Agricultural compositions

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to agricultural compositions comprising an anti-pathogenic compound and a chemical active agent, wherein the fungicide and the chemical active agent provide a synergistic interaction in the control of pathogens typically found on plant crops, trees, fruits, vegetables, leaves, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, animals, equipment, livestock farms, feedlots, barns, animal rearing units, farm tools, farm buildings, storage areas, or food contact areas.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Field of Disclosure The present disclosure relates to agricultural compositions comprising an antipathogenic compound and a chemical active agent, wherein the antipathogenic compound and the chemical active agent provide a synergistic interaction in the control of plant pathogens. In particular, the agricultural compositions according to the present disclosure are used to control fungal and / or bacterial populations. [Background technology]

[0002] Background of the Invention Commercial farming of plant crops and livestock can be highly susceptible to disease-causing pathogens, which, if left uncontrolled, can lead to food shortages (by killing crops and / or livestock) and / or pose health risks to consumers. Pathogens typically include, but are not limited to, fungicides and bactericides. Pathogens often thrive due to improper farming and / or livestock practices and / or environmental factors, such as high temperature and humidity, that promote rapid microbial growth. Providing effective pathogen control in agriculture and livestock farming is essential to ensuring continued food security. Effective pathogen control is hindered by increasing resistance to common control measures or treatments using conventional bactericides or fungicides. Such bactericide and / or fungicide resistance poses significant challenges in controlling, treating, and / or removing pathogens from agricultural products.

[0003] Also, in recent years, there has been a movement to provide environmentally friendly agricultural compositions that can control and / or treat and / or reduce and / or eliminate pathogen populations from plant crops and animals. Consumers are becoming more conscious of purchasing food that has been raised, cultivated or produced in an environmentally friendly manner, typically by utilizing organic and / or biodegradable and / or human and animal safe products. Therefore, there has been a need for farmers and the agrochemical sector to develop environmentally friendly agricultural compositions that are stable and provide anti-pathogenicity when administered to seeds and / or plants and / or animals, or parts thereof. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There remains a need to provide new and innovative agricultural compositions for controlling pathogen populations and / or to control and / or treat diseases caused by said pathogens. Broadly, there remains a need to at least ameliorate the known shortcomings in the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Summary of the Invention Broadly, according to a first aspect of the disclosure, with anti-pathogenic compounds including potassium sorbate; Acid and (C 12 ~C 16 a chemical activator comprising at least one (C1-C8) alkyl ester of an alkyl acid; An agricultural composition comprising:

[0006] The chemical active agent may further comprise an anionic surfactant and / or a non-ionic surfactant.

[0007] The antipathogenic compound may be a fungicide, a bactericide, an insecticide, a pesticide, or a combination thereof. Typically, the antipathogenic compound may be a bactericide. The antipathogenic compound may itself provide a composition comprising one or more individual chemical compounds.

[0008] The agricultural composition may be provided as a concentrate. The antipathogenic compound and the chemical active agent may be mixed together to provide an agricultural composition (in concentrated form) that can be further diluted with water for ease of application at the time of use.

[0009] Alternatively, or additionally, the antipathogenic compound and / or chemical active agent may each be diluted in water to provide an aqueous solution of the antipathogenic compound and chemical active agent, and then the aqueous solutions are mixed to provide a diluted agricultural composition according to the present disclosure. Typically, potassium sorbate remains dissociated in the sorbic acid form upon dilution and use.

[0010] Alternatively, or additionally, the anti-pathogenic compound may be diluted with water to produce a stable, dilute solution of the deactivated anti-pathogenic compound, and then the chemical active agent may be diluted into the stable, dilute solution of the deactivated anti-pathogenic compound to provide a diluted agricultural composition according to the present disclosure.

[0011] It should be understood that other dilution chemistries may be used instead of or in addition to utilizing water. For example, possible diluents may be at least one of the group including, but not limited to, glycol, methanol, ethanol, monoethylene glycol, and propylene glycol.

[0012] (C 12 ~C 16) The at least one (C1-C8) alkyl ester of the alkyl acid may be selected from the group including, but not limited to, synthetic, linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, modified or unmodified, and the alkyl ester may be selected from the group including, but not limited to, methyl ester, ethyl ester, propyl ester, butyl ester, isopropyl ester, isobutyl ester, isopentyl ester, 2-ethylhexyl ester, or components thereof.

[0013] (C 12 ~C 16 ) The at least one (C1-C8) alkyl ester of alkyl acid may be selected from the group including, but not limited to, isobutyl laurate, isopentyl laurate, methyl laurate, 2-ethylhexyl laurate, 2-ethylhexyl palmitate, isopropyl laurate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, and combinations thereof.

[0014] At least one (C1-C8) alkyl ester is (C 12 ~C 16 ) alkyl acids, such as, but not limited to, alkanoic acids, may be derived from the group including lauric acid, tridecylic acid, myristic acid, pentadecanoic acid, palmitic acid, and combinations thereof.

[0015] The anionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, (C6 to C 18 ) Alkylbenzenesulfonate, calcium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, triethanolamine dodecylbenzenesulfonate, (C6-C 18 ) Alkyl ether sulfate, (C6-C 18 ) Alkyl ethoxylated ether sulfate, sodium lauryl polyoxyethylene ether sulfate, (C6-C 18 ) Alkyl sulfate, (C6-C 18 ) Alkyl phosphate esters, (C6-C 18 ) Alkoxylated sulfates, (C6-C 18) alkoxylated phosphate esters, xylene sulfonate salts, cumene sulfonate salts, naphthalene sulfonates, alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, condensed alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, and combinations thereof.

[0016] Nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, natural or synthetic alkoxylated alcohols, preferably ethoxylated and / or propoxylated alcohols, more preferably ethoxylated and / or propoxylated fatty alcohols or fatty acids, more preferably those containing 8 to 22 carbon atoms; short chain ethoxylated and / or propoxylated alcohols, preferably short chain ethoxylated and / or propoxylated fatty alcohols; ethoxylated fatty acids; alkoxylated sorbitan fatty esters, ethoxylated sorbitan fatty esters; alkoxylated sorbitol fatty esters, ethoxylated sorbitol fatty esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monopalmitate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate; (C8 to C9 22 ) alkoxylated fatty alcohols, (C8-C 22 ) Ethoxylated fatty alcohols, (C8-C 22 ) Propoxylated fatty alcohols, (C8-C 22 ) Ethoxylated and propoxylated fatty alcohols, alkyl (poly)glycosides, linear (C4-C 10 ) Alkyl (poly)glycosides, branched chain (C4-C 10 ) alkyl (poly)glycosides; and combinations thereof.

[0017] Some alkoxylated alcohols contemplated for use are branched alcohols, such as Guerbet alcohols, e.g., 2-propylheptanol and 2-ethylhexanol, and C 10 -oxo-alcohol or C 13 Oxo-alcohols, i.e., predominantly at least one branched C 10-Alcohol or C 13 - Includes alcohol mixtures formed by alcohols and those based on alcohols commercially available as Exxal alcohols from Exxon Mobile Chemicals and Neodol alcohols from Shell Chemicals.

[0018] The nonionic surfactant may be an ethoxylated alcohol having a degree of ethoxylation of 1 to 50, preferably 2 to 30.

[0019] The acid of the chemical active agent may be at least one of a variety of acids used in the agricultural chemical arts. Preferably, the acid may be an aqueous citric acid solution of about 1 to about 99 percent citric acid, preferably about 50% citric acid.

[0020] The anti-pathogenic compound (in concentrate form) may have a pH range of about 7.0 to about 10.0, and the chemical active agent (in concentrate form) may have a pH range of 0.0 to about 3.0. During use, the anti-pathogenic compound (in concentrate form) and the chemical active agent (in concentrate form) may be mixed and / or diluted, with the resulting stable tank mix of the diluted agricultural composition providing a pH of about 4 to about 6.

[0021] In concentrated forms of agricultural compositions, the antipathogenic compound (typically a fungicide) typically comprises water as a diluent such that potassium sorbate may comprise 35 to 55% by weight of the antipathogenic compound (typically a fungicide), and the chemical active agent typically comprises citric acid, which may comprise 30 to 55% by weight of the chemical active agent (C 12 ~C 16 ) further including water as a diluent such that the at least one (C1-C8) alkyl ester of alkyl acid may comprise 0.5 to 5% by weight of the chemical active agent, the anionic surfactant may comprise 1 to 5% by weight of the chemical active agent, and the nonionic surfactant may comprise 3 to 10% by weight of the chemical active agent.

[0022] The antipathogenic compound (concentrated form) may further comprise urea, the urea being 1 to 5% by weight of the antipathogenic compound. It should be understood that the chemical active agent may also further comprise urea in certain embodiments.

[0023] The agricultural composition may further comprise at least one compound selected from the group of insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, desiccants, defoliants, acaricides, nutrients, miticides, bactericides, biocides, ovicides, nematicides, insect growth regulators, plant growth regulators, and combinations thereof.

[0024] The agricultural composition may further comprise at least one additive selected from the group including, but not limited to, nutrients, stimulants, growth aids, sugars, amino acids, micronutrients (including fertilizers and hormones), preservatives, clarifying agents, antifreeze agents, hydrotropes, stabilizers, antioxidants, acidifying agents, chelating agents, complexing agents, dyes, rheology modifiers, antifoaming agents, anti-drift agents, water, oils, other solvents, and combinations thereof.

[0025] The oil may be a natural compound modified by esterification or transesterification, such as alkyl fatty acid esters, e.g., methyl esters, ethyl esters, propyl esters, butyl esters, 2-ethylhexyl esters or dodecyl esters, preferably glycol or glycerol fatty acids, e.g., (C 10 ~C 22 ) Fatty acid esters, such as those from vegetable oils, preferably oil-producing plant species, such as soybean, corn, sunflower, rapeseed, cottonseed, linseed, palm, safflower, coconut, castor, olive, canola oil, among others, mixed with essential or edible oils extracted from various plants or plant parts, such as trees, shrubs, leaves, flowers, grasses, fluids, herbs, fruits and seeds, either pure or in combination with one or more oils, or mixed with each other.

[0026] In further embodiments, the oil may be a natural compound such as an essential oil, a citrus oil, a component of a citrus oil, a terpene oil (the terpene oil comprises D-limonene) or one or more terpene-containing natural oils (the one or more terpene-containing natural oils comprise at least 50% terpenes and are selected from the group comprising orange oil, grapefruit oil, lemon oil, lime oil, tangerine oil, pine oil, pure, combined with other oils or in combination).

[0027] Alternatively, or in addition, the oil may be a natural oil, a synthetic oil, a straight chain compound, a branched compound, a saturated oil, an unsaturated oil, an aliphatic compound, a cyclic compound, a modified oil, an unmodified oil, an alkylated vegetable oil, an essential oil, an edible oil, an oil extracted from a plant, an oil extracted from a plant part, an oil extracted from a tree, an oil extracted from a shrub, an oil extracted from a leaf, an oil extracted from a flower, an oil extracted from a grass, an oil extracted from a plant juice, an oil extracted from an herb, an oil extracted from a fruit, an oil extracted from a seed, a pure oil, a mixture of oils, and combinations thereof.

[0028] An agricultural composition, wherein the antipathogenic compound and the chemical active agent may be mixed in water in a weight ratio of 1:0.4 (antipathogenic compound:chemical active agent) to 1:2.0 (antipathogenic compound:chemical active agent). In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the antipathogenic compound is mixed with water, and then the chemical active agent is mixed therewith.

[0029] In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, with anti-pathogenic compounds including potassium sorbate; Acid, (C 12 ~C 16 a chemical surfactant comprising at least one (C1-C8) alkyl ester of an alkyl acid, an anionic surfactant, and a nonionic surfactant; An agricultural composition (in concentrated form) comprising: the antipathogenic compound further comprises water as a diluent such that potassium sorbate constitutes 35 to 55% by weight of the antipathogenic compound, the antipathogenic compound having a pH range of about 7.0 to about 10.0; The chemical activator comprises an acid comprising 30 to 55% by weight of the chemical activator, (C 12 ~C 16 ) further comprising water as a diluent such that at least one (C1-C8) alkyl ester of an alkyl acid comprises 0.5 to 5% by weight of the chemical active agent, the anionic surfactant comprises 1 to 5% by weight of the chemical active agent, and the nonionic surfactant comprises 3 to 10% by weight of the chemical active agent, wherein the chemical active agent has a pH range of 0.0 to about 3.0; An agricultural composition is provided.

[0030] It should be understood that this preferred exemplary embodiment of the agricultural composition is in a concentrated form, and that both the anti-pathogenic compound and the chemical active agent are provided in concentrated forms, which may be further diluted with water or other solvent chemistry prior to application during use.

[0031] During use, the anti-pathogenic compound (in concentrate form) and the chemical active agent (in concentrate form) may be mixed and / or diluted, with the resulting stable tank mix of the diluted agricultural composition providing a pH of about 4 to about 6. The tank mix is then applied onto or near a plant or part thereof.

[0032] In certain preferred exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, with anti-pathogenic compounds including potassium sorbate; Acid, (C 12 ~C 16 a chemical surfactant comprising at least one (C1-C8) alkyl ester of an alkyl acid, an anionic surfactant, and a nonionic surfactant; An agricultural composition comprising: The antipathogenic compound may further comprise water and urea as diluents, such that potassium sorbate constitutes 35-55% by weight of the antipathogenic compound and urea constitutes 1 to 5% by weight of the antipathogenic compound, and the antipathogenic compound has a pH range of about 7.0 to about 10.0; The chemical activator may further comprise water as a diluent; the acid is citric acid, such that the citric acid constitutes 30 to 55% by weight of the chemical activator; (C 12 ~C 16 ) at least one (C1-C8) alkyl ester of an alkyl acid is isopropyl myristate and / or isopropyl laurate, such that isopropyl myristate and / or isopropyl laurate constitutes 0.5 to 5% by weight of the chemical active agent; the anionic surfactant is sodium lauryl ether sulfate, such that the sodium lauryl ether sulfate constitutes 1 to 5 weight percent of the chemical active agent; An agricultural composition is provided in which the nonionic surfactant is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol, such that the ethoxylated fatty alcohol comprises 3 to 10% by weight of the chemical active agent, and the chemical active agent has a pH range of 0.0 to about 3.0.

[0033] It should be understood that this particular preferred exemplary embodiment of the agricultural composition is in a concentrated form, and that both the anti-pathogenic compound and the chemical active agent are provided in concentrated forms, which may be further diluted with water or other solvent chemistry prior to application during use.

[0034] During use, the anti-pathogenic compound (in concentrate form) and the chemical active agent (in concentrate form) may be mixed and / or diluted, with the resulting stable tank mix of the diluted agricultural composition providing a pH of about 4 to about 6. The tank mix is then applied onto or near a plant or part thereof.

[0035] It should be understood that compositions according to the present disclosure may be packaged and sold in a single container containing both the anti-pathogenic compound and the chemical active agent in concentrated form. During use, the user may dilute the composition prior to application to the crop.

[0036] Alternatively, or additionally, compositions according to the present disclosure may be packaged and sold in two separate containers, a first container for the anti-pathogenic compound in concentrated form and a second container for the chemical active agent in concentrated form, which may then be diluted prior to application to crops.

[0037] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of producing the agricultural composition of the first aspect of the present disclosure as described herein above, the method comprising mixing an anti-pathogenic compound and a chemical active agent to provide the agricultural composition of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0038] The mixing step may include diluting each of the anti-pathogenic compound (in concentrated form) and the chemical active agent (in concentrated form) in water and then mixing the diluted anti-pathogenic compound and the diluted chemical active agent.

[0039] Alternatively, or additionally, the mixing step may include mixing the anti-pathogenic compound (in concentrated form) with the chemical active agent (in concentrated form) and then diluting the mixture with water to provide a diluted agricultural composition.

[0040] Alternatively, or additionally, the mixing step may include diluting the anti-pathogenic compound with water to produce a stable, diluted solution of the deactivated anti-pathogenic compound, and then diluting the chemical active agent into the stable, diluted solution of the deactivated anti-pathogenic compound to provide a diluted agricultural composition.

[0041] In certain exemplary embodiments of the method, the mixing step comprises: (i) diluting the antipathogenic compound with water in a weight ratio of about 1:100 to about 1:10 antipathogenic compound to water to form a stable diluted solution of the deactivated antipathogenic compound; thereafter (ii) diluting the chemical active agent with water containing a dilute solution of the deactivated antipathogenic compound in a weight ratio of antipathogenic compound to chemical active agent of about 1:0.4 to about 1:2 to produce a stable tank mixture having a pH range of about 4.0 to about 6.0; Providing a diluted agricultural composition; may include:

[0042] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an agricultural composition according to the first aspect of the present disclosure as described hereinabove, for use in controlling a pathogen and / or treating a disease caused by said pathogen. The pathogen may be at least one selected from the group consisting of Aspergillus niger, Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum fioriniae, Fusarium moniliforme, Fusarium oxysporum, Macrophomina phaseolina, Verticillium dahlia, Xanthomonas arboricola pv., Plasmopara viticola, Acetobacter spp., Erysiphe necator, and Guignardia bidwellii.

[0043] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for controlling and / or treating pathogens and / or diseases caused by said pathogens, the method comprising applying the agricultural composition of the first aspect of the present disclosure described hereinabove to or near a plant or seed. The pathogen may be at least one species selected from the group consisting of Aspergillus niger, Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum fioriniae, Fusarium moniliforme, Fusarium oxysporum, Macrophomina phaseolina, Verticillium dahlia, Xanthomonas arboricola pv., Plasmopara viticola, Acetobacter spp., Erysiphe necator, and Guignardia bidwellii.

[0044] The method provides a diluted agricultural composition, preferably diluted in water, in which the composition is diluted prior to application on or near the plant or seed.

[0045] A method wherein application onto or near the plant or seed is by at least one device selected from the group including air-assisted sprayers, conventional sprayers, ultra-low volume equipment such as aerial spraying, electrostatic spraying, foggers and mist spraying equipment, chemigation systems, pivots, sprinklers, and combinations thereof.

[0046] The method wherein application may be to pre- or post-harvest plants selected from the group including, but not limited to, plants, trees, fruits, vegetables, leaves, stems, roots, seeds or flowers, animals, equipment, livestock farms, feedlots, barns, animal rearing units, farm implements, farm buildings, storage areas, or food contact areas so that disease-causing fungal and / or bacterial pathogens are controlled during use.

[0047] The methods also extend to the application of an agricultural composition, preferably a diluted agricultural composition, to an animal to control disease-causing fungal and / or bacterial pathogens.

[0048] The methods further extend to application of the agricultural composition, preferably a diluted agricultural composition, to equipment, livestock farms, feedlots, barns, animal rearing units, tools, buildings, storage areas, or food contact areas to control disease-causing fungal and / or bacterial pathogens.

[0049] In certain embodiments of the method, the agricultural composition, preferably a diluted agricultural composition, may be prepared in a mixing tank, spray tank, container, or in-line irrigation system prior to application and / or use. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0050] [Figure 1] 1 is a graph showing the percentage inhibition of Aspergillus niger after exposure to (or treatment with) compositions of the present disclosure and other compounds. [Figure 2]1 is a graph showing the percentage inhibition of Botrytis cinerea after exposure to (or treatment with) compositions of the present disclosure and other compounds. [Figure 3] 1 is a graph showing the percentage inhibition of Colletotrichum fioriniae after exposure to (or treatment with) compositions of the present disclosure and other compounds. [Figure 4] 1 is a graph showing the percentage inhibition of Fusarium moniliforme after exposure to (or treatment with) compositions of the present disclosure and other compounds. [Figure 5] 1 is a graph showing the percentage inhibition of Fusarium oxysporum after exposure to (or treatment with) compositions of the present disclosure and other compounds. [Figure 6] 1 is a graph showing the percentage inhibition of Macrophomina phaseolina after exposure to (or treatment with) compositions of the present disclosure and other compounds. [Figure 7] 1 is a graph showing the percentage inhibition of Verticillium dahlia after exposure to (or treatment with) compositions of the present disclosure and other compounds. [Figure 8] 1 is a graph showing the percentage inhibition of Xanthomonas arboricola pv. juglandis after exposure to (or treatment with) compositions of the present disclosure and other compounds. [Figure 9] 1 is a graph showing the mean percent foliar severity for each treatment on the evaluation date. Within each category, numbers with the same letter indicate no significant difference as determined by ANOVA (α=0.10). ORO-159 fungicide was brought to a pH of 5-5.2 using OR-278-C (i.e., the fungicide and chemical active agent were mixed to provide an agricultural composition according to the present disclosure). [Figure 10]Graphs showing the mean incidence and percent severity for tresses for each treatment on the evaluation day. Within each category, numbers with the same letter indicate no significant difference as determined by ANOVA (α=0.10). [Figure 11] 1 is a graph showing the yield in tons per acre for each treatment. Numbers with the same letter indicate no significant difference as determined by ANOVA (α=0.10). [Figure 12] 1 is a graph showing the Brix, pH, and titratable acidity of each treatment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0051] Detailed Description The contents of the Summary of the Invention above are repeated herein for reference purposes only and will not be repeated to avoid repetition.

[0052] The production and use of agricultural compositions comprising an antipathogenic compound (typically potassium sorbate) and a chemical active agent adjuvant are provided. Typically, the antipathogenic compound and chemical active agent are prepared as concentrates, which are then mixed to provide the agricultural composition. The antipathogenic compound and / or chemical active agent may be diluted before mixing. Alternatively, the antipathogenic compound and chemical active agent may be mixed and then diluted. The agricultural composition is typically diluted with water to provide a stable tank mix of diluted agricultural composition prior to use and application on or near agricultural crops to control pathogen populations and / or to control and / or treat diseases associated with said pathogens. The present disclosure also extends to application of the agricultural composition to or near animals, buildings, equipment, etc. The agricultural compositions according to the present disclosure are stable before and during use.

[0053] The antipathogenic compound according to the present disclosure typically comprises potassium sorbate dissolved in water and is stable as a concentrate and in a tank mix. The antipathogenic compound is provided as a composition comprising two or more chemical compounds. The concentrated, stable organic antipathogenic compound may comprise potassium sorbate in an amount of 35.0 to 50.0% by weight; urea in an amount of 1.0 to 3.0% by weight; and water as a diluent up to 100% by weight, and the organic antipathogenic compound concentrate has a pH range of 7.0 to 10.0.

[0054] Chemical active agents (and pH adjusters and adjuvants, when used) according to the present disclosure are typically (C1-C8) alkyl esters (typically (C 12 ~C 16 The method comprises combining at least one solvent from the ester family from the group (derived from alkyl acids); one or more anionic surfactants; one or more nonionic surfactants, an aqueous citric acid solution, and water. In certain embodiments, oil and / or other additives may be further added. The chemical active agent is stable as a concentrate and in a tank mix. The chemical active agent adjuvant concentrate has a pH of less than 3.0.

[0055] When the anti-pathogenic compound (in concentrate form) and the chemical active agent (in concentrate form) are mixed and diluted, the resulting tank mix of the diluted agricultural composition provides a pH of about 4 to about 6. The tank mix is then applied onto or near a plant or part thereof.

[0056] definition The term "adjuvant," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those skilled in the art (and is not limited to any particular or special meaning), and refers, without limitation, to an agent used to modulate the effect of other agents, and more specifically to enhance the effectiveness of pesticides, such as herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and other agents.

[0057] The term "stable," as used herein, is a broad term associated with or related to the term "emulsion" and is given its ordinary and customary meaning to those skilled in the art (and is not limited to any specific or special meaning). It refers, without limitation, to emulsion stability, i.e., the ability of an emulsion to resist changes in its properties over time, such that the size of the droplets in the emulsion does not change significantly over time, more specifically, during application to a target mixed with water, and is thus given its ordinary and customary meaning to those skilled in the art. The term "stable," as used herein, is a broad term associated with or related to the term "accelerated storage stability," and means that a formulation maintains similar performance in terms of physicochemical properties after samples are stored for 15 days at at least three conditions: room temperature (approximately 20°C), low temperature (0°C or 5°C), and high temperature (54°C). Storage stability testing was performed according to the CIPAC MT 36 method.

[0058] The term "solvent", as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those skilled in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers to compounds that may be polar or non-polar, straight-chain or branched, cyclic or aliphatic, aromatic, naphthenic, and that possess some characteristic of solubility in other compounds or means, including, but not limited to, alcohols, esters, diesters, ketones, acetates, terpenes, sulfoxides, glycols, paraffins, hydrocarbons, anhydrides, heterocyclics, among others.

[0059] When a group is described as "optionally substituted," the group can be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more of the indicated substituents. Similarly, when a group is described as "unsubstituted or substituted" and is substituted, the substituents can be selected from one or more of the indicated substituents. When no substituents are indicated, the indicated "optionally substituted" or "substituted" group can be any of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, cycloalkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heteroalicyclyl, aralkyl, heteroaralkyl, (heteroalicyclyl)alkyl, hydroxy, protected hydroxyl, alkoxy, aryloxy, acyl, mercapto, alkylthio, arylthio, cyano, halogen, thiocarbonyl, O-carbamyl, N-carbamyl, O-thiocarbamyl, N- It means that the amino group may be optionally substituted with one or more groups independently selected from thiocarbamyl, C-amido, N-amido, S-sulfonamido, N-sulfonamido, C-carboxy, protected C-carboxy, O-carboxy, isocyanato, thiocyanato, isothiocyanato, nitro, silyl, sulfenyl, sulfinyl, sulfonyl, haloalkyl, haloalkoxy, trihalomethanesulfonyl, trihalomethanesulfonamido, amino, monosubstituted amino, and disubstituted amino groups, and protected derivatives thereof.

[0060] The term "alkyl," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the art (and is not limited to a specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to a straight-chain or branched, acyclic or cyclic, unsaturated or saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon containing 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36 or more carbon atoms; the term "lower alkyl" has the same meaning as alkyl, but containing 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 carbon atoms. Representative saturated straight-chain alkyls include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, n-butyl, n-pentyl, n-hexyl, etc., while saturated branched alkyls include isopropyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl, isopentyl, etc. Unsaturated alkyls contain at least one double or triple bond between adjacent carbon atoms (referred to as "alkenyl" or "alkynyl," respectively). Representative straight-chain and branched alkenyls include ethylenyl, propylenyl, 1-butenyl, 2-butenyl, isobutylenyl, 1-pentenyl, 2-pentenyl, 3-methyl-1-butenyl, 2-methyl-2-butenyl, 2,3-dimethyl-2-butenyl, etc., while representative straight-chain and branched alkynyls include acetylenyl, propynyl, 1-butynyl, 2-butynyl, 1-pentynyl, 2-pentynyl, 3-methyl-1 butynyl, etc. Typical alkyl groups include, but are not limited to, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl, pentyl, hexyl, heptyl, octyl, nonyl, decyl, undecyl, dodecyl, tridecyl, tetradecyl, pentadecyl, hexadecyl, heptadecyl, octadecyl, nonadecyl, eicosyl, heneicosyl, docosyl, tricosyl, tetracosyl, pentacosyl, hexacosyl, heptacosyl, octacosyl, nonacosyl, triacontyl, henatetriacontyl, dotriacontyl, tritriacontyl, tetratriacontyl, pentatriacontanyl, and hexatriacontane.The alkyl group may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0061] The term "alkoxy," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given the ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to an alkyl moiety attached through an oxygen bridge (i.e., --O-alkyl), e.g., methoxy, ethoxy, and the like.

[0062] The term "thioalkyl," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given the ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of skill in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to an alkyl moiety attached through a sulfur bridge (i.e., -S-alkyl), e.g., methylthio, ethylthio, and the like.

[0063] The term "alcohol," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of skill in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to any compound described herein that incorporates one or more hydroxy groups or is substituted with or functionalized to include one or more hydroxy groups.

[0064] The term "ester," as used herein, is a broad term and is given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of skill in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers to any compound described herein that incorporates, or is substituted with or functionalized to include, one or more ester groups, such as, without limitation, monoesters, diesters, triesters, or polyesters. Esters include, but are not limited to, fatty acid esters.

[0065] The term "acetate," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of skill in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to any compound described herein that incorporates one or more acetate groups, e.g., a salt, ester, or other compound incorporating a CHCOO- moiety.

[0066] The term "terpene," as used herein, is a broad term and is given its ordinary and customary meaning to those skilled in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to any compound derived from the resin of a plant, such as a conifer or citrus fruit, or a synthetically produced compound having the same structure as a plant-derived terpene. Terpenes can include hydrocarbons and terpenoids containing additional functional groups, as well as essential oils. Terpenes can be any of the compounds of the formula (C5H8) n where n is the number of linked isoprene units (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more).

[0067] The term "terpene-containing natural oil," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those skilled in the art (and is not limited to any particular or special meaning), and refers, without limitation, to natural oils containing at least 50% terpenes selected from the group consisting of citrus oil, orange oil, grapefruit oil, lemon oil, lime oil, tangerine oil, and pine oil, or components thereof.

[0068] The term "sulfoxide," as used herein, is a broad term and is given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to any compound described herein that incorporates, or is substituted with or functionalized to include, one or more sulfinyl (SO) groups.

[0069] The term "glycol", as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those skilled in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and includes diols, such as polyalkylene glycols, e.g., polyethylene glycols (formula H(OCHCH) n The copolymer may include polymers having OH (where n is greater than 3), polypropylene glycol, or glycols incorporating monomers containing longer hydrocarbon chains.

[0070] The term "paraffin," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those skilled in the art (and is not limited to any particular or special meaning), and refers, without limitation, to heavier alkanes, e.g., alkanes that form liquids or waxes at room temperature, and functionalized paraffins, e.g., chlorinated paraffins, as well as mineral or synthetic oils, including hydrocarbons. Room temperature, as used herein, refers to ambient conditions, e.g., in a temperature and humidity controlled building, e.g., approximately 20°C.

[0071] The term "hydrocarbon," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to any compound containing only carbon and hydrogen atoms. Functionalized or substituted hydrocarbons have one or more substituents as described elsewhere herein.

[0072] The term "anhydride," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those of skill in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to any compound described herein that incorporates, or is substituted with or functionalized to include, one or more anhydride groups (of the formula (RC(O))O).

[0073] The term "sulfonic acid," as used herein, is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those skilled in the art (and is not limited to a specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to formic acid, acetic acid, succinic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, ascorbic acid, nicotinic acid, methanesulfonic acid, ethanesulfonic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, salicylic acid, or naphthalenesulfonic acid. Sulfonic acids can include hydrocarbyl sulfonic acids, such as arylsulfonic acids, alkylbenzenesulfonic acids, among others.

[0074] The term "vegetable oil," as used herein, is a broad term and is given its ordinary and accustomed meaning to those skilled in the art (and is not limited to any specific or particular meaning), and refers, without limitation, to the oily fatty acid constituents of vegetable matter, such as saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, etc. Vegetable oils may be functionalized, such as alkoxylated, hydroxylated, aminated, etc. Functionalized vegetable oils are derivatives of vegetable oils or other fatty substances, or substances with similar compositions regardless of the source of the substance. In some embodiments, the functionalized vegetable oil is an epoxidized unsaturated triglyceride. An epoxidized unsaturated triglyceride is a tri-ester of glycerin. Glycerin is linked to three linear or branched carboxylic acids, at least one of which contains an epoxide moiety. For example, an epoxidized unsaturated triglyceride may be a derivative of an unsaturated fatty acid triglyceride, such as a vegetable or animal fat or oil, in which at least one C=C moiety of the parent unsaturated fatty acid triglyceride has been replaced with an epoxide moiety (i.e., a three-membered ring containing oxygen). If the parent unsaturated fatty acid triglyceride has two or more C=C moieties, one, some, or all of the C=C moieties may be replaced with epoxide moieties. When the term "vegetable oil" is used herein, it is understood to include animal fats having the same chemical structure as vegetable oils, or oils of synthetic origin. Examples of vegetable or animal fats or oils include coconut oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, olive oil, palm oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil, canola oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, castor oil, tallow oil, etc.

[0075] As used herein, any compound abbreviation follows its common usage, recognized abbreviation, or the IUPAC-IUB Biochemical Nomenclature Commission (see Biochem. 11:942-944 (1972)) unless otherwise specified.

[0076] All percentages, ratios or other amounts referred to herein are by weight unless otherwise specified.

[0077] The ring systems referred to herein include fused, bridged, and spirocyclic moieties as well as separate monocyclic moieties. [Example]

[0078] Example The following examples should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure. The broad disclosure made in the Summary of Disclosure and Detailed Description herein above is repeated for reference purposes.

[0079] Method for preparing liquid concentrates of organic antipathogenic compounds The antipathogenic compound typically comprises an aqueous solution of potassium sorbate and may further comprise urea in certain embodiments. The antipathogenic compound is typically organic and may be produced in concentrate form before being added to a chemical active agent to provide an agricultural composition according to the present disclosure. The antipathogenic compound concentrate and / or chemical active agent concentrate may be diluted and / or mixed to provide a diluted agricultural composition. For illustrative purposes, a method for preparing an organic antipathogenic concentrate as used in the non-limiting examples includes mixing potassium sorbate in granular form with water in a tank to form a first solution, such that potassium sorbate is about 20.0% to about 60% by weight of the first solution, preferably about 35.0% to about 50.0% by weight, and water is about 25% to about 75% by weight of the first solution, preferably about 50% to about 65% by weight. In a typical exemplary embodiment, for the avoidance of doubt, about 35.0 g to about 50.0 g of potassium sorbate is added to about 50.0 g to about 65 g of water and stirred until all of the potassium sorbate is dissolved to provide the antipathogenic compound according to the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, the method may further include adding urea (technical grade) to the first solution to form a second solution, such that the urea is about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the second solution, preferably about 2.0% to about 5.0% by weight. The first and / or second solutions are continuously stirred until the potassium sorbate and / or urea are completely dissolved in the water to provide the antipathogenic compound. Heating is not necessarily required, but may be advantageously used depending on the physical state and properties of each compound, primarily because urea is endothermic during dissociation. For specific purposes, other additives may be added to the second solution, such as clarifying agents, antifoaming agents, antifreeze agents, hydrotropes, UV stabilizers, colorants, nutrients, amino acids, marine extracts, anti-drift agents, antifreeze agents, and even water or other solvents, and / or other additives typically used in disinfectant compositions. This preparation method described above provides a concentrated form of the antipathogenic compound according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0080] Method for preparing pH adjuster and active agent adjuvant concentrate The chemical active agent according to the present disclosure may also be referred to as a pH adjuster and / or adjuvant when used. For illustrative purposes, a method for preparing the chemical active agent as used in the non-limiting examples includes the steps of mixing about 5% to 30% by weight, preferably about 15.0 to about 25.0% by weight, of a nonionic surfactant such as an ethoxylated fatty alcohol in a bath containing water, then adding about 1.0% to about 15% by weight, preferably about 7.0 to about 10.0% by weight, of one or more anionic surfactants such as sodium lauryl ether sulfate, then adding about 0.1% to about 10% by weight, preferably about 0.5 to about 5.0% by weight, of a (C ) ester such as isopropyl myristate. 12 ~C 16 The method includes adding one or more solvents from the group of (C1-C8) alkyl esters of alkyl acids, followed by adding about 20% to about 60% by weight, preferably about 30.0 to about 55.0% by weight, of a 50% aqueous solution of citric acid. The preparation method involves stirring the mixture in a clean tank until it is completely dissolved. In a typical exemplary embodiment, for the avoidance of doubt, the following is included: 15.0 g to 25.0 g of one or more nonionic surfactants such as ethoxylated fatty alcohols; 7.0 g to 10.0 g of one or more anionic surfactants such as sodium lauryl ether sulfate; 0.5 g to 5.0 g of (C1-C8) alkyl esters of alkyl acids; 12 ~C 16 ) one or more solvents from the group of (C1-C8) alkyl esters of alkyl acids, 30.0 g to 55.0 g of a 50% aqueous solution of citric acid were mixed and stirred with 50 g to 65 g of water to form the chemical active agent. Heating is not necessary, but may be advantageously used during the dissociation or emulsification process depending on the physical state and properties of each compound. For specific purposes, other additives such as clarifying agents, antifoaming agents, antifreeze agents, hydrotropes, UV stabilizers, colorants, nutrients, amino acids, marine extracts, anti-drift agents, antifreeze agents, and even water or other solvents, and / or other additives typically used in adjuvant compositions, may be used. This preparation method described above provides a concentrate form of the chemical active agent according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0081] Preparation of agricultural compositions Two different liquid organic antipathogenic compounds and two different chemical active agents were prepared according to some of the embodiments. The organic antipathogenic compound concentrates are designated ORO-159-A, ORO-159-B, and ORO-159-G. The chemical active agent concentrates are designated ORO-097-V, ORO-278-C, and ORO-278-E. Details of each specific embodiment are set forth in Tables 1 and 2. Various ingredients were used in the different formulations, including potassium sorbate granules, which provide the active ingredient of the antipathogenic compound (and is also a disinfectant); ethoxylated alcohol, POE-6 - a nonionic surfactant; triethanolamine dodecylbenzenesulfonate - anionic surfactant; sodium lauryl ether sulfate - anionic surfactant; polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate - anionic surfactant; isopropyl myristate - alkyl esters of alkyl acids; isopropyl laurate - alkyl esters of alkyl acids; methyl laurate - alkyl esters of alkyl acids; citric acid 50% - an acidifying agent; urea prill - a stabilizer; and humic acid - a chelating agent.

[0082] [Table 1]

[0083] [Table 2]

[0084] Physicochemical and accelerated stability testing Samples of certain embodiment products were compared to commercially available products and analyzed to determine their physicochemical properties and behavior when diluted in water - pH, solubility; and behavior, pH, solubility, stability when diluted into pure adjuvants, as described in CIPAC Handbook F - Collaborative International Pesticide Analytical Ltd, 1994, 2007 reprint, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Agricultural compositions prepared according to embodiments were stable in accelerated storage stability tests, with all samples analyzed and found to be stable at room temperature, low temperature (0°C for 14 days), or high temperature (54°C for 14 days) conditions.

[0085] [Table 3]

[0086] Disease Bioefficacy Screening At the University of California Davis / Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center, samples of certain embodiment agricultural compositions were evaluated in disease bioefficacy screens compared to other products and samples to evaluate pH effects, adjuvant effects, and in vitro efficacy against the most common or relevant plant pathogens. Sample identification information is provided in Tables 4 and 5.

[0087] [Table 4]

[0088] [Table 5]

[0089] Growth inhibition was measured using potato dextrose agar (PDA) modified with test compounds to compare colony growth of several fungi. Plain (unmodified) PDA plates served as controls. Cultures of Aspergillus niger, Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum fioriniae, Fusarium moniliforme, F. oxysporum, Macrophomina phaseolina, Verticillium dahliae, and Xanthomonas arboricola pv. juglandis were grown on acidified potato dextrose agar. Modified and control plates were inoculated with mycelial plugs (5 mm in diameter) and then incubated at 25°C until colonies in the control approached the edge of the plate for each species. At that point, colony radii were measured and compared to those on the control plates to calculate percent inhibition for each test compound.

[0090] [Table 6]

[0091] The results of these in vitro studies showed that some of these compounds were highly effective in inhibiting the growth of some of the tested pathogens. For example, treatments 1 and 2 (0.5% OR-159B mixed with 0.25% OR-278-C, 1% OR-159-B mixed with 0.25% OR-278-C), and treatments 3 and 4 (0.5% OR-159-B mixed with 0.25% OR-097-V, and 1% OR-159-B mixed with 0.5% OR-097-V) had significantly higher inhibition of all eight plant pathogens tested. Fusarium moniliforme, F. oxysporum, Macrophomina phaseolina, Verticillium dahliae, and Xanthomonas arboricola pv. juglandis were completely inhibited.

[0092] OR-159-G at 0.5%, 1%, and 2%, and each mixed with 50% citric acid (treatments 8, 9, and 10), showed little inhibition of A. niger or C. fioriniae (treatments 9 and 10), but showed some significant inhibition of B. cinerea, F. moniliforme, F. oxysporum, M. phaseolina, V. dahlia, and X. arboricola pv. juglandis. OR-159-G at 2% (treatment 10) resulted in 100% inhibition of M. phaseolina and X. arboricola pv. juglandis (Table 6).

[0093] With one or two exceptions, all other treatments (treatments 11-15 and 17-18) inhibited the majority of fungi by 44% to 100%. Exp. I, Exp. II, and Exp. III were based on volatile natural oils and did not perform satisfactorily. Exp. IV was a commercial product. Treatments 13 and 14 were the reference product PREV-AM®, based on orange oil and sodium tetraborohydride decahydrate, and performed inferior to that exhibited by the products according to the present disclosure (treatments 1-4).

[0094] The results from this study are very encouraging, as the majority of the compounds tested here can significantly inhibit many of the serious plant pathogens. This indicates that after registration of these compounds, growers will have materials that can be effective against multiple important pathogens. A comparison by pathogen is shown in Figures 1-8.

[0095] There is clearly a synergistic relationship between the OR-159 fungicide and the chemical active agent adjuvant, resulting in a significant improvement in control compared to OR-159 acidified with citric acid alone. OR-159-B mixed with OR-278-C and OR-159-B mixed with OR-097-V showed highly synergistic and very promising treatments that could be very useful in disease control. The inclusion of the chemical active agent gives the fungicide improved antivirulence. This is surprising and unexpected.

[0096] pH challenge test Samples of certain embodiment products were evaluated in a pH challenge test to assess their behavior upon dilution in distilled water (DI water), CIPAC A water (20 ppm hardness), CIPAC D water (342 ppm hardness) and 1000 ppm ASTM water - pH was measured in pure water for three specific pHs, 4.00, 7.00 and 9.00, before the addition of an organic disinfectant according to the present disclosure and before the addition of a chemical active agent (adjuvant / pH adjuster).

[0097] [Table 7]

[0098] Samples of agricultural compositions according to the present disclosure exhibited stable behavior when diluted in soft and hard water with low to high pH. The organic fungicides prepared according to the present disclosure exhibited high solubility and stability, and all solutions were clear. After adding the pH adjuster and active agent adjuvants prepared according to the present disclosure to solutions containing organic fungicides, all tests showed very stable and similar final pH values of approximately 4.30 to 4.56, demonstrating the high ability of the adjuvants to adjust pH. Regardless of the initial pH or quality of the water, all solutions showed clear and complete solubility of the product, which is attributed to the activity of the dissociated sorbate anion.

[0099] Samples of commercial products included the following products from Oro Agri®: an ethoxylated alcohol and orange oil-based (WETCIT®) adjuvant, an ethoxylated alcohol-based (OROBOOST®) organic adjuvant, and the following products from other companies used as treatment references: a fungicide and bactericide from Bayer® based on the QST713 strain of Bacillus subtilis (SERENADE® OPTI). All evaluated samples were stable according to the CIPAC MT46 test, whether at room temperature, low temperature (0°C for 14 days), or high temperature (54°C for 14 days).

[0100] [Table 8]

[0101] Field Testing to Evaluate Products Made According to the Invention The objective of this study was to evaluate several Oro Agri products and adjuvants for the control of powdery mildew on wine grapes in Washington. Powdery mildew incidence and severity were the measured variables, along with phytotoxicity.

[0102] Method Summary: The trial was conducted on a block of 11-year-old Chardonnay wine grapes in Grandview, Washington. The soil type was Shano silt loam, a fertile soil with a loess parent material. The test area was drip irrigated and maintained with fertilizer and pesticides according to the grower's standard practices. Plots consisted of five vines, with one vine as a buffer. Treatments were replicated four times and arranged in a randomized complete block design. Treatments included eight fungicide tank mixes in distilled water, along with an untreated control (Table 9).

[0103] [Table 9]

[0104] A total of 10 applications were made at 10-day intervals over the course of the season. The product was applied using a Stihl SR200 backpack mist blower. Spray volumes were 50 gal / ac the first application, 100 gal / ac the second application, and 150 gal / ac for the remainder of the season.

[0105] To stimulate powdery mildew growth, test areas were inoculated with conidial inoculum two weeks after flowering. Infected leaves collected from approximately 10 miles away were cut and then washed in distilled water containing 0.1% Tween 20. This suspension was applied to all plots with a Stihl SR200 backpack mist blower and sprayed until covered.

[0106] Phytotoxicity assessments were conducted prior to each application during the season. Twenty-five bunches from each plot were similarly evaluated for incidence and severity. The mid-vine from each plot was harvested. The bunches were weighed. A subsample of bunches from each plot was packaged in a cooler with ice packs and transported overnight to the Fresno State University Viticulture Laboratory for further quality analysis. pH, Brix, and titratable acidity were measured. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA at an alpha of 0.10 with a Tukey-Kramer correction in SAS 9.4.

[0107] Recorded foliar powdery mildew incidence averaged 99-100% across all plots. Powdery mildew severity on untreated leaves was also high, at nearly 75%. All product treatments statistically reduced severity compared to untreated (Figure 9). The grower's standard, Serenade Opti, did not adequately control foliar powdery mildew severity, with nearly half of the leaves showing symptoms on average. The addition of surfactant improved efficacy, with Oroboost® resulting in a 25% reduction in severity. OR-159-B applications showed a rate response, with the exception that 1% was numerically more effective than 2%. 2% OR-159-B, 1% OR-159-B, and Serenade® Opti + Wetkit® were not statistically distinct and were the most effective products tested in terms of reduced foliar disease severity.

[0108] Powdery mildew incidence on berries was very high at the time of evaluation. Severity in untreated plots averaged 37%, and all treatments statistically reduced cluster powdery mildew severity (Figure 10). The same trend observed in leaf disease severity with OR-159-B treatments was also observed in cluster disease, with a clear rate response, except that the 1% rate was numerically more effective than the 2% rate. Clusters receiving Serenade Opti treatments had high powdery mildew severity ratings, and the addition of Oroboost® did not appear to help. However, Wetkit® acted as an effective adjuvant, reducing cluster severity by 31% compared to the grower's standard alone. Overall, 1% and 2% OR-159-B, followed by Serenade® Opti + Wetkit®, were clearly the most effective treatments in reducing cluster disease severity.

[0109] Yields were moderate for wine grapes and low enough to maintain berry quality (Figure 11). Increasing rates of OR-159-B corresponded to higher grape tonnage, with the 2% rate resulting in the highest average yield in the study. Serenade® Opti alone resulted in lower yields than when combined with adjuvants. The lowest-yielding plot was the untreated plot at 5.5 ton / ac. These results did not strictly reflect powdery mildew severity results, so other factors, such as fruit set, may have played a greater role in yield than disease pressure. Furthermore, the lack of differences between treatment yields was statistically significant. Replicates 3 and 4 had higher yields than the other two blocks.

[0110] Conclusions a) Planting proved effective in inducing powdery mildew infection, with visible symptoms appearing approximately 10 days after inoculum spray. The disease then progressed sufficiently that powdery mildew was visible on the stems and vines, along with the leaves and berries. Excellent spray coverage was achieved throughout the 10-day spray interval program. No phytotoxicity resulting from the application of any Oro-Agri product was observed at any time during the season; however, it should be noted that OR-159-B was applied using the pH adjuster adjuvant OR-278-C, which demonstrated consistent pH reduction at approximately a 1:1 ratio with OR-159-B.

[0111] Conclusion b) Foliar powdery mildew pressure was high, with untreated plots rated at 100% incidence and an average severity of 74%. All products reduced foliar powdery mildew severity. 1% and 2% OR-159-B (always with activator OR-278-C), Serenade® Opti+Wetcit® were not statistically distinguishable and produced the lowest percentage of foliar severity (approximately 34%).

[0112] Conclusion c) All treatments contained nearly 100% disease incidence on the tassels. As expected, severity was highest in the untreated control plots, exceeding 36%. As with the leaves, all treatments reduced powdery mildew severity on the tassels. Again, 1% OR-159-B performed numerically best and was not significantly different from 2% OR-159-B (which, in turn, was not statistically distinct from Serenade® Opti+Wetcit®).

[0113] Conclusion d) Treatments were not statistically different in terms of percent control compared to untreated. Numerically, 1% OR-159-B provided the highest control of 54% on leaves and 68% on clusters, with 2% OR-159-B coming in close. Overall, OR-159-B showed promise as a powdery mildew control agent at 1% or even 2%. However, the severity ratings for this treatment (33% on leaves and 10% on berries) may not be high enough to be commercially acceptable. Wetkit® was clearly effective as an adjuvant, statistically increasing the performance of the grower standard, Serenade® Opti®.

[0114] Conclusion e) No statistical difference was observed between treatment yields. Yields increased with increasing rates of OR-159-B, reaching a high of 8.3 ton / ac in trials at 2% OR-159-B. Yields were higher with Serenade® Opti + adjuvant versus Serenade® Opti alone. However, yields did not correspond to powdery mildew ratings. Grape quality was acceptable, with no statistical difference observed between treatments (Figure 12).

[0115] Field Trial - Evaluation of Fungicides for Control of Foliar and Fruit Diseases of Wine Grape (Chancellor-Vitis lambrusca) (2019) - Trevor Nichols Research Center, Fennville - Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan The experiment was conducted in a mature 'Chancellor' (Vitis lambrusca) vineyard at the Trevor Nichols Research Center in Fennville, Michigan. Vines were hand-pruned in cordon training, spaced 6 x 10 ft apart. Treatments were applied to three vine plots in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. Spray applications were performed using a research sprayer equipped with six 5-gal tanks, a 12-volt 3.8 gpm diaphragm pump set to 55 psi, and an XR TeeJet 8002VS nozzle on a 5-ft spray boom. Spray volume was 40 gpa until July 23, then 50 gpa for the remainder of the season.

[0116] Spray dates and approximate phenological stages were as follows: June 1, 2019 (3 in. of new shoots), June 15, 2019 (6–12 in. of new shoots), June 25, 2019 (flowering), July 1, 2019 (1st flowering), July 9, 2019 (2nd flowering), July 16, 2019 (3rd flowering), July 23, 2019 (4th flowering), August 6, 2019 (5th flowering), and August 20, 2019 (preharvest, 14.3 Brix). Rainfall during the spraying dates was 2.51, 1.63, 0.07, 0, 0.09, 1.77, 1.13, and 1.44 in., respectively. Leaf downy mildew was evaluated on 13 / 09 / 2019, bunch rot was evaluated on 14 / 09 / 2019, and leaf and bunch powdery mildew was evaluated on 16 / 09 / 2019.

[0117] In all cases, disease was visually assessed on 25 randomly selected leaves and / or tassels from the central vine of each plot. Incidence was calculated as the % of diseased leaves or tassels, and severity was calculated as the % symptomatic area of the diseased plant portion only. Overall severity was calculated as (incidence x severity) / 100. Values in parentheses refer to percent control compared to the untreated control. Plots were monitored throughout the season for signs of phytotoxicity, but none were observed. The reported results are shown in Tables 10-12 below.

[0118] [Table 10]

[0119] [Table 11]

[0120] [Table 12]

[0121] Conclusion: For the three diseases evaluated, there were some differences between the fungicide treatments and the industry standard, Manzate / Sovran / Rovral / Vangard / Fracture / Mustang Max, which provided the highest control across all three diseases.

[0122] Conclusions a) Rancidity (Acetobacter spp.) pressure was very high due to weather conditions in 2019. All fungicide treatments provided 62 to 97% control compared to UTC, with some treatments significantly different from each other.

[0123] Conclusion b) The most effective treatments for controlling rancidity (Acetobacter spp.) were Manzate / Sovran / Rovral / Vangard / OR-159-B 2% + OR-278-C 2% and Pristine / OR-159-B 2% + OR-278-C 2%, in addition to the industry standard.

[0124] Conclusion c) Disease pressure from downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) on leaves was also high. Again, all fungicide treatments significantly reduced foliar disease by 76-95%. The industry standards Manzate / Sovran / Rovral / Vangard / Fracture / Mustang Max and Manzate / Sovran / Rovral / Vangard / OR-159-B 2% + OR-278-C 2% performed somewhat better than the other treatments.

[0125] Conclusion d) Powdery mildew (Erysiphe necator) was also evaluated on leaves and bunches. All treatments controlled the disease sufficiently effectively to be comparable to rancidity and downy mildew evaluations, providing significant control compared to UTC (i.e. 85-98% on leaves and 90-99% on bunches).

[0126] Field Trial - Evaluation of Fungicides for Control of Foliar and Fruit Diseases of Niagara (Vitis interspecific hybrid 'Niagara') Grapevine (2019) - Clarksville Research Center, Clarksville - Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan The experiment was conducted in a mature vineyard at the Clarksville Research Center in Clarksville. Vines were hand-pruned in cordon training on two wire trellises, spaced 7 x 9 ft apart. Treatments were applied to four vine plots in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. Spray application was performed using a research sprayer equipped with six 5-gal tanks, a 12-volt 3.8 gpm diaphragm electric pump set at 55 psi, and an XR TeeJet 8002VS nozzle on a 5-ft spray boom. Spray volume was 40 gpa.

[0127] Spray dates and approximate phenological stages were as follows: June 8, 2019 (4-6 in. shoots), June 19, 2019 (12-16 in. shoots), June 26 (flowering), July 3 (1st post-flowering), July 10, 2019 (2nd post-flowering), July 24, 2019 (3rd post-flowering), August 7, 2019 (4th post-flowering), and August 21, 2019 (5th post-flowering). Total rainfall between sprays was: 1.63, 2.66, 0.68, 0.21, 1.36, 0.97, and 1.45 in., respectively.

[0128] Black rot (Guignardia bidwellii) was evaluated on bunches on September 19, 2019, downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) on leaves on September 19, 2019, Phosmopsis rot (Phosmopsis viticola) on bunches on October 1, 2019, and powdery mildew (Erysiphe necator) on leaves and bunches on October 1, 2019. In each case, 25 randomly selected leaves or bunches from the central vine of each plot were used for evaluation. Disease assessments were as incidence (% of infected leaves or bunches) and severity (% infected area of diseased samples only). Overall severity in each case was calculated as (incidence × severity) / 100. Vines were monitored throughout the season for signs of phytotoxicity.

[0129] The reported results are shown in Tables 13-16 below.

[0130] [Table 13]

[0131] [Table 14]

[0132] [Table 15]

[0133] [Table 16]

[0134] [Table 17]

[0135] Conclusion: Disease pressure of Phosmopsis rot (Phosmopsis viticola) and black rot (Guignardia bidwellii) on bunches in this trial was high. Disease pressure of powdery mildew (Erysiphe necator) and downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) was medium to high, respectively, in this trial.

[0136] Conclusions a) Phosmopsis rot (Phosmopsis viticola) and black rot (Guignardia bidwellii) - All treatments significantly reduced disease compared to untreated controls.

[0137] Conclusion b) The industry standard of Manzate / Abound / Revus Top / Pristine was statistically the best treatment, reducing disease by 96 to 97%.

[0138] Conclusion c) Treatments with 2% OR-159-B, 1% OR-159-B, 0.5% OR-159-B and 0.4% Prev-am were also very effective in controlling the disease. Microthiol disperss and Kaligreen were the least effective in controlling the disease (19 to 58% control).

[0139] Conclusion d) Powdery mildew and downy mildew were significantly reduced using some of the treatments. The most effective treatment was Manzate / Abound / Revus Top / Pristine, which reduced powdery mildew by 100% and downy mildew by 99%.

[0140] Conclusions e) Little control of both powdery mildew and downy mildew was observed with Kaligreen and Microthiol disperss applications.

[0141] Conclusion f) Treatments of 2% OR-159-B, 1% OR-159-B, 0.5% OR-159-B and 0.4% Prev-Am® were also highly effective in controlling both powdery mildew and downy mildew.

[0142] Conclusion g) Phytotoxicity in the form of leaf burn was observed only with Microthiol Disperss treatment.

[0143] Unless otherwise specified, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) are to be given their ordinary and accustomed meanings to those skilled in the art and are not limited to any particular or special meaning unless expressly defined herein. It should be noted that the use of a particular terminology in describing a particular feature or embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as suggesting that the terminology is herein redefined to be limited to include any particular characteristic of the feature or embodiment of the present disclosure to which the terminology pertains. Terms and phrases used in this application, and variations thereof, particularly in the appended claims, should be construed as open-ended rather than limiting, unless expressly specified otherwise.As examples of the above, the term "including" should be read to mean "including without limitation," "including but not limited to," etc.; the term "comprising," as used herein, is synonymous with "including," "containing," or "characterized by," and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps; the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least"; the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but not limited to," etc. The term "example" is used to provide an illustrative example of the item being discussed, not to exhaustively or limit the listing; adjectives such as "known," "standard," "typical," and similar terms should not be construed as limiting the described items to those available in a given period or at a given time, but instead should be read as embracing known, standard, or standard technology that may be available or known at any time now or in the future; the use of terms such as "preferably," "preferred," "desired," or "desirable," and words of similar meaning, should not be understood to suggest that a particular feature is critical, essential, or even important to the structure or function of the invention, but instead should be understood as merely intended to highlight alternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in a particular embodiment of the invention. Similarly, a group of items connected by the conjunction "and" should not be read as requiring that every single item be present in the group, but rather as "and / or" unless expressly specified otherwise. Similarly, groups of items joined by the conjunction "or" should not be read as requiring mutual exclusivity among the groups, but rather as "and / or" unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0144] When a range of values is given, it is understood that the upper and lower limits of that range, and each intervening value between the upper and lower limits, are encompassed within an embodiment.

[0145] For the use of substantially all plural and / or singular terms herein, those skilled in the art can convert from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural as appropriate to the situation and / or application. Various singular / plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for clarity. The indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be advantageously used. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

[0146] Those skilled in the art will further understand that if a specific number recitation is intended in an introduced claim, such intention will be explicitly recited in that claim; absent such recitation, no such intention exists. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may include the use of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more." However, the use of such phrases should not be construed as suggesting that introducing a claim recitation with the indefinite article "a" or "an" limits any particular claim that includes a claim recitation so introduced to embodiments that include only one such recitation (e.g., "a" and / or "an" should typically be construed to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations, even if the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" or "an." Also, even when a specific number is explicitly recited in an introduced claim recitation, those skilled in the art will understand that such a recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the mere recitation of "two recitations" without other modifiers typically means at least two recitations, or more than two recitations). Furthermore, in instances where a conventional expression similar to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, such syntax is typically intended in the sense that a person skilled in the art would understand the conventional expression (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" includes, but is not limited to, systems having only A, only B, only C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.).In instances where a conventional expression similar to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, such syntax is typically intended in the sense that one of ordinary skill in the art would understand the conventional expression (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" includes, but is not limited to, systems having A only, B only, C only, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). Those of ordinary skill in the art will further understand that virtually any disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, wherever it appears in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibility of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

[0147] All numbers expressing ingredients, quantities of reagents, reaction conditions, and the like used herein are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about." Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth herein are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained. At the very least, and without intending to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to any claims in any application claiming priority to this application, each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number of significant digits and ordinary rounding approaches.

[0148] The agricultural composition according to the present disclosure provides an environmentally friendly, stable, and effective anti-pathogen agent. The synergistic interaction between the anti-pathogenic compound (exemplified herein as a fungicide) and the chemical active agent in the agricultural composition was unexpected and surprising. The agricultural composition allows for easy application and use in either acidic or alkaline, soft or hard water, and allows for organic treatment. Furthermore, the composition can be used alone or in combination with other pathogen treatment protocols on pre- or post-harvest plant crops, seeds, flowers, fruits, vegetables, trees, animals, equipment, cleaning tools, greenhouses, other farm spaces, or industrial facilities.

[0149] Moreover, while the foregoing has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain changes and modifications may be made. Therefore, the descriptions and examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention to the specific embodiments and examples described herein, but rather should be construed to embrace all modifications and alternatives that come within the true scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. An agricultural composition for use in controlling agricultural pathogens and / or treating diseases caused by said agricultural pathogens, comprising: The agricultural composition comprises: antipathogenic compounds including potassium sorbate and urea; Citric acid, (C １２ ~C １６ ) at least one (C １ ~C ８ ) Chemical surfactants including alkyl esters, anionic surfactants and nonionic surfactants; It consists of the agricultural composition is stable before and during use; the antipathogenic compound and the chemical active agent are mixed in a weight ratio of 1:0.4 to 1:2.0; the antipathogenic compound comprises water as a diluent, such that the potassium sorbate constitutes 35 to 55% by weight of the antipathogenic compound and the urea constitutes 1 to 5% by weight of the antipathogenic compound; The chemical activator comprises citric acid constituting 30 to 55% by weight of the chemical activator, and １２ ~C １６ ) at least one (C １ ~C ８ ) including water as a diluent such that the alkyl ester constitutes 0.5 to 5% by weight of the chemical active agent, the anionic surfactant constitutes 1 to 5% by weight of the chemical active agent, and the nonionic surfactant constitutes 3 to 10% by weight of the chemical active agent; 1. An agricultural composition, wherein the anti-pathogenic compound has a pH range of 7.0 to 10.0 and the chemical active agent has a pH range of 0.0 to 3.0, such that, at the time of use, the anti-pathogenic compound and the chemical active agent are mixed and / or diluted to provide a stable tank mix of the agricultural composition providing a pH of 4 to 6.

2. The at least one (C １ ~C ８ 2. The agricultural composition of claim 1, wherein the alkyl ester is selected from the group consisting of methyl esters, ethyl esters, propyl esters, butyl esters, isopropyl esters, isobutyl esters, isopentyl esters, 2-ethylhexyl esters, and combinations thereof.

3. Said (C １２ ~C １６ ) at least one (C １ ~C ８ 3. The agricultural composition of claim 2, wherein the alkyl ester is selected from the group consisting of isobutyl laurate, methyl laurate, 2-ethylhexyl laurate, isopropyl laurate, isopropyl myristate, and combinations thereof.

4. The anionic surfactant is ６ ~C １８ ) alkylbenzene sulfonate, dodecylbenzene sulfonate triethanolamine, (C ６ ~C １８ 2. The agricultural composition of claim 1, wherein the alkyl ethoxylated ether sulfate is selected from the group consisting of alkyl ethoxylated ether sulfate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauryl polyoxyethylene ether sulfate, and combinations thereof.

5. The nonionic surfactant is selected from the group consisting of alkoxylated sorbitan fatty esters, ethoxylated sorbitan fatty esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, (C ８ ~C ２２ 2. The agricultural composition of claim 1, wherein the hydroxybenzoate is selected from the group consisting of hydroxybenzoates, ...

6. 10. The agricultural composition of claim 1, wherein the citric acid is an aqueous citric acid solution of 50 percent citric acid solution.

7. Said (C １２ ~C １６ ) at least one (C １ ~C ８ ) the alkyl ester is isopropyl myristate and / or isopropyl laurate; the anionic surfactant is sodium lauryl ether sulfate, The nonionic surfactant is alcohol ethoxylated 6POE. The agricultural composition according to claim 1.

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