable liquid or concentrate.

[0143] 6. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 5, wherein the composition comprises 0.001% (v / v) to 70% (v / v) geraniol.

[0144] 7. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 6, wherein the composition is a concentrate containing 5.0% (w / v) to 70% (w / v) geraniol, preferably between 10% (w / v) and 60% (w / v) geraniol.

[0145] 8. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 6, wherein the composition is a sprayable liquid containing 0.001% (w / v) to 5.0% (w / v) geraniol, preferably between 0.1% (w / v) and 2.0% (w / v) geraniol, more preferably between 0.1% (w / v) and 1.0% (w / v) geraniol.

[0146] 9. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 8, wherein the composition further comprises one or more adjuvants, such as solvents, carriers, surfactants, adhesives, antifreeze agents, thickeners, buffers, defoamers, antioxidants, preservatives, fragrances, or colorants.

[0147] 10. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 9, wherein the method comprises applying geraniol or the composition to the entire aboveground portion of the rice plant.

[0148] 11. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 10, wherein the application of geraniol or the composition to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown is carried out before symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or a portion thereof.

[0149] 12. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 10, wherein the application of geraniol or the composition to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site of the rice plant’s growth is carried out after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice plant or a portion thereof.

[0150] 13. According to any one of statements 1 to 10 or 12, wherein after symptoms of rice fever, sheath blight or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or a portion thereof, and before the intensity of such symptoms of rice fever, sheath blight or a combination thereof is at most 25%, such as at most 20%, at most 15%, at most 10% or at most 5%, pelargonidin or the composition thereof is first applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof or the location where the rice plant is grown.

[0151] 14. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 13, wherein pelargonidin is applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 0.01 kg / ha to 10.0 kg / ha; preferably, wherein pelargonidin is applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha.

[0152] 15. The method according to any one of statements 1 to 14, wherein geraniol or the composition is sprayed onto the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown.

[0153] 16. Use of geraniol choline or a composition containing geraniol choline in the prevention or control of rice blast, sheath blight or a combination thereof in rice or a portion thereof.

[0154] The following non-limiting examples further support the above aspects and embodiments.

[0155] Example

[0156] Comparative Example 1: Evaluation of the use of a composition containing geraniol choline to combat rice blast disease in winter barley according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0157] A pot experiment was conducted on winter barley to determine the efficacy of a composition containing geraniol choline (referred to as "BPA 056") as a protective (or preventative) and therapeutic treatment against barley-rice blast disease (Magnaporthe oryzae).

[0158] method

[0159] Experimental Design

[0160] A pot experiment was conducted using the winter barley cultivar SY Venture (day 0). Seeds were sown in pots with a diameter of 9 cm at a ratio of 10 seeds per pot, with three replicates for each treatment. The pots were then transferred to a greenhouse and grown at 23°C until the plants reached the growth stage where the first leaf had fully emerged (BBCH 11). The experiment consisted of 10 treatments and was inoculated with a spore suspension of Sclerotinia oryzae.

[0161] Product application

[0162] The treatments applied in the trials are detailed in Table 1. The composition (“BPA 056”) contained 42% (w / v) pelargonidin or 0.42 kg pelargonidin per liter of the composition. The plants were sprayed with a high volume of water (2 ml per replicate pot, equivalent to 3125 L / ha) when at BBCH 11 (day 11 of protectant treatment and day 14 of therapeutic treatment). Both inoculated and uninoculated controls were sprayed with 2 ml of water. Treatments were applied using a handheld nebulizer. Once the leaves of the inoculated plants had dried, they were removed from the humidification chamber and the therapeutic treatment was applied.

[0163] The dosages of 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1% (v / v) are the concentrations of the composition containing geraniol choline in the spray solution.

[0164] Table 1: List of treatments and application times in trials testing the efficacy of different compositions and treatment regimens in controlling rice blast disease in winter barley plants.

[0165] 1 BPA056 1％ 20 One day before vaccination 2 BPA056 0.75％ 15 One day before vaccination 3 BPA056 0.5％ 10 One day before vaccination 4 Proline 275 0.72l / ha 0.46 One day before vaccination 5 BPA056 1％ 20 Two days after vaccination 6 BPA056 0.75％ 15 Two days after vaccination 7 BPA056 0.5％ 10 Two days after vaccination 8 Proline 275 0.72l / ha 0.46 Two days after vaccination 9 Untreated - vaccinated - - - 10 Untreated - Unvaccinated - - -

[0166] Vaccination

[0167] When the plants are at BBCH 11 (day 12), inoculate each pot with 2 ml of spore suspension using a handheld atomizer. The applied spore suspension contains 4 × 10⁻⁶ spores. 4 spores ml -1 The conidia of the rice sclerotinia causal agent.

[0168] Immediately after inoculation, the plants were transferred to a humidity chamber (100% humidity) and cultured at approximately 25°C. Two days after inoculation, the plants were removed from the humidity chamber and transferred to a quarantine greenhouse set at 23°C.

[0169] Leaf assessment

[0170] Once symptoms are fully developed on the inoculated control, assess the disease severity. Assess the percentage of total leaf area affected by disease symptoms on the first leaf (treated / inoculated leaf) of five plants in each replicate pot. Leaves for assessment are randomly selected from each replicate pot.

[0171] Statistical analysis

[0172] Differences between treatments were determined by calculating the minimum significant difference of the means using Genstat version 16 and analysis with ANO VA. Percentage values ​​were transformed using angular transformation before statistical analysis.

[0173] Results and Discussion

[0174] On day 24 (12 days post-inoculation), when the plants were at BBCH 13 (three leaves fully expanded), symptoms of rice blast caused by Sclerotinia oryzae were assessed. Only the first batch of leaves was assessed, i.e., leaves that appeared before treatment. The disease level of untreated plants was assessed as 39.6% of the affected leaf area (Table 2, transformed data).

[0175] Table 2: Results of leaf area affected (%) in trials testing the efficacy of different compositions and treatment regimens in controlling rice blast disease in winter barley plants.

[0176] 1 Protectant BPA056 (1%) 20.7 25.98 c 2 Protectant BPA056 (0.75%) 35.3 35.93 de 3 Protectant BPA056 (0.5%) 52.0 45.7 f 4 Protectant Proline 275 (0.72 l / ha) 0.0 0 a 5 Therapeutic BPA056 (1%) 35.3 35.58 de 6 Therapeutic BPA056 (0.75%) 39.0 38.29 def 7 Therapeutic BPA056 (0.5%) 27.3 30.7 cd 8 Therapeutic Proline 275 (0.72 l / ha) 3.6 10.55 b 9 Comparison After vaccination 41.0 39.56 ef 10 Comparison Unvaccinated 0 0 a

[0177] *The disease data were transformed using an angle transformation before any statistical analysis was performed. **Transformed data with the same letters showed no significant difference at the 5% significance level (LSD(5%) = 7.77).

[0178] Plants treated with a protectant of BPA056 (1%) or Proline (0.72 L / ha) or a therapeutic of BPA056 (0.5%) or Proline (0.72 L / ha) showed a significant reduction in symptoms caused by Sclerotinia oryzae compared to the inoculated control (p = 0.05). All other treatments did not show significant differences in disease levels compared to the inoculated control (Table 2, transformed data).

[0179] The control levels achieved using the commercially available reference product (0.72 L / ha of Proline 275) (whether applied as a protectant or a therapeutic treatment) were significantly higher than any BPA056 treatment. Given this, the superior results obtained with BPA056 in rice field trials (as described in Examples 1 and 2) were unexpected.

[0180] Example 1: Field efficacy test of a composition containing geraniol choline against rice blast disease according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0181] A field trial was established to determine the efficacy of a composition containing geraniol choline (referred to as "BPA 056") as a protectant and therapeutic against rice blast disease.

[0182] Materials and Methods

[0183] All field trials referred to in this study were experimental tests conducted under field conditions. Test locations: Bojong Terong Sub-Village, Palabuan Village, Ujungjaya District, Sumedang Regency, West Java.

[0184] The experiment used the Inpari 32 rice variety or other commonly used varieties in the vicinity of the experimental site that are susceptible to rice blast (Pyrethrum indica).

[0185] Use pest-free and disease-free rice seeds. Apply fertilizer according to local recommendations. Maintain the plants in the best possible way to achieve the purpose of the trial.

[0186] Seedlings 21 days after sowing were used. 2-3 seeds were planted per planting hole. Following Indonesian farmer practice and based on pesticide committee approval, each test plot was 10m x 10m in size, with 25 clumps observed per plot, and the plots were separated by 50cm wide field ridges. Planting began on day 0.

[0187] Pilot Zone Layout

[0188] A randomized complete block design was used, with nine treatment options, as provided in Table 3, and three replicates. In summary, Table 3 reports nine different treatment options. Each treatment option was administered in three distinct trial areas (replicas). Each trial area was 10m × 10m in size. The trial areas were distributed according to the randomized complete block design.

[0189] Water usage: 400 L / ha. The contact dose is the final concentration of the composition in the spray solution. For example, Nordox is applied at a final concentration of 2 g / L spray solution. Expressed in grams of Nordox per hectare: 2 g / L × 400 L / ha = 800 g Nordox per hectare. For example, AmistarTop 325SC is applied at a final concentration of 300 mL / ha. Expressed in mL / L spray solution: 300 mL / 400 L = 0.75 mL / L. For example, BPA056 is applied at 2 L / ha. Expressed in mL / L spray solution: 2000 mL / 400 L = 5 mL / L spray solution.

[0190] The composition containing geraniol choline (referred to as "BPA 056") has a concentration of 42% (w / v) geraniol choline or 42g geraniol choline per 100mL of composition or 420g per liter (i.e., 0.42kg). The concentration of geraniol choline in the spray solution is: 2L composition × 0.42kg geraniol choline / L composition = 0.84kg geraniol choline; 4L composition × 0.42L geraniol choline / L composition = 1.68kg geraniol choline; or 6L composition × 0.42L geraniol choline / L composition = 2.52kg geraniol choline.

[0191] Therefore, the concentration of geraniol choline in the spray solution is 0.84 kg / 400 L = 0.21 kg / 100 L = 210 g / 100 L = 2.10 g / L = 0.21 g / 100 ml = 0.21% (w / v); 1.68 kg / 400 L = 0.42 g / 100 ml = 0.42% (w / v); or 2.52 kg / 400 L = 0.63 g / 100 ml = 0.63% (w / v).

[0192] The recommended exposure doses for the active ingredients are as follows: for prophylactic reference products: 448 g / ha; for therapeutic reference products: 60 g / ha for atropine and 37.5 g / ha for basil; for BPA0562 l / ha: 0.84 kg / ha; for BPA0564 l / ha: 1.68 kg / ha; and for BPA0566 l / ha: 2.52 kg / ha.

[0193] Table 3: Compositions, dosages, and treatment times tested in trials evaluating the efficacy of different compositions and treatment regimens in controlling rice blast disease.

[0194]

[0195]

[0196] Data evaluation

[0197] Data on plant damage caused by the target pest and crop yield data were analyzed according to the experimental design used, with a difference of 5% between treated and control plants.

[0198] Methods and means of application

[0199] Instruct farmers on how to carry semi-automatic high-pressure 400l / ha or calibrated fungicide sprayers for application.

[0200] Application time and number of times

[0201] Regarding time A: the application is preventative, applied before symptoms appear.

[0202] For time B: The application is therapeutic. The first application is performed if invasive symptoms begin to appear in each test area and the intensity is still mild (less than 5%).

[0203] Application interval: Apply at 1-week intervals.

[0204] Number of applications: In the treatment program / SOP, at least 5 applications should be made no later than 2 weeks before harvest, but the number of applications may vary depending on field conditions. This is because preventative applications were only made 2 times due to the faster appearance of infection symptoms. The first application was made when the plant had 20 DAS.

[0205] Efficacy Standards

[0206] If the disease distribution is relatively uniform at the start of the experiment, the efficacy criterion is based on the degree of damage caused to the plants by the pathogen. However, if the degree of crop damage is uneven between test areas at the start of the experiment, the efficacy criterion is determined based on the progression of the disease. This can be seen from the variance analysis results of plant observations (the day before treatment).

[0207] The efficacy level of the tested fungicides can be calculated from the final observation using the following formula:

[0208] Efficacy level = (ISK - ISP)(ISK) -1 ×100%

[0209] Where: ISK = disease invasion intensity in the control group (without fungicide); ISP = disease invasion intensity in the fungicide treatment group.

[0210] Observation results

[0211] In the experiment, all test areas (test area size 10m × 10m) were treated, but disease assessment was performed on 25 rice bushes in each test area. In each experiment, 25 bushes were systematically selected.

[0212] The degree of damage to plants caused by *Pyrophyllus oryzae* is calculated using the following formula:

[0213]

[0214] Where: I = crop damage intensity; n = number of tillers in each invasion scale; v = invasion scale value for each invasion category; V = specified maximum invasion scale value; N = total number of tillers observed.

[0215] The scale of invasion by *Pyrrosia lingua* was determined as follows:

[0216] 0 = No infection; 1 = Lesion: pinhead size; 2 = Lesion: larger than pinhead; 3 = Lesion: necrotic patch, round or slightly oval, 1-2 mm long, with brown edges; 4 = Typical long hole, 1-2 mm long, less than 2% of the affected leaf area; 5 = 2-10% of the affected typical rice blast leaf area; 6 = 11-25% of the affected typical rice blast leaf area; 7 = 26-50% of the affected typical leaf area (blots); 8 = 51-75% of the affected typical rice blast leaf area; 9 = 76-100% of the affected typical rice blast leaf area.

[0217] Observation time

[0218] For all treatment regimens, the first observation was conducted 6 days after the first prophylactic application. Further observations were conducted every other week. The observation periods are presented in Table 4.

[0219] Results and Discussion

[0220] Effect of a composition according to an embodiment of the present invention on the degree of damage to rice crops caused by rice blast.

[0221] The ability of the composition containing geraniol choline (as described above, referred to as "BPA056") as a fungicide for the development of rice blast disease is provided in Table 4. The treatments used in the study were both preventative and curative, depending on the timing of the treatment. For preventative treatment, the fungicide was applied when disease symptoms were not obvious or the disease intensity value was 0%. In the observation following the first application (preventative), disease intensity remained invisible, with an intensity of 0% for each treatment. In the second observation (preventative), symptoms of rice blast disease began to appear. In this observation, disease intensity was observed in all treatments, i.e., in both BPA056 fungicide treatment and the comparative fungicides (NORDOX 56WP and AMISTARTOP 325SC). Therefore, only two preventative fungicide applications were performed, as disease symptoms began to appear in the second observation or one week after the second preventative fungicide application. The invasion intensity at the second observation was significantly different in preventative treatment compared to therapeutic treatment without fungicide application. The disease invasion intensity values ​​were much lower in preventative BPA056 fungicide treatment compared to both fungicide and therapeutic treatment.

[0222] Six days after the start of therapeutic treatment (Observation 3), there was no significant difference in disease intensity among the fungicide-treated areas. The fungicide-treated areas exhibited significantly lower disease intensity compared to the control treatment. However, among all fungicide treatments, the prophylactic BPA056 fungicide treatment (Time A) showed the lowest disease intensity value.

[0223] Table 4: Effect of the composition containing geraniol choline (“BPA056”) and comparative compositions and treatment regimens according to embodiments of the present invention on the average intensity (%) of rice blast disease infection (n=3)*

[0224]

[0225] *According to Duncan's Multiple Range Test, at a significance level of 5%, the values ​​marked with corresponding letters in the same column did not show significant differences.

[0226] The damage intensity increased with each observation. The observations in Table 4 show that the increase in damage intensity during BPA056 treatment was very low in subsequent observations. This is different from the control treatment, where the increase in attack intensity was very significant. At the end of the experiment, the highest detected rice blast intensity was in the control treatment, reaching 25.26%. Meanwhile, the detected rice blast intensity was lower in the BPA056 fungicide treatment. When compared to therapeutic treatment (Time B), preventative treatment with fungicide BPA056 (Time A) was the optimal treatment for suppressing rice blast development. Based on the overall observations, it can be seen that preventative fungicide application generally resulted in lower attack intensity values ​​compared to therapeutic fungicide application. When compared to the preventative reference product, preventative treatment with fungicide BPA056 at doses of 4 l / ha or 6 l / ha (Time A) provided better control of rice blast. When compared with the therapeutic reference product, the therapeutic treatment (time B) with a dose of fungicide BPA056 at 4 l / ha or 6 l / ha provides better control of rice blast.

[0227] Table 5: Efficacy levels of the composition containing geraniol choline (“BPA056”) and comparative compositions and treatment regimens against rice blast disease at the last observation (day 68) according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0228] Untreated 0 Preventive reference products 84.27 Therapeutic reference products 77.10 BPA056(Time A) 2l / ha 83.95 BPA056(Time A) 4l / ha 94.55 BPA056(Time A) 6l / ha 95.35 BPA056(Time B) 2l / ha 73.02 BPA056(Time B) 4l / ha 82.10 BPA056(Time B) 6l / ha 84.45

[0229] The efficacy level of a fungicide is measured based on its efficacy level value. A fungicide is considered effective in controlling the disease when its efficacy level exceeds 50%. The efficacy level of fungicide BPA056 is shown in Table 5. Based on efficacy level calculations, all tested doses are known to be effective in controlling rice blast disease. A preventative treatment with fungicide BPA056 at a dose of 6 L / ha yielded a highest efficacy level value of 95.35%, effectively controlling rice blast disease. However, other tested doses also showed efficacy levels exceeding 50%. Therefore, such doses are also considered effective in controlling rice blast disease.

[0230] Using the phytotoxicity of the compositions of the present invention

[0231] Phytotoxicity refers to the symptoms of damage to plants caused by the application of fungicides, even if the fungicide is applied to the recommended extent. Based on observations of the appearance of rice crops in the test areas, no phytotoxic symptoms caused by the application of BPA056 were observed. No phytotoxicity was observed in test areas treated with different doses and treatment regimens of BPA056.

[0232] The effect of the composition of the present invention on rice yield is illustrated by the use of this invention.

[0233] Table 6 provides compositions containing geraniol choline (“BPA056”) according to embodiments of the present invention, and compares the effects of application of the compositions and treatment regimens on rice yield. The use of BPA056 effectively suppressed yield losses caused by rice blast disease. The average results for harvested brown rice (harvested dry grain or GKP) treated with all fungicides were higher than those for the control treatment.

[0234] The highest GKP was achieved with prophylactic treatment of BPA056 at a dose of 6 L / ha, at 21.59 kg / test area. This yield was significantly different from the results of other treatments. The GKP result of the control treatment at a dose of 14.42 kg / test area was significantly different from that of BPA056 treatment. The difference in GKP results between BPA056 treatment and control treatment demonstrates that the administration of BPA056 can maintain yield.

[0235] Table 6: Effects of using the composition containing geraniol choline (“BPA056”) according to embodiments of the present invention and comparing the composition and treatment regimen on rice yield (day 89)

[0236] Untreated 14.24a Preventive reference products 20.96cde Therapeutic reference products 18.08b BPA056(Time A) 2l / ha 20.43cde BPA056(Time A) 4l / ha 21.21de BPA056(Time A) 6l / ha 21.59e BPA056(Time B) 2l / ha 18.52b BPA056(Time B) 4l / ha 19.33bc BPA056(Time B) 6l / ha 19.67bcd

[0237] *According to the Dunk multi-interval test, at a significance level of 5%, the values ​​marked with corresponding letters in the same column did not show significant differences.

[0238] in conclusion

[0239] - Applying a composition containing geraniol choline to rice (with preventative and therapeutic treatment options) can inhibit the development of rice blast disease at an efficacy level of over 50%.

[0240] - When the treatment is preventative, applying a composition containing geraniol choline to rice is more effective (e.g., higher efficacy levels) than therapeutic treatment.

[0241] - Compared with the control treatment, applying a composition containing geraniol choline to rice (with both preventative and therapeutic treatment options) can inhibit rice yield loss.

[0242] - Compared to therapeutic treatment, applying a composition containing geraniol choline to rice crops when the treatment is preventative resulted in higher rice yields.

[0243] - Prophylactic application of a composition containing geraniol choline is the best treatment option for controlling rice blast disease.

[0244] - When compared with the preventive reference product, prophylactic application of compositions containing geraniol choline at doses of 4 l / ha or 6 l / ha provides better treatment for rice blast (i.e., less severe and more effective rice blast).

[0245] - When compared with a therapeutic reference product, therapeutic application of a composition containing geraniol choline at a dose of 4 l / ha or 6 l / ha provides better treatment for rice blast (i.e., less severe and more effective rice blast).

[0246] - When compositions containing geraniol were applied to rice at all test doses (0.21%, 0.42%, or 0.63% (w / v) geraniol) (with both preventative and therapeutic treatment options), no phytotoxic symptoms were observed in the rice.

[0247] Example 2: Field efficacy test of a composition containing geraniol choline against rice sheath blight according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0248] Materials and Methods

[0249] All field trials referred to in this study were experimental tests conducted under field conditions. Test locations: Bojong Terong Sub-Village, Palabuan Village, Ujungjaya District, Sumedang Regency, West Java.

[0250] The experiment used the Inpari 32 rice variety or other commonly used varieties in the vicinity of the experimental site that are susceptible to sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani).

[0251] Use pest-free and disease-free rice seeds. Apply fertilizer according to local recommendations. Maintain the plants in the best possible way to achieve the purpose of the trial.

[0252] Seedlings 21 days after sowing were used. 2-3 seeds were planted per planting hole. Following Indonesian farmer practice and based on pesticide committee approval, each test plot was 10m x 10m in size, with 25 clumps observed per plot, and the plots were separated by 50cm wide field ridges. Planting began on day 0.

[0253] Pilot Zone Layout

[0254] A randomized complete block design was used, with nine treatment options, as provided in Table 7, and three replicates. In summary, Table 7 reports nine different treatment options. Each treatment option was administered in three distinct trial areas (replicas). Each trial area was 10m × 10m in size. The trial areas were distributed according to the randomized complete block design.

[0255] Water consumption: 400 L / ha. The contact dose is the final concentration of the composition in the spray solution. For example, Antracol 70 is applied at a final concentration of 1 kg / ha. Expressed in g / L spray solution: 1000 g / 400 L = 2.5 g / L.

[0256] The composition containing geraniol choline (referred to as "BPA 056") has a concentration of 42% (w / v) geraniol choline or 42g geraniol choline per 100mL of composition or 420g per liter (i.e., 0.42kg). The concentration of geraniol choline in the spray solution is: 2L composition × 0.42kg geraniol choline / L composition = 0.84kg geraniol choline; 4L composition × 0.42L geraniol choline / L composition = 1.68kg geraniol choline; or 6L composition × 0.42L geraniol choline / L composition = 2.52kg geraniol choline.

[0257] Therefore, the concentration of geraniol choline in the spray solution (i.e., the contact dose of the active ingredient) is 0.84 kg / 400 L = 0.21 kg / 100 L = 210 g / 100 L = 2.10 g / L = 0.21 g / 100 ml = 0.21% (w / v); 1.68 kg / 400 L = 0.42 g / 100 ml = 0.42% (w / v); or 2.52 kg / 400 L = 0.63 g / 100 ml = 0.63% (w / v).

[0258] The recommended exposure doses for the active ingredients are as follows: for prophylactic reference products: 700 g / ha; for therapeutic reference products: 60 g / ha for acetaminophen and 37.5 g / ha for methacin; for BPA056 2 l / ha: 0.84 kg / ha; for BPA056 4 l / ha: 1.68 kg / ha; for BPA056 6 l / ha: 2.52 kg / ha.

[0259] Table 7: Compositions, dosages, and treatment times tested in trials evaluating the efficacy of different compositions and treatment regimens in controlling rice sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani).

[0260]

[0261] Data evaluation

[0262] Data on plant damage caused by the target pest and crop yield data were analyzed according to the experimental design used, with a difference of 5% between treated and control plants.

[0263] Methods and means of application

[0264] Instruct farmers on how to use backpack semi-automatic high-pressure sprayers (400 l / ha) or calibrated fungicide sprayers for application.

[0265] Application time and number of times

[0266] Regarding time A: the application is preventative, applied before symptoms appear.

[0267] For time B: The application is a therapeutic application. If invasive symptoms begin to appear in each test area and the intensity is still mild (less than 5%), the first therapeutic application is performed.

[0268] Application interval: Apply at 1-week intervals. At least 5 applications should be made no later than 2 weeks before harvest (in the treatment program / SOP), but the number of applications may vary depending on field conditions. This is because invasive symptoms appear more quickly; therefore, for preventative applications, only 2 applications may be made. The first application is made when the plant has 29 DAS. For therapeutic applications, only 4 applications are made, due to the plant condition approaching harvest. Application timing is shown in Table 7.

[0269] Efficacy Standards

[0270] If the disease distribution is relatively uniform at the start of the experiment, the efficacy criterion is based on the degree of damage caused to the plants by the pathogen. However, if the degree of crop damage is uneven between test areas at the start of the experiment, the efficacy criterion is determined based on the progression of the disease. This can be seen from the variance analysis results of field observations (the day before treatment).

[0271] The efficacy level of the tested fungicides is expected to be ≥50%, calculated from the final observations using the following formula:

[0272] Efficacy level = (ISK - ISP)(ISK) -1 ×100%

[0273] Where: ISK = disease invasion intensity in the control group (without fungicide); ISP = disease invasion intensity in the fungicide treatment group.

[0274] Observation results

[0275] In the experiment, the entire test area (10m × 10m) was treated, but disease assessment was performed on 25 rice bushes in each test area. In each experiment, 25 bushes were systematically selected.

[0276] The degree of damage caused by Rhizoctonia solani to plants is calculated using the following formula:

[0277]

[0278] Where: I = crop damage intensity; n = number of tillers in each invasion scale; v = invasion scale value for each invasion category; V = specified maximum invasion scale value; N = total number of tillers observed.

[0279] The scale of invasion by Rhizoctonia solani was determined as follows:

[0280] 0 = No invasion; 1 = Early symptoms of leaf damage; 3 = Symptoms of more than 25% damage to the first and second ears; 5 = Symptoms of more than 25% damage to the first, second, and third ears; 7 = Symptoms of more than 25% damage to all ears; 9 = All tillers are rotten.

[0281] Observation time

[0282] For all treatment regimens, the first observation was conducted 6 days after the first prophylactic application. Further observations were conducted every other week. The observation periods are presented in Table 8.

[0283] Results and Discussion

[0284] Effect of a composition according to an embodiment of the present invention on the intensity of rice sheath blight

[0285] The test consisted of two treatment options: preventative and therapeutic. During the first observation, no symptoms of disease infection were observed, indicating a disease severity of 0% (Table 8). During the second observation, disease symptoms began to appear, therefore no further preventative treatment was administered.

[0286] The data in Table 8 show that application of the composition containing pelargonidin (referred to as "BPA056") reduced the intensity of rice sheath blight, as all BPA 056 treatments produced significantly different results compared to the control. During the experiment, the intensity of rice sheath blight treated with BPA 056 (especially at high doses) was lower than the control treatment. This indicates that application of the composition containing pelargonidin can inhibit the development of rice sheath blight.

[0287] Table 8: Effect of the composition containing geraniol choline (“BPA056”) and comparative compositions and treatment regimens according to embodiments of the present invention on the average intensity (%) of rice sheath blight (n=3)*

[0288]

[0289] *According to the Dunk multi-interval test, at the 5% significance level, values ​​with the same letter in the same column did not show significant differences.

[0290] The severity of sheath blight increases over time (with plant age). A significant increase in disease intensity was observed in tests using the lowest dose of BPA056, as well as in comparative and control fungicide treatments. Symptoms of sheath blight and empty ears were observed with the lowest dose (2 L / ha) of BPA056. Severe symptoms of sheath blight and empty ears were observed in comparative and control treatments. The disease primarily develops at plant maturity.

[0291] Among the treatment regimens with different dosages and application times, prophylactic application of the highest dose of BPA056 at 6 l / ha showed the lowest disease intensity (Table 8). From the second to the last observation, the results obtained from prophylactic application of the highest dose of BPA056 at 6 l / ha were not statistically different from those obtained from prophylactic application at 4 l / ha. At the last observation, the sheath blight intensity in all BPA056 treatments was significantly different from the control treatment.

[0292] The lowest intensity of 1.31% occurred in the last observation of prophylactic application of 6 L / ha treatment. This was statistically and significantly different from the lowest intensity achieved in the last observation of the control treatment, which reached 13.48% in the last observation, by prophylactic application of the highest dose of BPA056 (6 L / ha). No phytotoxic symptoms were induced in the tested rice crops at any dose level of BPA056.

[0293] The efficacy of compositions containing geraniol choline according to embodiments of the present invention against rice sheath blight.

[0294] BPA056 showed good efficacy in inhibiting sheath blight. Prophylactic and therapeutic applications at doses of 4 l / ha and 6 l / ha, and a prophylactic application at a dose of 2 l / ha, yielded efficacy levels exceeding 50%. However, the same results did not apply to the therapeutic application of BPA056 at a dose of 2 l / ha, where the efficacy level at the last observation was below 50% (Table 9). The highest efficacy level, reaching 90.31%, was achieved at a prophylactic dose of 6 l / ha.

[0295] Table 9: Efficacy levels of the composition (“BPA056”) and comparative compositions against rice sheath blight according to embodiments of the present invention (day 70)

[0296] Untreated 0 Preventive reference products 57.58 Therapeutic reference products 50.53 BPA056(Time A) 2l / ha 52.51 BPA056(Time A) 4l / ha 87.39 BPA056(Time A) 6l / ha 90.31 BPA056(Time B) 2l / ha 32.98 BPA056(Time B) 4l / ha 76.91 BPA056(Time B) 6l / ha 76.91

[0297] Compositions containing geraniol choline according to embodiments of the present invention are used to combat the impact of rice sheath blight on rice yield.

[0298] The effects of BPA056 application on rice yield are shown in Table 10. The use of BPA056 reduced yield loss caused by rice sheath blight. The average dry rice yield in all experimental areas was significantly different from the control treatment (Table 10).

[0299] The highest yield was obtained with preventative application of BPA056 at a dose of 6 l / ha, resulting in an average yield of 20.24 kg / plot, which was not statistically different from the average yield of 20.13 kg / plot obtained with a preventative dose of 4 l / ha (Table 10). Furthermore, the yields of the two highest doses of BPA056 (4 l / ha and 6 l / ha) under therapeutic application were 19.73 kg / plot and 19.93 kg / plot, respectively. Therefore, according to embodiments of the present invention, application of a composition containing pelargonidin choline to rice crops can inhibit sheath blight and reduce rice yield loss caused by this disease.

[0300] Table 10: Effects of using the composition containing geraniol choline (“BPA056”) according to embodiments of the present invention and comparing the composition and treatment regimen on rice yield (day 96)

[0301] Untreated 14.36a Preventive reference products 18.53bcd Therapeutic reference products 17.41b BPA056(Time A) 2l / ha 18.44bc BPA056(Time A) 4l / ha 20.13e BPA056(Time A) 6l / ha 20.24e BPA056(Time B) 2l / ha 17.29b BPA056(Time B) 4l / ha 19.73cde BPA056(Time B) 6l / ha 19.93de

[0302] *According to the Dunk multi-interval test, at a significance level of 5%, the values ​​of the corresponding letters in the same column A did not show significant differences.

[0303] in conclusion

[0304] - Compositions containing geraniol choline were effective in suppressing the incidence of rice sheath blight at all tested doses (0.21%, 0.42%, or 0.63% (w / v) geraniol choline) with efficacy levels exceeding 50% when applied prophylactically to rice.

[0305] - The therapeutic application of a composition containing pelargonidin to rice at doses of 4 l / ha (0.42% (w / v) pelargonidin) and 6 l / ha (0.63% (w / v) pelargonidin) was effective in suppressing the incidence of rice sheath blight, with an efficacy level exceeding 50%.

[0306] - When the treatment is preventative, applying a composition containing geraniol choline to rice is more effective against rice sheath blight (e.g., higher efficacy levels) than therapeutic treatment.

[0307] - Compared to the control treatment, applying the composition containing geraniol choline to rice (with both preventative and therapeutic treatment options) reduced rice yield loss due to sheath blight at all tested doses.

[0308] - When compared with a prophylactic reference product, prophylactic application of a composition containing geraniol choline at a dose of 41 / ha or 61 / ha provides better treatment for sheath blight (i.e., less severe sheath blight and better efficacy at the last observation).

[0309] - When compared with a therapeutic reference product, therapeutic application of a composition containing geraniol choline at a dose of 4 l / ha or 6 l / ha provides better treatment for sheath blight (i.e., less severe sheath blight and better efficacy at the last observation).

[0310] - Compared to therapeutic treatment, when the treatment for sheath blight is preventative, applying a composition containing geraniol choline to rice crops results in higher rice yields.

[0311] - Prophylactic application of compositions containing geraniol choline is the best treatment option for controlling rice sheath blight.

[0312] - Applying a composition containing geraniol choline to rice for resistance to sheath blight (with both preventative and therapeutic treatment options) did not induce phytotoxicity symptoms in rice at all tested doses.

[0313] Example 3: A method for treating rice sheath blight according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0314] A field trial was established to test the efficacy of different compositions in controlling rice sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani) at two sites in Thailand: L1: Bang Kham, Sriprachan, Suphanburi; and L2: Don Pru, Sriprachan, Suphanburi. Inoculation with the disease was performed 14 days prior to the first spray.

[0315] At location L1, the experimental design was a randomized complete block design (RCB); the number of different treatments: six as provided in Table 11; the number of replicates: 4; the test plot size: 6 × 5 m / plot; the rice variety: PTT1; and the spray volume: 312.5 L / ha. Each treatment had 4 replicates, and each replicate had 10 samples.

[0316] The composition containing geraniol choline (referred to as "BPA 056") has a concentration of 42% (w / v) geraniol choline or 42g geraniol choline per 100mL of composition or 420g per liter (i.e., 0.42kg). The concentration of geraniol choline in the spray solution (per hectare) is: 2L composition × 0.42kg geraniol choline / L composition = 0.84kg geraniol choline; 3L composition × 0.42L geraniol choline / L composition = 1.26kg geraniol choline; or 4L composition × 0.42L geraniol choline / L composition = 1.68kg geraniol choline.

[0317] Table 11: Compositions, dosages, and treatment times tested in trials evaluating the efficacy of different compositions and treatment regimens in controlling rice sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani) at sites L1 and L2 in Thailand.

[0318]

[0319] Data assessment included the percentage of infected symptom length (cm) to plant length (cm) before the first spray, before the second spray, 7 days after the second spray, 2 weeks after the second spray, 3 weeks after the second spray, and 2 weeks before harvest. Table 12 provides an overview of the timing of data assessment at site L1.

[0320] The percentage of diseases is calculated as follows:

[0321] Disease (%) = [Length of infection symptom (cm) / Plant length (cm)] × 100

[0322] Table 12: Data evaluation time of the rice trial at location L1 Bang Kham

[0323] sowing none 61DAS Sheath blight inoculation 75DAS Before the first spray / Spray #1 BA#1 82DAS Before the second spray / Plant toxicity / Spray #2 BA#2 89DAS 7 days after the second spray / Plant toxicity 7DAA#2 96DAS Two weeks after the second spray / Plant toxicity 14DAA#2 103DAS 3 weeks after the second spray / Plant toxicity 21DAA#2 106DAS 2 weeks before harvest / Plant toxicity 2WBH 120DAS Production assessment

[0324] DAS: Days after sowing

[0325] Table 13 illustrates the percentage of disease at location L1 after treatment with the composition of the present invention ("BPA 056") at doses of 2000 ml / ha, 3000 ml / ha, and 4000 ml / ha, and after treatment with commercially available reference products (625 ml / ha of vetiverol 3% SL and 750 g / ha of tricyclazole). The results in Table 13 show that the compositions of the present invention ("BPA 056") at doses of 3000 and 4000 ml / ha exhibited excellent control of rice sheath blight compared to untreated rice. The compositions of the present invention at doses of 3000 and 4000 ml / ha were also superior to the commercially available reference products (625 ml / ha of vetiverol 3% SL and 750 g / ha of tricyclazole). The compositions of the present invention at doses of 2000 ml / ha also showed acceptable control of rice sheath blight.

[0326] No phytotoxicity was observed in any of the treated rice crops when assessed before the second spray, 7 days after the second spray, 2 weeks after the second spray, 3 weeks after the second spray, and 2 weeks before harvest.

[0327] Table 13: Effect of treatment with the composition containing geraniol choline (“BPA 056”) and comparative compositions according to embodiments of the present invention on the percentage (%) of rice diseases at location L1 (n=40)*

[0328]

[0329] *Disease %: Average of disease % from 4 replicates and 10 samples per replicate.

[0330] According to the statistical test of standard parameters, values ​​with the same letter in the same column did not show significant differences.

[0331] At location L2, the experimental design was a randomized complete block design (RCB); the number of different treatments: six as provided in Table 11; the number of replicates: 4; the test plot size: 6 × 5 m / plot; the rice variety: PTT1; and the spray volume: 312.5 L / ha. Each treatment had 4 replicates, and each replicate had 10 samples.

[0332] Data assessment included the percentage of infected symptom length (cm) to plant length (cm) before the first spray, before the second spray, 7 days after the second spray, 2 weeks after the second spray, 3 weeks after the second spray, and 2 weeks before harvest. Table 14 provides an overview of the timing of data assessment at site L2.

[0333] Table 14: Data evaluation time of the rice crop trial at site L2 Don Pru

[0334] sowing none 56DAS Disease inoculation 70DAS Before the first spray / Spray #1 BA#1 77DAS Before the second spray / Plant toxicity / Spray #2 BA#2 84DAS 7 days after the second spray / Plant toxicity 7DAA#2 91DAS Two weeks after the second spray / Plant toxicity 14DAA#2 98DAS 3 weeks after the second spray / Plant toxicity 21DAA#2 106DAS 2 weeks before harvest / Plant toxicity 2WBH 120DAS Production assessment

[0335] DAS: Days after sowing

[0336] Table 15 illustrates the percentage of disease at location L2 after treatment with the composition representing the invention ("BPA 056") at doses of 2000 ml / ha, 3000 ml / ha, and 4000 ml / ha, and after treatment with commercially available reference products (625 ml / ha of vetiverol 3% SL and 750 g / ha of tricyclazole). The results in Table 15 show that the compositions representing the invention ("BPA 056") at doses of 3000 and 4000 ml / ha exhibited excellent control of rice sheath blight compared to untreated rice, and were also superior to the commercially available reference products (625 ml / ha of vetiverol 3% SL and 750 g / ha of tricyclazole). The compositions representing the invention ("BPA 056") at doses of 2000 ml / ha also showed acceptable control of rice sheath blight.

[0337] No phytotoxicity was observed in any of the treated rice crops when assessed before the second spray, 7 days after the second spray, 2 weeks after the second spray, 3 weeks after the second spray, and 2 weeks before harvest.

[0338] Table 15: Effect of treatment with the composition containing geraniol choline (“BPA056”) and comparative compositions according to embodiments of the present invention on the percentage (%) of rice sheath blight at location L2 (n=40)*

[0339]

[0340] *Disease %: Average of disease % from 4 replicates and 10 samples per replicate.

[0341] According to the statistical test of standard parameters, values ​​with the same letter in the same column did not show significant differences.

[0342] Example 4: A method for increasing rice yield according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0343] The field trials described in Example 3 were conducted at two locations in Thailand: L1: Bang Kham, Sriprachan, Suphanburi; and L2: Don Pru, Sriprachan, Suphanburi.

[0344] At harvest, rice yield is determined as follows:

[0345] 1) Yield in kg / test area (i.e., 3m × 3m = 9m)2 ). For the central part of each test area (9m) 2 Harvesting.

[0346] 2) Yield in kg / rai (i.e., 1600m³) 2 )

[0347] 3) Yield in kg / ha (i.e., 1600 m³) 2 ×6.25)

[0348] Table 16 illustrates the yields at site L1 after applying 2000 ml / ha, 3000 ml / ha, and 4000 ml / ha of the composition representing the invention ("BPA 056") and commercially available reference products (625 ml / ha of vetiverol 3% SL and 750 g / ha of tricyclazole) to rice crops. The results show that 4000 ml / ha of the composition representing the invention ("BPA 056") provides excellent rice yield compared to untreated rice crops, and is also superior to 625 ml / ha of vetiverol 3% SL and 750 g / ha of tricyclazole. The 2000 and 3000 ml / ha compositions representing the invention ("BPA 056") still exhibit high rice yields compared to untreated rice crops.

[0349] Table 16: Rice yield (n=40) after applying the composition containing geraniol choline (“BPA056”) according to an embodiment of the present invention at location L1 and the comparative composition*

[0350] 1 BPA056 2000ml / ha 5.58 991.11 6194.44 2 BPA056 3000ml / ha 5.55 986.67 6166.67 3 BPA056 4000ml / ha 5.83 1035.56 6472.22 4 Vilimycin 3% SL 625ml / ha 5.53 982.22 6138.89 5 Tricyclazole 750g / ha 5.28 937.78 5861.11 6 Untreated - 5.03 893.33 5583.33

[0351] *Strict measure: The strict half-mean of 4 replicates and 10 samples per replicate.

[0352] Table 17 illustrates the yields at site L2 after application of the composition representing the invention ("BPA 056") at 2000 ml / ha, 3000 ml / ha, and 4000 ml / ha, and commercially available reference products (625 ml / ha of vetiverol 3% SL and 750 g / ha of tricyclazole). The results show that the compositions representing the invention ("BPA 056") at 3000 and 4000 ml / ha provided excellent rice yields compared to untreated rice, and were superior to 625 ml / ha of vetiverol 3% SL and 750 g / ha of tricyclazole. The composition representing the invention ("BPA 056") at 2000 ml / ha still showed high rice yields compared to untreated rice.

[0353] Table 17: Rice yield (n=40) after applying the composition containing geraniol choline (“BPA056”) according to an embodiment of the present invention at location L2 and the comparative composition*

[0354]

[0355] *Yield: Average yield from 4 replicates and 10 samples per replicate.

[0356] According to the statistical test of standard parameters, the values ​​marked with the same letter in the same column did not show significant differences.

Claims

1. A method for increasing the rice yield of a rice crop relative to the rice yield of an untreated rice crop, the method comprising applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown, wherein the application of pelargonidin or the composition to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown is performed after symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice crop or a portion thereof.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the rice crop is selected from the group consisting of: *Oryza sativa*, *Oryza glaberrima*, *Oryza australiensis*, *Oryza barthii*, *Oryza brachyantha*, *Oryza coarctata*, *Oryza eichingeri*, *Oryza grandiglumis*, *Oryza latifolia*, *Oryza longiglumis*, *Oryza longistaminata*, *Oryza meyeriana*, *Oryza minuta*, *Oryza neocaledonica*, *Oryza officinalis*, *Oryza punctata*, *Oryza ridleyi*, *Oryza rufipogon*, and *Oryza sativa*. Zizania palustris, Zizania aquatica, Zizania texana, Zizania latifolia, and Porteresiacoarctata.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the rice crop is paddy rice.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is an aqueous composition.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is a sprayable liquid or a concentrate.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises 0.001% (w / v) to 70% (w / v) geraniol.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is a concentrate containing 5.0% (w / v) to 70% (w / v) geraniol.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is a concentrate containing 10% (w / v) to 60% (w / v) geraniol.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is a sprayable liquid containing 0.001% (w / v) to 5.0% (w / v) geraniol.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is a sprayable liquid containing 0.1% (w / v) to 2.0% (w / v) geraniol.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises one or more additives selected from solvents, carriers, surfactants, adhesives, antifreeze agents, thickeners, buffers, defoamers, antioxidants, preservatives, fragrances, or colorants.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the method comprises applying geraniol or the composition to the entire aboveground portion of the rice plant.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein the application of geraniol or the composition to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown is performed on the same day after symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice crop or a portion thereof.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein after symptoms of rice fever, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or a portion thereof, and before the intensity of the symptoms of rice fever, sheath blight, or a combination thereof reaches at most 25%, geraniol or the composition is first applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown.

15. The method of claim 1, wherein pelargonidin is applied to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown at a concentration of 0.01 kg / ha to 10.0 kg / ha.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein pelargonidin is applied to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha.

17. The method of claim 1, wherein geraniol or the composition is sprayed onto the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown.

18. Use of geraniol or a composition containing geraniol for increasing the rice yield of a rice crop relative to the rice yield of an untreated rice crop, wherein the application of geraniol or the composition to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown is carried out after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice crop or a portion thereof.

19. A method for preventing or controlling rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof on rice crops or parts thereof, the method comprising applying pelargonidin or a composition containing pelargonidin to the rice crop, a part thereof, or the site of growth of the rice crop, wherein the application of pelargonidin or the composition to the rice crop, a part thereof, or the site of growth of the rice crop is performed after symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight, or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice crop or a part thereof.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the rice crop is selected from the group consisting of: rice, West African cultivated rice, Australian rice, rice barley, short-flowered rice, double-arc rice, rice argentiflorum, large-leaved rice, broad-leaved rice, long-horned rice, long-herb rice, rice medusae, micro-particle rice, New Caledonian rice, Asian rice, East African wild rice, Litre rice, perennial rice, rice serrata, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, wild rice, and wild rice clumps.

21. The method of claim 19 or 20, wherein the rice crop is paddy rice.

22. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition is an aqueous composition.

23. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition is a sprayable liquid or a concentrate.

24. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition comprises 0.001% (w / v) to 70% (w / v) geraniol.

25. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition is a concentrate containing 5.0% (w / v) to 70% (w / v) geraniol.

26. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition is a concentrate containing 10% (w / v) to 60% (w / v) geraniol.

27. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition is a sprayable liquid containing 0.001% (w / v) to 5.0% (w / v) geraniol.

28. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition is a sprayable liquid containing 0.1% (w / v) to 2.0% (w / v) geraniol.

29. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition further comprises one or more additives selected from solvents, carriers, surfactants, adhesives, antifreeze agents, thickeners, buffers, defoamers, antioxidants, preservatives, fragrances, or colorants.

30. The method of claim 19, wherein the method comprises applying geraniol or the composition to the entire aboveground portion of the rice plant.

31. The method of claim 19, wherein the application of geraniol or the composition to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown is performed on the same day after symptoms of rice frost, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or a portion thereof.

32. The method of claim 19, wherein after symptoms of rice fever, sheath blight, or a combination thereof appear on the rice plant or a portion thereof, and before the intensity of the symptoms of rice fever, sheath blight, or a combination thereof reaches at most 25%, geraniol or the composition is first applied to the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice plant is grown.

33. The method of claim 19, wherein pelargonidin is applied to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown at a concentration of 0.01 kg / ha to 10.0 kg / ha.

34. The method of claim 19, wherein pelargonidin is applied to the rice crop, a portion thereof, or the location where the rice crop is grown at a concentration of 1.0 kg / ha to 3.0 kg / ha.

35. The method of claim 19, wherein geraniol or the composition is sprayed onto the rice plant, a portion thereof, or the site where the rice plant is grown.

36. Use of geraniol or a composition containing geraniol in the control of rice blast, sheath blight or a combination thereof in rice crops or parts thereof, wherein the application of geraniol or the composition to the rice crop, a part thereof or the site of growth of the rice crop is carried out after symptoms of rice blast, sheath blight or a combination thereof have appeared on the rice crop or a part thereof.

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