AU2024212259A1 - Fungicidal combination - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fungicidal combination comprising an inorganic compound, a triazole fungicide and a host plant defense inducer. The present invention further relates to a method of controlling fungal phytopathogens in crops. The present invention demonstrates the fungicidal combination comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate for controlling fungal infestation in wheat crop.

Description

Title: Fungicidal combination

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to a fungicidal combination. The present invention further relates to a method of controlling fungal phytopathogens in crops.

Background of the invention

Fungicide resistance continues to generate disease control problems in many crops. Field experience and studies amassed over the past fifty years has emphasised the importance of diversity in modes of action in anti-resistance strategies. Because of losses, not only from resistance, but increasingly from environment and health concerns, the number of modes of action has become dangerously small.

PCT Publication No. W02012/101660 discloses that a pesticidal composition comprising sulphur, a fungicide selected from the group consisting of fenhexamid, fenamidone, cyazofamid, chlorothalonil, kresoxim methyl, azoxystrobin, pyraclostrobin, iprodione, validamycin, kasugamycin, cyprodinil, pencycuron, hexaconazole, prochloraz, epoxiconazole, prothioconaozole, trifloxystrobin, thiophanate methyl, spiroxamine, metrafenone or salts thereof and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient, has unexpectedly high activities in the control of various fungi such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, rusts, blight, etc. A pesticidal composition comprising sulphur in the range from 25% to 70%, cymoxanil or salts thereof in the range from 25% to 70% and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient demonstrates excellent control over certain diseases for late blight.

Potassium phosphonates are systematically absorbed by the plant and are mobile, within the plant, trans-locating to new growth, via both the phloem element and the xylem. They are a highly soluble form of phosphorus and potassium, which is beneficial to plant growth, rooting and root development, accelerating foliar uptake of other cations such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and most micro elements. Phosphorus and potassium are rapidly absorbed by the leaf tissue and roots for maximum and efficient plant use by moving systemically upward and downward in the plants vascular system, phloem and the root system. Thus, there is a continuous need for finding improved ways to enhance the plant growth, crop yield and provide increased resistance and vitality to the plants. There is a further need in the art for the reduction of fertilizers and other chemical agents for achieving sustainable agricultural practices. The present inventors have aimed to achieve the above advantages by providing a fungicidal combination and method of controlling fungal infestation in crops and increasing crop yield.

Summary of the invention

The present invention relates to a fungicidal combination and method of controlling fungal infestation in crops and increasing crop yield.

In an aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

In an aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a phosphonate salt.

In an aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a phosphonate salt, wherein the ratio of sulphur, prothioconazole and the phosphonate salt is ranging from l:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

In an aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; c) a host plant defense inducer; and d) one or more agrochemically acceptable excipient(s).

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising sulphur, prothioconazole, potassium phosphonate and one or more agrochemically acceptable excipient(s). In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising applying to a plant or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof, a fungicidal combination comprising; a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising applying to a plant or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof, a fungicidal combination comprising; a) sulphur; b) prothioconazole; and c) a phosphonate salt.

In one more aspect, the present invention relates to a method of controlling Zymoseptoria spp. in cereal crops.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising applying to a plant, or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising; a) an inorganic compound applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 to 5 L/ha; b) a triazole fungicide applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 to 3 L/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer applied at a rate ranging from 1 to lOL/ha.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method of controlling fungal phytopathogenic infestation comprising applying to a plant, or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising; a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 to 5 L/ha; b) prothioconazole applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 to 3 L/ha; and c) salt of phosphonate applied at a rate ranging from 1 to lOL/ha. In one more aspect, the present invention relates to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising applying to a plant or a locus or plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising; a) an inorganic compound applied in an amount ranging from 250 to 1500 g/ha; b) a triazole fungicide applied in an amount ranging from 10 to 500 g/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer applied in an amount ranging from 1000 to 2500 g/ha.

In one more aspect, the present invention relates to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising applying to a plant or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising; a) sulphur applied in an amount ranging from 250 to 1500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole applied in an amount ranging from 10 to 500 g/ha; and c) phosphonate salt applied in an amount ranging from 1000 to 2500 g/ha.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of increasing crop yield and enhancing growth in crops comprising applying to a crop or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof, a fungicidal combination comprising; a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

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

Detailed description of the invention

For the purposes of the following detailed description, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. Moreover, other than in any operating examples, or where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing, for example, quantities of materials/ingredients used in the specification are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". The term "about" used to qualify the amounts of active components shall be interpreted to mean "approximately" or "reasonably close to" and any statistically insignificant variations therefrom.

As used herein, the terms “comprising” “including,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to.

In any aspect or embodiment described hereinbelow, the phrase comprising may be replaced by the phrases “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of”. In these aspects or embodiment, the combination or composition described includes or comprises or consists of or consists essentially of or consists substantially of the specific components recited therein, to the exclusion of other ingredients or excipients not specifically recited therein.

The phrase ‘fungicidally effective amount of the fungicide’ refers to an amount of the fungicide that kills or inhibits the phytopathogenic disease for which control is desired, in an amount not significantly toxic to the plant being treated.

The term ‘disease control’ as used herein denotes control and prevention of a disease. Controlling effects include all deviation from natural development, for example: killing, retardation, inhibition or decrease of the fugal disease.

The term “plants” refers to all physical parts of a plant, including seeds, seedlings, saplings, roots, tubers, stems, stalks, foliage and fruits.

The term “locus” of a plant as used herein is intended to embrace the place on which the plants are growing, where the plant propagation materials of the plants are sown or where the plant propagation materials of the plants will be placed into the soil.

The term “plant propagation material” is understood to denote generative parts of a plant, such as seeds, vegetative material such as cuttings or tubers, roots, fruits, tubers, bulbs, rhizomes and parts of plants, germinated plants and young plants which are to be transplanted after germination or after emergence from the soil. These young plants may be protected before transplantation by a total or partial treatment by immersion.

The term “agriculturally acceptable amount of active” refers to an amount of an active that kills or inhibits the plant disease for which control is desired, in an amount not significantly toxic to the plant being treated.

As used herein, the term % disease severity refers to the percentage decay observed in the crops in terms of the percentage of relevant host tissues covered by lesions or damaged by the disease in crops. Severity results from the number and size of the lesions. The % severity indicates the extent of damage caused by the disease.

As used herein, the terms % disease control refers to the % control and prevention of a disease in crops.

The term “g ai/L” as used herein denotes the concentration of the respective active ingredient in “grams” present “per litre” of the composition.

The term “g ai/h” as used herein denotes the concentration of the respective active ingredient in “grams” applied “per hectare” of the crop field.

Each of the aspects described above may have one or more embodiments.

Each of the embodiments described hereinafter may apply to one or all the aspects described hereinabove. These embodiments are intended to be read as being preferred features of one or all the aspects described hereinabove. Each of the embodiments described hereinafter applies to each of the aspects described hereinabove individually.

The present inventors have surprisingly found a fungicidal combination and a method to effectively control fungal phytopathogens, enhance plant growth, crop yield and provide increased resistance and vitality to the plants. The present invention provides a means to reduce dependence on agrochemicals and other chemical agents for achieving sustainable agricultural practices.

Accordingly, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination and method of controlling fungal infestation in crops. In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria spp. fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria tritici fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria tritici fungal infestation in cereal crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

In an embodiment, the inorganic compound is selected from the group comprising copper salts or a sulphur based fungicide.

In an embodiment, the inorganic compound is sulphur.

In an embodiment, the inorganic compound is a copper salt.

In an embodiment, the inorganic compound is a copper salt selected from the group comprising copper sulphate, tribasic copper sulphate, dibasic copper sulphate, copper oxychloride, copper chloride, copper oxide, cupric oxide, copper nitrate, copper perchlorate, copper bromide, copper hydroxide, copper iodide, cupric acetate, or copper sulfate pentahydrate. In an embodiment, the copper salt is tribasic copper sulphate.

In an embodiment, the copper salt is copper oxychloride.

In an embodiment, the triazole fungicide is selected from the group comprising azaconazole, bitertanol, bromuconazole, cyproconazole, difenoconazole, diniconazole, epoxiconazole, etaconazole, fenbuconazole, fluqu inconazole, flusilazole, flutriafol, hexaconazole, imibenconazole, ipconazole, mefentrifluconazole, metconazole, myc lob uta nil, penconazole, propiconazole, simeconazole, tebuconazole, tetraconazole, triadimefon, triadimenol, triticonazole, and prothioconazole.

In an embodiment, the triazole fungicide is difenoconazole.

In an embodiment, the triazole fungicide is tebuconazole.

In an embodiment, the triazole fungicide is ipconazole.

In an embodiment, the triazole fungicide is mefentrifluconazole

In an embodiment, the triazole fungicide is cyproconazole.

In a preferred embodiment, the triazole fungicide is prothioconazole.

In an embodiment, the third fungicide is a host plant defense inducer.

In an embodiment, the host plant defence inducer is selected from acibenzolar- S-methyl, probenazole, tiadinil, isotianil, laminarin, fosetyl-Al, phosphorous acid and its salts, such as a phosphonate salt, and dichlobentiazox.

In an embodiment, the host plant defence inducer is a phosphonate salt.

In an embodiment, the host plant defence inducer is a metal phosphonate salt.

In an embodiment, the metal phosphonate salt is selected from an alkali or alkaline earth metal salt.

In an embodiment, the metal phosphonate salt is selected from the group comprising a sodium, calcium or potassium phosphonate salt.

In a preferred embodiment, the metal phosphonate salt is a potassium phosphonate salt. In an embodiment, the host plant defence inducer is fosetyl-AL

In an embodiment, the host plant defence inducer is laminarin.

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

In an aspect, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a phosphonate salt.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a sodium phosphonate.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria spp. infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria tritici infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and potassium phosphonate.

In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a fungicidal combination for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer, wherein the weight ratio of the inorganic compound, a triazole fungicide and a host plant defense inducer is ranging from l:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling phytopathogenic fungal infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of the fungicides is ranging from l:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

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

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

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria spp. infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of the fungicides is ranging from l:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria spp. infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of the fungicides is 12:1:22.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria spp. infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of the fungicides is 12.5:1:10.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria tritici fungal infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of the fungicides is ranging from l:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria tritici fungal infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of the fungicides is 12:1:22.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal combination for controlling Zymoseptoria tritici fungal infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate, wherein the weight ratio of the fungicides is 12.5:1:10.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; c) a host plant defense inducer; and d) one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling Zymoseptoria spp. infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; c) a host plant defense inducer; and d) one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling Zymoseptoria tritici infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; c) a host plant defense inducer; and d) one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole, a phosphonate salt, and one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate salt and one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition for controlling Zymoseptoria spp. infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate salt.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a fungicidal composition for controlling Zymoseptoria tritici fungal infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a potassium phosphonate salt.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the inorganic compound fungicide is ranging from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the inorganic compound fungicide is ranging from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the inorganic compound is ranging from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the copper salt is ranging from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the copper salt is ranging from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the copper salt is ranging from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition. In an embodiment, the concentration of tribasic copper sulphate is ranging from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of tribasic copper sulphate is ranging from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of tribasic copper sulphate is ranging from 80 % to 85% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of sulphur is ranging from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of sulphur is ranging from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of sulphur is ranging from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the triazole fungicide is ranging from 10 % to 40% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the triazole fungicide is ranging from 10 % to 30% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the triazole fungicide is ranging from 20% to 30% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the triazole fungicide is 25% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of prothioconazole is ranging from 10% to 40% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of prothioconazole is ranging from 10% to 30% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of prothioconazole is ranging from 20% to 30% by weight of the composition. In an embodiment, the concentration of prothioconazole is 25% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the host plant defence inducer is ranging from 30% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the host plant defence inducer is ranging from 50% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the host plant defence inducer is ranging from 60% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the host plant defence inducer is ranging from 70% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the phosphonate salt is ranging from

30% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the phosphonate salt is ranging from

50% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the phosphonate salt is ranging from

60% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the phosphonate salt is ranging from

70% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the potassium phosphonate is ranging from 30% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the potassium phosphonate is ranging from 50% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the potassium phosphonate is ranging from 60% to 80% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the concentration of the potassium phosphonate is ranging from 70% to 80% by weight of the composition. In an embodiment the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound in a concentration ranging from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition; b) a triazole fungicide in a concentration ranging from 10% to 40% by weight of the composition; c) a host plant defense inducer in a concentration ranging from ranging from 30% to 80% by weight of the composition; and d) one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound in a concentration ranging from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition; b) a triazole fungicide in a concentration ranging from 10 % to 30% by weight of the composition; c) a host plant defense inducer in a concentration ranging from ranging from 50% to 80% by weight of the composition; and d) one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound in a concentration ranging from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition; b) a triazole fungicide in a concentration ranging from 20 % to 30% by weight of the composition; c) a host plant defense inducer in a concentration ranging from ranging from 60% to 80% by weight of the composition; and d) one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) sulphur in a concentration ranging from 40% to 90% by weight of the composition; b) prothioconazole in a concentration ranging from 10% to 40% by weight of the composition; c) a phosphonate salt in a concentration ranging from ranging from 30% to 80% by weight of the composition; and d) one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) sulphur in a concentration ranging from 60% to 90% by weight of the composition; b) prothioconazole in a concentration ranging from 10% to 30% by weight of the composition; c) a phosphonate salt in a concentration ranging from ranging from 50% to 80% by weight of the composition; and d) one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment the present invention relates to a fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) sulphur in a concentration ranging from 80% to 85% by weight of the composition; b) prothioconazole in a concentration ranging from 20 % to 30% by weight of the composition; c) potassium phosphonate salt in a concentration ranging from ranging from 60% to 80% by weight of the composition; and d) one or more agriculturally acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment, the agriculturally acceptable excipients is in a concentration ranging from 1% to 60% by weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the compositions of the present invention may typically be produced by mixing the actives in the composition with an inert carrier, and adding surfactants and other adjuvants and carriers as needed and formulated into solid, semi-solid or liquid formulations, including but not limited to wettable powders, granules, dusts, Soluble (liquid) concentrates, suspension concentrates, oil in water emulsion, water in oil emulsion, emulsifiable concentrates, capsule suspensions, ZC formulations, oil dispersions or other known formulation types. The composition may also be used for treatment of a plant propagation material such as seeds etc. The combinations of the present disclosure may be formulated in the form of a composition.

Examples of the solid carrier used in formulation include fine powders or granules such as minerals such as kaolin clay, attapulgite clay, bentonite, montmorillonite, acid white clay, pyrophyllite, talc, diatomaceous earth and calcite; natural organic materials such as corn rachis powder and walnut husk powder; synthetic organic materials such as urea; salts such as calcium carbonate and ammonium sulfate; synthetic inorganic materials such as synthetic hydrated silicon oxide; and as a liquid carrier, aromatic hydrocarbons such as xylene, alkylbenzene and methylnaphthalene; alcohols such as 2-propanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and ethylene glycol monoethyl ether; ketones such as acetone, cyclohexanone and isophorone; vegetable oil such as soybean oil and cotton seed oil; petroleum aliphatic hydrocarbons, esters, dimethylsulfoxide, acetonitrile and water.

Examples of the surfactant include anionic surfactants such as alkyl sulfate ester salts, alkylaryl sulfonate salts, dialkyl sulfosuccinate salts, polyoxyethylene alkylaryl ether phosphate ester salts, lignosulfonate salts and naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde polycondensates; and nonionic surfactants such as polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ethers, polyoxyethylene alkylpolyoxypropylene block copolymers and sorbitan fatty acid esters and cationic surfactants such as alkyltrimethylammonium salts.

Examples of the other formulation auxiliary agents include water-soluble polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinylpyrrolidone, polysaccharides such as arabic gum, alginic acid and the salt thereof, CMC (carboxymethyl- cellulose), xanthan gum, inorganic materials such as aluminum magnesium silicate and alumina sol, preservatives, coloring agents and stabilization agents such as PAP (acid phosphate isopropyl) and BHT.

In an embodiment, the composition comprising from about 0.1% to about 50% w/w and preferably from about 1% to about 40% w/w anionic surfactant of the total weight of composition. In an embodiment the composition may further comprise one or more antifreeze agent, wetting agents, fillers, surfactants, anticaking agents, pH-regulating agents, preservatives, biocides, antifoaming agents, colorants and other formulation aids.

Suitable antifreeze agents that can be added to the agrochemical composition are liquid polyols, for example ethylene glycol, propylene glycol or glycerol.

Wetting agents that can be added to the agrochemical composition of the present invention include, but are not limited to: polyarylalkoxylated phosphate esters and their potassium salts (e.g., Soprophor® FLK, Stepfac TSP PE- K. Other suitable wetting agents include sodium dioctylsulfosuccinates (e.g., Geropon® SDS, Aerosol® OT) and ethoxylated alcohols (e.g., Trideth-6; Rhodasurf® BC 610; Tersperse® 4894).

Optionally, about 0.1 wt % to about 5.0 wt % of antifoaming or defoamers are employed to stop any unwanted foam generated while manufacturing highly concentrated liquid biocide dispersion composition. The preferred antifoaming agent is selected from the group of silicone-based compounds, alcohols, glycol ethers, mineral spirits, acetylene diols, polysiloxanes, organosiloxanes, siloxane glycols, reaction products of silicon dioxide and organosiloxane polymer, polydimethylsiloxanes or polyalkylene glycols alone or in combination. Defoamers that are suitable include SAG-10; SAG-1000AP; SAG-1529; SAG-1538; SAG-1571; SAG-1572; SAG-1575; SAG- 2001; SAG-220; SAG-290; SAG-30; SAG-30E; SAG-330; SAG-47; SAG-5440; SAG-7133 and SAG-770.

Examples of thickening agents based on anionic heteropolysaccharides from the xanthan gum group are inter alia the Rhodopol 23®, Rhodopol G®, Rhodopol 50 MD®, Rhodicare T®, Kelzan®, Kelzan S® and Satiaxane CX91®.

Preservatives used may be benzisothiazolinone (Proxel GXL) or phonols, 2- bromo-2-nitropropane-l,3-diol (Bioban BP 30), 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one & 2 methyl-4-isothiazolin -3 one (Kathon CG/ICP), Glutaraldehyde (Ucarcide 50), Chloromethyl isothiazolinone (CMIT)/Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) (Isocil Ultra 1.5), 2.2- dibromo-3-nitrilopropioamide (Reputain 20), Natamycin & Nisin, Bronopol/CMIT/MIT (Mergal 721K3). Suitable colorants (for example in red, blue and green) are, preferably, pigments, which are sparingly soluble in water, and dyes, which are water-soluble. Examples are inorganic coloring agents (for example iron oxide, titanium oxide, and iron hexacyanoferrate) and organic coloring agents (for example alizarin, azo and phthalocyanin coloring agents).

Fillers may include an organic or inorganic solid inert substance such as talc, clay, diatomaceous earth, magnesium aluminum silicate, white carbon black, pyrophyllite, light calcium carbonate, high clay, organic bentonite, etc. or mixtures thereof.

The combinations of the present invention may be sold as a pre-mix composition or a kit of parts such that individual actives may be mixed before spraying. Alternatively, the kit of parts may contain a melanin synthesis inhibitor and a plant growth promoting agent pre-mixed and the fourth active may be admixed with an adjuvant such that the two components may be tank mixed before spraying.

According to an embodiment, the kit of parts comprises: a) at least one inorganic compound; b) at least one triazole fungicide; c) at least one plant defence inducer; and optionally further comprises: d) instructions for use.

According to an embodiment, the kit of parts comprises: a) a fungicidal composition comprising at least one inorganic compound and at least one triazole fungicide; b) at least one plant defence inducer; and optionally further comprises: c) instructions for use.

According to an embodiment, the kit of parts comprises: a) sulphur; b) prothioconazole; c) phosphonate salt; and optionally further comprises: d) instructions for use.

According to an embodiment, the kit of parts comprises: a) tribasic copper sulphate; b) prothioconazole; c) phosphonate salt; and optionally further comprises: d) instructions for use.

According to an embodiment, the kit of parts comprises: a) a fungicidal composition comprising sulphur and prothioconazole; b) phosphonate salt; and optionally further comprises: c) instructions for use.

According to an embodiment, the kit of parts comprises: a) a fungicidal composition comprising tribasic copper sulphate and prothioconazole; b) phosphonate salt; and optionally further comprises: c) instructions for use.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infestation comprising applying to a plant or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof a fungicidal combination comprising; a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infestation comprising applying to a plant or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof a fungicidal combination comprising; a) sulphur; b) prothioconazole; and c) a phosphonate salt. In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infestation comprising applying to a plant or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof a fungicidal combination comprising; a) tribasic copper sulphate; b) prothioconazole; and c) a phosphonate salt.

The method of the present disclosure may be used to control a broad spectrum of plant diseases, such as:

Disease in rice: Blast {Magnaporthe grisea), Helminthosporium leaf spot {Cochliobolus miyabeanus), sheath blight {Rhizoctonia solan!), and bakanae disease {Gibberella fujikuro!).

Diseases in wheat: powdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis) , Fusariuin head blight Fusarium graminearum, F. avenacerum, F. culmorum, Microdochium nivale) , rust (Puccinia striiformis, P. graminis, P. recondita) , pink snow mold (Micronectriella nivale), Typhula snow blight { Typhula sp.) , loose smut {Ustilago tritici) , bunt { Tilletia caries), eyespot (Pseudocercosporella herpotrichoides) , leaf blotch {Mycosphaerella graminicola) , glume blotch {Stagonospora nodoruni) , septoria, and yellow spot {Pyrenophora tritici-repentis).

Typically, the present combinations/compositions are significantly effective in controlling a variety of undesirable fungi that infect useful wheat crop. The present combinations/compositions are effective against a variety of Ascomycete fungi, including the representative fungi species for example: Septoria tritici, Puccinia spp., Drechslera tritici-repentis and Pyrenophora teres in cereals, in particular, wheat brown rust (Puccinia recondita); stripe rust of wheat (Puccinia striiformis); leaf blotch of wheat (Mycosphaerella graminicola; anamorph: Septoria tritici); glume blotch of wheat (Leptosphaeria nodorum, Stagonospora nodorum).

Diseases of barley: powdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis), Fusarium head blight Fusarium graminearum, F. avenacerum, F. culmorum, Microdochium nivale , rust {Puccinia striiformis, P. graminis, P. hordei), loose smut {Ustilago nuda), scald {Rhynchosporium secalis), net blotch {Pyrenophora teres), spot blotch {Cochliobolus sativus), leaf stripe (Pyrenophora graminea), and Rhizoctonia damping-off {Rhizoctonia solan/).

Diseases in corn: smut (Ustilago maydis), brown spot {Cochliobolus heterostrophus), copper spot Gloeocercospora sorgh), southern rust Puccinia polys ora), gray leaf spot (Cercospora zeae-maydis white spot {Phaeosphaeria mydis and/or Pantoea ananatis) and Rhizoctonia damping-off Rhizoctonia solani).

Diseases of citrus: melanose {Diaporthe ci tri), scab {Elsinoe fawcetti), penicillium rot Penicillium digitatum, P. italicur ), and brown rot {Phytophthora parasitica, Phytophthora citrophthora).

Diseases of apple: blossom blight {Monilinia mali), canker (Valsa ceratosperma), powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha), Alternaria leaf spot (Alternaria alternata apple pathotype), scab { Venturia inaequalis), powdery mildew, bitter rot (Colletotrichum acutatum), crown rot {Phytophtora cactorum), blotch {Diplocarpon mali), and ring rot {Botryosphaeria berengeriana).

Diseases of pear: scab ( Venturia nashicola, V pirina\ powdery mildew, black spot (Alternaria alternata Japanese pear pathotype), rust {Gymnosporangium haraeanum), and phytophthora fruit rot {Phytophtora cactorum).

Diseases of peach: brown rot (Monilinia fructicola), powdery mildew, scab {Cladosporium carpophilum), and phomopsis rot {Phomopsis sp.).

Diseases of grape: anthracnose (Elsinoe ampelina) ripe rot {Glomerella cingulata) powdery mildew {Uncinula necator), rust {Phakopsora ampelopsidis), black rot (Guignardia bidwellii), botrytis, and downy mildew {Plasmopara viticola).

Diseases of Japanese persimmon: anthracnose {Gloeosporium kaki), and leaf spot (Cercospora kaki, Mycosphaerella nawae).

Diseases of gourd: anthracnose {Colletotrichum lagenarium), powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuliginea gummy stem blight {Mycosphaerella melonis), Fusarium wilt {Fusarium oxysporum), downy mildew {Pseudoperonospora cubensis), Phytophthora rot {Phytophthora sp , and damping-off {Pythium sp.). Diseases of tomato: early blight (Alternaria solani), leaf mold {Cladosporium fulvum), and late blight Phytophthora infestans).

Diseases of eggplant: brown spot Phomopsis vexans), and powdery mildew {Erysiphe cichoracearum) Diseases of cruciferous vegetables: Alternaria leaf spot Alternaria japonica), white spot {Cercosporella brassicae), clubroot {Plasmodiophora brassicae), and downy mildew {Peronospora parasitica).

Diseases of onion: rust (Puccinia allii), and downy mildew {Peronospora destructor).

Diseases of soybean: purple seed stain {Cercospora kikuchii), sphaceloma scad {Elsinoe glycines'), pod and stem blight {Diaporthe phaseolorum var. sojae), septoria brown spot {Septoria glycines), frog eye leaf spot (Cercospora sojina), rust {Phakopsora pachyrhizi), Yellow rust, brown stem rot {Phytophthora sojae), and Rhizoctonia damping-off {Rhizoctonia solani).

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

Diseases of kidney bean: anthracnose {Colletotrichum lindemthianurri). Diseases of peanut: leaf spot {Cercospora personata), brown leaf spot {Cercospora arachidicola) and southern blight {Sclerotium rolfsii). Diseases of garden pea: powdery mildew {Erysiphe pisi), and root rot (Fusarium solani f. sp. pisi).

Diseases of potato; early blight (Alternaria solani), late blight {Phytophthora infestans), pink rot Phytophthora erythroseptica), and powdery scab (Spongospora subterranean f. sp. subterranea).

Diseases of strawberry: powdery mildew {Sphaerotheca humuli), and anthracnose (Glomerella cingulata).

Diseases of tea: net blister blight (Exobasidium reticu latum), white scab {Elsinoe leucospila), gray blight Pestalotiopsis sp.), and anthracnose Colletotrichum theae- sinensis).

Diseases of tobacco: brown spot Alternaria longipes), powdery mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum) anthracnose {Colletotrichum tabacum), downy mildew (Peronospora tabacina), and black shank {Phytophthora nicotianae).

Diseases of rapeseed: sclerotinia rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum), and Rhizoctonia damping-off (Rhizoctonia solani). Diseases of cotton: Rhizoctonia damping-off (Rhizoctonia solani).

Diseases of sugar beet: Cercospora leaf spot (Cercospora beticola), leaf blight ( Thanatephorus cucumeris), Root rot ( Thanatephorus cucumeris), and Aphanomyces root rot Aphanomyces cochlioides).

Diseases of rose: black spot (Diplocarpon rosae), powdery mildew {Sphaerotheca pannosa) and downy mildew {Peronospora sparsa), Diseases of chrysanthemum and asteraceous plants: downy mildew {Bremia lactucae), leaf blight {Septoria chrysanthemi- indici), and white rust {Puccinia horiana).

Diseases of various groups: diseases caused by Pythium spp. {Pythium aphanidermatum, Pythium debarianum, Pythium graminicola, Pythium irregulare, Pythium ultimum), gray mold. {Botrytis cinerea), and Sclerotinia rot {Sclerotinia sclerotiorum).

Disease of Japanese radish: Alternaria leaf spot {Alternaria brassicicola). Diseases of turfgrass: dollar spot (Sclerotinia homeocarpa), and brown patch and large patch (Rhizoctonia solani).

Disease of banana: Black sigatoka Mycosphaerella fijiensis), Yellow sigatoka (Mycosphaerella musicola).

Disease of sunflower: downy mildew (Plasmopara halstedii).

Seed diseases or diseases in the early stages of the growth of various plants caused by Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., Fusarium spp., Gibberella spp., Tricoderma spp., Thielaviopsis spp., Rhizopus spp., Mucor spp., Corticium spp., Phoma spp., Rhizoctonia spp. and Diplodia spp.

Viral diseases of various plants mediated by Polymxa spp. or Olpidium spp. and so on.

The invention also provides a method for the protection of plant propagation material, preferably seeds, and the seedlings' roots and shoots from phytopathogenic fungi which comprises contacting the plant propagation material as e.g. the seeds before sowing and/or after pre-germination with compositions of the present disclosure.

In an embodiment, the present composition is applied in an amount ranging from 50 g/ha to 570 g/ha.

In an embodiment, the present composition is applied in an amount ranging from 100 g/ha to 300 g/ha.

In an embodiment, the present composition is applied in an amount ranging from 100 g/ha to 250 g/ha.

In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for improving yield, plant health and quality, wherein the present composition is applied in an amount ranging from 50 g/ha to 1000 g/ha.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for controlling phytopathogenic fungi comprising applying to the infested locus, plant, parts of it, its propagation material, the pests, their food supply, habitat or breeding grounds a fungicidally effective amount of an agricultural combination comprising a inorganic compound fungicide; a triazole fungicide ; and a fungicide, wherein the said fungicide is a host plant defense inducer, to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for controlling phytopathogenic fungi in wheat comprising applying to the infested locus, plant, parts of it, its propagation material in rice plantations or to the pests, their food supply, habitat or breeding grounds a fungicidally effective amount of an agricultural combination comprising a inorganic compound fungicide; a triazole fungicide; and a fungicide, wherein the said fungicide is a host plant defense inducer, to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material.

The components of the combination of the present invention maybe applied simultaneously as a tank mix or a formulation or may be applied sequentially. The application may be made to the soil before emergence of the plants, either preplanting or post-planting. The application may be made as a foliar spray at different timings during crop development, with either one or two applications early or late post-emergence.

The combination according to the invention can be applied before or after infection of the useful plants or the propagation material thereof by the fungi.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material thereof a fungicidal combination comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in wheat crop comprising applying to a crop or to a locus or a plant propagation thereof a fungicidal combination comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in soybean crop comprising applying to a crop or to a locus or a plant propagation thereof a fungicidal combination comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in rice crop comprising applying to a crop or to a locus or a plant propagation thereof a fungicidal combination comprising: a) an inorganic compound ; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer, to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising applying to a crop or to a locus or a plant propagation thereof a fungicidal combination comprising: a) an inorganic compound is applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 to 5 L/ha; b) a triazole fungicide is applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 to 3 L/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer is applied at a rate ranging from 1 to lOL/ha; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In another preferred embodiment, the method of controlling fungal diseases comprises applying a fungicidal composition comprising an inorganic compound and a triazole fungicide, and separately applying a host plant defense inducer. In another preferred embodiment, the method of controlling fungal diseases comprises applying a fungicidal composition comprising sulphur and prothioconazole, and separately applying a phosphonate salt.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising applying to a crop or to a locus or a plant propagation thereof a fungicidal combination comprising: a) an inorganic compound is applied at a rate ranging from 1 to 3 L/ha; b) a triazole fungicide is applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 to 1 L/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer is applied at a rate ranging from 1 to 5 L/ha; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising applying to a crop or to a locus or a plant propagation thereof a fungicidal combination comprising: a) an inorganic compound is applied in an amount of 1.5 L/ha; b) a triazole fungicide is applied in an amount of 0.4 L/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer is applied in an amount of 3 L/ha; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in rice crop comprising applying a fungicide combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount ranging from 0.5 to 5 L/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount ranging from 0.1 to 3 L/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount ranging from 1 to 10 L/ha to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising applying to a crop or to a locus or a plant propagation thereof a fungicidal combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied at a rate ranging from 1 to 3 L/ha; b) a triazole fungicide is applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 to 1 L/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied at a rate ranging from 1 to 5 L/ha; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising applying to a crop or to a locus or a plant propagation thereof a fungicidal combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount of 1.5 L/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount of 0.4 L/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount of 3 L/ha; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) an inorganic compound is applied in an amount ranging from 250 to 3000 g/ha; b) a triazole fungicide is applied in an amount ranging from 20 to 250 g/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer is applied in an amount ranging from 200 to 2500 g/ha,; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) an inorganic compound is applied in an amount ranging from 500 to 2500 g/ha; b) a triazole fungicide is applied in an amount ranging from 30 to 200 g/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer is applied in an amount ranging from 300 to 2300 g/ha,; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) an inorganic compound is applied in an amount of 2500 g/ha; b) a triazole fungicide is applied in an amount of 200 g/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer is applied in an amount of 2000 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) an inorganic compound is applied in an amount of 1238 g/ha; b) a triazole fungicide is applied in an amount of 100 g/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer is applied in an amount of 2250 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) an inorganic compound is applied in an amount of 500 g/ha; b) a triazole fungicide is applied in an amount of 40 g/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer is applied in an amount of 400 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount ranging from 250 to 3000 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount ranging from 20 to 250 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount ranging from 300 to 2500 g/ha; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount ranging from 500 to 2500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount ranging from 30 to 200 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount ranging from 300 to 2300 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount of 2500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount of 200 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount of 2000 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount of 1238 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount of 100 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount of 2250 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially. In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases in crop comprising applying a fungicidal combination to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount of 500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount of 40 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount of 400 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria spp. in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount ranging from 250 to 3000 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount ranging from 20 to 250 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount ranging from 200 to 2500 g/ha; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria spp. in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount ranging from 500 to 2500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount ranging from 30 to 200 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount ranging from 300 to 2300 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria spp. in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount of 2500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount of 200 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount of 2000 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria spp. in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: d) sulphur is applied in an amount of 1238 g/ha; e) prothioconazole is applied in an amount of 100 g/ha; and f) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount of 2250 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria spp. in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount of 500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount of 40 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount of 400 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria tritici in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount ranging from 250 to 3000 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied in an amount ranging from 20 to 250 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied in an amount ranging from 200 to 2500 g/ha; wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria tritici in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied in an amount ranging from 500 to 2500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied at a rate ranging from 30 to 200 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied at a rate of 300 to 2300 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria tritici in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied at a rate of 2500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied at a rate of 200 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied at a rate of 2000 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria tritici in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: d) sulphur is applied at a rate of 1238 g/ha; e) prothioconazole is applied at a rate of 100 g/ha; and f) potassium phosphonate is applied at a rate of 2250 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling fungal diseases caused by Zymoseptoria tritici in cereal crops comprising applying to a locus of a crop, plant or plant propagation material a combination comprising: a) sulphur is applied at a rate of 500 g/ha; b) prothioconazole is applied at a rate of 40 g/ha; and c) potassium phosphonate is applied at a rate of 400 g/ha, wherein the combination is applied as a tank-mix or each fungicide is applied sequentially.

In accordance with the present invention, an 'improvement in plant quality' means that certain traits are improved qualitatively or quantitatively when compared with the same trait in a control plant which has been grown under the same conditions in the absence of the method of the invention. Such traits include, but are not limited to, improved visual appearance of the plant, reduced ethylene (reduced production and/or inhibition of reception), improved quality of harvested material, e.g. seeds, fruits, leaves, vegetables (such improved quality may manifest as improved visual appearance of the harvested material) and the like.

The compositions of present invention may be applied to the locus of the plant on one or more occasions during the growth of the plant. It can be applied to the planting site before the seed is sown, during the sowing of the seed, preemergence and/or post-emergence. The compositions can also be used while the plant is being grown in a green house and the use can be continued after transplantation. The soil may, for example, be treated directly, prior to transplanting, at transplanting or after transplanting. The use of the compositions can be via any suitable method, which ensures that the agents penetrate the soil, for example, nursery tray application, in furrow application, soil drenching, soil injection, drip irrigation, application through sprinklers or central pivot, incorporation into soil (broad cast or in band) are such methods.

The treatment according to the invention of the plants and plant parts with the active compound or its compositions is carried out directly or by action on their surroundings, habitat or storage space using customary treatment methods, for example by dipping, spraying, atomizing, irrigating, evaporating, dusting, fogging, broadcasting, foaming, painting, spreading-on, watering (drenching), drip irrigating and, in the case of propagation material, in particular in the case of seeds, furthermore as a powder for dry seed treatment, a solution for seed treatment, a water-soluble powder for slurry treatment, by incrusting, by coating with one or more layers, etc. It is furthermore possible to apply the active compound in combination with other active(s) by the ultra-low volume method, or to inject the active compound combination into the soil.

The rate and frequency of use of the compositions on the plant may vary within wide limits and depends on the type of use, the specific active agents, the nature of the soil, the method of application (pre- or post-emergence, etc.), the plant, the prevailing climatic conditions, and other factors governed by the method of application, the time of application and the target plant. The method of the present disclosure offers tremendous advantages over the prior art and conventionally used methods of use of the present composition. The method of the present disclosure helps improves yields quality in terms of nutrition and promotes plant health and has no phytotoxicity.

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

Examples

Example 1: Evaluation of fungicidal activity in winter wheat crop

The fungicidal activity of the tank mix of prothioconazole, sulphur and potassium phosphonate was determined in wheat cultivations against fungal phytopathogen - Zymoseptoria tritici (Septoria leaf blotch). The treatments are described in the table below:

Table 1: Treatment protocol and % Fungal Control

The fungicidal combination of the present invention provides complete control of the target pests.

Claims

We claim,

1. A fungicidal combination for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer.

2. The combination as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inorganic compound comprises copper or sulphur salts.

3. The combination as claimed in claim 1, wherein the triazole fungicide is selected from the group comprising azaconazole, bitertanol, bromuconazole, cyproconazole, difenoconazole, diniconazole, epoxiconazole, etaconazole, fenbuconazole, fluquinconazole, flusilazole, flutriafol, hexaconazole, imibenconazole, ipconazole, mefentrifluconazole, metconazole, myclobutanil, penconazole, propiconazole, simeconazole, tebuconazole, tetraconazole, triadimefon, triadimenol, triticonazole, and prothioconazole.

4. The combination as claimed in claim 1, wherein the host plant defence inducer is a phosphonate salt selected from the group comprising a sodium, calcium or potassium phosphonate salt.

5. The combination as claimed in claim 1, the combination comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a phosphonate salt.

6. The combination as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ratio of an inorganic compound, the triazole fungicide and the host plant defense inducer is ranging from l:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

7. A fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising: a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; c) a host plant defense inducer; and d) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

8. A fungicidal composition for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising sulphur, prothioconazole, potassium phosphonate and an agrochemically acceptable excipient.

9. A method for controlling fungal infestation in crops comprising applying to a plant, or a locus, or a plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a combination comprising; a) an inorganic compound; b) a triazole fungicide; and c) a host plant defense inducer, wherein the ratio of the inorganic compound, the triazole fungicide and the host plant defense inducer is ranging from l:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

10. The method as claimed in claim 9, the method comprising applying to a plant, or a locus, or a plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a combination comprising sulphur, prothioconazole and a salt of phosphonate, wherein the ratio of sulphur, prothioconazole and the phosphonate salt is ranging from l:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.

11. The method as claimed in claim 9, the method comprising applying to a plant, or a locus or a plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising: a) an inorganic compound applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 to 5 L/ha; b) a triazole fungicide applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 to 3 L/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer applied at a rate ranging from 1 to lOL/ha.

12. The method as claimed in claim 9, the method comprising applying to a plant, or a locus or plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a fungicide combination comprising: a) sulphur applied at a rate ranging from 0.5 to 5 L/ha; b) prothioconazole applied at a rate ranging from 0.1 to 3 L/ha; and c) a phosphonate salt at a rate ranging from 1 to lOL/ha.

13. The method as claimed in claim 9, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus or plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a fungicide combination comprising: a) an inorganic compound applied in an amount ranging from 250 to 3000 g/ha; b) a triazole fungicide applied in an amount ranging from 20 to 250 g/ha; and c) a host plant defense inducer applied in an amount ranging from 200 to 2500 g/ha.

14. The method as claimed in claim 9, the method comprising applying to a plant or a locus or plant propagation material thereof, an effective amount of a fungicidal combination comprising: a) sulphur applied in an amount ranging from 250 to 3000 g/ha; b) prothioconazole applied in an amount ranging from 20 to 250 g/ha; and c) a phosphonate salt applied in an amount ranging from 200 to 2500 g/ha.

15. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the fungal infestation is caused by Zymoseptoria tritici.

16. Use of a fungicide combination or composition comprising an inorganic compound; a triazole fungicide; and a host plant defense inducer for controlling phytopathogenic fungal diseases, wherein the ratio of the inorganic compound, the triazole fungicide and the host plant defense inducer is ranging from l:0.1:2 to 15:1:29.