A method of reducing crop damage

Abstract

Method of protecting a plant from an insect pest comprising the steps: a) preparing a coloured medium comprising an aqueous dispersing medium including at least one colourant configured to reflect a l

Description

Technical Field of the Invention The current invention relates to a method for crop protection using colourants to deter insect pests. Specifically, the disclosure involves the application of non-toxic, environmentally friendly colourants typically as a coloured medium to crops and soil. Background to the Invention In the field of agriculture, protecting crops from insect pests is of critical concern for farmers and agriculturalists. Known systems typically involve the use of chemical insecticides, which are applied to crops to prevent infestation and damage by aphids and other insect pests. These chemical solutions are often effective in controlling pest populations but come with several drawbacks. One significant issue is the environmental impact, as chemical insecticides can lead to soil and water contamination, affecting non-target organisms and contributing to biodiversity loss. Additionally, the repeated use of chemical insecticides can lead to the development of resistance among pest populations, necessitating the use of higher doses or more potent chemicals, which further exacerbates environmental concerns. Moreover, the application of chemical insecticides requires specialised equipment and trained personnel, adding to the cost and complexity of crop protection strategies. This can be particularly challenging for small-scale farmers or those operating in regions with limited access to advanced agricultural technologies. The reliance on chemical solutions also raises concerns about food safety, as residues can remain on crops, posing potential health risks to consumers. Despite the substantial advances in the field of insect pest control, there remains a need for more sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly methods that can be easily implemented across various agricultural settings. In addition to chemical insecticides, other approaches have been explored, such as biological control methods, which involve the use of natural predators or parasites to manage pest populations. Whilst these methods can be effective, they require careful monitoring and management to ensure that the introduced species do not become invasive or negatively impact the ecosystem. Furthermore, biological control methods may not provide immediate results, which can be a limitation in situations where rapid pest control is necessary to prevent crop loss. Another approach involves the use of physical barriers, such as nets or row covers, to protect crops from pests. Whilst these methods can reduce pest access to crops, they can be labour-intensive to install and maintain, and may not be suitable for large-scale agricultural operations. Additionally, physical barriers do not address pest populations already present in the soil or surrounding environment, which can continue to pose a threat to crop health. Dbring TF, Kirchner SM. 2022 A model for colour preference behaviour of spring migrant aphids. Phil. Trans. R. Soc. B377: 20210283, investigated the colour preference behaviour of spring migrant aphids. An empirical colour choice model was developed based on known and assumed photoreceptor sensitivities. Additionally, multivariate statistical analyses of behavioural and reflectance data identified key wavelengths influencing aphid responses, corroborating the green photoreceptor's peak sensitivity previously determined through electrophysiological methods. The study concluded that the observed yellow preference might be a consequence of a colour opponent mechanism, suggesting that aphid colour choice behaviour is influenced by complex ecological and evolutionary factors. Summary of the Invention Aspects of the present invention are set out by the claims. Further aspects are also described. In a first independent aspect, there is provided a method for of protecting a plant from an insect pest, the method comprising the following steps: a) preparing a coloured medium comprising an aqueous dispersing medium including at least one colourant configured to reflect a light wavelength in the range from 380 nm to 750 nm, b) applying the coloured medium directly to a soil or growing medium surrounding the plant, wherein the at least one colourant remains on the surface of the soil or growing medium in sufficient amount to camouflage the plant from the insect pest and deterthe insect pest from landing on the plant. In this context, "aqueous dispersing medium "refers to a mixture where water is the dispersing medium . "Colourant" is a substance that imparts colour to the medium, and it is specifically chosen to reflect light within either: the visible spectrum, which ranges from 380 nm (violet) to 750 nm (red); and / or the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, which ranges from 10 nm to 400 nm; and / or the infrared (IR) spectrum, which ranges from 700 nm to 1 mm. In the context of the disclosed invention, a colourant may refer to a coloured substance that is soluble in the medium, such as a dye, or to a coloured substance that is insoluble in the medium, such as a pigment. "Coloured medium" refers to a mixture comprising of the aqueous dispersing medium and colourant. The term "camouflages" indicates that the colourant makes the plant less visible or recognisable to the insect pest, while "deters" means that it discourages the insect from approaching or landing on the plant. Advantageously, the colourant camouflages the plant, this camouflage effect confuses the insects, preventing them from identifying the plant as a target, thus reducing the likelihood of an insect landing on and damaging the plant. The colourant can also deter the insect by discouraging it from landing on or near the plant. Research has shown that aphids adopt a "Colour Opponent Mechanism" (COM). This mechanism allows insects to determine different colours. Research and field trials have established that aphids show a preference to alight on yellow surfaces. Because a colour preference is apparent in aphids, it follows that other colours are less preferred or act as deterrents. Advantageously, this method reduces crop damage caused by insect pests without relying on harsh chemical pesticides, which can have harmful environmental and health effects. Additionally, this method can enhance crop yield and promote healthier plant growth by reducing pest infestations. In a further dependent aspect, the method further comprises the following step c) applying the coloured medium directly to the plant. Advantageously, by applying the coloured medium directly to the plant, the method enhances the camouflage effect and increases the deterrence of the insect pest from landing on the plant. Advantageously, the direct application ensures that the plant is more thoroughly covered by the colourant, thereby improving the effectiveness of the camouflage and deterrence. In a further dependent aspect, the plant is a crop. A 'crop' is defined as an economically significant plant that is cultivated for food, fibre, or other agricultural products. Advantageously, using the disclosed method to reduce insect damage in crop plants will increase overall crop yield and quality. Advantageously, using the disclosed method reduces the dependency on chemical pesticides in crop agriculture which can be damaging to the environment. In a further dependent aspect, the method further comprises repeating one or more of step a), step b) or step c). Advantageously, repeating one or more of these steps allows for continuous protection throughout the growth cycle of the plant. Advantageously, by reapplying the coloured medium, the camouflage effect and / or the deterrent effect can be maintained, ensuring that the crops remain protected from insect infestations. In practical applications, environmental factors such as rain, wind, or other forms of precipitation could diminish the presence of the coloured medium in the environment and on the plant, thereby reducing its effectiveness in camouflaging the plant and deterring insect pests. Advantageously, the repetition of the each or either of the disclosed method steps ensures that the protective effect can be sustained or restored as needed. Further advantageously, the repetition mechanism introduces flexibility into the method, enabling users to tailor the frequency and timing of the application to suit specific environmental conditions or pest activity levels. Advantageously, this adaptability can be crucial in agricultural settings where pest populations may fluctuate or where certain weather patterns may necessitate more frequent applications or during periods when the crops are most vulnerable to damage. Advantageously, the ability to repeat the application step may enhance the method's efficacy against persistent or particularly aggressive insect pests, which might require more robust protective measures. In a further dependent aspect, the coloured medium further comprises at least one plant growth enhancer. Preferably, the at least one plant growth enhancer comprises a nutrient element. Examples include, but are not limited to, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulphur, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, seaweed extract. Additionally or alternatively preferably, the at least one plant growth enhancer comprises a plant growth regulator. Examples include, but are not limited to, trinexapac-ethyl, auxins, cytokinins, gibberellins, abscisic acid, ethylene, brassinosteroids. Advantageously, the solution not only serves its primary purpose of camouflaging the plant from insect pests and deterring them from landing on the plant, but also contributes to the plant's growth through the plant growth enhancer. Advantageously, the enhancement of plant growth could potentially lead to increased resilience against pests, improved health, and greater yield, which are significant advantages in agricultural practices. Preferably, the presence of the plant growth enhancer does not interfere with the primary function of the colourant, which is to reflect light wavelengths within the specified range to camouflage the plant and deter insect pests. Advantageously, the multiple-action of the coloured medium simplifies the process for users, as they can achieve pest protection and plant growth enhancement without the need for separate applications or treatments. In a further dependent aspect, the coloured medium further comprises at least one additive Preferably, the at least one additive comprises an adjuvant. Advantageously, adjuvants improve the performance of agricultural chemicals by enhancing their spread, absorption, and effectiveness, leading to better coverage and increased efficacy in pest and nutrient management. Examples include, but are not limited to, surfactants, spreaders, stickers, penetrants, buffers, anti-foaming agents. Alternatively preferably, the at least one additive comprises a soil stabilising product. Advantageously, soil stabilising products enhance soil structure, prevent erosion, improve water retention, and increase compaction resistance, contributing to healthier soils and more stable agricultural or construction environments. Examples include, but are not limited to, polymer-based soil stabilisers, lime, gypsum, compost, moisture retention agents. In a further dependent aspect, the coloured medium further comprises at least one pesticide. Preferably, the at least one pesticide comprises one or more of the following: a biocide; a herbicide; a fungicide; a bactericide; an algaecide; a virucide; a rodenticide; an acaricide; a larvicide. Further preferably, the at least one pesticide directly targets and eliminates the insect pest. Advantageously, the pesticide component enhances the overall effectiveness of the method by providing an additional layer of protection. Advantageously, the pesticide may comprise a component which targets an alternative pest from the insect pest targeted by the coloured medium, thereby enhancing the efficacy of the method as a solution for protecting plants. In a further dependent aspect, the coloured medium is non-toxic. Advantageously, the nontoxic nature of the coloured medium ensures that the medium remains safe for the plant, the surrounding ecosystem, and any humans or animals that may come into contact with it. Advantageously, the non-toxic feature ensures that the method is sustainable and eco-friendly, aligning with increasing regulatory and consumer demands for safer agricultural products. Advantageously, the non-toxic nature of the coloured medium may broaden the applicability of the method, making it suitable for use in organic farming or in areas where chemical use is restricted. Preferably, the non-toxic characteristic of the coloured medium does not compromise the effectiveness of the method in camouflaging the plant and deterring insect pests, thus maintaining the primary function of the medium while adding a layer of safety and environmental responsibility. In a further dependent aspect, the colourant comprises at least one naturally occurring compound. Advantageously, by using a naturally occurring compounds as the colourant, the environmental compatibility and sustainability of the method is enhanced. Advantageously, naturally occurring compounds are often biodegradable and less likely to cause harm to the ecosystem compared to synthetic colourants. Advantageously, the use of a naturally occurring compound as a colourant is advantageous in terms of regulatory compliance and consumer acceptance, as such naturally occurring compounds are often perceived as safer and more environmentally friendly compared to synthetic chemicals. In a further dependent aspect, the colourant is a pigment. A "pigment" is a coloured powder that is completely or nearly insoluble and chemically unreactive in water or another medium. Unlike dyes, pigments do not form chemical bonds with the surfaces they colour: instead, they adhere physically. Advantageously, pigments can be used on a wide variety of non-porous or uneven surfaces, since they don't require chemical bonding like dyes. Advantageously, pigments are also more resistant to UV exposure, moisture, and wind, making them more durable in outdoor environments. Further advantageously, pigments can be tailored to reflect specific wavelengths, enhancing the camouflage effect and improving the deterrence of insect pests. Preferably, the colourant can further comprise a compound from the chemical class isothiazolinones. Examples of such can include but are not limited to benzisothiazolinone and / or octylisothiazolinone. Advantageously, these compounds have antimicrobial properties, effectively inhibiting the growth of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts, thereby prolonging the shelf-life of the colourant. In a further dependent aspect, the disclosed method can be performed when the plant is configured to be any of a germination stage, a seedling stage, a vegetative growth stage, a budding stage, a pollination stage, a seed development stage, or a senescence stage. Germination stage refers to the initial phase where the seed begins to grow. Seedling stage is when the young plant emerges from the soil and starts to develop. Vegetative growth stage involves the plant growing leaves and stems. Budding stage is when the plant starts forming buds that will become flowers. Pollination stage is when the flowers are fertilised. Seed development stage is when seeds are formed and mature. Senescence stage is the final phase where the plant ages and deteriorates. Advantageously, this allows for flexibility in the methods application which can be applied throughout the entire lifecycle of the plant, ensuring continuous protection against insect pests. Advantageously, this comprehensive approach enhances crop yield and reduces dependency on chemical pesticides, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. Preferably, the colourant is further configured to reflect the light wavelengths in the range from 10 nm to 400 nm. Preferably, the light wavelengths that are further reflected correspond to the UV spectrum of light. Advantageously, UV deters insects mainly by disrupting their ability to visually recognize host plants, signalling a potentially unfavourable feeding site, and overwhelming their visual system. Advantageously, UV deterrents, for example UV-mulch, are known to reduce and delay buildup of aphids in crop species. Advantageously, using a colourant that reflects UV wavelengths offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to UV-reflective mulch, as it reduces the need for plastic-based metallised films currently in use. Preferably, the colourant is further configured to reflect light wavelengths in the range from 700 nm to 1 mm. Preferably, the light wavelengths that are further reflected correspond to the IR spectrum of light. In a further dependent aspect, the colourant is configured to reflect the light wavelengths in the range from 380 nm to 550 nm. In a further dependent aspect, the colourant is configured to reflect light wavelengths in the range from 450 nm to 500 nm. Preferably, the light wavelengths that are reflected correspond to the blue-green spectrum of visible light. Advantageously, blue-green spectrum colours are specific to camouflaging plants and deterring targeted insect pests, for example aphids. In a further dependent aspect, the insect pest comprises one or more insect pests selected from the Aphididae family. The Aphididae family includes various species of aphids, which are known for their ability to rapidly reproduce and cause significant damage to crops and plants by feeding on sap, and for their role as vectors in transmitting plant viruses. Aphids rely on visual cues to locate and identify host plants. Advantageously, by altering the visual appearance of the plant and / or plant's environment, the method disrupts the aphids' ability to recognise the plant as a suitable host, thereby reducing the likelihood of infestation. In a further dependent aspect, the colourant is configured to reflect the light wavelengths in the range from 625 nm to 750 nm. Preferably, the light wavelengths that are reflected corresponds to the red and far-red regions of the visible light spectrum. Advantageously, red and far-red sections of the visible light spectrum are specific to camouflaging plants and deterring targeted insect pests, for example locusts. In a further dependent aspect, the insect pest comprises one or more insect pests selected from the Acrididae family. The Acrididae family comprise of grasshoppers which can severely damage crops and plants by their destructive feeding habits. Preferably, the colourant in the medium is configured to reflect specific wavelengths of light, which influence the visual perception of grasshoppers, thereby reducing their likelihood of landing on the treated plants. In a further dependent aspect, the colourant is configured to absorb at least one light wavelength in the range from 380 nm to 750 nm. Preferably, the colourant absorbs substantially all the wavelengths. Further preferably, the colourant is black. Alternatively preferably, the colourant is a dark blue. Advantageously, the absorption mechanism of dark colourants can influence the thermal properties of the coloured medium, as absorbed light is converted into heat. Advantageously, this generated heat can beneficially create a microclimate around the plant, accelerating soil warming and further supporting the crop to establish. Advantageously, a crop that is able to establish quickly will be able to tolerate infestation from insects and other pests. In a further dependent aspect, the insect pest comprises one or more insect pests selected from the Chrysomelidae family. The Chrysomelidae family includes various beetles known for their potential to damage plants, making the implementation particularly relevant for agricultural applications where these beetles are a concern. Advantageously, a crop, for example oil seed rape, that is able to establish quickly is able to tolerate infestation from insect pests from the Chrysomelidae family. Advantageously, the quicker oilseed rape seedlings reach 3-4 leaves, the greater chance the seedling has of surviving flea beetle damage. In a further dependent aspect, wherein the application of step b) is performed prior to planting of the plant in the environment. Advantageously, this ensures that the environment has already been treated to deter insect pests before the plant is exposed to potential threats. In a further dependent aspect, wherein the application by any of step b) or step c) comprises one or more applicators selected from a crop sprayer, a knapsack sprayer, or a handheld sprayer. Preferably, a crop sprayer is used for large-scale agricultural applications, allowing for efficient coverage of extensive areas. Advantageously, this is particularly beneficial for farmers who need to protect large fields of crops from insect pests. Preferably, the knapsack sprayer offers a more portable and versatile option, suitable for medium-sized areas or for situations where manoeuvrability or precision is required. Advantageously, it allows the user to carry the coloured medium on their back and apply it with greater precision, making it ideal for smaller farms or gardens. Preferably, handheld sprayer provides the most control and precision. Advantageously, this makes it suitable for small-scale applications, such as residential gardens or indoor plants, or for targeting specific plants that require protection. Use of compound containing phthalocyanine to camouflage a plant from an insect pest and deter the insect pest from landing on the plant is advantageous. Substituted phthalocyanines, including those substituted with metals, reflect light wavelengths in the range from 380 nm to 750 nm which camouflages plants from insect pests, such as aphids. Further advantageously, phthalocyanines are non-toxic to plants and therefore do not inhibit growth of the plant. Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: • FIG. 1 displays a table with examples of compositions that can be prepared in order to make a coloured medium that is either blue, red, or green. • FIG. 2 displays a table showing examples of various dilutions of compositions suitable for making either a blue or green coloured medium. Detailed Description of the Invention The description comprises example methods for protecting a plant from an insect pest by preparing a coloured medium comprising an aqueous dispersing medium including at least one colourant. The colourant is configured to reflect light wavelengths in the range from 380 nm to 750 nm. The coloured medium prepared is sprayed directly to either the soil or the growing medium surrounding the plant. On evaporation of the water or drainage of the water, the colourant camouflages the plant and the surrounding area from insect pests. The colourant also deters the insect from landing on the plant and the surrounding area. The coloured medium can also be sprayed directly onto the plant itself, thereby further protecting the plant from the insect pest. By altering the colour of the surrounding area, the sensory perception of the insect is affected, making treated plants less attractive to target pests, or camouflaging them altogether. This behavioural modification reduces the likelihood of insects attacking the plant, thereby decreasing physical damage and the risk of secondary infections. The coloured medium can be used in various setting, for example on house plants, but can also be used in larger agricultural settings to protect crop plants. Examples 1 - 3: For each example specified in FIG. 1, a composition was prepared by mixing the ingredients by conventional methods. The colourant, in liquid form, istransferred to the tankof a spraying device alongside the water for dilution. The concentration can be varied according to preference or specific use. Typically, preferred use is in the range from 3 to 30 litres of colourant concentrate per hectare (Ha). The most common rate is 6 litres of concentrate mixed with 300 to 800 litres of water, depending on the application method and desired intensity of colour. If required, plant growth enhancers or additives may be added at this stage. The coloured medium is then sprayed on the fields as desired. The composition of Example 1 results in a blue colour, found to reflect wavelengths of 450 -500 nm in the blue-green spectrum of visible light. This has been shown to camouflage and deter insect pests from the Aphididae family. The composition of Example 2 results in a red colour, found to reflect wavelengths of 625-750 nm in the red spectrum of visible light. This has been shown to camouflage and deter insect pests from the Acrididae family. The composition of Example 3 results in a green colour, found to reflect light wavelengths of 495 to 570 nm in the green spectrum of visible light. The colourant can further include a compound from the chemical class isothiazolinones. Examples of such can include but are not limited to benzisothiazolinone and / or octylisothiazolinone. These compounds have antimicrobial properties, effectively inhibiting the growth of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts, thereby prolonging the shelf-life of the colourant. Examples 4 - 7 For each example specified in FIG. 2, a composition was prepared by mixing the ingredients by conventional methods. A typical application ratio for colourant to water involves combining 6 litres of colourant with 400 litres of water, Example 4. In experimental trials, concentrations as high as 30 litres of colourant per 400 litres of water were tested, Example 5, and it was observed that even at this strongest concentration, there was no detrimental effect on the crop. Further trials demonstrated that a lower concentration, such as 3 litres of colourant in 600 litres of water, Example 6, remained effective in repelling insects. Increasing the dilution of the colourant to 3 litres of colourant in 800 litres of water was found to be even more effective. However, it should be noted that increasing the total water volume per hectare results in a longer application time for the farmer, necessitating a balance between efficacy and operational efficiency. The efficacy of the invention is determined by the amount of concentrated colourant applied per hectare and the total volume of water used per hectare. For a given colourant concentration, increasing the water volume per hectare enhances the effectiveness of the application. Similarly, increasing the dose of colourant in any given water volume above 300 litres per hectare further improves efficacy. Therefore, both the concentration of colourant and the total water volume are important parameters that influence the overall performance of the invention in repelling insects, and these factors should be optimised according to the specific requirements and operational constraints of the agricultural practice. The resulting coloured medium from any of the described examples above, may further comprise one or more plant growth enhancers that are beneficial to the overall health and development of the plant. The plant growth enhancer may comprise additional nutrients which can include essential macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulphur, as well as micronutrients like copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and zinc. The nutrients may be incorporated in the form of liquids, soluble powders, or granules, all of which are readily dissolvable or dispersible in the sprayer tank prior to application. The plant growth enhancer, may also comprise of what is commonly referred to as "foliar feeds". Foliar feeds are liquid solutions that are sprayed directly onto the crop leaves, allowing for rapid absorption and bypassing the root system. Foliar feeds typically contain one or more beneficial trace elements, such as zinc, copper, manganese, and boron, as well as solutions of macronutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, and magnesium. The specific chemical forms of these nutrients may include, for example, urea or ammoniacal nitrogen, phosphorus pentoxide, and potassium hydroxide, among others. Standard NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) fertilisers are often used, and these are available in a variety of formulations tailored to the specific nutritional requirements of the crop. Foliar feeds are designed to deliver nutrients directly to plant leaves, thereby enhancing nutrient uptake efficiency. These formulations typically consist of water-soluble nutrients, which are often chelated to improve their bioavailability and uptake by the plant. In addition to the primary nutrients, foliar feeds may include various additives to enhance their performance. Surfactants or wetting agents are commonly included to ensure even spreading of the solution across the leaf surface, thereby improving contact and absorption. Stickers or extenders may also be added to help the foliar feed solution adhere to the leaf surface for longer durations, reducing nutrient loss due to environmental factors such as rain or wind. Some formulations may further include mineral particles, such as calcite, which serve as slow-release sources of nutrients like calcium and magnesium. Commercial foliar spray products typically comprise both active nutrient ingredients and inert components or adjuvants, which together optimise the delivery and efficacy of the nutrients applied to the crop foliage. There is a wide variety of foliar feed types and formulations available, allowing for customisation according to the specific needs of different crops and growing conditions. The coloured medium can further comprise either one or more pesticide which can enhance the overall effectiveness of the coloured medium and method by providing an additional layer of protection. The pesticide can comprise one or more of the following: a biocide; a herbicide; a fungicide; a bactericide; an algaecide; a virucide; a rodenticide; an acaricide; a larvicide. Any of the examples mentioned above may be applied directly to the soil around a plant and, optionally, to the plant itself. The coloured medium, as prepared according to any of the disclosed examples, can either be mixed beforehand or prepared directly within the sprayer. Once the coloured medium is ready and added to the sprayer, the device is calibrated, the appropriate nozzle is selected for the intended application, and the spray pressure is adjusted to achieve the desired droplet size and spray pattern. The coloured medium is then sprayed onto the soil surrounding the plants and, if desired, directly onto the plants. The sprayer used may vary depending on the scale and nature of the application. For large-scale agricultural operations, self-propelled or tractor-drawn crop sprayers are typically employed. For smaller-scale or more targeted applications, portable knapsack sprayers or handheld sprayers may be used to provide greater control and precision. Additional application methods include farm machinery designed for liquid fertiliser application, inter-row sprayers (also known as band sprayers), and in some cases, the coloured medium may be added to slurry and applied to fields using a slurry spreader. It is also conceivable that the coloured medium solution could be delivered via overhead irrigation or fertigation systems, allowing for integration with existing irrigation infrastructure. For optimal results in outdoor environments, it is recommended that the coloured medium be sprayed under dry conditions with minimal wind to ensure even coverage and to minimise drift. The flexibility of the application methods allows the invention to be adapted to a wide range of agricultural practices and operational requirements. The application of the coloured medium can be repeated to increase the intensity of the colour in the environment. Application can also be repeated after weather patterns, for example after rainfall, to ensure the coloured medium maintains its intensity and therefor the beneficial effects of deterring and camouflaging the plant. The preferred timing for spraying is either pre-emergence or during the early post-emergence stages of the crop, as these periods often coincide with the crop's most vulnerable growth stages and the peak migration periods of pests such as aphids. For example, in carrot crops, the most critical window for application is from early May to early June, which aligns with the period when aphids are actively seeking host plants. Field trials have demonstrated that a single application of the colourant can persist on the soil or plant surface for approximately 10 to 28 days, depending on prevailing weather conditions and the extent of soil disturbance caused by animals or cultivation activities. In adverse weather conditions, it is advantageous to reapply the coloured medium solution after 10 days to maintain effective coverage. A third application may be warranted to ensure protection throughout the entire vulnerable period for a specific crop and pest species. The coloured medium solution can be applied at any stage of the plant's life cycle, including the germination, seedling, vegetative growth, budding, pollination, seed development, or senescence stages. However, application during the early stages, such as germination and seedling, has been found to be most effective for pest deterrence. Additionally, the coloured medium solution may be applied prior to planting to prepare the environment for optimal crop protection. Although the disclosed subject matter has been described using specific terminology relating to apparatus features and / or method features, it is to be understood that the claimed subject matter is not necessarily limited to the examples disclosed. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions. The advantages disclosed may relate to several of the examples that are disclosed.

Claims

1. A method of protecting a plant from an insect pest, the method comprising the following steps:a) preparing a coloured medium comprising an aqueous dispersing medium including at least one colourant configured to reflect a light wavelength in the range from 380 nm to 750 nm,b) applying the coloured medium directly to a soil or growing medium surrounding the plant,wherein the at least one colourant remains on the surface of the soil or growing medium in sufficient amount to camouflage the plant from the insect pest and deters the insect pest from landing on the plant.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises the following step:c) applying the coloured medium directly to the plant.

3. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the plant is a crop.

4. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the method further comprises repeating one or more of step a), step b) or step c).

5. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the coloured medium further comprises at least one plant growth enhancer.

6. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the coloured medium further comprises at least one additive.

7. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the coloured medium further comprises at least one pesticide.

8. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the coloured medium is non-toxic.

9. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the colourant comprises at least one naturally occurring compound.

10. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the colourant is a pigment.

11. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the disclosed method can be performed when the plant is configured to be in any of a germination stage, a seedling stage, a vegetative growth stage, a budding stage, a pollination stage, a seed development stage, or a senescence stage.

12. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the colourant is configured to reflect the light wavelengths in the range from 380 nm to 550 nm.

13. The method according to any preceding claims, wherein the colourant is configured to reflect the light wavelengths in the range from 450 nm to 500 nm.

14. The method according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the insect pest comprises one or more insect pests selected from the Aphididae family.

15. The method according to any of claims 1-11, wherein the colourant is configured to reflect the light wavelengths in the range from 625 nm to 750 nm.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the insect pest comprises one or more insect pests selected from the Acrididae family.

17. The method according to any of claims 1 - 11, wherein the colourant is configured to absorb at least one light wavelength in the range from 380 nm to 750 nm.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the insect pest comprises one or more insect pests selected from the Chrysomelidae family.

19. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the application step b) is performed prior to planting of the plant in the environment.

20. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein application by any of step b) or step c) comprises one or more applicators selected from a crop sprayer, a knapsack sprayer, or a handheld sprayer.

21. Use of compound containing phthalocyanine to camouflage a plant from an insect pest and deter the insect pest from landing on the plant.