Fungicidal combinations

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fungicidal combination comprising an inorganic compound, a triazole fungicide and a host plant defense inducer. The invention also relates to a method for controlling fungal plant pathogens in crops. The invention proves that the fungicidal composition containing sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate is used for preventing and treating fungal infection in wheat crops.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fungicidal combination and a method for controlling fungal plant pathogens in crops. Background Art

[0002] Fungicide resistance continues to pose disease management challenges in many crops. Field experience and research over the past five decades have emphasized the importance of diverse modes of action in strategies to combat resistance. Due to attrition—not only due to resistance but increasingly due to environmental and health concerns—the number of modes of action has declined to critical levels.

[0003] PCT Publication No. WO2012 / 101660 discloses an insecticidal composition comprising sulfur; a fungicide selected from the group consisting of fenhexamid, fenamidone, cyazofamid, chlorothalonil, kresoxim-methyl, azoxystrobin, pyraclostrobin, iprodione, validamycin, kasugamycin, cyprodinil, pencycuron, hexaconazole, prochloraz, epoxiconazole, prothioconazole, trifloxystrobin, thiophanate-methyl, spiroxam, metrafenone, or salts thereof; and at least one agrochemically acceptable adjuvant. The composition exhibits unexpectedly high activity against various fungi, such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, rust, and blight. A pesticidal composition comprising 25% to 70% sulfur, 25% to 70% cymoxanil or a salt thereof, and at least one agrochemically acceptable adjuvant exhibits excellent control of certain late blight diseases.

[0004] Potassium phosphonates are systemically absorbed and moved within the plant, transported to new tissues via phloem components and xylem. They are highly soluble forms of phosphorus and potassium, beneficial for plant growth, rooting, and root development, accelerating the uptake of other cations (such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and most trace elements) by leaves. Phosphorus and potassium are rapidly absorbed by leaf tissue and roots, moving systematically up and down the plant's vascular system, phloem, and root system for maximum and efficient utilization.

[0005] Therefore, there is a continuing need to find improved methods for enhancing plant growth, increasing crop yields, and providing plants with enhanced disease resistance and vigor. There is a further need in the art to reduce fertilizer and other chemical use to achieve sustainable agricultural practices. The present inventors have aimed to achieve these advantages by providing a fungicide combination and a method for controlling fungal infestations in crops and increasing crop yields. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention relates to a fungicide combination and a method for preventing and controlling fungal infection in crops and increasing crop yield.

[0007] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising:

[0008] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0009] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0010] c) Host plant defense inducers.

[0011] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling plant pathogenic fungal infections, the fungicidal combination comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a phosphonate.

[0012] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling plant pathogenic fungal infections, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and phosphonate, wherein the ratio of sulfur, prothioconazole and phosphonate is in the range of 1:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

[0013] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling infection by plant pathogenic fungi, the fungicidal composition comprising:

[0014] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0015] b) triazole fungicides;

[0016] c) host plant defense inducers; and

[0017] d) one or more agrochemically acceptable adjuvants.

[0018] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling infection by plant pathogenic fungi, the fungicidal composition comprising sulfur, prothioconazole, potassium phosphonate and one or more agrochemically acceptable adjuvants.

[0019] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling an infection by plant pathogenic fungi, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicide combination comprising:

[0020] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0021] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0022] c) Host plant defense inducers.

[0023] In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling infection by plant pathogenic fungi, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicide combination comprising:

[0024] a) Sulfur;

[0025] b) prothioconazole; and

[0026] c) Phosphonates.

[0027] In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling Zymoseptoria spp. in cereal crops.

[0028] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling infection by plant pathogenic fungi, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus thereof or plant propagation material an effective amount of a fungicide combination comprising:

[0029] a) Inorganic compounds applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 l / ha to 5 l / ha;

[0030] b) triazole fungicides applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 litres per hectare to 3 litres per hectare; and

[0031] c) Host plant defense inducers applied at a rate ranging from 1 litre / ha to 10 litres / ha.

[0032] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling plant pathogenic fungal infection, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus thereof or plant propagation material an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0033] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 litres / ha to 5 litres / ha;

[0034] b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 0.1 litres per hectare to 3 litres per hectare; and

[0035] c) Phosphonates applied at a rate ranging from 1 to 10 liters per hectare.

[0036] In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling infection by plant pathogenic fungi, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus thereof or plant propagation material an effective amount of a fungicide combination comprising:

[0037] a) Inorganic compounds applied at a rate ranging from 250 g / ha to 1500 g / ha;

[0038] b) triazole fungicides applied at rates ranging from 10 g / ha to 500 g / ha; and

[0039] c) Host plant defense inducers at an application rate within the range of 1000 g / ha to 2500 g / ha.

[0040] In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling infection by plant pathogenic fungi, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus thereof or plant propagation material an effective amount of a fungicide combination comprising:

[0041] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 250 g / ha to 1500 g / ha;

[0042] b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 10 g / ha to 500 g / ha; and

[0043] c) Phosphonates at an application rate within the range of 1000 g / ha to 2500 g / ha.

[0044] In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for increasing crop yield and enhancing crop growth, the method comprising applying to the crop or its locus or plant propagation material a fungicide combination comprising:

[0045] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0046] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0047] c) Host plant defense inducers.

[0048] In one aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a fungicidal combination or composition comprising an inorganic compound, a triazole fungicide and a host plant defense inducer for increasing crop yield, enhancing crop growth and for controlling phytopathogenic fungal diseases in cereal crops. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] For the purposes of the following detailed description, it should be understood that the present invention may adopt various alternative variations unless expressly indicated otherwise. In addition, except in any operating examples or otherwise indicated, all numbers representing the amount of materials / ingredients used in the specification should be understood as being modified by the term "about" in all cases. The term "about" used to define the amount of the active ingredient should be interpreted as meaning "approximately" or "quite close" and any statistically insignificant variation resulting therefrom.

[0050] As used herein, the terms "comprising," "including," "having," "containing," "involving," etc. should be understood as open-ended, meaning including but not limited to.

[0051] In any aspect or embodiment described below, the phrase "comprising" may be replaced with the phrase "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of. In these aspects or embodiments, the described combinations or compositions include or comprise or consist of or consist essentially of or consist essentially of the specific components recited therein, and exclude other ingredients or excipients not specifically recited therein.

[0052] The phrase "fungicide-effective amount of a fungicide" refers to an amount of a fungicide that kills or inhibits the plant pathogenic disease to be controlled and is substantially non-toxic to the treated plant.

[0053] As used herein, the term "disease control" refers to the control and prevention of diseases. The control effect includes all deviations from natural development, for example: killing fungal diseases, delaying fungal diseases, inhibiting fungal diseases, or reducing fungal diseases.

[0054] The term "plant" refers to all physical parts of a plant, including seeds, seedlings, saplings, roots, tubers, stalks, stems, leaves and fruit.

[0055] As used herein, the term "locus" of a plant is intended to include the place where the plant is growing, where plant propagation material of the plant is sown or where plant propagation material of the plant is placed in the soil.

[0056] The term "plant propagation material" is understood to mean the reproductive parts of an indicated plant, such as seeds, vegetable material such as cuttings or tubers, roots, fruits, tubers, bulbs, rhizomes and parts of plants, sprouted plants and young plants to be transplanted after germination or after breaking the soil. These young plants may be protected by being immersed in whole or in part before transplanting.

[0057] The term "agriculturally acceptable amount of active substance" refers to an amount of active substance that kills or inhibits the plant disease to be controlled, which amount is not significantly toxic to the plants to be treated.

[0058] As used herein, the term % disease severity refers to the percentage of rot observed in a crop, expressed as the percentage of host tissue in the crop that is covered with lesions or damaged by the disease. Severity depends on the number and size of lesions. % severity indicates the extent of damage caused by the disease.

[0059] As used herein, the term "% disease control" refers to the percentage of crop disease control and prevention.

[0060] As used herein, the term "g ai / L" refers to the concentration of the corresponding active ingredient in "grams" per "liter" of the composition.

[0061] As used herein, the term "g ai / h" means the concentration of the corresponding active ingredient applied in "grams" per "hectare" of agricultural land.

[0062] Each of the aspects described above can have one or more implementations.

[0063] Each embodiment in the embodiment described below may be applicable to one or all aspects in the aspect described above. These embodiments are intended to be understood as preferred features of one or all aspects described above. Each embodiment in the embodiment described below is individually applicable to each aspect in the aspect described above.

[0064] The present inventors have unexpectedly discovered a fungicidal combination and a method that effectively controls fungal plant pathogens, enhances plant growth, increases crop yield, and provides plants with enhanced disease resistance and vigor. The present invention provides a means to reduce dependence on agrochemicals and other chemical agents to achieve sustainable agricultural practices.

[0065] The present invention therefore relates to a fungicidal combination and a method for controlling fungal infestations in crops.

[0066] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling fungal infestations in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising:

[0067] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0068] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0069] c) Host plant defense inducers.

[0070] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling infection of multiple unknown species of Septoria in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising:

[0071] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0072] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0073] c) Host plant defense inducers.

[0074] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria tritici fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising:

[0075] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0076] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0077] c) Host plant defense inducers.

[0078] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling Septoria tritici fungal infestation in cereal crops, the fungicidal combination comprising:

[0079] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0080] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0081] c) Host plant defense inducers.

[0082] In one embodiment, the inorganic compound is selected from the group comprising copper salts or sulfur-based fungicides.

[0083] In one embodiment, the inorganic compound is sulfur.

[0084] In one embodiment, the inorganic compound is a copper salt.

[0085] In one embodiment, the inorganic compound is a copper salt selected from the group comprising copper sulfate, tribasic copper sulfate, dibasic copper sulfate, copper oxychloride, copper chloride, copper oxide, copper (II) oxide, copper nitrate, copper perchlorate, copper bromide, copper hydroxide, copper iodide, copper (II) acetate or copper sulfate pentahydrate.

[0086] In one embodiment, the copper salt is tribasic copper sulfate.

[0087] In one embodiment, the copper salt is copper oxychloride.

[0088] In one embodiment, the triazole fungicide is selected from the group comprising azaconazole, bifenthiazolin, bromoconazole, cyproconazole, difenoconazole, diniconazole, epoxiconazole, eticonazole, fenbuconazole, fluquinconazole, flusilazole, flutriafol, hexaconazole, amide, ipconazole, clofoconazole, metconazole, myclobutanil, penconazole, propiconazole, silyconazole, tebuconazole, tetraconazole, triadimefon, triadimenol, triticonazole and prothioconazole.

[0089] In one embodiment, the triazole fungicide is difenoconazole.

[0090] In one embodiment, the triazole fungicide is tebuconazole.

[0091] In one embodiment, the triazole fungicide is ipconazole.

[0092] In one embodiment, the triazole fungicide is mefenacet.

[0093] In one embodiment, the triazole fungicide is cyproconazole.

[0094] In a preferred embodiment, the triazole fungicide is prothioconazole.

[0095] In one embodiment, the third fungicide is a host plant defense inducer.

[0096] In one embodiment, the host plant defense inducer is selected from acibenzolar-S-methyl, propadiazole, thiabendazole, isotianil, laminarin, fosetyl-Al, phosphorous acid and its salts such as phosphonates, and diclofenac.

[0097] In one embodiment, the host plant defense inducer is a phosphonate.

[0098] In one embodiment, the host plant defense inducer is a metal phosphonate.

[0099] In one embodiment, the metal phosphonate is selected from alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts.

[0100] In one embodiment, the metal phosphonate is selected from the group comprising sodium phosphonate salts, calcium phosphonate salts or potassium phosphonate salts.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the metal phosphonate is potassium phosphonate.

[0102] In one embodiment, the host plant defense inducer is fosetyl-Al.

[0103] In one embodiment, the host plant defense inducer is laminarin.

[0104] As used throughout this disclosure, the active ingredient includes its salts, esters, ethers, and polymorphs including solvates and hydrates. Salts include salts that retain the biological effectiveness and properties of the active ingredient and are not biologically or otherwise undesirable, and include derivatives of the disclosed compounds in which the parent compound is modified by preparing inorganic and organic, non-toxic, acid or base addition salts thereof. Salts can be synthesized from the parent compound by conventional chemical methods.

[0105] In one aspect, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling plant pathogenic fungal infections, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and a phosphonate.

[0106] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling plant pathogenic fungal infections, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and sodium phosphonate.

[0107] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicide combination for controlling plant pathogenic fungal infection, the fungicide combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicide combination for controlling infection of multiple unknown species of Septoria in crops, wherein the fungicide combination comprises sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate.

[0109] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicide combination for controlling Septoria tritici infection in crops, the fungicide combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate.

[0110] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling fungal infestations in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising:

[0111] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0112] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0113] c) host plant defense inducers,

[0114] The weight ratio of the inorganic compound, the triazole fungicide and the host plant defense inducer is in the range of 1:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

[0115] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling plant pathogenic fungal infections in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of these fungicides is in the range of 1:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of these fungicides is 12:1:22.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of these fungicides is 12.5:1:10.

[0118] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling infection by multiple unknown species of Septoria in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of these fungicides is in the range of 1:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

[0119] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicide combination for controlling infection of multiple unknown species of Septoria in crops, the fungicide combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of these fungicides is 12:1:22.

[0120] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicide combination for controlling infection of multiple unknown species of Septoria in crops, the fungicide combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of these fungicides is 12.5:1:10.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Septoria tritici fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of these fungicides is in the range of 1:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

[0122] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Septoria tritici fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of these fungicides is 12:1:22.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Septoria tritici fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of these fungicides is 12.5:1:10.

[0124] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition comprising:

[0125] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0126] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0127] c) Host plant defense inducers.

[0128] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition comprising:

[0129] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0130] b) triazole fungicides;

[0131] c) host plant defense inducers; and

[0132] d) one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0133] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling infection by multiple unknown species of Septoria in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising:

[0134] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0135] b) triazole fungicides;

[0136] c) host plant defense inducers; and

[0137] d) one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0138] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling Septoria tritici infection in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising:

[0139] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0140] b) triazole fungicides;

[0141] c) host plant defense inducers; and

[0142] d) one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0143] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infections in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising sulfur, prothioconazole, a phosphonate and one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0144] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising sulfur, prothioconazole, potassium phosphonate and one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0145] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition for controlling infection of multiple unknown species of Septoria in crops, wherein the fungicidal composition comprises sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate.

[0146] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition for controlling Septoria tritici fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising sulfur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate.

[0147] In one embodiment, the concentration of the inorganic compound fungicide ranges from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition.

[0148] In one embodiment, the concentration of the inorganic compound fungicide ranges from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition.

[0149] In one embodiment, the concentration of the inorganic compound ranges from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition.

[0150] In one embodiment, the concentration of the copper salt ranges from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition.

[0151] In one embodiment, the concentration of the copper salt ranges from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition.

[0152] In one embodiment, the concentration of the copper salt ranges from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition.

[0153] In one embodiment, the concentration of tribasic copper sulfate ranges from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition.

[0154] In one embodiment, the concentration of tribasic copper sulfate ranges from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition.

[0155] In one embodiment, the concentration of tribasic copper sulfate ranges from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition.

[0156] In one embodiment, the concentration of sulfur ranges from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition.

[0157] In one embodiment, the concentration of sulfur ranges from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition.

[0158] In one embodiment, the concentration of sulfur ranges from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition.

[0159] In one embodiment, the concentration of the triazole fungicide ranges from 10% to 40% by weight of the composition.

[0160] In one embodiment, the concentration of the triazole fungicide ranges from 10% to 30% by weight of the composition.

[0161] In one embodiment, the concentration of the triazole fungicide ranges from 20% to 30% by weight of the composition.

[0162] In one embodiment, the concentration of the triazole fungicide is 25% by weight of the composition.

[0163] In one embodiment, the concentration of prothioconazole ranges from 10% to 40% by weight of the composition.

[0164] In one embodiment, the concentration of prothioconazole ranges from 10% to 30% by weight of the composition.

[0165] In one embodiment, the concentration of prothioconazole ranges from 20% to 30% by weight of the composition.

[0166] In one embodiment, the concentration of prothioconazole is 25% by weight of the composition.

[0167] In one embodiment, the concentration of the host plant defense inducer ranges from 30% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0168] In one embodiment, the concentration of the host plant defense inducer ranges from 50% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0169] In one embodiment, the concentration of the host plant defense inducer ranges from 60% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0170] In one embodiment, the concentration of the host plant defense inducer ranges from 70% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0171] In one embodiment, the concentration of the phosphonate ranges from 30% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0172] In one embodiment, the concentration of the phosphonate ranges from 50% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0173] In one embodiment, the concentration of the phosphonate ranges from 60% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0174] In one embodiment, the concentration of the phosphonate ranges from 70% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0175] In one embodiment, the concentration of potassium phosphonate ranges from 30% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0176] In one embodiment, the concentration of potassium phosphonate ranges from 50% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0177] In one embodiment, the concentration of potassium phosphonate ranges from 60% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0178] In one embodiment, the concentration of potassium phosphonate ranges from 70% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0179] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising:

[0180] a) an inorganic compound at a concentration ranging from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition;

[0181] b) a triazole fungicide at a concentration ranging from 10% to 40% by weight of the composition;

[0182] c) a host plant defense inducer at a concentration ranging from 30% to 80% by weight of the composition; and

[0183] d) one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0184] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising:

[0185] a) an inorganic compound at a concentration ranging from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition;

[0186] b) a triazole fungicide at a concentration ranging from 10% to 30% by weight of the composition;

[0187] c) a host plant defense inducer at a concentration ranging from 50% to 80% by weight of the composition; and

[0188] d) one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0189] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising:

[0190] a) an inorganic compound at a concentration ranging from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition;

[0191] b) a triazole fungicide at a concentration ranging from 20% to 30% by weight of the composition;

[0192] c) a host plant defense inducer at a concentration ranging from 60% to 80% by weight of the composition; and

[0193] d) one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0194] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising:

[0195] a) sulfur in a concentration ranging from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition;

[0196] b) prothioconazole in a concentration ranging from 10% to 40% by weight of the composition;

[0197] c) a phosphonate at a concentration ranging from 30% to 80% by weight of the composition; and

[0198] d) one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0199] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising:

[0200] a) sulfur in a concentration ranging from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition;

[0201] b) prothioconazole in a concentration ranging from 10% to 30% by weight of the composition;

[0202] c) a phosphonate at a concentration ranging from 50% to 80% by weight of the composition; and

[0203] d) one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0204] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising:

[0205] a) sulfur in a concentration ranging from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition;

[0206] b) prothioconazole in a concentration ranging from 20% to 30% by weight of the composition;

[0207] c) a potassium salt of a phosphonate at a concentration ranging from 60% to 80% by weight of the composition; and

[0208] d) one or more agriculturally acceptable adjuvants.

[0209] In one embodiment, the concentration of the agriculturally acceptable adjuvant ranges from 1% to 60% by weight of the composition.

[0210] In one embodiment, composition of the present invention can be usually by the active ingredient in the composition being mixed with an inert carrier, and optionally adding surfactant and other adjuvants and carrier, then be mixed with solid, semisolid or liquid preparation and produce, these preparations include but are not limited to wettable powder, granule, pulvis, soluble (liquid) concentrate, suspension concentrate, oil-in-water emulsion, water-in-oil emulsion, emulsifiable concentrate, microcapsule suspension, ZC preparation, oil dispersant or other known formulation types.Said composition can also be used for processing plant propagation materials, such as seeds etc.The combination of the present disclosure can be prepared in the form of composition.

[0211] Examples of solid carriers used in the formulations include fine powders or granules, such as minerals such as kaolin, attapulgite clay, bentonite, montmorillonite, acid white clay, pyrophyllite, talc, diatomaceous earth and calcite; natural organic materials such as corn rachis powder and walnut shell powder; synthetic organic materials such as urea; salts such as calcium carbonate and ammonium sulfate; synthetic inorganic materials such as synthetic hydrated silica; and aromatic hydrocarbons such as xylene, alkylbenzenes and methylnaphthalene as liquid carriers; alcohols such as 2-propanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol and ethylene glycol monoethyl ether; ketones such as acetone, cyclohexanone and isophorone; vegetable oils such as soybean oil and cottonseed oil; petroleum aliphatic hydrocarbons, esters, dimethyl sulfoxide, acetonitrile and water.

[0212] Examples of the surfactant include anionic surfactants such as alkyl sulfate salts, alkyl aryl sulfonates, dialkyl sulfosuccinates, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ether phosphate salts, lignin sulfonates, and naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensates; and nonionic surfactants such as polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl polyoxypropylene block copolymers, and sorbitan fatty acid esters; and cationic surfactants such as alkyl trimethyl ammonium salts.

[0213] Examples of other formulation adjuvants include water-soluble polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polysaccharides such as gum arabic, alginic acid and its salts, CMC (carboxymethyl cellulose), xanthan gum, inorganic materials such as magnesium aluminum silicate and alumina sol, preservatives, colorants and stabilizers such as PAP (isopropyl acid phosphate) and BHT.

[0214] In one embodiment, the composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 50% (w / w), preferably from about 1% to about 40% (w / w), of anionic surfactant based on the total weight of the composition.

[0215] In one embodiment, the composition may further comprise one or more of an antifreeze agent, a wetting agent, a filler, a surfactant, an anti-caking agent, a pH adjuster, a preservative, a biocide, an antifoaming agent, a colorant, and other formulation aids.

[0216] Suitable antifreeze agents which may be added to the agrochemical compositions are liquid polyols, such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol or glycerol.

[0217] Wetting agents that can be added to the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention include, but are not limited to, polyaryl alkoxylated phosphates and their potassium salts (e.g., Soprophor ® FLK, Stepfac TSP PE- K). Other suitable wetting agents include sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate (e.g., Geropon ® SDS, Aerosol ® OT) and ethoxylated alcohols (e.g. Trideth-6; Rhodasurf ® BC 610; Tersperse ® 4894).

[0218] Optionally, from about 0.1% to about 5.0% by weight of an antifoaming agent or defoaming agent is used to prevent any unwanted foaming while producing a high concentration of the liquid biocide dispersion composition. Preferred antifoaming agents are selected from silicone-based compounds, alcohols, glycol ethers, mineral solvents, acetylene glycols, polysiloxanes, organosiloxanes, siloxane diols, reaction products of silicon dioxide and organosiloxane polymers, polydimethylsiloxanes, or polyalkylene glycols, either alone or in combination. Suitable defoamers include SAG-10, SAG-1000AP, SAG-1529, SAG-1538, SAG-1571, SAG-1572, SAG-1575, SAG-2 001, SAG-220, SAG-290, SAG-30, SAG-30E, SAG-330, SAG-47, SAG-5440, SAG-7133 and SAG-770.

[0219] Examples of thickeners based on anionic heteropolysaccharides from the xanthan group are in particular Rhodopol 23 ® 、Rhodopol G ® , Rhodopol 50 MD ® 、Rhodicare T ® Kelzan ® 、Kelzan S ® and Satiaxane CX91 ® .

[0220] Preservatives used can be benzisothiazolinone (Proxel GXL) or phenols, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (Bioban BP 30), 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (KathonCG / ICP), glutaraldehyde (Ucarcide 50), chloromethylisothiazolinone (CMIT) / methylisothiazolinone (MIT) (Isocil Ultra 1.5), 2,2-dibromo-3-nitropropionamide (Reputain 20), natamycin and nisin, bronopol / CMIT / MIT (Mergal 721K3).

[0221] Suitable colorants (eg red, blue and green) are preferably slightly water-soluble pigments and water-soluble dyes. Examples are inorganic colorants (eg iron oxide, titanium oxide and iron hexacyanoferrate) and organic colorants (eg madder pigment, azo and phthalocyanine colorants).

[0222] The filler may include an organic or inorganic solid inert substance, such as talc, clay, diatomaceous earth, magnesium aluminum silicate, white carbon black, pyrophyllite, light calcium carbonate, high clay, organic bentonite, etc., or a mixture thereof.

[0223] The combination of the present invention can be sold as a premixed composition or kit so that the individual active substances can be mixed before spraying. Alternatively, the kit can contain a premixed melanin synthesis inhibitor and a plant growth promoter, and the fourth active ingredient can be mixed with an adjuvant so that the two components can be tank mixed before spraying.

[0224] According to one embodiment, the kit comprises:

[0225] a) at least one inorganic compound;

[0226] b) at least one triazole fungicide;

[0227] c) at least one plant defense inducer;

[0228] and optionally further comprising:

[0229] d) Instructions for use.

[0230] According to one embodiment, the kit comprises:

[0231] a) a fungicidal composition comprising at least one inorganic compound and at least one triazole fungicide;

[0232] b) at least one plant defense inducer;

[0233] and optionally further comprising:

[0234] c) Instructions for use.

[0235] According to one embodiment, the kit comprises:

[0236] a) Sulfur;

[0237] b) prothioconazole;

[0238] c) phosphonates;

[0239] and optionally further comprising:

[0240] d) Instructions for use.

[0241] According to one embodiment, the kit comprises:

[0242] a) Tribasic copper sulfate;

[0243] b) prothioconazole;

[0244] c) phosphonates;

[0245] and optionally further comprising:

[0246] d) Instructions for use.

[0247] According to one embodiment, the kit comprises:

[0248] a) a fungicidal composition comprising sulphur and prothioconazole;

[0249] b) phosphonates;

[0250] and optionally further comprising:

[0251] c) Instructions for use.

[0252] According to one embodiment, the kit comprises:

[0253] a) a fungicidal composition comprising tribasic copper sulfate and prothioconazole;

[0254] b) phosphonates;

[0255] and optionally further comprising:

[0256] c) Instructions for use.

[0257] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infection, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0258] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0259] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0260] c) Host plant defense inducers.

[0261] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infection, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0262] a) Sulfur;

[0263] b) prothioconazole; and

[0264] c) Phosphonates.

[0265] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infection, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0266] a) Tribasic copper sulfate;

[0267] b) prothioconazole; and

[0268] c) Phosphonates.

[0269] The methods of the present disclosure can be used to control a broad spectrum of plant diseases, such as:

[0270] Rice diseases: Rice blast (Magnaporthe grisea), flax leaf spot (Cochliobolus miyabeanus), sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani), and bakanae (Gibberella fujikuroi).

[0271] Wheat diseases: powdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis), head blight (Fusarium graminearum, F. avenacerum, F. culmorum, Microdochium nivale), rust (Puccinia striiformis, P. graminis, P. recondita), snow leaf blight (Micronectriella nivale), snow rot (Typhula sp.), loose smut (Ustilago tritici), bunt (Tilletia caries), eyespot (Pseudocercosporella herpotrichoides), leaf spot (Mycosphaerella graminicola), glumen blight (Stagonospora nodorum), septoria, and yellow spot (Pyrenophora tritici-repentis).

[0272] In general, the combinations / compositions of the present invention are effective against a variety of harmful fungi that infect valuable wheat crops. The combinations / compositions of the present invention are effective against a variety of ascomycete fungi, including representative fungal species such as Septoria tritici, Puccinia spp., Drechslera tritici-repentis, and Pyrenophora teres in cereals, and specifically, wheat brown rust (Puccinia recondita), wheat stripe rust (Puccinia striiformis), wheat leaf spot (Mycosphaerella graminicola; asexual form: Septoria tritici), and wheat glumen blight (Leptosphaeria nodorum, Stagonospora nodorum).

[0273] Barley diseases: powdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis), head blight (Fusarium graminearum, F. avenacerum, F. culmorum, Microdochium nivale), rust (Puccinia striiformis, P. graminis, P. hordei), loose smut (Ustilago nuda), cloud spot (Rhynchosporium secalis), net blotch (Pyrenophorateres), barley spot (Cochliobolus sativus), leaf ridge (Pyrenophora graminea), and Rhizoctonia damping-off damping-off) (Rhizoctonia solani).

[0274] Corn diseases: Smut (Ustilago maydis), brown spot (Cochliobolus heterostrophus), copper spot (Gloeocercosporasorghi), southern rust (Puccinia polysora), gray leaf spot (Cercospora zeae-maydis), white spot (Phaeosphaeria mydis and / or Pantoea ananatis), and Rhizoctonia damping-off (Rhizoctonia solani).

[0275] Citrus diseases: Black spot (Diaporthe citri), scab (Elsinoe fawcetti), Penicillium rot (Penicillium digitatum, P. italicum), and brown rot (Phytophthora parasitica, Phytophthora citrophthora).

[0276] Apple diseases: blossom end blight (Monilinia mali), canker (Valsa ceratosperma), powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha), apple leaf spot (Alternaria alternata apple pathotype), scab (Venturia inaequalis), powdery mildew, bitter rot (Colletotrichumacutatum), crown rot (Phytophtora cactorum), leaf spot (Diplocarpon mali), and ring rot (Botryosphaeria berengeriana).

[0277] Pear diseases: scab (Venturia nashicola, V. pirina), powdery mildew, black spot (Alternaria alternata Japanese pear pathotype), rust (Gymnosporangium haraeanum), and phytophthora fruit rot (Phytophtora cactorum).

[0278] Peach diseases: Brown rot (Monilinia fructicola), powdery mildew, peach scab (Cladosporium carpophilum), and phomopsis rot (an unidentified species of Phomopsis sp.).

[0279] Grapevine diseases: Anthracnose (Elsinoe ampelina), late rot (Glomerella cingulata), powdery mildew (Uncinula necator), rust (Phakopsora ampelopsidis), black rot (Guignardia bidwellii), gray mold, and downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola).

[0280] Diseases of Japanese persimmon: Anthracnose (Gloeosporium kaki) and angular leaf spot (Cercospora kaki, Mycosphaerella nawae).

[0281] Cucurbit diseases: Anthracnose (Colletotrichum lagenarium), powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuliginea), stem blight (Mycosphaerella melonis), wilt (Fusarium oxysporum), downy mildew (Pseudoperonosporacubensis), phytophthora rot (an unknown species of Phytophthora sp.), and damping-off (an unknown species of Pythium sp.).

[0282] Tomato diseases: Early blight (Alternaria solani), leaf mold (Cladosporium fulvum), and late blight (Phytophthora infestans).

[0283] Eggplant diseases: Brown spot (Phomopsis vexans) and powdery mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum). Brassica vegetable diseases: Black spot (Alternaria japonica), white spot (Cercosporella brassicae), clubroot (Plasmodiophora brassicae), and downy mildew (Peronospora parasitica).

[0284] Onion diseases: Rust (Puccinia allii) and downy mildew (Peronospora destructor).

[0285] Soybean diseases: purple leaf spot (Cercospora kikuchii), sphaceloma scad (Elsinoe glycines), pod and stem blight (Diaporthe phaseolorum var sojae), brown spot (Septoria glycines), gray leaf spot (Cercospora sojina), rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi), yellow rust, brown stem rot (Phytophthora sojae), and Rhizoctonia solani (Rhizoctonia solani).

[0286] In one embodiment, the fungicidal composition of the present invention can be used to control fungal diseases, such as pea diseases caused by one or more of the following fungi: Alternaria alternata, Aphanomyces euteiches f. sp. pisi, Ascochyta pinodella, Ascochyta pinodes, Ascochyta pisi, Botryotinia fuckeliana, Botrytis cinerea, Cercospora pisa-sativae, Chalara elegans, Cladosporium cladosporioides f. sp. pisicoia, Cladosporium pisicoia, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Colletotrichum pisi), Erysiphe pisi, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium oxysporum. sp. pisi, Fusarium solani, Fusicladium pisicoia, Glomerella cingulata, Mycosphaerella pinodes, an unknown species of Oidium sp., Peronospora viciae, Phoma pinodella, multiple unknown species of Pythium spp., Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Septoria pisi, Thanatephonis cucumeris, and Thielaviopsis spp. hasicola) and Uromyces fabae, soybean diseases: Cercospora kikuchii, Elsinoe glycines, Diaporthe phaseolorum var.sojae), Septoria glycines, Cercospora sojina, Phakopsora pachyrhizi, Phytophthora sojae, and Rhizoctonia solani.

[0287] Bean diseases: Anthracnose (Colletotrichum lindemthianum). Peanut diseases: Leaf spot (Cercospora personata), brown leaf spot (Cercospora arachidicola), and white rot (Sclerotium rolfsii).

[0288] Pea diseases: Powdery mildew (Erysiphe pisi) and root rot (Fusarium solani f. sp. pisi).

[0289] Potato diseases: Early blight (Alternaria solani), late blight (Phytophthora infestans), pink rot (Phytophthora erythroseptica), and powdery scab (Spongospora subterranean f. sp. subterranea).

[0290] Strawberry diseases: Powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca humuli) and anthracnose (Glomerella cingulata).

[0291] Tea tree diseases: web cake (Exobasidium reticulatum), white scab (Elsinoe leucospila), gray blight (Pestalotiopsis sp.), and anthracnose (Colletotrichum theae-sinensis).

[0292] Tobacco diseases: Brown spot (Alternaria longipes), powdery mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum), anthracnose (Colletotrichum tabacum), downy mildew (Peronospora tabacina), and black cavity disease (Phytophthora nicotianae).

[0293] Rapeseed diseases: Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Rhizoctonia damping-off (Rhizoctonia solani). Cotton diseases: Rhizoctonia damping-off (Rhizoctonia solani).

[0294] Sugar beet diseases: Cercospora leaf spot (Cercospora beticola), leaf blight (Thanatephorus cucumeris), root rot (Thanatephorus cucumeris), and aphanomyces root rot (Aphanomyces cochlioides).

[0295] Diseases of roses: black spot (Diplocarpon rosae), powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca pannosa), and downy mildew (Peronospora sparsa); diseases of chrysanthemums and aster: downy mildew (Bremia lactucae), leaf blight (Septoriachrysanthemi-indici), and white rust (Puccinia horiana).

[0296] Various group diseases: diseases caused by various unknown species of Pythium (Pythium aphanidermatum, Pythium debarianum, Pythium graminicola, Pythium irregulare, Pythium ultimum), gray mold (Botrytis cinerea), and sclerotinia (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum).

[0297] Japanese radish diseases: Black spot (Alternaria brassicicola).

[0298] Turfgrass diseases: Dollar spot (Sclerotinia homeocarpa), brown spot, and large brown spot (Rhizoctonia solani).

[0299] Banana diseases: Black leaf spot (Mycosphaerella fijiensis), Yellow leaf spot (Mycosphaerella musicola).

[0300] Sunflower diseases: downy mildew (Plasmopara halstedii).

[0301] Seed diseases or early growth diseases of various plants caused by multiple unknown species of Aspergillus spp., multiple unknown species of Penicillium spp., multiple unknown species of Fusarium spp., multiple unknown species of Gibberella spp., multiple unknown species of Tricoderma spp., multiple unknown species of Thielaviopsis spp., multiple unknown species of Rhizopus spp., multiple unknown species of Mucor spp., multiple unknown species of Corticium spp., multiple unknown species of Phoma spp., multiple unknown species of Rhizoctonia spp., and multiple unknown species of Diplodia spp.

[0302] A variety of plant viral diseases mediated by various unknown species of Polymxa spp. or Olpidium spp.

[0303] The present invention also provides a method for protecting plant propagation material (preferably seeds) and roots and shoots of seedlings from phytopathogenic fungi, which method comprises contacting the plant propagation material (such as seeds) with a composition of the present disclosure before sowing and / or after pre-germination.

[0304] In one embodiment, the application rate of the composition of the present invention is in the range of 50 g / ha to 570 g / ha.

[0305] In one embodiment, the application rate of the composition of the present invention is in the range of 100 g / hectare to 300 g / hectare.

[0306] In one embodiment, the application rate of the composition of the present invention is in the range of 100 g / hectare to 250 g / hectare.

[0307] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for improving yield, plant health and quality, wherein the application rate of the composition of the present invention is in the range of 50 g / ha to 1000 g / ha.

[0308] In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for controlling plant pathogenic fungi, the method comprising applying a fungicidally effective amount of an agricultural combination to an infected site, plant and parts thereof, plant propagation material, pest and its food source, habitat or breeding ground, the agricultural combination comprising: an inorganic compound fungicide, a triazole fungicide and a fungicide, wherein the fungicide is a host plant defense inducer; applying to the site where the crop, plant or plant propagation material is located.

[0309] In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for controlling plant pathogenic fungi in wheat, the method comprising applying a fungicidally effective amount of an agricultural combination to infected sites, plants and parts thereof, plant propagation materials, and pests and their food sources, habitats or breeding grounds in a rice-growing area, the agricultural combination comprising: an inorganic compound fungicide, a triazole fungicide and a fungicide, wherein the fungicide is a host plant defense inducer; applying to the site where the crop, plant or plant propagation material is located.

[0310] The components of the combination of the present invention can be applied simultaneously as a tank mix or formulation, or sequentially. Application to the soil can be performed before plant emergence (before or after planting). Foliar sprays can be applied at various times during crop development, and after emergence, applications can be made once or twice, morning and evening.

[0311] The combinations according to the invention can be applied before or after the valuable plants or their propagation material are infected with the fungus.

[0312] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant, or plant propagation material thereof a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0313] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0314] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0315] c) host plant defense inducers;

[0316] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0317] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for controlling fungal diseases in wheat crops, the method comprising applying to the crops or the locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0318] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0319] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0320] c) host plant defense inducers;

[0321] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0322] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for controlling fungal diseases in soybean crops, the method comprising applying to the crop, or a locus thereof, or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0323] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0324] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0325] c) host plant defense inducers;

[0326] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0327] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for controlling fungal diseases in rice crops, the method comprising applying to the crops or the locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0328] a) Inorganic compounds;

[0329] b) triazole fungicides; and

[0330] c) Host plant defense inducers; applied to the site of the crop, plant or plant propagation material;

[0331] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0332] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the method comprising applying to the crops or the locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0333] a) Inorganic compounds applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 l / ha to 5 l / ha;

[0334] b) triazole fungicides applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 litres per hectare to 3 litres per hectare; and

[0335] c) host plant defense inducers applied at a rate ranging from 1 litre / ha to 10 litres / ha;

[0336] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0337] In another preferred embodiment, the method for controlling fungal diseases comprises applying a fungicidal composition comprising an inorganic compound and a triazole fungicide, and separately applying a host plant defense inducer.

[0338] In another preferred embodiment, the method for controlling fungal diseases comprises applying a fungicidal composition comprising sulfur and prothioconazole, and applying a phosphonate separately.

[0339] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the method comprising applying to the crops or the locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0340] a) Inorganic compounds applied at a rate ranging from 1 litre / ha to 3 litres / ha;

[0341] b) triazole fungicides applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 litres per hectare to 1 litre per hectare; and

[0342] c) host plant defense inducers applied at a rate ranging from 1 litre / ha to 5 litres / ha;

[0343] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0344] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the method comprising applying to the crops or the locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0345] a) Inorganic compounds at a rate of 1.5 litres per hectare;

[0346] b) a triazole fungicide applied at a rate of 0.4 litres per hectare; and

[0347] c) host plant defense inducers at a rate of 3 liters per hectare;

[0348] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0349] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a method for controlling fungal diseases in rice crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0350] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 litres / ha to 5 litres / ha;

[0351] b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 0.1 litres per hectare to 3 litres per hectare; and

[0352] c) potassium phosphonate applied at a rate ranging from 1 litre / ha to 10 litres / ha;

[0353] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0354] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the method comprising applying to the crops or the locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0355] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 1 litre / ha to 3 litres / ha;

[0356] b) triazole fungicides applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 litres per hectare to 1 litre per hectare; and

[0357] c) potassium phosphonate applied at a rate ranging from 1 litre / ha to 5 litres / ha;

[0358] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0359] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for controlling fungal infestation in crops, the method comprising applying to the crops or the locus thereof or plant propagation material a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0360] a) Sulfur applied at a rate of 1.5 litres per hectare;

[0361] b) prothioconazole at a rate of 0.4 litres per hectare; and

[0362] c) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 3 liters per hectare;

[0363] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0364] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0365] a) Inorganic compounds applied at a rate ranging from 250 g / ha to 3000 g / ha;

[0366] b) triazole fungicides applied at a rate ranging from 20 g / ha to 250 g / ha; and

[0367] c) host plant defense inducers at an application rate ranging from 200 g / ha to 2500 g / ha;

[0368] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0369] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0370] a) Inorganic compounds applied at a rate ranging from 500 g / ha to 2500 g / ha;

[0371] b) triazole fungicides applied at a rate ranging from 30 g / ha to 200 g / ha; and

[0372] c) host plant defense inducers at an application rate ranging from 300 g / ha to 2300 g / ha;

[0373] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0374] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0375] a) Inorganic compounds at a rate of 2500 g / ha;

[0376] b) a triazole fungicide applied at a rate of 200 g / ha; and

[0377] c) host plant defense inducers at a rate of 2000 g / ha,

[0378] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0379] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0380] a) inorganic compounds at a rate of 1238 g / ha;

[0381] b) a triazole fungicide applied at a rate of 100 g / ha; and

[0382] c) a host plant defense inducer applied at a rate of 2250 g / ha,

[0383] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0384] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0385] a) Inorganic compounds at a rate of 500 g / ha;

[0386] b) a triazole fungicide applied at a rate of 40 g / ha; and

[0387] c) host plant defense inducers at a rate of 400 g / ha,

[0388] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0389] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0390] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 250 g / ha to 3000 g / ha;

[0391] b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 20 g / ha to 250 g / ha; and

[0392] c) potassium phosphonate at an application rate ranging from 300 g / ha to 2500 g / ha;

[0393] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0394] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0395] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 500 g / ha to 2500 g / ha;

[0396] b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 30 g / ha to 200 g / ha; and

[0397] c) potassium phosphonate at an application rate ranging from 300 g / ha to 2300 g / ha,

[0398] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0399] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0400] a) applying sulphur at a rate of 2500 g / ha;

[0401] b) prothioconazole at a rate of 200 g / ha; and

[0402] c) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 2000 g / ha,

[0403] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0404] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0405] a) sulfur at a rate of 1238 g / ha;

[0406] b) prothioconazole at a rate of 100 g / ha; and

[0407] c) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 2250 g / ha,

[0408] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0409] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crops, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material, a fungicidal combination comprising:

[0410] a) Sulfur applied at a rate of 500 g / ha;

[0411] b) prothioconazole at a rate of 40 g / ha; and

[0412] c) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 400 g / ha,

[0413] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0414] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by various unknown species of Septoria, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0415] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 250 g / ha to 3000 g / ha;

[0416] b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 20 g / ha to 250 g / ha; and

[0417] c) potassium phosphonate at an application rate ranging from 200 g / ha to 2500 g / ha;

[0418] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0419] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by various unknown species of Septoria, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0420] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 500 g / ha to 2500 g / ha;

[0421] b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 30 g / ha to 200 g / ha; and

[0422] c) potassium phosphonate at an application rate ranging from 300 g / ha to 2300 g / ha,

[0423] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0424] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by various unknown species of Septoria, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0425] a) applying sulphur at a rate of 2500 g / ha;

[0426] b) prothioconazole at a rate of 200 g / ha; and

[0427] c) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 2000 g / ha,

[0428] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0429] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by various unknown species of Septoria, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0430] d) sulfur at a rate of 1238 g / ha;

[0431] e) prothioconazole at a rate of 100 g / ha; and

[0432] f) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 2250 g / ha,

[0433] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0434] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by various unknown species of Septoria, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0435] a) Sulfur applied at a rate of 500 g / ha;

[0436] b) prothioconazole at a rate of 40 g / ha; and

[0437] c) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 400 g / ha,

[0438] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0439] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by Septoria tritici, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0440] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 250 g / ha to 3000 g / ha;

[0441] b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 20 g / ha to 250 g / ha; and

[0442] c) potassium phosphonate at an application rate ranging from 200 g / ha to 2500 g / ha;

[0443] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0444] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by Septoria tritici, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0445] a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 500 g / ha to 2500 g / ha;

[0446] b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 30 g / ha to 200 g / ha; and

[0447] c) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 300 g / ha to 2300 g / ha,

[0448] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0449] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by Septoria tritici, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0450] a) applying sulphur at a rate of 2500 g / ha;

[0451] b) prothioconazole at a rate of 200 g / ha; and

[0452] c) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 2000 g / ha,

[0453] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0454] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by Septoria tritici, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0455] d) sulfur at a rate of 1238 g / ha;

[0456] e) prothioconazole at a rate of 100 g / ha; and

[0457] f) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 2250 g / ha,

[0458] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0459] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in cereal crops caused by Septoria tritici, the method comprising applying to the locus of the crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising:

[0460] a) Sulfur applied at a rate of 500 g / ha;

[0461] b) prothioconazole at a rate of 40 g / ha; and

[0462] c) potassium phosphonate at a rate of 400 g / ha,

[0463] The combination is applied as a tank mix, or the fungicides are applied sequentially.

[0464] According to the present invention, "improved plant quality" means that a particular trait is qualitatively or quantitatively enhanced compared to the same trait in a control plant grown under the same conditions but without the application of the methods of the present invention. Such traits include, but are not limited to, improved visual appearance of the plant, reduced ethylene production (yield reduction and / or suppressed uptake), improved quality of harvested material (e.g., seeds, fruits, leaves, vegetables) (such improved quality can be manifested as an improved visual appearance of the harvested material), and the like.

[0465] The compositions of the present invention can be applied to the plant site once or multiple times during the plant's growth period. The compositions can be applied to the planting site, specifically before sowing, during sowing, before emergence, and / or after emergence. The compositions can also be used while the plants are growing in a greenhouse and can continue to be used after transplanting. For example, the soil can be treated directly, specifically before, during, or after transplanting. The compositions can be applied by any suitable method that ensures soil penetration, such as seedbed tray application, furrow application, soil drenching, soil injection, drip irrigation, sprinkler or center pivot sprinkler application, soil incorporation (broadcast or band application), and the like.

[0466] When plants and plant parts are treated with the active compounds or their compositions according to the present invention, the treatment is carried out directly or by acting on their surroundings, habitats or storage spaces using conventional treatment methods, such as dipping, spraying, atomizing, irrigation, evaporation, dusting, misting, broadcasting, foaming, painting, smearing, watering (drenching), drip irrigation, and in the case of propagation materials (especially seeds), treatment with dry seed treatment powders, seed treatment solutions, slurry treatment with water-soluble powders, coating, single-layer or multi-layer coating, etc. The active compounds can also be applied in combination with other active substances by the ultra-low volume method, or the combination of active compounds can be injected into the soil.

[0467] The amount and frequency of application of the composition to plants can vary widely, depending on the type of application, the specific active agent, the nature of the soil, the method of application (pre-emergence or post-emergence, etc.), the plant species, the prevailing climatic conditions, and other factors determined by the method of application, the time of application, and the target plant.

[0468] The disclosed method has significant advantages over existing technologies and conventional methods of using the compositions of the present invention. The disclosed method helps improve the nutritional quality of yields, promotes plant health, and is non-phytotoxic.

[0469] The present invention will now be described with reference to the following specific examples. It should be noted that the following examples illustrate rather than limit the present invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0470] Example

[0471] Example 1: Evaluation of fungicidal activity in winter wheat crops

[0472] A tank mix of prothioconazole, sulfur, and potassium phosphonate was tested for fungicidal activity against the fungal plant pathogen Septoria tritici (causing Septoria leaf blotch) in wheat cultivation. Treatments are described in the table below:

[0473] Table 1: Treatment options and % fungal control

[0474]

[0475] The fungicidal combinations of the present invention provide complete control of target pests.

Claims

1. A fungicidal combination for preventing and controlling fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal combination comprising: a) Inorganic compounds; b) triazole fungicides; and c) Host plant defense inducers.

2. The combination of claim 1, wherein the inorganic compound comprises a copper salt or a sulfur salt.

3. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the triazole fungicide is selected from the group comprising azaconazole, bifenthiazolin, bromoconazole, cyproconazole, difenoconazole, diniconazole, epoxiconazole, eticonazole, fenbuconazole, fluquinconazole, flusilazole, flutriafol, hexaconazole, amide, ipconazole, clofoconazole, metconazole, myclobutanil, penconazole, propiconazole, silyconazole, tebuconazole, tetraconazole, triadimefon, triadimenol, triticonazole and prothioconazole.

4. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the host plant defense inducer is a phosphonate selected from the group comprising sodium phosphonate, calcium phosphonate or potassium phosphonate.

5. The combination of claim 1 comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a phosphonate.

6. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the inorganic compound, the triazole fungicide and the host plant defense inducer is in the range of 1:0.1:2 to 15:1:

29.

7. A fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infection in crops, the fungicidal composition comprising: a) Inorganic compounds; b) triazole fungicides; c) host plant defense inducers; and d) at least one agrochemically acceptable adjuvant.

8. A fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infection in crops, comprising sulfur, prothioconazole, potassium phosphonate and an agrochemically acceptable adjuvant.

9. A method for controlling fungal infestation in crops, said method comprising applying to the plant or the locus thereof or plant propagation material an effective amount of a combination comprising: a) Inorganic compounds; b) triazole fungicides; and c) host plant defense inducers, The ratio of the inorganic compound, the triazole fungicide and the host plant defense inducer is in the range of 1:0.1:2 to 15:1:

29.

10. A method according to claim 9, comprising applying to the plant or the locus thereof or plant propagation material an effective amount of a combination comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a phosphonate, wherein the ratio of sulphur, prothioconazole and phosphonate is in the range of 1:0.1:2 to 15:1:

29.

11. The method of claim 9, comprising applying to the plant or its locus or plant propagation material an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising: a) Inorganic compounds applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 l / ha to 5 l / ha; b) triazole fungicides applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 litres per hectare to 3 litres per hectare; and c) Host plant defense inducers applied at a rate ranging from 1 litre / ha to 10 litres / ha.

12. The method of claim 9, comprising applying to the plant or the locus thereof or plant propagation material an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising: a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 litres / ha to 5 litres / ha; b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 0.1 litres per hectare to 3 litres per hectare; and c) Phosphonates in an amount ranging from 1 litre / ha to 10 litres / ha.

13. The method of claim 9, comprising applying to the plant or the locus thereof or plant propagation material an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising: a) Inorganic compounds applied at a rate ranging from 250 g / ha to 3000 g / ha; b) triazole fungicides applied at a rate ranging from 20 g / ha to 250 g / ha; and c) Host plant defense inducers at an application rate within the range of 200 g / ha to 2500 g / ha.

14. The method of claim 9, comprising applying to the plant or the locus thereof or plant propagation material an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising: a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 250 g / ha to 3000 g / ha; b) prothioconazole at an application rate within the range of 20 g / ha to 250 g / ha; and c) Phosphonates at an application rate within the range of 200 g / ha to 2500 g / ha.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein the fungal infection is caused by Septoria tritici.

16. Use of a fungicidal combination or composition comprising an inorganic compound, a triazole fungicide and a host plant defense inducer for controlling plant pathogenic fungal diseases, wherein the ratio of the inorganic compound, the triazole fungicide and the host plant defense inducer is in the range of 1:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

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