Crop nutritional composition comprising magnesium and zinc

Abstract

The present invention relates to a crop nutritional composition in the form of water dispersible granules comprising a homogeneous mixture of one or more water insoluble iron salts, iron complexes or iron derivatives, accounting for 1%-50% w / w of the total amount of the composition; one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or derivatives, accounting for 5-80% w / w of the total amount of the composition; and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient. Wherein the content of the element iron accounts for 0.01%-50% w / w of the total amount of the composition; wherein the content of the element magnesium accounts for 0.1-50% w / w of the total amount of the composition; wherein the granules of the composition comprise particles with the size ranging from 0.1 micron to 30 microns. The invention relates to a method for preparing the crop nutritional composition and a method for treating a plant, a seed, a crop, plant propagation material, a locus, a plant part or soil by using the crop nutritional composition.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule, which comprises a homogeneous mixture of an effective amount of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives, and one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives, and one or more agrochemically acceptable excipients. The particle size range of the water-dispersible granule composition of the present invention is from 0.1 micron to 30 microns.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule, which comprises a homogeneous mixture of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives accounting for 5%-80% w / w of the total composition and one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives accounting for 1%-50% w / w of the total composition and one or more agrochemically acceptable excipients; wherein, elemental zinc accounts for 0.01% to 50% of the total weight of the composition, elemental magnesium accounts for 0.1% to 50% of the total weight of the composition, and wherein the composition comprises particles in the size range of 0.1 micron to 30 microns.

[0003] The present invention relates to a method for improving plant health or enhancing plant nutrient uptake or increasing plant yield by treating at least one of plants, plant propagation materials, sites, plant parts, seeds, seedlings or surrounding soil with the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of the present invention. Background of the Invention

[0005] In describing the embodiments of the present invention, specific terms have been selected for clarity. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific terms selected, and it should be understood that each specific term encompasses all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve a similar purpose.

[0006] Nutrition is a key factor in crop growth and development. Insufficient plant nutrition supply can lead to poor growth and physiological development, and thus be more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Other agriculture-related problems include environmental conditions such as drought, biotic and abiotic stresses, soil infertility or soil nutrient depletion, which can lead to a decrease in the yield and quality of agricultural products. Therefore, how to provide sufficient and balanced nutrition to enable plants to absorb nutrients to the maximum extent while protecting crops remains a huge challenge. Optimizing soil conditions and managing the use of crop nutrients have always been the urgent needs of farmers to improve crop nutrient use efficiency. In order to improve soil and plant health, bring better economic returns to farmers, and reduce the burden on the environment caused by the extensive use of synthetic pesticides, a large amount of research is being carried out.

[0007] Meanwhile, hidden hunger and micronutrient deficiencies are widespread across continents, significantly increasing the global disease burden. Among the micronutrient deficiencies commonly suffered by people worldwide, 17.3% of the world's population is at risk of insufficient zinc intake (Ashish Sharma, Babita Patni, et al. 2012). One of the main underlying causes of this situation is unbalanced fertilization. Excessive and indiscriminate application of nutrients can lead to severe imbalances and antagonisms, resulting in nutrient-deficient agricultural products. Therefore, growing large amounts of food while maintaining the quality of nutritional components is a difficult and challenging task.

[0008] The role of micronutrients as essential elements for plant growth and reproduction has long been known. Micronutrients play an important role in balancing crop nutrition. In addition, it is well known that normal plant function and growth require optimal nutrient levels, and any fluctuations in nutrient levels can lead to overall crop growth retardation and a decline in its health due to nutrient deficiencies or toxicities, which in turn affects the essential nutritional components in the human diet. Due to the low availability of minerals and nutrients in the soil, and / or the low accumulation / bioavailability of minerals and elements in the edible parts of crops, it is estimated that nearly 2 billion people globally lack micronutrients such as iron and zinc [Graham et al; 2012; ‘How much nutritional iron deficiency in humans globally is due to an underlying zinc deficiency’]. In addition, insufficient supply of fertilizers or nutrients can also lead to poor plant growth, making plants more vulnerable to pests.

[0009] In addition to low concentrations of essential micronutrients in the soil, one of the root causes of micronutrient deficiencies is the inability of plant roots to access micronutrients in their oxidized forms. In addition, other factors limiting the utilization of essential soil nutrients include leaching of water-soluble nutrients caused by rain and irrigation, changes in soil carbonate content, soil salinity, soil moisture, soil alkalinity, low temperature, and the concentration of other elements (i.e., “competitive trace elements” that cause micronutrient deficiencies). In addition, the plant's ability to respond to the availability of micronutrients ultimately affects human nutrition, including crop yields and micronutrient concentrations in edible tissues. Therefore, appropriate nutrition is crucial for optimizing plant nutrition and metabolism, which in turn helps to increase the total yield, quality, and nutrient-rich human diet of crops.

[0010] Magnesium (Mg) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth, health, and development. Magnesium participates in multiple processes, including photosynthesis. The most important role of magnesium is as the central atom or core of the chlorophyll molecule. Without magnesium, chlorophyll cannot capture the solar energy required for photosynthesis. Magnesium also helps activate specific enzyme systems involved in the normal metabolism of plants. In addition, magnesium is essential for cell division and protein formation and is an important part of plant respiration.

[0011] The availability of magnesium in the soil depends on various factors. These include the rock composition of the soil, its mobility in the soil, the degree of weathering, the local climate, and the specific agricultural system, as well as its management practices, such as crop type, planting intensity, crop rotation, and fertilization measures. Since magnesium is highly mobile in plants, magnesium deficiency symptoms first appear in the lower and older leaves and then in the younger leaves. Magnesium deficiency symptoms are manifested as leaf chlorosis, with green veins and margins (i.e., interveinal chlorosis). Purple, red, or brown spots may also appear on the leaves. Magnesium is an essential element for plant growth and development, but its importance in crop production and agriculture has long been overlooked. This is because potential magnesium deficiencies are difficult to detect. Magnesium deficiency is a common limiting factor in crop production due to the low content of exchangeable magnesium (ex-Mg) in acidic soils, which can have a negative impact on the sustainability of agricultural development. Magnesium deficiency is an inherent problem in acidic soils due to high soil saturation and poor cation exchange capacity with H+ ions, resulting in long-term leaching of magnesium and affecting its uptake. The most important agronomic means of combating soil acidity and solving magnesium deficiency is the application of lime. However, depending on the type of lime, large amounts of magnesium and calcium can enter the soil, which may interfere with the uptake of other cations (such as zinc and iron) through antagonism. Long-term application of NPK fertilizers can cause a significant decrease in soil pH, further exacerbating soil magnesium deficiency. Therefore, agricultural soils with good magnesium conditions are a prerequisite for ensuring the uptake of magnesium by crop roots and its transfer to the edible parts of plants or crops (ultimately providing nutritious food for humans).

[0012] The role of zinc (Zn) as an essential micronutrient has long been known. It is an important component of various enzymes and proteins that are responsible for driving many metabolic reactions in crops and is also crucial for plant development. Zinc can activate enzymes responsible for the synthesis of certain proteins. Zinc is involved in the formation of chlorophyll and some carbohydrates, participates in the conversion of starch to sugar, and is present in plant tissues, helping plants withstand cold. Zinc is an essential element for the formation of auxin, which helps regulate growth and stem elongation.

[0013] However, zinc cannot move in the soil, so zinc deficiency symptoms appear in new leaves. Generally, they are manifested as varying degrees of chlorosis in new leaves (usually occurring between veins), and necrotic spots may form at the edges or tips of the leaves, resulting in smaller leaves, usually curved or distorted upward. Symptoms also include poor bud development, leading to reduced flowering and branching, shorter internodes, and a rosette-like appearance of the plant. There is a significant reduction in the formation of carbohydrates, proteins, and chlorophyll in zinc-deficient plants. Zinc deficiency in the soil is also attributed to many soil factors, such as neutral to alkaline soil conditions, high bicarbonate or magnesium concentrations in the soil, high phosphate levels, high calcium carbonate content, etc., which affect the utilization of zinc by plants [P. Arunachalam, P. Kannan et al; 2012; 'Zinc deficiency in Indian soils with special focus to enrich Zinc in peanuts']. In addition, excessive phosphorus (due to long-term application of NPK fertilizers resulting in acidic soil) locks up and limits the availability of zinc [Ramiro Recena, Antonio Delgado et al; 2021; titled 'Zinc uptake by Plants as Affected by Fertilization with Zn Sulfate, Phosphorous availability and Soil properties']. Moreover, although acidic soil management practices involve using lime to balance or increase the soil pH value, excessive application of lime can lead to deficiencies of zinc as well as other micronutrients (such as iron, boron, etc.). Due to the strong correlation between soil zinc content and human zinc deficiency, a continuous supply of zinc is required for optimal growth and maximum yield.

[0014] In addition, unbalanced fertilization further exacerbates zinc and magnesium deficiencies, affecting the utilization of zinc and magnesium by crops and ultimately affecting the human diet. In India, approximately 25% of the population suffers from zinc deficiency. The prevalence of nutritional stunting due to zinc deficiency in children under 5 years old is approximately 47.9%, while the global prevalence is 33%.

[0015] Therefore, the most limited nutrients, especially zinc and magnesium, must be applied evenly at all stages of the crop and at the final harvest to obtain the highest yield, while minimizing nutrient losses and addressing the hidden hunger and nutrient deficiencies of humans.

[0016] Although the benefits of micronutrients are well-known, micronutrient deficiencies have been prevalent in most agricultural regions of the world in the past few decades, making micronutrients a limiting factor in improving plant growth, high yields, and fertilizer efficiency.

[0017] In addition, depending on the elemental mixture and its composition, concentration, etc., the interactions between plant nutrients can be antagonistic or synergistic, which may affect the nutrient use efficiency. Due to the application of excessive nutrients, "nutrient antagonism" may occur in plants, i.e., an excess of one element may hinder the uptake of another required element by the plant, and it may occur in elements with similar size and charge (positive or negative), which can lead to plant deficiencies. Some of the most common antagonisms are iron blocking zinc, manganese (or vice versa), magnesium blocking calcium (or vice versa), phosphorus blocking zinc, iron, and potassium blocking magnesium and calcium simultaneously. The antagonism between iron and zinc has been reported in the literature under the title "Effects of Zinc on translocation of Iron in soybean plants; Ambler.J.E., Brown J..C, et al; 1970". Another reason for zinc deficiency in plants is "complexation", i.e., the elements are mixed and combined to form an insoluble compound that cannot be absorbed by the plant roots. In addition, the antagonism between zinc and magnesium has been reported. The antagonism between zinc and magnesium has been reported in an article titled "Effects of Nutrient Antagonism and Synergism on Yield and Fertilizer Use Efficiency; René P.J.J. Rietra, Marius Heinen et al; 2017". Therefore, after understanding the antagonism between zinc and magnesium, developing an agricultural composition that can overcome this problem and successfully meet the plant nutrient requirements and ultimately the human dietary requirements has been a challenge.

[0018] Most of the agricultural compositions known in the art containing combinations of micronutrients exist in the form of powders or dusts, in which the micronutrients are mixed together. However, such powder compositions result in an uneven or heterogeneous mixture of active ingredients, which may not be ideal in terms of application and also lead to poor nutrient uptake by plants. Powder compositions not only have problems such as dust generation in practical applications but also pose risks to users, mainly due to eye irritation, inhalation risk, and skin irritation. Such formulations are not easily dispersible and tend to clog nozzles during drip irrigation application, so they are not suitable for irrigation systems. In addition, these compositions have poor suspension rates, resulting in random and uneven distribution of the active ingredients in the target area, which has adverse effects and affects the effective delivery of nutrients to plants or crops, and also requires large amounts of use.

[0019] Some particulate or powder compositions involving the use of water-soluble nutrients are known in the art. However, such compositions are prone to being washed away during heavy rain or irrigation, unable to be absorbed by plants, and thus leading to groundwater pollution. As the soil salt content increases, plants are unable to absorb sufficient water and nutrients from the soil. This not only results in a significant decrease in efficiency but also causes serious environmental consequences.

[0020] Compositions comprising fertilizer granules coated with a mixture of micronutrients or water-soluble micronutrient granules are also known in the art. However, such compositions are designed to release their active ingredients very slowly, resulting in the active ingredients remaining in the soil for a long time, thus causing plants to not obtain the immediate nutrients they need. Due to insufficient nutrition during the seedling stage of plants, they are vulnerable to various diseases, ultimately leading to poor growth and development and a decrease in yield. In addition, due to the disintegration and uneven distribution of the microparticles, the water-soluble granule compositions themselves also have some drawbacks. Since the granules disintegrate into randomly and unevenly sized microparticles, such compositions are prone to clogging the nozzles during drip irrigation application and are thus not suitable for modern irrigation systems.

[0021] Traditionally, the known forms of micronutrient compositions in the art include bentonite granules or lozenges, pills, granules prepared by the fusion method, etc. These micronutrient combination products in the form of granules, pills or lozenges contain swelling clay and have some drawbacks. These compositions are generally large in size and contain swelling clay, which will decompose into large microparticles of uneven size after swelling in water. Such granules or lozenges also result in irregular release of micronutrients, unable to meet the nutritional requirements of plants, and ultimately leading to poor field efficacy. In addition, due to their own drawbacks, that is, due to decomposition into larger particles resulting in poor dispersion and suspension rates in water, nozzle clogging occurs in spray applications, thus affecting the delivery of nutrients to plants or crops. Therefore, these types of micronutrient compositions are only suitable for broadcast application. Due to these drawbacks, the commercial feasibility or applicability of such prior art compositions containing micronutrients in drip or sprinkler irrigation systems is negligible, while due to labor shortages and water shortages, drip or sprinkler irrigation systems have now become an important irrigation method.

[0022] In addition, other formulations disclosed in the art can guide people to obtain liquid compositions. However, due to the presence of a large amount of solvent as a carrier, the active ingredient content of such compositions is low and thus cannot effectively meet the nutritional requirements of plants. In addition, due to being liquid, it is inconvenient to transport large amounts of such products.

[0023] Currently, no suitable composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule containing magnesium and zinc has been found, which can enable plants to obtain an effective amount of magnesium and iron, thus meeting the balanced nutritional requirements of plants and solving drawbacks such as nutritional antagonism of such compositions known in the art.

[0024] The inventor of the present invention unexpectedly found that the composition of the present invention containing magnesium and zinc can not only effectively overcome the antagonistic effect between these single nutrient elements, but also exhibit a synergistic effect. It has been found that when the composition of the present invention is formulated with a specific particle size, the magnesium and zinc nutrient elements are more easily absorbed by plants.

[0025] It has been observed that it is surprisingly effective when the composition of the present invention is formulated into a water-dispersible granule form having a specific particle size distribution with water-insoluble salts, complexes or derivatives of magnesium and zinc combined in a specific ratio. The composition of the present invention has been found to solve the antagonistic effect between nutrient elements such as magnesium and zinc, magnesium and potassium in the soil.

[0026] It has been further observed that the present composition can prevent the leaching of these nutrients and maximize their absorption by crops, thereby increasing the total yield. The inventor also unexpectedly noticed that the present composition also solves the problem of the unavailability of zinc due to the excess of phosphorus in highly acidic soils caused by the long-term application of NPK fertilizers. The present composition not only promotes the absorption of zinc locked in the soil, but also enables the utilization of other nutrients locked in the soil.

[0027] Even in soils degraded or with altered pH due to overuse of synthetic fertilizers, the composition of the present invention can play an important role in promoting nutrient absorption. Particularly surprisingly, the composition of the present invention overcomes the problem of insufficient absorption of zinc and magnesium caused by the excessive application of NPK fertilizers. The composition of the present invention meets the nutritional requirements of plants by balancing the absorption of essential nutrients such as zinc and magnesium. Even more surprisingly, the balanced nutrient absorption makes the plants healthier, able to resist pests and diseases, obtain higher nutrient yields in all types of soils, and ultimately improve the overall health of the soil. The composition of the present invention is a highly efficient nutrient utilization composition, which provides a multi-nutrient solution that can improve the absorption rate of crops with just one application, thus meeting the needs of crops.

[0028] The inventors of the present application have determined that a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule comprises a homogeneous mixture of an effective amount of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives and an effective amount of one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives with one or more agrochemically acceptable excipients; wherein the composition comprises fine particles in the size range of 0.1 micrometer to 30 micrometers, showing excellent field efficacy.

[0029] The composition of the present invention also exhibits excellent physical properties, such as suspension rate, dispersion rate and wettability. Summary of the Invention

[0030] The inventor has determined that a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule comprises a homogeneous mixture of an effective amount of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives and an effective amount of one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives with at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient. The composition can provide nutrimental magnesium and zinc that are easily absorbed by plants, increase the total yield of various crops and improve the physiological parameters of plants.

[0031] The composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of the present application comprises a homogeneous mixture of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives (the concentration range thereof is 5% to 80% of the total composition), one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives (the concentration range thereof is 1% to 50% of the total composition), and a homogeneous mixture of one or more agrochemically acceptable excipients, wherein the elemental zinc is present in the range of 0.01% to 50% of the total composition, and the elemental magnesium is present in the range of 0.1% to 50% of the total composition.

[0032] In addition, the crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is dispersed into fine particles with a size in the range of 0.1 micrometer to 30 micrometers when contacting with water.

[0033] In addition, the present invention relates to a method for preparing a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule, which composition comprises a homogeneous mixture of an effective amount of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives, an effective amount of one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives, and an effective amount of one or more agrochemically acceptable excipients.

[0034] The present invention relates to a method for improving plant health or enhancing plant absorption of nutrients or increasing plant yield by treating at least one of plants, plant propagation materials, sites, plant parts, seeds, seedlings or surrounding soil with the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of the present invention.

[0035] Due to exhibiting excellent physical properties, such as suspension rate, dispersion rate and wettability, the composition of the present invention can also be directly used in micro-irrigation or drip irrigation systems.

[0036] Description of the Invention

[0037] In describing the specific embodiments of the present invention, for clarity, we have chosen specific terms. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific terms chosen, and it should be understood that these specific terms encompass all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve a similar purpose. It should be understood that any numerical range described herein encompasses all included sub-ranges. In addition, unless otherwise stated, the percentages of components in the composition are expressed as weight percentages or based on the total weight of the composition. Further, the effective doses of zinc and magnesium in the compositions applied in field trials are elemental zinc and elemental magnesium.

[0038] The terms "a" or "an" as used herein are defined as one or more. The terms "comprising" and / or "having" as used herein are defined as including (i.e., open language).

[0039] The terms "plant" or "crop" as used in this application are used interchangeably, and wherever the term "plant" is used, it also refers to vegetation of a similar nature, i.e., crops, trees, shrubs, herbs, etc.

[0040] The term "derivative" as used in this application also encompasses zinc-containing minerals, magnesium-containing minerals, etc.

[0041] The term "salt" as used in this application also encompasses zinc- and magnesium-containing compounds. Compounds of zinc can include zinc oxide, and compounds of magnesium can include magnesium oxide.

[0042] Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) is an indicator of the degree to which plants utilize available mineral nutrients. Improving NUE is a necessary prerequisite for expanding crop production to marginal lands with insufficient nutrient supply and is also a way to reduce the use of inorganic fertilizers.

[0043] A water-dispersible granule refers to a preparation that is easily dispersed or dissolved in water to form a fine particle suspension. The "WG" or "WDG" described herein refers to water-dispersible granules. Water-dispersible granules are made by mixing ground solid active ingredients with surfactants and other formulation ingredients and aggregating them into small, easily metered particles (aggregates of fine particles). These water-dispersible granules will disperse into smaller / primary fine particles after soaking in water. Water-dispersible granules can be obtained by spray drying or extrusion processes.

[0044] A mixture refers to a combination of two or more substances that have not undergone a chemical reaction. A homogeneous mixture is a mixture in which the overall composition is uniform. The composition of such a mixture is always constant, or the components making up the mixture are evenly distributed.

[0045] The present invention relates to a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule, which comprises a homogeneous mixture of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives and one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives with at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

[0046] The composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of the present invention comprises a homogeneous mixture of 5 wt% to 80 wt% of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives, 1 wt% to 50 wt% of one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives, and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient, wherein the content of elemental zinc is 0.01% to 50% of the total weight of the composition, and the content of elemental magnesium is 0.1% to 50% of the total weight of the composition. In addition, the crop nutrient composition is dispersed into fine particles with a size of 0.1 micrometer to 30 micrometers when added to water, and exhibits improved dispersion rate and suspension rate. According to one embodiment, the agrochemical excipient is a surfactant.

[0047] The inventors have unexpectedly found that the composition of the present application in the form of a water-dispersible granule containing both magnesium and zinc is not only effective, but also has a synergistic effect. The inventors have also noticed that the application of this composition can achieve a higher level and more balanced nutrient absorption.

[0048] It has been observed that surprising effects are noticed when the composition of the present invention containing a combination of water-insoluble salts, complexes or derivatives of magnesium and zinc in specific proportions is formulated into the form of a water-dispersible granule having a specific fine particle size distribution.

[0049] The inventors have also unexpectedly found that the present composition also solves the problem that zinc cannot be effectively utilized due to the excess of other competing nutrients (such as phosphorus) in highly acidic soils caused by the long-term application of NPK fertilizers. The present composition not only promotes the absorption of zinc locked in the soil, but also can effectively utilize other nutrients retained in the soil. In addition, the present composition can also prevent the leaching of these nutrients, enabling them to be maximally absorbed by crops, thereby increasing the total yield.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the crop nutrient composition is in the form of a water-dispersible granule, wherein the size range of the granules is from 0.05 mm to 5.0 mm. According to one embodiment, the crop nutrient composition is in the form of a water-dispersible granule, wherein the size range of the granules is from 0.05 mm to 4.0 mm. According to another embodiment, the crop nutrient composition is in the form of a water-dispersible granule, wherein the size range of the granules is from 0.05 mm to 3.0 mm. Preferably, the crop nutrient composition is in the form of a water-dispersible granule, wherein the size range of the granules is from 0.05 mm to 2.5 mm. Preferably, the crop nutrient composition is in the form of a water-dispersible granule, wherein the size range of the granules is from 0.05 mm to 2 mm. Preferably, the crop nutrient composition is a water-dispersible granule, wherein the size range of the granules is from 0.05 mm to 1.5 mm. Preferably, the crop nutrient composition is a water-dispersible granule, wherein the size range of the granules is from 0.05 mm to 1 mm. More preferably, the crop nutrient composition is a water-dispersible granule, wherein the size range of the granules is from 0.05 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule will disperse into fine particles with a size range of 0.1 μm to 30 μm when added to water, preferably disperse into fine particles with a size range of 0.1 μm to 25 μm, and more preferably disperse into fine particles with a size range of 0.1 μm to 20 μm. It has further been observed that when the composition of the present invention is formulated into fine particles with a specific particle size range of 0.1 μm to 30 μm, its magnesium and zinc nutrient elements are more easily absorbed by plants, thereby increasing the total yield. Therefore, the particle size range of 0.1 μm to 30 μm of the crop nutrient composition is not only important for convenient application, but also equally important for efficacy.

[0052] According to another embodiment, the crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of the present invention comprises fine particles with a D50 diameter distribution of about 20 μm, and more preferably, the water-dispersible granule comprises fine particles with a D50 diameter distribution of about 10 μm.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the crop nutrient composition in the form of the water-dispersible granule is in the form of microgranules, wherein the granules are dispersed into fine particles with a size in the range of 0.1 μm to 30 μm.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the water-insoluble zinc salt includes but is not limited to one or more of the following: zinc oxide, zinc carbonate, zinc sulfide, zinc molybdate, zinc phosphate, zinc nitrilotriacetate (NTA), zinc borate, zinc silicate, zinc pyrophosphate, zinc citrate, its complexes or derivatives. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex or zinc derivative contains one or more zinc-containing minerals, and the zinc-containing minerals are selected from but not limited to the following zinc ores, and the zinc ores include one or more of periclase, danbaite, ashoverite, sphalerite and wurtzite. However, the above list of ores or minerals is only an example and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 1% to 50% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 1% to 40% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 1% to 30% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 1% to 20% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 1% to 10% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 1% to 5% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 3% to 50% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 3% to 40% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 3% to 30% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 3% to 20% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 3% to 10% of the total weight of the composition.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or their mixture is 1% to 50% of the total weight of the composition, wherein the content of elemental zinc is 0.01% to 50% of the total weight of the composition.

[0058] According to another embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex, zinc derivative or a mixture thereof is 1% to 50% of the total weight of the composition, wherein the content of elemental zinc is 0.01% to 45% of the total weight of the composition.

[0059] According to another embodiment, the water-insoluble magnesium salt includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: magnesium molybdate, magnesium hydroxide (milk of magnesia), calcium magnesium phosphate, trimagnesium phosphate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium aluminum silicate, calcium magnesium silicate, magnesium trisilicate, magnesium phosphate, magnesium silicate, magnesium oxide, its complex or derivative. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes, their derivatives or mixtures can also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex or derivative contains one or more magnesium-containing minerals selected from, but not limited to, the following magnesium ores: periclase, brucite, sellaite, ascharite, Pertsevite, enstatite, magnesite, ludwigite, eastonite. However, the above list of ores or minerals is only an example and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex, magnesium derivative or a mixture thereof is 5% to 80% of the total weight of the composition, wherein the content of elemental magnesium is 0.1% to 50% of the total weight of the composition.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex, magnesium derivative or a mixture thereof is 5% to 80% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex, magnesium derivative or a mixture thereof is 5% to 70% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex, magnesium derivative or a mixture thereof is 5% to 60% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex, magnesium derivative or a mixture thereof is 5% to 50% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex, magnesium derivative or a mixture thereof is 5% to 40% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex, magnesium derivative or a mixture thereof is 5% to 30% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex, magnesium derivative or a mixture thereof is 5% to 20% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex, magnesium derivative or a mixture thereof is 5% to 10% of the total weight of the composition.

[0063] According to another embodiment, a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule comprises a homogeneous mixture of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives in an amount of 5% to 80% by weight of the total composition, a homogeneous mixture of one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives in an amount of 1% to 50% by weight of the total composition, and a homogeneous mixture of one or more surfactants in an amount of 1% to 40% by weight of the total composition.

[0064] According to one embodiment, a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule comprises a homogeneous mixture of one or more of magnesium oxide, magnesium silicate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium phosphate or magnesium hydroxide in an amount of 5% to 80% by weight of the total composition and one or more of zinc oxide, zinc carbonate, zinc silicate, zinc hydroxide or zinc phosphate in an amount of 1% to 50% by weight of the total composition and one or more agrochemically acceptable excipients; wherein the composition comprises fine particles in the size range of 0.1 micron to 30 microns.

[0065] According to one embodiment, a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule comprises a homogeneous mixture of one or more of magnesium oxide, magnesium silicate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium phosphate or magnesium hydroxide in an amount of 5% to 80% by weight of the total composition and one or more of zinc oxide, zinc carbonate, zinc silicate, zinc hydroxide or zinc phosphate in an amount of 1% to 50% by weight of the total composition and one or more surfactants in an amount of 1% to 40% by weight of the total composition, wherein the composition comprises fine particles in the size range of 0.1 micron to 30 microns.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the crop nutrient composition may further comprise at least one additional water-insoluble plant nutrient element.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the content of the additional water-insoluble plant nutrient element is 0.01% to 40% by weight of the total composition.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the crop nutrient composition does not contain a fertilizer mainly composed of alginic acid, urea, gypsum, phosphorus pentoxide, sulfur or other conventional fertilizers.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the crop nutrient composition does not contain water-insoluble iron salts or boron salts or their complexes or derivatives.

[0070] According to one embodiment, a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule comprises a homogeneous mixture of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives, which account for 5% to 80% of the total weight of the composition, and one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives, which account for 1% to 50% of the total weight of the composition, and one or more agrochemically acceptable excipients; wherein the composition comprises fine particles with a size range of 0.1 micrometer to 30 micrometers; and wherein the composition does not contain one or more water-insoluble iron salts, iron complexes or iron derivatives.

[0071] According to one embodiment, a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule contains at least one agrochemical excipient. According to another embodiment, agrochemically acceptable excipients for water-dispersible granule formulations include at least one wetting agent, surfactant, emulsifier, dispersant, hydrocolloid, binder or filler or carrier or diluent, disintegrant, buffer or pH regulator or neutralizing agent, defoaming agent, anti-settling agent, anti-caking agent, penetrant, tackifier, thickening agent, pigment, colorant, stabilizer or a mixture thereof. According to one embodiment, the surfactant may include one or more of anionic, cationic, nonionic, zwitterionic and polymeric surfactants. According to one embodiment, the surfactant may include one or more of an emulsifier, a wetting agent and a dispersant. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other agrochemically acceptable excipients may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These agrochemically acceptable excipients are commercially available and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is 0.01% to 94% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is 0.01% to 90% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 94% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 90% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 75% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 55% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 35% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 25% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 15% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 5% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 1% of the total weight of the composition. According to one embodiment, the concentration range of the agrochemical excipient is at least 0.1% of the total weight of the composition.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the surfactant used in the crop nutrient composition includes one or more of an emulsifier, a wetting agent, and a dispersant. According to one embodiment, the surfactant used in the composition includes one or more of anionic, cationic, non-ionic, zwitterionic, and polymeric surfactants.

[0074] Anionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: fatty acid salts, benzoates, polycarboxylates, alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfates, alkyl aryl sulfates, alkyl diglycol ether sulfates, alcohol sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl aryl sulfonates, aryl sulfonates, lignin sulfonates, alkyl diphenyl ether disulfonates, polystyrene sulfonates, alkyl phosphates, alkyl aryl phosphates, styryl aryl phosphates, sulfosuccinates, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfates, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ether sulfates, sarcosinates, sodium α-olefin sulfonates, alkyl benzene sulfonates or their salts, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, sulfosuccinates, polyacrylates, polyacrylate-free acids and sodium salts, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ether sulfates, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphates, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl phosphate salts, sulfosuccinate-monoesters and other diesters, phosphates, isopropyl and butyl derivatives of alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, alkyl ether sulfates - sodium and ammonium salts; alkyl aryl ether phosphates, ethylene oxide and its derivatives, polyoxyethylene aryl ether phosphate salts, monoalkyl sulfosuccinates, aromatic hydrocarbon sulfonates, 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid, ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate, disodium cocoamido diacetate, magnesium lauryl ether sulfate, phospholipids, potassium lauryl sulfate, soaps, soap substitutes, sodium alkyl sulfate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate, sodium laurate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, sodium myristyl ether sulfate, sodium nonanoyloxybenzene sulfonate, alkyl carboxylates, sodium stearate, α-olefin sulfonates, naphthalene sulfonates, fatty acid salts of alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, sodium salts of naphthalene sulfonic acid condensates, fluorocarboxylates, fatty alcohol sulfates, sodium salts of naphthalene sulfonic acid condensates, salts of naphthalene sulfonic acid formaldehyde condensates or alkyl naphthalene sulfonic acid formaldehyde condensates; or their salts or derivatives.

[0075] Nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: polyol esters, polyol fatty acid esters, polyethoxylated esters, polyethoxylated alcohols, ethoxylated and propoxylated fatty alcohols, ethoxylated and propoxylated alcohols, ethylene oxide (EO) / propylene oxide (PO) copolymers; EO and PO block copolymers, diblock and triblock copolymers; polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol block copolymers, poloxamers, polysorbates, alkyl polysaccharides (such as alkyl glucosides and their mixtures), amine ethoxylates, sorbitan fatty acid esters, ethylene glycol and glycerol esters, glucoside alkyl ethers, sodium tallowate, polyoxyethylene glycol, sorbitan alkyl esters, sorbitan derivatives, sorbitan fatty acid esters (Spans) and their ethoxylated derivatives (Tweens), sucrose fatty acid esters, coconut diethanolamide (DEA), coconut monoethanolamide (MEA), decyl glucoside, decyl polyglucoside, glycerol monostearate, lauryl glucoside, maltoside, glycerol monolaurate, narrow distribution ethoxylated esters, Nonidet P-40, nonylphenol ethoxylate-9, nonylphenol ethoxylate, octaethylene glycol monododecyl ether, N-octyl-β-D-thioglucopyranoside, octyl glucoside, oleyl alcohol, PEG-10 sunflower glyceride, pentaethylene glycol monododecyl ether, polidocanol, poloxamer, poloxamer 407, polyethoxylated tallow amine, polyglycerol polyricinoleate, polysorbate, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 80, sorbitan anhydride, sorbitan monolaurate, sorbitan monostearate, sorbitan tristearate, stearyl alcohol, surfactin, glycerol laurate, lauryl glucoside, nonylphenol ethoxylate, nonylphenol polyethylene glycol ether, castor oil ethoxylate, polyethylene glycol ether, polyaddition product of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, block copolymer of polyalkylene glycol ether and hydroxystearic acid, tributylphenoxy polyoxyethylene ethanol, octylphenoxy polyoxyethylene ethanol, ethoxylated-propoxylated triphenyl vinyl phenol, ethoxylated alcohol, polyoxyethylene sorbitan anhydride, fatty acid polyglycerol esters, fatty alcohol polyethylene glycol ethers, acetylene diol, acetylene alcohol, oxyalkylene block polymer, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ether, polyoxyethylene styryl aryl ether, gum arabic, karaya gum, gum ghatti, larch gum, welan gum, gum acacia, okra gum, balsam gum, carob gum, bassora gum, hackelia gum, khaya gum, katila gum, kondagogu gum, leucaena seed gum, sterculia gum, mucuna gum, moringa gum, neem gum, sesbania gum, polyoxyethylene glycol alkyl ether, polyethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene glycerol fatty acid esters, alcohol ethoxylates (C6 to C16 / 18 alcohols, straight and branched chain), alcohol alkoxylates (different hydrophobic groups and EO / PO contents and ratios), fatty acid esters (monoesters and diesters; lauric, stearic and oleic based), glycerol esters (with or without EO;Lauric acid, stearic acid, cocoa butter, and tall oil derivatives), ethoxylated glycerol, sorbitan esters (with or without EO; lauric, stearic, and oleic groups; monoesters and triesters), castor oil ethoxylates (5 to 200 moles of EO; unhydrogenated and hydrogenated), block polymers, amine oxides (ethoxylated and non-ethoxylated; alkyl dimethyl type), fatty amine ethoxylates (coconut amine, tallow amine, stearyl amine, oleyl amine), polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil or polypropylene fatty acid esters; or salts or derivatives thereof.

[0076] Amphoteric surfactants include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: betaines, cocamidopropyl betaine and lauramidopropyl betaine, coconut alkyl dimethyl amine oxide, alkyl dimethyl betaines (C8 to C18), alkyl dipropionates (such as sodium lauroiminodipropionate), cocamidopropyl hydroxysulfobetaine, imidazolines, phospholipids (such as phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, sphingomyelin), lauryl dimethyl amine oxide, alkyl amphoacetates / propionates, alkyl ampho(di)acetates and dipropionates, lecithin, and ethanolamine fatty acid amides; or salts or derivatives thereof.

[0077] Commercially available surfactant trademarks include, but are not limited to, Atlas G5000, TERMUL 5429, TERMUL 2510, 118, X, OX-080, C100, EL 200, Arlacel P135, Hypermer 8261, Hypermer B239, Hypermer B261, Hypermer B246sf, Solutol HS15, Promulgen TM D, Soprophor 7961P, Soprophor TSP / 461, Soprophor TSP / 724, Croduret 40, Etocas 200, Etocas 29, Rokacet R26, Cetomacrogol1000, CHEMONIC OE-20, Triton N-101, Triton X-100, Tween20, 40, 60, 65, 80, Span20, 40, 60, 80, 83, 85, 120, Atlox 4912, Atlas G5000, TERMUL 3512, TERMUL 3015, T85, T20, TERIC 12A4, IGEPAL CA-630, and Isoceteth-20.

[0078] However, those skilled in the art should understand that other conventionally known surfactants can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These surfactants are commercially produced and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the content of the surfactant is 0.1% to 40% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the surfactant is 0.1% to 30% w / w of the total composition. According to another embodiment, the content of the surfactant is 0.1% to 20% w / w of the total composition. According to another embodiment, the content of the surfactant is 0.1% to 10% w / w of the total composition.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the dispersants used in the crop nutrient composition include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, lignosulfonate, phenonaphthalenesulfonate, alkali metal salts, alkaline earth metal salts and ammonium salts of lignosulfonic acid, lignin derivatives, dibutylnaphthalenesulfonic acid, alkylarylsulfonate, alkyl sulfate, alkyl sulfonate, fatty alcohol sulfate, fatty acid and sulfonated fatty alcohol polyethylene glycol ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, dioctyl sulfosuccinate, lauryl sulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfate, polyoxyethylene styrylphenyl ether sulfate and its analogues, their alkali metal salts, ammonium salts or amine salts, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene styrylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl ester or polyoxyethylene sorbitan alkyl ester, etc., a mixture of sodium salt of naphthalenesulfonic acid urea formaldehyde condensate and sodium salt of phenolsulfonic acid formaldehyde condensate, ethoxylated alkylphenol, ethoxylated fatty acid, alkoxylated linear alcohol, polyarylsulfonate, sodium alkylarylsulfonate, glyceride, ammonium salt of maleic anhydride copolymer, maleic anhydride copolymer, phosphate ester, condensation product of arylsulfonic acid and formaldehyde, addition product of ethylene oxide and fatty acid ester, salt of addition product of ethylene oxide and fatty acid ester, sodium salt of isodecyl sulfosuccinate half ester, polycarboxylate, sodium alkylbenzenesulfonate, sodium salt of sulfonated naphthalene, ammonium salt of sulfonated naphthalene, polyacrylate, sodium condensed phenolsulfonate and naphthalenesulfonic acid-formaldehyde condensate, sodium naphthalenesulfonate formaldehyde condensate, triphenylvinylphenol polyoxyethylene ether phosphate; fatty alcohol ethoxylate; alkyl fatty acid, alkoxylated linear alcohol, polyarylsulfonate, sodium alkylarylsulfonate, glyceride, ammonium salt of maleic anhydride copolymer, maleic anhydride copolymer, phosphate ester, condensation product of arylsulfonic acid and formaldehyde, addition product of ethylene oxide and fatty acid ester, salt of addition product of ethylene oxide and fatty acid ester, sodium salt of isodecyl sulfosuccinate half ester, polycarboxylate, sodium alkylbenzenesulfonate, sodium salt of sulfonated naphthalene, ammonium salt of sulfonated naphthalene, polyacrylate, sodium condensed phenolsulfonate and naphthalenesulfonic acid-formaldehyde condensate, sodium naphthalenesulfonate formaldehyde condensate, triphenylvinylphenol polyoxyethylene ether phosphate; fatty alcohol ethoxylate; alkyl ethoxylate; EO-PO block copolymer; graft copolymer, ammonium salt of sulfonated naphthalene, polyacrylate; or their salts or derivatives.

[0081] Commercially available dispersants include "Morwet D425" (sodium naphthalene formaldehyde condensate, produced by Nouryon, USA), "Morwet EFW" (sulfonated alkyl carboxylic acid and sodium alkylnaphthalenesulfonate), "Tamol PP" (sodium phenolsulfonic acid condensate), "Reax 80N" (sodium lignosulfonate) and "Wettol D1" (sodium alkylnaphthalenesulfonate, produced by BASF). However, those skilled in the art should understand that other conventionally known dispersants can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These dispersants are all commercially available products and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the content of the dispersant is 0.1%-40% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the dispersant is 0.1%-30% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the dispersant is 0.1%-20% w / w of the total composition.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the hydrocolloids usable in the present invention include water-absorbing colloids of natural origin, including those of plant, animal or microbial origin. The hydrocolloids used in the organic agricultural composition comprise one or more anionic, cationic, non-ionic, amphoteric or hydrophobic hydrocolloids. According to one embodiment, the hydrocolloid comprises one or more of gum arabic, karaya gum, tragacanth gum (gum ghatti), larch gum, collagen (fish glue), welan gum, gum acacia, abelmoschus manihot gum, bala gum, pectin, codia gum, gmelina arborea gum, hackelia gum, kaya gum, katila gum, kondagogu gum, leucaena seed gum, malva sylvestris gum, dolichos lablab gum, moringa oleifera gum, azadirachta indica gum, sesbania gum or a mixture thereof. Preferably, the hydrocolloid is an anionic hydrocolloid selected from gum arabic, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, azadirachta indica gum and moringa oleifera gum. However, the above list of hydrocolloids is only an example and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the content of the hydrocolloid is 0.1%-40% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the hydrocolloid is 0.1%-30% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the hydrocolloid is 0.1%-20% w / w of the total composition.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the wetting agents used in the crop nutrient composition include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: phenol naphthalenesulfonate, alkyl naphthalenesulfonate, sodium alkyl naphthalenesulfonate, sodium naphthalenesulfonate, sulfonated alkyl carboxylate sodium salt, polyoxyalkylated ethyl phenol, polyoxyethylated fatty alcohol, polyoxyethylated fatty amine, lignin derivative, alkyl sulfonate, alkyl benzene sulfonate, polycarboxylate, sulfosuccinate salt, alkyl polyethylene glycol ether sulfonate, alkyl ether phosphate, alkyl ether sulfate and alkyl sulfosuccinic acid monoester; salts or derivatives thereof. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other conventionally known wetting agents can also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These wetting agents are all commercial products and can be purchased from many companies.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the content of the wetting agent is 0.1%-30% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the wetting agent is 0.1%-20% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the wetting agent is 0.1%-10% w / w of the total composition.

[0087] Emulsifiers used in crop nutrient compositions include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: Atlas G5000, TERMUL 5429, TERMUL 2510, 118, X, OX-080, C 100, EL 200, Arlacel P135, Hypermer 8261, Hypermer B239, Hypermer B261, Hypermer B246sf, Solutol HS 15, Promulgen TM D, Soprophor 7961P, Soprophor TSP / 461, Soprophor TSP / 724, Croduret40, Etocas 200, Etocas 29, RokacetR26, CHEMONIC OE-20, Triton TM N-101, Tween20, 40, 60, 65, 80, Span20, 40, 60, 80, 83, 85, 120, Triton TM , Atlox4912, TERMUL 3512, TERMUL 3015, TERMUL 5429, TERMUL 2510, T85, T20, TERIC 12A4. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other conventionally known emulsifiers can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These emulsifiers are commercially produced and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the content of the emulsifier is 0.1%-40% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the emulsifier is 0.1%-30% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the emulsifier is 0.1%-20% w / w of the total composition.

[0089] According to one embodiment, disintegrants for crop nutrient compositions include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: inorganic water-soluble salts such as sodium chloride, nitrate; water-soluble organic compounds such as hydroxypropyl starch, carboxymethyl starch ether, microcrystalline cellulose, cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, calcium carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium tripolyphosphate, sodium hexametaphosphate, cellulose powder, dextrin, methacrylate copolymer, XL-10 (crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone), sulfonated styrene-isobutene-maleic anhydride copolymer, methacrylate polyacrylate, starch-polyacrylonitrile graft copolymer, sodium bicarbonate / sodium carbonate or potassium bicarbonate / potassium carbonate, or a mixed salt or derivative thereof with an acid such as citric acid, fumaric acid, etc. However, those skilled in the art should understand that different disintegrants can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These disintegrants are all commercially produced products and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the content of the disintegrant is 0.1% to 20% w / w of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the disintegrant is 0.1% to 10% w / w of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the disintegrant is 0.1% to 5% w / w of the composition.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the binding agent or binders used in the crop nutrient composition include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: carbohydrates (such as monosaccharides, disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides), complex organic substances, lignosulfonates, polyvinylpyrrolidone, synthetic organic polymers, or derivatives thereof. However, those skilled in the art should understand that different binding agents can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. The binding agents are commercially produced and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0092] According to another embodiment, the content of the binding agent is 0.1% to 30% w / w of the composition. According to another embodiment, the content of the binding agent is 0.1% to 20% w / w of the composition. According to another embodiment, the content of the binding agent is 0.1% to 10% w / w of the composition.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the carriers used in the crop nutrient composition include, but are not limited to, one or more solid carriers, fillers, or diluents. According to another embodiment, the carriers include mineral carriers, plant carriers, synthetic carriers, water-soluble carriers. However, those skilled in the art should understand that different carriers can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These carriers are commercially produced and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0094] The solid carriers include: natural clay minerals such as kaolin, acid clay, kaolin (such as kaolinite, dickite, nacrite, halloysite), serpentine (such as chrysotile, lizardite, antigorite, penninite), synthetic and diatomaceous silica, montmorillonite minerals (such as sodium montmorillonite), soapstone (such as steatite, lithium montmorillonite, zinc montmorillonite, natrosilite), mica (such as pyrophyllite, talc, pyrophyllite, muscovite, paragonite, sericite, illite), silica (such as cristobalite and quartz), attapulgite and sepiolite; vermiculite, lithium saponite, pumice, bauxite, hydrated alumina, perlite, sodium bicarbonate, wollastonite, limestone, natural and synthetic silicates, charcoal, silica, precipitated silica, fumed silica, calcined products of precipitated silica, surface-modified silica, mica, zeolite, diatomite and its derivatives, chalk bleaching earth, loess, mirabilite, silica white, slaked lime, synthetic silicic acid, starch, modified starch (Pineflow, produced by Matsutani Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., Japan), cellulose, plant carriers such as cellulose, rice husk, wheat flour, wood flour, starch, rice bran, wheat bran and soybean flour, sodium caseinate, sucrose, salt cake, potassium pyrophosphate, sodium tripolyphosphate, or their derivatives or mixtures. Commercially available silicate products include those of the Aerosil brand, Sipernat brand (such as 50S and CALFLO E) and kaolin 1777. However, those skilled in the art should understand that different solid carriers can also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These solid carriers are all commercially produced and available on the market by multiple enterprises.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the content of the carrier is 0.1% to 94% w / w of the composition. According to another embodiment, the content of the carrier is 0.1% to 80% w / w of the composition. According to another embodiment, the content of the carrier is 0.1% to 60% w / w of the composition. According to another embodiment, the content of the carrier is 0.1% to 40% w / w of the composition. According to another embodiment, the content of the carrier is 0.1% to 20% w / w of the composition.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the defoamers or antifoaming agents used in the crop nutrient composition include, but are not limited to, one or more of silica, siloxane, silica, polydimethylsiloxane, alkyl polyacrylate, ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, polyethylene glycol, silicone oil, magnesium stearate or their derivatives. Preferred defoamers include silicone emulsions (for example, SRE, Wacker or Rhodia's ) Long-chain alcohols, fatty acids, fluorinated organic compounds. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other conventionally known defoamers can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These defoamers are commercially produced and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the content of the defoamer is 0.01% to 20% w / w of the total composition.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the pH regulators, buffers or neutralizing agents used in the composition include acids and bases of organic or inorganic types and their mixtures. According to another embodiment, the pH regulators, buffers or neutralizing agents include, but are not limited to, one or more of organic acids, inorganic acids, and alkali metal compounds or their salts and derivatives. According to one embodiment, the organic acids include, but are not limited to, one or more of citric acid, malic acid, adipic acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, succinic acid, and tartaric acid, or their salts and derivatives; and the mono-salts, di-salts or tri-salts of these acids or their derivatives. The alkali metal compounds include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: alkali metal hydroxides (such as sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide), alkali metal carbonates (such as sodium carbonate), alkali metal bicarbonates (such as sodium bicarbonate), and alkali metal phosphates (such as sodium phosphate) and their mixtures. According to one embodiment, the inorganic acid salts include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: alkali metal salts, such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, sodium sulfate, potassium sulfate, monosodium hydrogen phosphate, monopotassium hydrogen phosphate, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, etc. Mixtures can also be used to prepare pH regulators, buffers or neutralizing agents. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other conventionally known pH regulators, buffers or neutralizing agents can also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These pH regulators, buffers or neutralizing agents are all commercially produced products and can be obtained from multiple companies.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the content of the pH regulator or buffer is 0.01% to 20% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the pH regulator or buffer is 0.01% to 10% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the pH regulator or buffer is 0.01% to 5% w / w of the total composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the pH regulator or buffer is 0.01% to 1% w / w of the total composition.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the spreading agent used in the composition includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following substances: copolymer of maleic acid and styrene compound, (meth)acrylic acid copolymer, half-ester of polymer of polyol and dicarboxylic anhydride, water-soluble salt of polystyrene sulfonic acid, fatty acid, latex, fatty alcohol, vegetable oil (such as cottonseed oil), non-mineral oil, petroleum fraction oil, modified trisiloxane, polyethylene glycol or its salt or derivative. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other conventionally known spreading agents can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. The spreading agents are commercially produced and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the content of the dispersant is 0.01% to 20% w / w of the total amount of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the dispersant is 0.01% to 5% w / w of the total amount of the composition.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the adhesives used in the composition include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: paraffin wax, polyamide resin, polyacrylate, polyethylene oxide, wax, polyvinyl alkyl ether, alkylphenol-formaldehyde condensate, fatty acid, latex, polyvinylpyrrolidone, fatty alcohol, gums (such as xanthan gum, Indian gum, gum arabic, etc.), vegetable oil (such as cottonseed oil) or non-mineral oil, petroleum fraction, modified trisiloxane, polyethylene glycol, synthetic resin emulsion or its salt or derivative. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other conventionally known adhesives can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. These adhesives are commercially produced and can be purchased from multiple companies.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the content of the adhesive is 0.01% to 30% w / w of the total amount of the composition. According to one embodiment, the content of the adhesive is 0.01% to 15% w / w of the total amount of the composition.

[0104] The inventors further determined that the composition of the present invention surprisingly has physical properties of enhanced dispersion rate, suspension rate, and wetting time, providing easy handling and also reducing material loss during packaging and during product handling at the application site.

[0105] Wettability refers to the state or condition of being wettable, which can be defined as the degree to which a solid is wetted by a liquid, measured by the adhesion force between the solid phase and the liquid phase. The wettability of the composition in the form of granules is measured using the CIPAC standard test MT-53, which describes the procedure for determining the complete wetting time of a wettable formulation. A certain amount of the composition in the form of granules is weighed and dropped from a specified height onto the water surface in a beaker, and the complete wetting time is determined.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the wettability of the composition of the present invention is less than 2 minutes. According to one embodiment, the wettability of the composition is less than 1 minute. According to one embodiment, the wettability of the composition is less than 30 seconds.

[0107] The dispersion rate of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of the present application can be determined according to the standard CIPAC test MT 174. According to one embodiment, the dispersion rate of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is at least 30%. According to one embodiment, the dispersion rate of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is at least 40%. According to one embodiment, the dispersion rate of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is at least 50%. According to one embodiment, the dispersion rate of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is at least 60%. According to one embodiment, the dispersion rate of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is at least 70%. According to one embodiment, the dispersion rate of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is at least 80%. According to one embodiment, the dispersion rate of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is at least 90%. According to one embodiment, the dispersion rate of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is at least 99%. According to one embodiment, the dispersion rate of the water-dispersible granular composition is 100%. When the composition of the present invention comes into contact with water, it can be uniformly dispersed into fine particles with a size range of 0.1 to 30 microns.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule can be almost instantaneously dispersed, making the active ingredient easily absorbed by the crop.

[0109] The suspension rate is defined as the amount of the active ingredient suspended in a liquid column of a specified height after a specified time, expressed as a percentage of the amount of the active ingredient in the original suspension. The suspension rate test is carried out in accordance with the CIPAC Handbook "MT 184 Suspension Rate Test".

[0110] According to one embodiment, the suspension rate of the composition of the present invention is at least 30%. According to one embodiment, the suspension rate of the composition is at least 40%. According to one embodiment, the suspension rate of the composition is at least 10%. According to one embodiment, the suspension rate of the composition is at least 60%. According to one embodiment, the suspension rate of the composition is at least 70%. According to one embodiment, the suspension rate of the composition is at least 80%. According to one embodiment, the suspension rate of the composition is at least 90%. According to one embodiment, the suspension rate of the composition is at least 99%. According to one embodiment, the suspension rate of the insecticidal composition is at least 100%.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the composition of the present invention exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 90% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 80% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 70% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 60% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 50% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 40% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 30% under ATS.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the composition of the present invention exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 90% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 80% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 70% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 60% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 50% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 40% under ATS. According to one embodiment, the composition exhibits a dispersion rate of more than 30% under ATS.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for preparing a crop nutrient composition in the form of water-dispersible granules, the composition comprising a homogeneous mixture of an effective amount of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives and an effective amount of one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives with at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

[0114] According to another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for preparing a crop nutrient composition in the form of water-dispersible granules, the composition comprising a homogeneous mixture of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives in an amount of 5% - 80% w / w of the total composition and one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives in an amount of 1% - 50% w / w of the total composition with at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient; wherein the composition comprises fine particles in the size range of 0.1 micrometer - 30 micrometers.

[0115] The crop nutrient composition in the form of water-dispersible granules can be prepared by various techniques such as spray drying, fluidized bed granulation, extrusion, freeze drying, spheronization, etc.

[0116] According to one embodiment, a method for preparing a composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule comprises: uniformly grinding one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives, and one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives with at least one agrichemically acceptable excipient to obtain a slurry or a wet mixture in water. The obtained slurry is then dried in a spray dryer, a fluidized bed dryer or any suitable granulation equipment to obtain a water-dispersible granule comprising fine particles in the size range of 0.1 micrometer to 30 micrometers. The water-dispersible granules are further sieved to remove particles that are too small and too large in size and obtain the desired fine particle size.

[0117] According to another embodiment, a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule can also be prepared as follows: one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives and one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives are dry-ground with at least one agrichemically acceptable excipient in a jet mill or a jet grinder to obtain a homogeneous mixture with a fine particle size. Water is added to the dry powder agent, and the mixture is mixed to obtain a dough-like, paste-like or wet mixture, which is then extruded through an extruder to obtain a granule comprising fine particles in the size range of 0.1 micrometer to 30 micrometers. The water-dispersible granules are further sieved to remove particles that are too small and too large in size and obtain the desired size.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the present invention also relates to the use of the crop nutrient composition as at least one of a nutrient composition, a crop fortifier composition, a soil conditioner composition, a crop protectant and a yield enhancer composition.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the present invention also relates to a method for improving plant health or enhancing plant uptake of nutrients or increasing plant yield, wherein the method comprises treating at least one of a plant, plant propagation material, a site or a plant part, a seed, a seedling or the surrounding soil with the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of the present invention.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the present invention also relates to a method of applying an effective amount of a crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule, the composition comprising a homogeneous mixture of 5 wt% to 80 wt% of one or more water-insoluble magnesium salts, magnesium complexes or magnesium derivatives, 1 wt% to 50 wt% of one or more water-insoluble zinc salts, zinc complexes or zinc derivatives and 0.01 wt% to 94 wt% of an agrochemically acceptable excipient, wherein elemental zinc is present in the range of 0.01 wt% to 50 wt% of the total composition, wherein elemental magnesium is present in the range of 0.1 wt% to 50 wt% of the total composition, and wherein the granules of the composition comprise fine particles in the size range of 0.1 micron to 30 microns, and wherein the composition is applied to seeds, seedlings, crops, plants, plant propagation materials, sites, plant parts or the surrounding soil.

[0121] The present invention also provides balanced absorption of all nutrients, improved crop health, improved crop nutrition by promoting the absorption of essential nutrients, protection of crops, increased crop yields, strengthening of plants or contributing to soil conditioning.

[0122] The composition can be applied by a variety of methods. Methods of applying to the soil include any suitable method that ensures the composition penetrates the soil, such as seedling tray application, furrow application, drip irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, soil soaking, soil injection or incorporation into the soil, among other methods. The composition can also be applied in the form of a foliar spray.

[0123] The application rate or dosage of the composition depends on the type of use, the type of crop or the specific active ingredient in the composition, but the amount of the active ingredient should be effective to provide the desired effects, such as crop protection, crop yield and nutrient uptake.

[0124] A. Preparation examples:

[0125] The following examples illustrate the basic methods and versatility of the compositions of the present invention. The water-insoluble magnesium and zinc sources listed in the preparation examples can be replaced with any other water-insoluble salts, complexes or their derivatives covered by the present invention, provided that the required concentration ranges are changed accordingly. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0126] Composition in the form of water-dispersible granules of magnesium and zinc salts:

[0127] 1: A composition in the form of water-dispersible granules of 25% zinc carbonate (13% elemental zinc) and 35% magnesium oxide (21.11% elemental magnesium).

[0128] The preparation method of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule is as follows: Mix 25 parts of zinc carbonate, 35 parts of magnesium oxide, 14 parts of naphthalene sulfonate condensate, 8 parts of polycarboxylate, 8 parts of sodium lignosulfonate, 5 parts of kaolin, and 5 parts of sodium sulfate. Grind the resulting mixture into a powder with a size less than 15 microns. Mix the powder with water in a suitable mixing device to form a slurry.

[0129] Wet-mill the resulting slurry in a suitable wet-milling device. Spray-dry the wet-milled slurry under the conditions that the inlet temperature is lower than 175 °C and the outlet temperature is lower than 90 °C to obtain the granule. The particle size distribution D50 of the composition is less than 7.5 microns. The granule size of the composition is in the range of 0.1 - 1.5 mm. The dispersion rate of the composition is 70%, the suspension rate is 65%, and the wettability is less than 25 seconds. Under accelerated storage conditions, the suspension rate of the composition is about 60%, the dispersion rate is 65%, and the wettability is 30 seconds.

[0130] 2: A composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of 5% zinc carbonate (elemental zinc 2.6%) and 80% magnesium silicate (elemental magnesium 13.9%).

[0131] The water-dispersible composition is prepared according to Example 1 and is composed of 80 parts of magnesium silicate, 5 parts of zinc carbonate, 5 parts of neem gum, 3 parts of sodium naphthalene sulfonate condensate, 3 parts of china clay, and 4 parts of lactose. The particle size distribution D50 of the composition is less than 8.5 microns. The granule size of the composition is in the range of 0.1 - 2.5 mm. The dispersion rate of the composition is 71%, the suspension rate is 65%, and the wettability is less than 15 seconds. The composition also exhibits a suspension rate of about 62% and a dispersion rate of 65%, and a wettability of 25 seconds under accelerated storage conditions.

[0132] 3: A composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of 15% zinc silicate (elemental zinc content 8.8%) and 45% magnesium silicate (elemental zinc content 7.8%).

[0133] The water-dispersible composition is prepared according to Example 1. Mix 45 parts of magnesium silicate, 15 parts of zinc silicate, 12 parts of sodium polyacrylate, 18 parts of sodium naphthalene sulfonate condensate, 6 parts of larch gum, 3 parts of Stepsperse DF200, and 1 part of sodium citrate. The particle size distribution D50 of the composition is less than 10 microns. The granule size of the composition is in the range of 0.1 - 1.5 mm. The dispersion rate of the composition is 90%, the suspension rate is 85%, and the wettability is less than 10 seconds. The composition also exhibits a suspension rate of about 80% and a dispersion rate of 90%, and a wettability of 15 seconds under accelerated storage conditions.

[0134] 4: A composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of 40% zinc oxide (elemental zinc 32.1%) and 25% magnesium carbonate (elemental magnesium 7.2%).

[0135] The water-dispersible composition was prepared according to Example 1 and is composed of 25 parts of magnesium carbonate, 40 parts of zinc oxide, 3 parts of triphenylvinylphenol polyoxyethylene ether phosphate ester, 11 parts of sodium lignosulfonate, 6 parts of polycarboxylate, 5 parts of larch gum, 8 parts of Stepsperse DF200 and 2 parts of calcium chloride. The particle size distribution D50 of the composition is less than 14 microns. The granule size of the composition is in the range of 0.1 - 2.5 mm. The dispersion rate of the composition is 40%, the suspension rate is 40%, and the wettability is less than 35 seconds. The composition also exhibits a suspension rate of about 38% and a dispersion rate of 35%, and a wettability of 40 seconds under accelerated storage conditions.

[0136] 5: A composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of 3% zinc borate (elemental zinc 1.875%) and 75% magnesium phosphate (elemental magnesium 20.7%).

[0137] The water-dispersible composition was prepared by an extrusion process and is composed of 3 parts of zinc borate, 75 parts of magnesium phosphate, 4 parts of calcium lignosulfonate of naphthalenesulfonate condensate, 6 parts of polycarboxylate, 4 parts of larch gum, 6 parts of Stepserse and 2 parts of sodium citrate. The particle size distribution D50 of the composition is less than 20 microns. The granule size of the composition is in the range of 0.1 - 3.5 mm. The dispersion rate of the composition is 40%, the suspension rate is 40%, and the wettability is less than 35 seconds. The composition also exhibits a suspension rate of about 38% and a dispersion rate of 35%, and a wettability of 40 seconds under accelerated storage conditions.

[0138] B. Field study:

[0139] Experiment 1: Study the effect of the water-dispersible granule of "water-insoluble magnesium salt and water-insoluble zinc salt" on peanut crops:

[0140] In Nashik, Maharashtra, a field experiment was conducted on the peanut variety JL776 to evaluate the examples of the composition of the present invention. The experiment was carried out using a randomized block design (RBD), with 7 treatment groups, including an untreated control, replicated 3 times. The plot area of each treatment group was 35 square meters (7 m x 5 m). The experimental nutrient composition contained water-dispersible granules of various individual zinc salts, magnesium salts and their combinations (in different concentration ranges) and a specified dose of salt, which was applied as a basal fertilizer at the time of sowing the peanut crops. The effective doses of zinc and magnesium applied in the field experiment were elemental zinc (Zn) and elemental magnesium (Mg).

[0141] The details of the experiment are as follows:

[0142] a) Experimental site: Nashik, Maharashtra

[0143] b) Crop: Peanut (JL776)

[0144] c) Test season: Rabi season 2022

[0145] d) Test design: Randomized block design

[0146] e) Number of replications: 3

[0147] f) Number of treatment groups: 7

[0148] g) Plot area: 7 m x 5 m = 35 square meters

[0149] h) Application date: February 3, 2022

[0150] i) Sowing date: February 3, 2022

[0151] j) Application method: Basal fertilizer

[0152] k) Harvest date: May 15, 2022

[0153] l) Soil pH value: 7.2

[0154] Record the observations at harvest and list the average data in Table 1 to illustrate the efficacy of the "water-insoluble magnesium salt and water-insoluble zinc salt" water-dispersible granule prepared according to the embodiments of the present invention.

[0155] Table 1:

[0156]

[0157]

[0158] * Synergistic effect

[0159] * Days after application (DAA)

[0160] * The selected water-insoluble magnesium salt and zinc salt and their concentrations are for reference only and can be replaced with other different concentrations of water-insoluble magnesium salts and zinc salts described in the present invention.

[0161] The definition of "synergistic effect" was defined by Colby S.R. in the article entitled "Calculation of the synergistic and antagonistic responses of herbicide combinations", which was published in Weeds, 1967, Vol. 15, pp. 20-22. The expected effect of a given combination of two active ingredients can be calculated as follows:

[0162] E = X + Y – (XY) / 100

[0163] Wherein,

[0164] E = The percentage of the expected effect after mixing two products X and Y at a specified dose.

[0165] X = The percentage of the effect observed for product A

[0166] Y = The percentage of the effect observed for product B

[0167] The synergistic factor (SF) is calculated using the Abbott formula (Formula (2) (Abbott, 1925)).

[0168] SF = Observed effect / Expected effect

[0169] Where SF > 1 indicates a synergistic reaction; SF < 1 indicates an antagonistic reaction; SF = 1 indicates an additive reaction.

[0170] When the observed percentage of the production effect (E) of the combination is greater than the expected percentage, it can be inferred that the combination has a synergistic effect. When the observed percentage of the production effect of the combination is equal to the expected percentage, it can be inferred that the combination only has an additive effect; when the observed percentage of the production effect of the combination is lower than the expected percentage, it can be inferred that the combination has an antagonistic effect.

[0171] From the data in Table 1, it can be seen that the treatment groups T1 and T4 in the embodiments of the present invention exhibit a synergistic effect.

[0172] From Table 1, it can be seen that the synergistic factors of treatment groups T1 and T4 in the embodiments of the present invention are 1.74 and 1.8 respectively, which indicates that the WDG compositions of "zinc carbonate + magnesium carbonate" and "zinc oxide + magnesium oxide" have a synergistic effect. The synergistic effect of the "water-insoluble zinc salt + water-insoluble magnesium salt" WDG in the embodiments of the present invention can be observed from the yield of peanut kernels.

[0173] According to the data and calculations, the expected increases in the yield of peanut kernels for treatment groups T1 and T4 are 31.26% and 28.41% respectively. However, as can be clearly seen from Table 1 above, the increase in the yield of peanut kernels for treatment group T1, which applied the water-dispersible granular composition (WDG) of 15% zinc carbonate (elemental zinc 7.8%) and 35% magnesium carbonate (elemental magnesium 10%) according to the embodiments of the present invention, is 54.49%, while the increase in the yield of peanut kernels for treatment group T4, which applied the water-dispersible granular composition of 35% zinc oxide and 42% magnesium oxide according to the embodiments of the present invention, is 51.28%.

[0174] However, the treatment group T2 applying 15% zinc carbonate WDG and the treatment group T3 applying 35% magnesium carbonate WDG increased the peanut grain yield by 25.15% and 12.82% respectively. The yields of the treatment group T5 applying 35% zinc oxide WDG and the treatment group T6 applying 42% magnesium oxide WDG were only 14.74% and 16.03% respectively. Therefore, compared with the treatment groups applying a single active ingredient alone, the treatment groups T1 and T4 applying the water-dispersible granule of the embodiment of the present invention showed a synergistic effect. The result is even more surprising because all treatment groups T2 - T3 and T5 - T6 applied the same dose of zinc salt and magnesium salt to the soil, namely 289.41 g / ha zinc, 373.4 g / ha magnesium and 1051 g / ha zinc, 947 g / ha magnesium respectively.

[0175] Further, it can be seen from Table 1 that compared with the treatment groups T2 - T3 and T5 - T6 applying zinc salt and magnesium salt alone, the treatment groups T1 and T4 applying the composition of the embodiment of the present invention showed a surprising absorption rate of nutrients such as magnesium and zinc, even though the application doses of these active ingredients were the same in each treatment. Therefore, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the combination of "water-insoluble magnesium salt and water-insoluble zinc salt" used in the form of water-dispersible granule has a synergistic effect. Compared with the treatment of applying active ingredients alone, its yield is surprisingly increased, and plant physiological parameters are also improved, such as the increase in plant height and the increase in the number of pods per plant.

[0176] Therefore, it is found that the composition in the form of the water-dispersible granule of the present invention is a composition with high nutrient use efficiency.

[0177] Experiment 2: Study the effect of the water-dispersible granule of "water-insoluble magnesium salt and water-insoluble zinc salt" on tomato crops:

[0178] The test site was selected based on the area where tomato crops are prone to nutrient deficiency symptoms and the soil nutrient content is lower than the nutrient deficiency level.

[0179] The experiment was carried out in the Kharif season using a randomized block design (RBD), with a total of 7 treatment groups, including an untreated control, repeated 4 times. The plot area of each treatment group was 40 square meters (8 m x 5 m). The evaluated components included different preparations such as zinc salt alone, magnesium salt, and the combination of zinc salt and magnesium salt, and the application doses of zinc salt and magnesium salt were the same in each treatment group. The tomato crops in the experimental field were planted following good agricultural practices. The tomato variety used in the study was Abhilash, with a row spacing of 120 cm and a plant spacing of 45 cm. The details of the experiment are as follows:

[0180] Details of the experiment

[0181] a) Test site: Nashik (MH)

[0182] b) Crop: Tomato (Variety: Abhilash)

[0183] c) Test season: Kharif season 2021

[0184] d) Test design: Randomized block design

[0185] e) Number of replications: 4

[0186] f) Number of treatment groups: 7

[0187] g) Plot area: 8 m x 5 m = 40 square meters

[0188] h) Application date: July 6, 2021

[0189] i) Application method: Side application

[0190] j) Transplanting date: July 6, 2021

[0191] k) Harvest dates: October 15, 2021, October 25, 2021, November 5, 2021

[0192] The method of observing the results was to mark the newly opened flowers once a week and count the number of marked flowers that set fruit after one week. The fruits were harvested six times and weighed each time. The average data of all the observed results are listed in Table 2 to illustrate the effects of the combination of water-insoluble zinc salt and water-insoluble magnesium salt in the form of water-dispersible granules on tomato yield and other parameters in the examples of the present invention.

[0193] Table 2:

[0194]

[0195]

[0196] · Synergistic effect *

[0197] From the data in Table 2, it can be seen that treatment group T3 (5% zinc carbonate (elemental zinc 2.6%) + 80% magnesium silicate (elemental magnesium 13.9%) WDG) and treatment group T6 (20% zinc oxide (elemental zinc 16%) + 15% magnesium carbonate (elemental magnesium 4.3%) WDG) according to the examples of the present invention showed a synergistic effect.

[0198] Based on the data and calculations, the expected increases in tomato fruit yields for treatment groups T3 and T6 were 16.15% and 11.84% respectively. However, for example, as can be clearly seen from Table 2 above, according to the embodiments of the present invention, the tomato yield of treatment group T3 with 5% zinc carbonate + 80% magnesium silicate WDG increased by 21.43%, while the tomato yields of treatment group T1 with 5% zinc carbonate WDG and treatment group T2 with 80% magnesium silicate WDG increased by 5.71% and 11.07% respectively. Similarly, according to the embodiments of the present invention, the tomato yield of treatment group T6 is higher compared to the individual treatment groups T4 and T5.

[0199] Table 2 also lists the average data of 10 plants, among which, compared with treatment groups T1 - T2, T4 - T5 and T7, the severity of early blight in treatment groups T3 and T6 is the lowest. According to the embodiments of the present invention, the severity of early blight in treatment group T3 prepared is approximately 5%, while the severities of early blight in treatment groups T1 and T2 are approximately 35.3% and 25.1% respectively.

[0200] Therefore, it can be seen that compared with the individual treatment groups and the untreated control group, the synergistic water - dispersible granule preparation of the present invention has excellent efficacy in terms of yield and disease control, wherein the composition contains fine particles with a size range of 0.1 micron - 30 microns.

[0201] Experiment 3: Evaluate the effects of "water - insoluble zinc salts and water - insoluble magnesium salts" of different preparations in commercial wheat fields:

[0202] Field test method:

[0203] The wheat field test in Malerkotla, Punjab was aimed at observing the effects of the composition in the form of water - dispersible granules (containing water - insoluble zinc and water - insoluble magnesium salts). The test was carried out in the rabi season, using a randomized block design (RBD), with a total of 7 treatment groups (including the untreated control), repeated 4 times. The plot area of each treatment group was 30 square meters (6 meters x 5 meters). The test product compounds with different concentration ranges and specified doses of the present invention (including various zinc salts and magnesium salts used alone and their combinations) were applied in the composition in the form of water - dispersible granules to the soil at the first irrigation of wheat (25 days after sowing). The wheat crops in the test field were planted according to good agricultural practices.

[0204] Test details

[0205] a) Test location: Malerkotla, Punjab

[0206] b) Crop: Wheat (variety PBW - 660)

[0207] c) Test season: Rabi season 2021

[0208] d) Experimental design: randomized block design

[0209] e) Number of replications: 4

[0210] f) Number of treatment groups: 7

[0211] g) Plot area: 6 m x 5 m = 30 square meters

[0212] h) Sowing date: November 10, 2021

[0213] i) Application date: November 10, 2021

[0214] j) Application method: soil application

[0215] k) Harvest date: April 2, 2022

[0216] l) Soil pH value: 6.8 - 7

[0217] The effective doses of zinc and magnesium applied in the field experiment are both elemental zinc and magnesium. Observation data were recorded at harvest, and the average data are listed in Table 3 to illustrate the efficacy of the water-dispersible granule composition prepared according to the examples of the present invention.

[0218] Table 3:

[0219]

[0220]

[0221] SC - suspending agent; WDG - water-dispersible granule

[0222] As can be clearly seen from Table 3 above, in the treatment group T3 with 15% zinc silicate (elemental zinc 8.8%) + 45% magnesium silicate hydrate (elemental magnesium 7.8%) WDG of the present invention, the wheat grain yield increased by 40%. However, in the treatment group T1 with 15% zinc oxide + 45% magnesium oxide - SC of the prior art, the wheat grain yield increased by only 8%; in the treatment group T2 with 15% zinc silicate + 45% magnesium silicate hydrate powder, the wheat grain yield increased by only 11.60%; and in the treatment group T4 with 15% zinc silicate + 45% magnesium silicate hydrate granule, the wheat grain yield increased by only 10%. According to the data and calculations of treatment groups T1 - T5, the expected increase in fruit yield was 13.89%. The synergistic effect of treatment group T3 was 2.87, while the synergistic effects of treatment groups T1, T2, and T4 were 0.57, 0.83, and 0.71 respectively. Therefore, it can be noted that compared with the powder composition (i.e., treatment group T2), the granule composition (i.e., treatment group T4), and the application of single active ingredients (i.e., treatment groups T5 - T6), the treatment group T3 - WDG according to the present invention showed a synergistic effect despite the same application amounts of zinc and magnesium. In addition, compared with the prior art composition (treatment at T1) and treatments at T2 and T4, treatment at T3 also showed higher yields and better plant characteristics. This result is particularly surprising because the soil application amounts of zinc and magnesium in all treatment groups T1 to T5 were the same, i.e., 352 g / ha of zinc and 313 g / ha of magnesium.

[0223] Therefore, it is worth noting that the "water-insoluble zinc salt and water-insoluble magnesium salt" composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule according to an embodiment of the present invention has a synergistic effect, and compared with other known formulation types, the yield is surprisingly increased, and the plant physiological parameters are improved.

[0224] Experiment 4: Evaluate the effect of different particle size distributions in zinc silicate + magnesium silicate - WDG formulations on the eggplant yield.

[0225] A field experiment was conducted in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal to observe the effect of zinc silicate + magnesium silicate - WDG formulations with different particle size ranges on the eggplant yield.

[0226] The experiment was carried out in the Kharif season (i.e., from January to April) using a randomized block design (RBD), with a total of four treatment groups (including an untreated control), repeated 7 times. The evaluated compositions included the zinc salt WDG composition and the magnesium salt WDG composition of the present invention, which were applied to the soil after planting eggplant seedlings in the experimental field. The eggplant crops in the experimental field were grown according to good agricultural practices.

[0227] Experiment details

[0228] a) Experiment location: North 24 Parganas, West Bengal

[0229] b) Crop: Eggplant

[0230] c) Test season: Kharif season

[0231] d) Experimental design: RBD

[0232] e) Number of replicates: 7

[0233] f) Number of treatment groups: 4

[0234] g) Plot area: 5 x 6 = 30 square meters

[0235] h) Sowing date: July 14, 2021

[0236] i) Application date: July 14, 2021

[0237] j) Application method: Soil application in the root zone

[0238] k) Crop variety: Pusa Purpleple long

[0239] l) Harvest dates: December 10, 2021; December 25, 2021; January 10, 2022

[0240] Observation results were recorded at harvest, and the average data are listed in Table 4 to illustrate the efficacy of the water-dispersible granules containing "water-insoluble zinc salt and water-insoluble magnesium salt" prepared according to the embodiments of the present invention.

[0241] Table 4:

[0242]

[0243] From the data in Table 4, it can be seen that the treatment group T1 (a composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of 20% zinc silicate (elemental zinc 11.7%) + 40% magnesium silicate (elemental magnesium 6.97%) WDG, with particle size in the range of 0.1 micron to 30 microns) according to the embodiments of the present invention has a significantly increased yield compared to the treatment group T2 (20% zinc silicate + 40% magnesium silicate WDG with particle size in the range of 0.1 to 50 microns) and the treatment group T3 (20% zinc silicate + 40% magnesium silicate WDG with particle size in the range of 0.1 to 100 microns). It was observed that the eggplant yield of the treatment group T1 increased amazingly by 35% compared to the untreated control group, while the treatment groups T2 and T3 only increased by 19.58% and 16.67, respectively.

[0244] In addition, compared with treatment groups T2 and T3, the absorption rates of nutrients such as magnesium and zinc in treatment group T1 are very high. Therefore, compared with the water-dispersible particle preparations with a larger particle size range, the water-dispersible particle preparation of the present invention shows more excellent efficacy in terms of yield and nutrient absorption, wherein the composition comprises fine particles with a size range of 0.1 to 30 microns.

[0245] Experiment 5: Comparison of the effects of the composition of the present invention and a commercially available water-soluble multi-nutrient powder on pepper crops:

[0246] The field experiment was carried out in a commercial pepper field in Nashik, Maharashtra, aiming to compare the yield increase effect of the WDG composition composed of water-insoluble zinc and magnesium salts with that of a commercially available water-soluble multi-nutrient powder on peppers. The experiment was carried out in spring, using a randomized block design (RBD), with a total of five treatment groups, including an untreated control group. The composition of the present invention was applied at a specified dose and in combination with drip irrigation.

[0247] The pepper crops in the experimental field were planted according to good agricultural practices.

[0248] Experiment details

[0249] a) Experiment location: Nashik (MH)

[0250] b) Crop: Pepper

[0251] c) Experiment season: Spring (January 2022 to May 2022)

[0252] d) Experiment design: Randomized block design

[0253] e) Number of replicates: 7

[0254] f) Number of treatment groups: 3

[0255] g) Plot area: 8 m x 5 m = 40 square meters

[0256] h) Planting date: January 10, 2022

[0257] i) Application date: January 10, 2022

[0258] j) Application method: Soil drip irrigation

[0259] Table 5:

[0260]

[0261] As can be seen from treatment group T1 in Table 5, the WDG composition prepared according to the embodiments of the present invention showed higher yields than treatment group T2 (where the applied composition was a commercially available water-soluble multi-nutrient mixture) and the untreated plots. Compared with treatment group T2, the yield of treatment group T1 increased by approximately 42%, while treatment group T2 showed only a 7.1% increase in yield despite the application of a higher dose. Therefore, it can be concluded that even at lower doses, the combination of "water-insoluble zinc salt and water-insoluble magnesium salt" in the form of WDG according to the embodiments of the present invention showed a significant improvement in fruit weight, fruit number, and fruit yield compared to the commercially available water-soluble multi-nutrient mixture.

[0262] Experiment 6: Study the efficacy of the composition of the present invention on cucumber crops.

[0263] A field experiment was conducted in Indore to observe the efficacy of the composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule containing water-insoluble zinc and water-insoluble magnesium salts on cucumbers. The experiment was carried out using a randomized block design (RBD) during the Kharif season, with 5 treatment groups (including an untreated control) and 4 replications. The plot area for each treatment group was 30 square meters (6 meters x 5 meters). The test product compounds of the present invention (various zinc salts, magnesium salts used alone and their combinations) in the form of a composition of water-dispersible granules with different concentration ranges and specified doses were sprayed on the leaves before the flowering stage. The cucumber crops in the experimental field were grown according to good agricultural practices.

[0264] The details of the experiment are as follows:

[0265] a) Test location: Indore, Madhya Pradesh

[0266] b) Crop: Cucumber (Var - Malini)

[0267] c) Test season: Kharif season 2021 (July 2021 - November 2021)

[0268] d) Test design: Randomized block design

[0269] e) Number of replications: 4

[0270] f) Number of treatment groups: 5

[0271] g) Plot area: 5 x 6 = 30 square meters

[0272] h) Application date: August 25, 2021

[0273] i) Sowing date: July 6, 2021

[0274] j) Application method: Foliar spraying (before flowering)

[0275] k) Harvest date: October 17, 2021

[0276] l) Soil pH value: 7.5

[0277] The flowering observations at 40 DAA were recorded, and the average data of fruit yield at harvest are listed in Table 6.

[0278] Table 6:

[0279]

[0280] As can be seen from the data in Table 6, compared with treatment group T2 (25% zinc carbonate WDG), treatment group T3 (35% magnesium oxide WDG), and treatment group T4 (25% zinc oxide + 35% magnesium oxide SC according to the prior art), treatment group T1 (a composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule of 25% zinc carbonate (elemental zinc 13%) + 35% magnesium oxide (elemental magnesium 21.1%) with a particle size in the range of 0.1 to 30 microns) showed a significant increase in flowering, followed by an increase in yield. This clearly indicates that, compared with treatment group T2 (25% zinc carbonate WDG), treatment group T3 (35% magnesium oxide WDG), treatment group T4, and the untreated control group, the composition of the present invention (treatment group T1) applied foliarly significantly increased the flowering of cucumbers. Further observation revealed that by applying treatment group T1 according to the examples of the present invention, the abscission of cucumber fruits was significantly reduced, which in turn contributed to an increase in the number of fruits, thus significantly increasing the fruit yield compared with the cucumber fruit abscission observed when applying treatment groups T2 - T5.

[0281] In addition, the percentage increase in fruit yield observed in treatment group T1 was approximately 49.65%, while those in treatment groups T2, T3, and T4 were approximately 12%, 21%, 12.98%, and 20.7% respectively. Therefore, compared with other treatments, the water-dispersible granule of the present invention has a more excellent effect in reducing flower and fruit drop and increasing yield when applied foliarly, where the particle size range of the composition is 0.1 to 30 microns.

[0282] Experiment 7: To study the effect of the composition of the present invention and traditional fertilization methods on nutrient uptake by cabbage crops.

[0283] Pot experiments were conducted in a greenhouse in Nashik, Maharashtra, India to determine the effect of the composition of the present invention and traditional fertilization methods on nutrient uptake.

[0284] The soil was analyzed before applying the treatment agent to evaluate the availability of nutrients, and the observations are as follows:

[0285]

[0286] Based on the soil surface area calculation, apply the following test nutrient composition at the specified dose, and apply it to the topsoil of each treatment pot and mix it well with the soil to a depth of 5 cm.

[0287] After that, plant one 25-day-old cabbage seedling in each pot. The cabbage seedlings in all 7 pots are cultivated according to GAP (Good Agricultural Practice) until harvest or full development. The details of the treatment groups are as follows:

[0288] The test details are as follows:

[0289] a) Test location: Nashik

[0290] b) Crop: Cabbage (Var - Royal Vantage)

[0291] c) Test season: Rabi season (November 2021 to February 2022)

[0292] d) Test design: Randomized block design, 5 pots for each treatment

[0293] e) Number of replicates: 5

[0294] f) Number of treatment groups: 7

[0295] g) Pot size: Upper diameter 20 cm x Lower diameter 15.5 cm x

[0296] Table 7:

[0297]

[0298]

[0299] Before BA application

[0300] It can also be observed from Table 7 that compared with treatment group T3 applying water-soluble NPK fertilizer, treatment group T4 applying NPK with a water-soluble micronutrient composition (Nutrifast from Stanes), and the untreated plot, treatment groups T1 and T2 applying the WDG composition prepared according to the examples of the present invention showed better nutrient absorption rates, and also showed better nutrient absorption rates.

[0301] It is worth noting that in treatment groups T1 and T2, zinc and magnesium were immediately absorbed by the crops together with other nutrients present in the soil, while in treatment groups T3, T4, and T5, the absorption of zinc or magnesium was less. It was also observed that even when applying NPK and combinations of NPK with other trace elements (such as calcium, boron, manganese, etc.), even at higher doses, the absorption of zinc and magnesium could not be significantly increased as in the composition of the present invention. In addition, it was observed that in treatment groups T2 - T6, due to the presence of phosphorus in the soil, phosphorus hindered the absorption of zinc, thus interfering with the plant's absorption of zinc, so the absorption of zinc was lower. However, it was observed that compared with treatment groups T3 - T6, treatment groups T1 and T2, which applied water-dispersible granules (WDG) containing magnesium element and having a synergistic effect with zinc and a particle size of 0.1 to 30 microns prepared according to the examples of the present invention, not only enhanced the absorption of zinc, but also enhanced the absorption of other nutrient elements such as magnesium, manganese, boron, etc.

[0302] In addition, it was also observed that even though the soil was rich in nutrients, treatment groups T3 and T4 showed a lower nutrient absorption rate despite the higher application rates. However, an increase in nutrient absorption was observed in the composition of the present invention because the composition created an environment suitable for nutrient absorption, adjusted the soil pH value, thus helping to release the nutrients in the soil to the plants or crops. It was further observed that treatment groups T3 and T4 showed nutrient antagonism because the high phosphorus content in the acidic soil hindered the absorption of zinc and magnesium. Therefore, it can be concluded that the composition of the present invention not only promotes the absorption of essential nutrients such as magnesium and zinc, but also helps to release trace elements and trace amounts of elements that cannot be absorbed in the soil, enabling the plants to absorb them.

[0303] Therefore, it is worth noting that the WDG composition of "water-insoluble zinc salt and water-insoluble magnesium salt" according to the examples of the present invention can provide a significantly higher utilization amount of magnesium and zinc even in the presence of NPK fertilizers within the size range of 0.1 micron to 30 microns, which does not occur when applying traditional fertilizers alone.

[0304] In addition, the inventors of the present invention also tested the WDG composition of the present invention on other crops such as peppers and corn. It was found that the composition of the present invention could further enhance crop characteristics such as straw weight, plant height, and improve the nutritional value of the crops. In addition, such combinations can also help to increase crop yields, improve photosynthesis, increase chlorophyll content, and improve the nutrient absorption of the crops.

[0305] It has been observed that the compositions of the present invention exhibit enhanced, efficient and excellent performance in the field. By means of the compositions of the present invention, the number of applications or the amount of nutrients, fertilizers or pesticides can be minimized. In addition, compared with the known compositions in the art, the compositions of the present invention exhibit surprisingly higher field efficacy at reduced application doses. The compositions are very safe for both the user and the environment. Such novel compositions contribute to increasing plant yields, balanced absorption of all nutrients, reducing leaf chlorosis, and improving plant physiological parameters such as increasing root systems, improving foliar growth, disease resistance, increasing crop greenness, thus providing nutrient-rich crops.

[0306] In addition, various advantageous properties associated with the compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, improved stability, improved toxicological and / or ecotoxicological behavior, improved crop characteristics (including crop yield, crop quality and characteristics), and other advantages familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0307] As can be seen from the foregoing, various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concept of the present invention. It should be understood that the present invention is not intended to be limiting or construed as limiting to the specific embodiments shown.

Claims

1. A crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule, comprising a homogeneous mixture of the following components: At least one water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex or zinc derivative, accounting for 1%-50% w / w of the total amount of the composition; At least one water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex or derivative, accounting for 5%-80% w / w of the total amount of the composition; At least one agrichemically acceptable excipient; Wherein, The content of elemental zinc accounts for 0.01% - 50% w / w of the total composition; wherein, the content of elemental magnesium accounts for 0.1% - 50% w / w of the total composition; wherein, the composition comprises fine particles with a size range of 0.1 micrometers to 30 micrometers.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein at least one water-insoluble zinc salt comprises at least one of zinc oxide, zinc carbonate, zinc sulfide, zinc molybdate, zinc phosphate, zinc nitrilotriacetate, zinc borate, zinc silicate, zinc pyrophosphate and zinc citrate, its complexes or derivatives.

3. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, At least one water-insoluble magnesium salt includes at least one of magnesium molybdate, magnesium hydroxide, calcium magnesium phosphate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium aluminum silicate, calcium magnesium silicate, magnesium trisilicate, magnesium silicate, magnesium oxide, its complexes or derivatives.

4. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The size range of the granule of the composition is from 0.05 millimeters to 5.0 millimeters.

5. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The composition comprises fine particles with a size range of 0.1 micrometers to 20 micrometers.

6. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The composition comprises fine particles with a D50 diameter distribution of about 20 micrometers.

7. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, At least one agrochemically acceptable excipient is selected from one or more of wetting agents, surfactants, dispersants, disintegrants, hydrocolloids, emulsifiers, fillers or carriers or diluents, spreading agents, colorants, anti-caking agents, binders, buffers or pH regulators or neutralizing agents, thickeners, pigments, stabilizers, defoaming agents or antifoaming agents, anti-settling agents, penetrants, preservatives.

8. The composition according to claim 7, wherein, The composition comprises at least one surfactant.

9. The composition according to claim 7, wherein, At least one agrochemically acceptable excipient accounts for 0.01% - 94% w / w of the total composition.

10. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The suspension rate of the composition is at least 30%.

11. A method for preparing the crop nutrient composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule according to claim 1, wherein, The method comprises: a. Grinding at least one water-insoluble zinc salt, zinc complex or zinc derivative accounting for 1% - 50% of the total weight of the composition, at least one water-insoluble magnesium salt, magnesium complex or magnesium derivative accounting for 5% - 80% of the total weight of the composition, and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient in water into a homogeneous mixture to obtain a slurry or a wet mixture; b. Drying the slurry or the wet mixture to obtain the composition in the form of water-dispersible granules; wherein, the composition comprises fine particles with a size range of 0.1 micrometers to 30 micrometers; wherein the content of elemental zinc is 0.01% to 50% of the total weight of the composition, wherein, the content of elemental magnesium is 0.1% to 50% of the total weight of the composition.

12. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The composition is at least one of a fertilizer composition, a nutritional composition, a crop fortifier composition, a soil conditioner composition and a yield enhancer composition.

13. A method for improving plant health or enhancing the absorption of nutrients by plants or increasing plant yield, wherein the method comprises treating at least one of plants, plant propagation materials, plant sites or plant parts, seeds, seedlings or the surrounding soil with a composition in the form of a water-dispersible granule as described in claim 1.

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