Formulation for plant yield enhancement and maximizing post-harvest shelf life

Abstract

The present invention introduces a novel non-hormonal formulation for plant yield enhancement and maximizing post-harvest shelf life, consisting of Pyrogenic acid / acetic acid or nitric oxide (NO) donors, such as sodium nitroprusside, to effectively extend flowering duration, enhance flowering uniformity, and improve crop yield and quality parameters like size, sugar content, shelf life. This composition uses Pyrogenic acid / acetic acid or nitric oxide (NO) donors, such as sodium nitroprusside as a plant signaling modulator to boost hormone response pathways, photosynthesis, and enzymes modulating shelf life. Unlike traditional PGRs and hormonal treatments, which often exhibit inconsistencies in field performance, this formulation provides a reliable, consistent outcome. It can be applied across various crops, improving productivity and sustainability while reducing reliance on synthetic plant growth regulators, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative.

Description

DescriptionTitle of Invention: FORMULATION FOR PLANT YIELD ENHANCEMENT AND MAXIMIZING POST-HARVEST SHELF LIFE Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the field of agricultural biotechnology, plant physiology, and sustainable crop enhancement. In particular, it pertains to non-hormonal formulations for plants that effectively increase flowering, plant yield, enhance uniformity of produce, increase shelf-life of produce and improves overall crop yield by modulating hormone response pathways, enzyme activity in fruit maturity and photosynthesis. Background Art

[0002] The ability of farms to produce crops efficiently and at high yields or the effectiveness and sustainability of agricultural systems is heavily dependent on hormonal treatments such as auxins, cytokinin, and gibberellins to regulate flowering, flower to fruit conversion, fruit size and crop yield. However, hormonal treatments often lead to inconsistent outcomes depending on environmental conditions, soil types, and crop varieties. These traditional methods are ineffective in mitigating the adverse effects of abiotic stress factors such as drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures, which often lead to unpredictable flowering patterns and reduced yields. Hormone treatments are also known to cause abnormal growth patterns, hormone resistance, or undesirable alterations in plant metabolism, making them a less sustainable choice for long-term agricultural productivity.

[0003] Many synthetic plant growth regulators face increasing scrutiny and restrictions due to environmental concerns, leading to a growing demand for natural and sustainable alternatives. Considering this scenario and the challenges in the space of agriculture, there is a strong demand for a non-hormonal, sustainable solution that can increase post-harvest shelf life, quality and crop yield without the reliance on synthetic hormones.

[0004] The prior art in the field of plant growth regulation and yield enhancement technologies primarily focuses on the use of synthetic hormonal treatments, stress tolerance enhancers, and the exploration of specific plant growth promoters. These existing methods, while effective to varying degrees, come with certain limitations, such as inconsistencies in field performance, undesirable side effects, and the use of synthetic hormones that may harm the environment.

[0005] For instance, in US20150082539A1 Nitric oxide (NO) donors, such as sodium nitroprusside, have been studied in agricultural applications primarily for mitigatingabiotic stress (e.g., drought, salinity, temperature extremes). The focus has been on improving plant stress tolerance, not on extending shelf life or yield enhancement.

[0006] In CN 108891566 A wood vinegar is described as a growth promoter for improving stress resistance and promoting germination, and JP2011176072A explores acetic acid’ s role as a drought tolerance enhancer, but neither focuses on extending shelf life or yield enhancement specifically.Summary of Invention

[0007] Before the present invention is described, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to specific methodologies and materials described, as these may vary as per the person skilled in the art. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0008] The present invention relates to novel non-hormonal formulations designed to increase and improve overall crop yield and produce quality and maximize postharvest shelf life. The formulations consist of pyroligneous acid / acetic acid and / or sodium nitroprusside, a nitric oxide (NO) donor. Both these formulations promote crop yield and shelf life.

[0009] This invention offers a non-hormonal alternative to traditional yield improvement methods, which commonly rely on synthetic hormonal treatments such as gibberellins, cytokinins, and auxins. By leveraging naturally derived components such pyroligneous acid / acetic acid, a by-product of biomass pyrolysis, and botanical extracts like Wheat grass extract or synthetic components like sodium nitroprusside, the invention presents a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution to improve yield in a wide range of crops, including vegetables, cereals, pulses and fruits and maximize the shelf life of produce.Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0010] The advantages of the present invention are as follows:• The formulations functions as a non-hormonal enhancer capable of improving yield quality, quantity, and post-harvest shelf life.• Directly influences flowering signal transduction through PG / PA modulation. Size by hormone modulation and quality (Brix, color, taste) by branched chain amino acid modulation.• Field evaluations demonstrate yield increases of approximately 15-20% by using the formulation.• The composition further enhances key quality parameters, including color, Brix levels, and surface luster. It is characterized by high stability, safety, and non-toxicity, and is environmentally benign.• The formulation is compatible with standard agronomic practices and integrates seamlessly into existing crop management programs.• Additionally, the invention supports sustainable agriculture and climatesmart farming by promoting efficient resource use and reducing ecological impact.Brief Description of Drawings

[0011] A complete understanding of the present invention may be made by referenceto the following detailed description, which is to be taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate one or more embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles and implementations of the invention.Fig.l.

[0012] [Fig.l] depicts the graphs illustrating the tank-mix compatibility of the composition with a wide range of foliar fertilizers and agrochemicals.Fig. 2.

[0013] [Fig.2] depicts the graph that show the consistency in the composition batches produced over 3 years.Fig.3.

[0014] [Fig.3] depicts the graph that exhibits high formulation stability.Description of Embodiments

[0015] Before the present invention is described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to methodologies described, as these may vary as per the person skilled in the art. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Throughout this specification, the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps. The use of the expression “at least” or “at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the invention to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results. Various embodiments of the present invention are described below. It is, however, noted that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but rather the intention is that modifications that are apparent are also included.

[0016] The present invention describes formulations to effectively improve overall flowering and crop yield by enhancing modulating hormone response pathways,photosynthesis and enzymes involved in fruit maturity and ensuring consistent results under any conditions and improving post-harvest shelf life. The invention addresses the need for a more effective, sustainable, and non-hormonal solution for yield, quality and shelf-life improvement in plants. By leveraging naturally derived components such pyroligneous acid / acetic acid, a by-product of biomass pyrolysis or synthetic components like sodium nitroprusside used in varying proportions and combinations, this formulation provides a synergistic effect that offers multiple advantages over conventional yield enhancement treatments.

[0017] The source and geographical origin of the biological material used in the invention are as follows:

[0018] Pyroligneous acid, derived from pyrolysis of organic materials, or wood vinegar, a by-product of biomass pyrolysis, plays a key role in improving yield. Pyrolysis is the chemical decomposition of organic materials through the application of heat in the absence of oxygen. While wood vinegar has been studied as a growth enhancer and a plant stress resistance promoter, its application in flowering and yield enhancement and yield quality and shelf life has not been explored. Similarly, Sodium nitroprusside has been shown to improve plant growth and defense mechanisms, modulate flowering transition, senescence, fruit ripening but has not been recognized for its ability to improve fruit quality, uniformity, sugar content, color. In the present invention, Pyroligneous acid and Sodium nitroprusside acts as a plant signaling modulator, enhancing yield characters like quality, uniformity and shelf life. These formulations not only improve flowering in the absence of synthetic hormones but also enhances yield quantity and quality along with shelf life.

[0019] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the raw material for pyroligneous acid is selected from Biochar Aqueous Extract (Low-MW Fraction): Contains organic acids, phenolics, smoke-derived compounds; Sugarcane Bagasse Distillate- Rich in organic acids, furan derivatives, and bioactive volatiles; Rice Husk Pyro condensate-Contains silica-linked phenolics, volatiles, and antioxidants; Coconut Shell Distillate-High in phenols, acetic acid, ketones — very similar to wood vinegar;Groundnut Shell Pyro-Oil (Low Temperature Fraction)-Mild pyrolysis gives high organic acids and aldehydes; Coir Pith Hydrothermal Distillate-Sustainable, phenolic- rich, and available at large scale or Crop Residue Biomass Distillate-Paddy straw, wheat straw smoke water equivalents or Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL) Water Fractions. Frequently used raw material is Biochar aqueous extract made from wood or agricultural waste. Biochar aqueous extract is the liquid portion that forms when biochar (a carbon-rich solid produced by pyrolysis of biomass) is mixed with water, soaked, or percolated, and the soluble components are extracted.

[0020] Nitric oxide (NO)-releasing agents usable within the present invention include NO donors, such as sodium nitroprusside; S-nitrosothiols (RSNOs) including S- nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), S-nitrosocysteine, S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), and S-nitrosohomocysteine, which typically provide controlled NO release through light- triggered or redox-mediated mechanisms; diazeniumdiolates (NONOates) such as DEA-NONOate (diethylamine diazeniumdiolate), SPER- NONOate (spermine NONOate), DPTA-NONOate, and MAHMA-NONOate, which liberate NO spontaneously under physiological pH; and organic nitrates including nitroglycerin (glyceryl trinitrate), isosorbide dinitrate, and amyl nitrate, which generate NO via enzymatic biotransformation.

[0021] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the extraction process pyroligneous acid consists of the following steps. Pyroligneous acid fraction is obtained through controlled slow pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass. The process comprises heating a plant-derived feedstock under oxygen-limited conditions at a temperature between 300-500°C, for 10-120 mins thereby generating a vapor stream containing condensable organic acids, phenolics, and volatile compounds. The evolved vapors are directed through one or more condensers to yield a crude condensate, which naturally separates into (i) an upper tar / oil phase and (ii) a lower aqueous phase. The aqueous phase, representing the pyroligneous acid, is isolated by decantation and subjected to removal of coarse particulates and residual tar using gravity separation and filtration.

[0022] The aqueous fraction can also be further refined by fractionation or vacuum distillation, allowing selective collection of low-boiling, acetic-acid-rich fractions and optional enrichment or removal of specific volatile or phenolic components. The resulting pyroligneous acid is subsequently standardized by adjusting concentration with deionized water or blending fractions to achieve 1.5-20.0% w / v acetic acid content and VOC fingerprint profile. The standardized fraction is then used as a bioactive component within the formulation.

[0023] According to the embodiment of the present invention, 10 mM stock is made by dissolving 0.298 gm Sodium nitroprusside in water to make 100 ml volume and kept inamber colored bottle in dark conditions. From this, working concentrations of 10 pM - 500 pM are made. Lower concentration stock is more stable and safer for storage.

[0024] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the formulation of the present invention for plant yield enhancement and maximizing post-harvest shelf life comprises of 2-10%w / v of Pyroligneous acid (specifically 5%, having acetic acid content of 20% w / v) and 50-400 uM of Sodium nitroprusside (specifically 200 um). Both play a major role in Flowering pathways, hormone modulation, and shelf life. These components are either used singly or in combination in the formulation.

[0025] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the formulation exhibits high stability and consistency, demonstrating a shelf life of at least four years when stored within a temperature range of 5-45 °C. Batch-to-batch reproducibility is verified through spectral fingerprinting, ensuring uniform physicochemical characteristics across production cycles. Heavy-metal content remains below detectable limits (<0.1 ppm), confirming compliance with safety standards. The composition is further characterized by its non-toxic profile, showing no adverse effects on humans, animals, bees, earthworms, or aquatic species.

[0026] Compatibility: According to the embodiment of the present invention, the formulation is designed for broad- spectrum compatibility with commonly used fertilizers, micronutrient blends, and crop protection products. Laboratory and fieldscale evaluations have confirmed no adverse interactions, ensuring consistent efficacy and performance when applied in standard agronomic programs.

[0027] Tank Mix Compatibility: The formulation is readily miscible in water and demonstrates excellent tank-mix compatibility with a wide range of foliar fertilizers and fertilizers, including agrochemicals. Concentrated, ready-to-use doses formulation were mixed with fertilizers, micronutrients, insecticides, and pesticides to assess tankmix compatibility. The mixtures were evaluated for any changes in their spectral signatures at 0, 2, 4, and 6 hours after mixing. The results are given in [Fig.l] and table 1 below:[Table 1]

[0028] Stability and consistency: The scale-up and manufacturing process enables production of a highly reproducible formulation with a consistent and well-defined composition. For this spectral signature of separate batches from three separate years was done. The graph in [Fig.2] reveals very high adherence to the spectral signature with very minute variation indicating consistency in batches produced over 3 years, this represents a significant advancement compared to other biologicals like Ascophyllum-based bio stimulants, which often exhibit considerable batch-to- batch variability. Achieving consistent formulation quality is critical, as it forms the foundation for delivering reliable and reproducible field performance.

[0029] Shelf life: The formulation exhibits high formulation stability with no significant phase separation, precipitation, or viscosity changes under storage temperatures between 5 °C and 45 °C. For this spectral signature of a single batches was done over a period four separate years was done. The graph in [Fig.3] reveals very high adherence to the spectral signature with almost no variation. Its active components retain biological efficacy for a minimum of 4 years under recommended storage conditions.

[0030] Heavy Metal reduction: The extraction method also significantly reduces the heavy metal content in the final formulation compared to traditional fermentationbased Ascophyllum bio stimulants, enhancing both product safety and environmental sustainability as given in TABLE 2 below:[Table 2]<<<<<<<

[0031] Toxicity: Toxicological assessments confirm that the formulation is non-toxic to humans, animals, and beneficial non-target organisms when used according to labeldirections. The formulation is classified as low-risk, with no reported phytotoxicity on tested crops. It meets safety standards for biostimulant use under prevailing agricultural regulations as given in TABLE 3 below:[Table 3]

[0032] Application: Materials and Methods: According to the embodiment of the present invention, the formulation is designed to be versatile in its application. It can be applied as a foliar spray or drench, depending on the crop and environmental conditions The formulation is applied as a foliar spray at a concentration of 3-5 mL per liter of water. In another method of application, the composition is delivered via fertigation, typically at an application rate of 800-1000 mL per acre. Fertigation is an agricultural practice in which fertilizers, nutrients, or bioactive formulations are delivered directly through an irrigation system. These modes enable efficient and uniform distribution of the active constituents to enhance plant uptake and agronomic performance.

[0033] According to the embodiment of the present invention, for field application, comparative trials conducted across different crop species, including chili, rice, grapes and pomegranate have shown significant improvements in fruit diameter, color, luster, uniformity, and other yield-related parameters further establishing the formulation’s superior performance in both controlled and real-world agricultural conditions.

[0034] 1. Chili: Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) variety commonly cultivated in the respective regions was grown during the 2023-24 seasons at three locations: MPKV Rahuri(Maharashtra), Dr. BSKKV Dapoli (Maharashtra), and UAS Dharwad (Karnataka). The experiments were conducted under standard agronomic conditions recommended by the host institutions. At each location, experimental plots of 6.0 x 3.0 m were established with seedlings transplanted at a spacing of 60 x 45 cm. The full Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (RDF) for chili as per institutional guidelines was applied uniformly across all treatments.

[0035] The Yield enhancement formulations were evaluated to assess its effect on flowering, fruit set, fruit retention, yield attributes, and marketable yield. The formulation was applied as foliar spray at two stages: flowering initiation and peak fruit set, at application rates of 500 ml for vegetables and 1000 mL per acre for orchard, following the standard spray volume used at each site. A total of seven treatments, including untreated control and three doses and two formulations, were arranged in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications at each location. Each replicate contained approximately 240 plants, resulting in 1680 plants per location, and a total of 5040 plants across the three-location study. All cultural practices including irrigation, interculture, pest and disease management were maintained in accordance with the respective university recommendations. Observations were recorded on flowering behavior, number of fruits per plant, fruit length and diameter, green and dry pod yield, physiological traits, and biochemical markers relevant to reproductive efficiency.

[0036] The parameters assessed were Plant height, Canopy area, leaf width, leaf length, no of flowers, no of fruits, fruit size, days for 1st flowering, Days for 50% flowering, days for fruit setting, total yield.

[0037] Statistical Analysis: At least 249 plants replicate per treatment group. Data analyzed using ANOVA, followed by Tukey’s HSD post-hoc test (p < 0.05)

[0038] Yield enhancement results

[0039] [Table 4]:Different letters indicate significant difference at p < 0.05, DMRT)<

[0040] Parameters related to growth (height, canopy, leaf traits), flowering, fruiting, and yield showed significant improvement in the Combination treatment, which consistently formed its own significance group (a). Flowering and fruiting time parameters showed significant earliness with all formulations compared to control.

[0041] The Combination shows the highest plant height (81 cm), canopy spread (41 cm), and leaf dimensions, indicating stronger vegetative vigor than either Fl or F2. Fl increases early vegetative buildup, while F2 enhances nutrient partitioning; together they improve assimilation, chlorophyll density, and light interception more effectively. Days to first flowering is dramatically reduced from 35 days (Control) to 26 days, matching or improving upon F1 / F2 values. Additive hormonal / biochemical signaling results in faster floral induction and more synchronized flowering. Flower count is highest in Combination (63), compared to 54 (Fl) and 59 (F2). Fruit number is significantly higher (38 vs. 29 & 31), The combination improves pollen viability, floral retention and successful fruit set. This indicates synergistic improvement in reproductive physiology, over Fl or F2 alone.

[0042] 2. Rice: Rice (Oryza sativa L.), cultivated under the PUSA Bihar conditions, was used to evaluate the impact of the Chiron formulation on enhancing growth, reproductive performance, and yield during the Kharif season at the research farms associated with the PUSA / ICAR network in Bihar. The experimental layout followed standard agronomic spacing for transplanted rice (20 x 15 cm), with each plot comprising an optimized number of hills to ensure uniformity. Multiple replicated plots were established, representing more than 2,500-3,000 plants across the entire trial, ensuring adequate statistical power for treatment comparison.

[0043] Combination formulation was applied as a foliar spray at the recommended growth stages corresponding to maximum tillering and panicle initiation, representing the 20- 25 DAT and 45-50 DAT windows, respectively. Application doses consisted of Low (500 mL / acre; 2 mL / L), Medium (1,000 mL / acre; 4 mL / L) and High (1,500 mL / acre; 6 mL / L) rates depending on treatment allocation. All treatments were compared against a non-treated control under identical agronomic practices. Standard nutrient management followed the prevailing State Agriculture University (SAU) recommendations for rice, while plant protection measures were uniformly applied as per ICAR advisory.

[0044] Observations included plant height, number of tillers, leaf area index, synchronous flowering percentage, panicle characteristics, grain weight, and per-plant yield. Data from all replicates were statistically analyzed using ANOVA to determine treatment significance and variance distribution across yield-contributing traits. Results given in TABLE 5 below:[Table 5](Mean ± SD; n = 3 replicates; ANOVA significance at a = 0.05

[0045] Combined formulation significantly improves all growth and yield parameters in rice under PUSA Bihar conditions. Synchronous flowering shows the largest improvement (96%) with very strong statistical support (F = 54.8). Yield per plant increases by 17%, driven by improvements in grain weight and flowering uniformity. All traits exhibit ANOVA-confirmed significance, validating the reliability of Combined Formulation s effect.

[0046] 3. Grapes: Grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) grown across the major viticulture regions of Pune and Nashik, Maharashtra, were selected to evaluate the performance of Formulation 1 for improving bunch quality, berry development, color, uniformity, and yield. The study covered multiple commercial vineyards representing the leading table grape varieties including Kalamb Jumbo, Nana Saheb, Krishna, Sudhakar, SSN, Crimson, and Red Globe, thereby ensuring broad applicability of the results across cultivar types Formulation 1 was applied as a two-spray program targeted precisely at the berry formation stage at IL / acre rate, which represents the critical reproductive and fruit-setting phase influencing final bunch architecture and berry characteristics. All treated vines and plots were clearly tagged to allow accurate comparison against untreated control areas, and uniform cultural practices were followed across all vineyards. Observations were systematically recorded for berry diameter, berry length, bunch color, uniformity, BRIX levels, and final yield parameters as given in TABLE 6.[Table 6]>>>>>>>

[0047] The Formulation 1 consistently improves BRIX, yield, and berry diameter. All traits show statistically significant improvements (p < 0.05). Combined ANOVA proves system-wide physiological enhancement. Color development shifts from Late — > Early across all plots.

[0048] 4. Pomegranate: Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), variety Bhagwa, was selected to evaluate the performance of Formulation 2 in improving fruit quality parameters including fruit diameter, color development, shine, uniformity, and overall yield. The study was conducted across farmer fields in Pune. Formulation 2 was applied three times during the critical fruit development stage (10 g to 50 g fruit size), ensuring targeted delivery at the physiological window most responsive to growth and color enhancement. All treated rows and plants were clearly tagged to allow directcomparison with untreated control rows within the same orchards. Standard agronomic and plant protection practices were maintained uniformly across all plots to ensure unbiased assessments.

[0049] Observations focused on fruit diameter and yield. Formulation 2 significantly improves fruit diameter, yield, profit, and ROI as shown in TABLE 7.[Table 7]> >>>

[0050] Transcriptomics study- mode of action: Method for Sample Collection and Transcriptomic Study (RNA-Seq) in Tomato Treated with Biostimulants: To compare transcriptomic changes in tomato plants treated with yield formulations vs control was performed under field conditions at flowering / fruiting stage and identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to Reproductive characters etc. Same treatments as outlined in the field design:• T1 - Untreated control• T2 - Treated Formulation 1• T3- Treated Formulation 2

[0051] Sample Collection for Transcriptomics:

[0052] RNA Extraction: Extract total RNA using Qiagen RNeasy Plant Mini Kit or equivalent. Include on-column DNase treatment to remove genomic DNA. Check RNA quality using: Nanodrop (260 / 280 and 260 / 230 ratios), Agilent Bioanalyzer or TapeStation (RIN > 7.5 required) Quantify with Qubit RNA HS Assay.

[0053] Library Preparation and Sequencing: Use poly(A) selection for mRNA enrichment Library prep: RNA Library Prep Kit or equivalent. Index all samples and pool.Perform paired-end sequencing (150 bp) on Illumina NovaSeq or HiSeq platform. Aim for \~30 million reads per sample.

[0054] Bioinformatic Analysis&

[0055] Analysis: Transcriptomic analysis for both the treated plants revealed a multipathway enhancement for yield enhancement is given in TABLE 8 below:[Table 8]& >>& & >> &> && >&> &>&

[0056] The formulation delivers high-impact biological outcomes across yield, quality, and post-harvest performance. Yield improvement is achieved through enhanced ATP generation, improved nitrogen assimilation, activation of auxin / ARF pathways leading to stronger fruit set, cytokinin-driven cell division, and more efficient transport of flowering signals (PG / PA). These mechanisms collectively result in increased fruit count, greater fruit diameter and weight, and improved uniformity across cultivation plots. Quality enhancement is supported by elevated respiration and biosynthetic activity, cytokinin- and auxin-mediated cell expansion, improved amino-acid and protein synthesis, and heightened metabolic activity that contributes to superior color and surface shine. Consequently, the produce exhibits larger size, richer coloration, enhanced luster, and more consistent shape and uniformity. Shelf-life extension is mediated by the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione-based systems, along with the presence of anti- senescence volatiles like hexanal and reinforced lipid-signaling pathways that strengthen cellular membranes. These combined effects delay softening, reduce oxidative browning, and significantly prolong post-harvest shelf stability.

[0057] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

Claims

Claims

1. A formulation for plant yield enhancement and maximizing postharvest shelf life characterized in that the formulation comprises of 2-10% w / v of pyroligneous acid, wherein the pyroligneous acid has an acetic acid content of 20% w / v, and is preferably present at 5% w / v; and 50-400 pM of sodium nitroprusside, preferably 200 ,M; wherein the pyroligneous acid and the sodium nitroprusside are configured to be used singly or in combination to enhancecrop yield, quality, and shelf life; and the method for extraction of pyroligneous acid, comprises the steps of:• subjecting a lignocellulosic, plant-derived feedstock to controlled slow pyrolysis under oxygen-limited conditions at a temperature between 300-500 °C for 10-120 minutes, thereby generating a vapor stream comprising condensable organic acids, phenolics, and volatile compounds;• directing the evolved vapors through one or more condensers to obtain a crude condensate that separates into an upper tar / oil phase and a lower aqueous phase;• isolating the aqueous phase representing pyroligneous acid by decantation;• removing coarse particulates and residual tar from the aqueous phase by gravity separation and filtration;• refining the aqueous fraction by fractionation or vacuum distillation to selectively collect low- boiling, acetic-acid-rich fractions and to optionally enrich or remove predetermined volatile or phenolic constituents;• standardizing the refined or filtered fraction by adjusting concentration with deionized water or by blending fractions to obtain a product having 1.5-6.0% w / v acetic acid content and a predetermined volatile- organic-compound (VOC) fingerprint profile; and• utilizing the standardized pyroligneous acid as a bioactive component in the formulation; and• the method for preparing a sodium nitroprusside solution, comprising:• dissolving 0.298 g of sodium nitroprusside in water and adjusting the total volume to 100 mL to obtain a 10 mM stock solution;• storing the 10 mM stock solution in an amber-colored container under dark conditions to maintain stability; • preparing working solutions having concentrations in the range of 10 pM to 500 pM by diluting the 10 mM stock solution with water.

2. The formulation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the raw material for pyroligneous acid is selected from Biochar Aqueous Extract; Sugarcane Bagasse Distillate, Rice Husk Pyro condensate;Coconut Shell Distillate; Groundnut Shell Pyro-Oil; Coir Pith Hydrothermal Distillate or Crop Residue Biomass Distillate.

3. The formulation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition enhances flowering by PG / PA signal, Auxin / ARF activation.

4. The formulation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the formulation enhances quality by Branched Chain amino acid (BCAAs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for aroma and flavor.

5. The formulation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the formulation enhances shelf life by activation of Antioxidant Defense, Glutathione-PepA, CAT, SOD and lipid signaling for firmer fruits with uniform maturity.

6. The formulation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the application modes include foliar spray, drip drench, fertigation, and fertilizer additive.