WO2025008205A1

WO2025008205A1 - Biostimulant composition and methods of use

Info

Publication number: WO2025008205A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/067487
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robbie Moss HAINES; Emma Louise HAWKINS
Original assignee: Acadian Seaplants Ltd; Uist Asco Ltd
Current assignee: Acadian Seaplants Ltd; Uist Asco Ltd
Priority date: 2023-07-03
Filing date: 2024-06-21
Publication date: 2025-01-09
Anticipated expiration: 2026-01-03
Also published as: AR133163A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a composition comprising: (i) a seaweed, (ii) an oil, and (iii) at least two surfactants, wherein said composition has a pH ranging from about 3 to about 6. Optionally, the composition further comprises at least one agriculturally acceptable carrier and/or additives, such as chelating agents and/or rheological aids. The present invention further relates to methods and uses for seed treatment of the plant biostimulant composition for mitigating abiotic stress or to manage crop productivity.

Description

Biostimulant composition and methods of use

Field of the invention

The present disclosure generally relates to compositions, more specifically biostimulant compositions, which are useful for preventing or mitigating the effects of abiotic stress and crop productivity management in a plant and/or plant seed.

Background of the invention

Plant biostimulants are products that enhance flowering, plant growth, fruit set, crop productivity, and nutrient use efficiency (NUE), and are able also to improve the tolerance against a wide range of abiotic stressors.

Recently, the agricultural sector is facing concomitant challenges of raising the productivity to feed the growing global population and increasing the efficiency in using resources, while reducing the environmental impact on the ecosystems and human health. In fact, fertilizers and pesticides play a crucial role in agriculture, representing a powerful tool for growers to increase yield and guarantee continuous productivity throughout the seasons under both optimal and suboptimal conditions. A promising and environmental-friendly innovation would be the use of natural plant biostimulants (PBs) - seaweed extracts are considered to be one of these biostimulants (Rouphael et al., Frontiers in Plant Science, February 2020, Volume 11, Article 40, doi: 10.3389/fpls.2020.00040).

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) defines food security as a "situation that exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life". Climate change affects agriculture and food production in complex ways. It affects food production directly through changes in agro-ecological conditions and indirectly by affecting growth and distribution of incomes, and thus demand for agricultural produce (Schmidhuber et al., PNAS, 2007, vol. 104, no. 50, pages 19703-19708, www.pnas.org/cgi/doi/10.1073/pnas.0701976104).

Climate change and food security are two main issues of the 21st century. The world population is expected to reach 9 billion by the end of 2050, and food requirements are expected to escalate by 85%. The agriculture sector is highly threatened by the increased frequency of droughts, heavy rainfall, fluctuations in temperature, salinity, and insect pest attacks on major food crops (Ullah et al., Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2021, Volume 5, Article 618092, doi: 10.3389/fsufs.2021.618092).

A decrease in water availability to a plant due to drought, heat, cold and salt stresses can have a direct impact on crop growth and productivity. Some plants have evolved to mitigate the effects of some of these stresses. However, the impacts from prolonged exposure of crops/plants to anyone of these abiotic stressors identified with water availability can have negative effects on growth, productivity and yield.

The optimal solution to the presented problems lies in creating high productivity of plants in agriculture which might meet the rising worldwide demand for food. Until recent decades, the agrochemical industry has created fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, like insecticides and fungicides. But, in recent years, more and more synthetic pesticides are being banned from most of the world's markets, mainly due to resistance and toxicity, while new compounds are not being introduced fast enough.

Currently, seaweed extracts (SE) are widely used as plant biostimulants, which are 'any substance or microorganism applied to plants with the aim to enhance nutrition efficiency, abiotic stress tolerance and/or crop quality traits, regardless of its nutrients content'. Seaweed extracts constitute more than 33% of the total biostimulant market worldwide. Moreover, it is estimated that seaweeds or macroalgae comprise nearly 10,000 species, which are subdivided mainly to three categories based on their pigmentation, Phaeophyta (Brown), Rhodophyta (Red), and Chlorophyta (Green). Brown seaweeds with Ascophyllum, Fucus, Laminaria are the dominant group.

Seaweed extracts biochemical composition is complex (polysaccharides, minerals, vitamins, oils, fats, acids, antioxidants, pigments, hormones). SE can be applied on soil and/or on plants as a foliar spray and/or as a seed treatment application. They act positively on soil retention and remediation, and soil microflora, they could be a source of nutrients, and they may show hormonal effects (El Boukhari et al., Plants 2020, 9, 359; doi:10.3390/plants9030359).

High concentration of a seaweed extract and the direct connection between the concentrated extract to the increase in activity, is known. However, the art is silent on how to obtain a seaweed extract-based agrochemical stable, compatible product. Seed treatments need to have good adhesion to seed to a) reduce operator exposure and b) ensure that the product is available to the seed during the appropriate development stage. Sedimentation of seaweed extract formulations is common; good storage stability is required to ensure that product is suitable for use in a commercial environment. Existing liquid extracts are not suitable because of high dust-off results when applied to a seed and product instability on storage.

EP 4041700 Al discloses a concentrated extract of Ascophyllum nodosum having dry matter of 18% to 36%, and its use as biostimulant alone and in combination with other agents.

Therefore, there is a serious need in the art to provide a stable formulations of seaweed extracts which will be effective, stable, and compatible.

Summary of the invention

It has now been found, in accordance with the present invention, that a unique system comprising a seaweed as an active ingredient, an oil, at least two surfactants, and a certain pH, allowed the seaweed to solubilize in water, in high concentration without losing any of its biostimulant efficacy. This finding is highly important, since it enables forming an effective, stable, and compatible seaweed-based composition. Specifically, and in fact as shown in the experimental section herein, a seed treatment formulation containing a seaweed, more specifically an Ascophyllum nodosum extract, with an addition of an oil, specifically a rapeseed oil, with at least two surfactants, more specifically a combination of a polymeric amphoteric surfactant and a polyol-based (preferably sorbitol- based) surfactant, in a pH ranging from 3 to 6, more specifically from 4 to 5, can be used to achieve the above objectives.

The present invention thus provides a composition, which may also be referred to as plant biostimulant composition, the composition comprising:

(i) a seaweed, typically as an active ingredient,

(ii) an oil, and

(iii) at least two surfactants, wherein said composition has a pH ranging from about 3 to about 6.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of crop productivity management in a plant comprising applying to the plant, to a seed of the plant or to a growth medium of the plant an effective amount of a plant biostimulant composition as defined above.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a method of preventing or mitigating the effects of abiotic stress in a plant comprising applying to the plant, a seed of the plant or to a growth medium of the plant an effective amount of a plant biostimulant composition as defined above.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a seed coated with the plant biostimulant composition as defined above.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a use of a composition as defined above to prevent or mitigate the effects of abiotic stress.

In still a further aspect, the present invention provides a use of a composition as defined above to manage crop productivity in a plant.

Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter. Description of the Figures

Fig. 1 shows crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - vigour on maize.

Fig. 2 shows crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - vigour on maize.

Fig. 3 shows crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - SPAD on maize.

Fig. 4 shows crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - biomass (foliar fresh) assessment on maize.

Fig. 5 shows yield indicator of APH-1036 - 50 cob weight (kg) of Maize.

Fig. 6 shows crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - biomass (foliar fresh) assessment on soybean.

Fig. 7 shows crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - biomass (foliar dry) assessment on soybean.

Fig. 8 shows yield indicator of APH-1036 - number of pods/plant assessment on soybean.

Fig. 9 shows yield indicator of APH-1036 - number of pod weight/plant (g) assessment on soybean.

Fig. 10 shows soil health of APH-1036 - bioassay of soybean (3 true leaves) - ATP content.

Fig. 11 shows soil health of APH-1036 - bioassay of soybean - nodulation.

Fig. 12 shows dose response of APH-1037 - not stressed - dry shoot weight on corn.

Fig. 13 shows salinity of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on wheat - root length measurement.

Fig. 14 shows reduced irrigation of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn - root length measurement.

Fig. 15 shows salinity of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn - root length measurement.

Fig. 16 shows salinity of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn - fine roots measurement.

Fig. 17 shows reduced irrigation of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn - root length measurement.

Fig. 18 shows reduced irrigation of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn - fine roots measurement. Fig. 19 shows reduced irrigation of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on wheat - fine roots measurement.

Fig. 20 shows dust-off results on Wheat when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water.

Fig. 21 shows dust-off results on Maize when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water.

Fig. 22 shows dust-off results on Soybean when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water.

Fig. 23 shows dust-off results on Maize when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water.

Fig. 24 shows dust-off results on Soybean when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water.

Fig. 25 shows dust-off results on Soybean when treated with 2 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 2 mL/kg of water.

Detailed description of the invention

Several agricultural compositions will be provided in the present disclosure in order to convey the importance of the novel and inventive system which allows good adhesion to a seed, and a small well dispersed particles that shows good storage stability with minimal separation. Also, to show this invention is not obvious, several comparative examples will be presented.

The methods provided herein generally comprise applying the composition to a plant or a seed. Thus, the methods and the uses of the present invention are preferably non-therapeutic. The composition provided herein can be applied as a seed treatment or as a soil treatment applied to the area surrounding a plant, plant part, or seed.

The agricultural composition and methods described herein can be used in connection with any species of plant and/or the seeds thereof. The compositions and methods are typically used in connection with seeds that are agronomically important. The seed can be a transgenic seed from which a transgenic plant can grow that incorporates a transgenic event that confers, for example, tolerance to a particular herbicide or combination of herbicides, increased disease resistance, enhanced tolerance to insects, drought, stress and/or enhanced yield. The seed can comprise a breeding trait, including for example, a disease tolerant breeding trait. In some instances, the seed includes at least one transgenic trait and at least one breeding trait.

The compositions and methods can be used for the treatment of any suitable seed type, including, but not limited to row crops and vegetables. For example, one or more plants or plant parts or the seeds of one or more plants can comprise wheat, rye, barley, rice, triticale, oats, sorghum, sugarcane, beet, sugar beet or fodder beet, fruits like pomes, apples, pears, plums, peaches, almonds, cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries or gooseberries, leguminous plants, such as lentils, peas, alfalfa or soybeans, oil plants, such as rape, oil-seed rape, canola, juncea, linseed, mustard, olives, sunflowers, coconut, cocoa beans, castor oil plants, oil palms, ground nuts or soybeans, cucurbits, such as squashes, cucumber or melons, fiber plants, such as cotton, flax, hemp or jute, citrus fruit, such as oranges, lemons, grapefruits or mandarins, vegetables, such as spinach, lettuce, asparagus, cabbages, carrots, onions, tomatoes, cucurbits or paprika, lauraceous plants, such as avocados, cinnamon or camphor, energy and raw material plants, such as corn, soybean, rape, canola, oil palm, corn, tobacco, nuts, coffee, tea, bananas, vines, hop, or turf.

The compositions and methods disclosed herein can also be applied to turf grass, ornamental grass, and shrubs. The compositions are also suitable for use in the nursery, lawn and garden, floriculture and provide benefits for enhanced plant productivity, protection health, vigor and longevity.

The composition can be provided in concentrate form. Alternatively, the composition can be provided in ready-to-use form. By "ready-to-use", it is meant that the composition is provided in a form that requires no additional dilution by the user and is ready for application.

For convenience, before further description of the present disclosure, certain terms employed in the specification, and examples are described here. These definitions should be read in the light of the remainder of the disclosure and understood as by a person of skill in the art. The terms used herein have the meanings recognized and known to those of skill in the art. However, for convenience and completeness, particular terms and their meanings are set forth below.

The terms "preferably" and "preferred" as used herein refer to features which are not essential for the present invention and may or may not be fulfilled, but may lead to further improvements.

As used herein the term "plant" or "crop" includes reference to whole plants, plant organs (e.g. leaves, stems, twigs, roots, trunks, limbs, shoots, fruits etc.), plant cells, or plant seeds. This term also encompasses plant crops such as fruits.

While in its broadest embodiments, the methods, compounds and compositions described herein may be used in the cultivation of any plant, in preferred embodiments, they may be used in the cultivation of commercially important plants, which can include, without being limited to, cereals (including maize, wheat, alfalfa, barley, rye, oat), vegetables (including pepper, tomato, lettuce, carrots, potatoes), fruits (including apricots, bananas, grapes, bean pods, corn grains, tomatoes, cucumbers, acorns and almonds), raw crops (including sunflower, potato, canola, dry bean, field pea, flax, safflower, buckwheat, cotton, maize, soybeans, rapeseed oil and sugar beets).

As used herein, the term "propagation material" of the plant or crop may include all the generative parts of the plant or crop such as seeds and vegetative plant material such as cuttings and tubers, which can be used for the multiplication of the plant. This includes seeds, tubers, spores, corms, bulbs, rhizomes, sprouts basal shoots, stolons, and buds and other parts of plants, including seedlings and young plants, which are to be transplanted after germination or after emergence from soil.

As used herein the term "seaweed" preferably refers to the cold-water seaweed or brown alga (Phaeophyceae) of the family Fucaceae, belonging to the genus Ascophyllum. It is to be understood that the term "seaweed" refers not only to unprocessed seaweed but also to processed seaweed, such as seaweed extract. Preferably, the term "seaweed" refers to a seaweed extract. As used herein the term "seaweed extract" preferably refers to an extract isolated from seaweed, which usually contains a wide range of active agents, and is typically in a form of a soluble liquid, a liquid concentrate, or a water-soluble powder. More preferably, seaweed processing/extraction can be made using solvents, acids, bases, enzymes or mechanical means eventually in any combination. Preferably, the processing/extraction is made by contacting the seaweed with an aqueous solution comprising an alkaline extraction agent. For the purpose of the present invention, the alkaline extraction agent is preferably a base which is preferably an inorganic base selected from: NaOH, KOH, Na2COs, K2CO3, or any combination thereof. The concentration of the alkaline extraction agent preferably ranges from 1 % to 10 % w/w, more specifically 2 % to 5 % w/w, relative to the total weight of the aqueous solution. Preferably, the temperature of the extraction step ranges preferably from 20 °C to 100 °C and the extraction time typically ranges from 30 minutes to 18 hours at preferred pressures ranging from 1 to 6 Bar. The extraction step may be followed by a further step of separating/removing the nonsolubilized components when it is desirable using only the extract in the composition of the present invention. The removing/separating step is preferably performed by decantation, filtration or centrifugation. Alternatively, a suspension comprising both the extracted components and the non-extracted components can be used. Accordingly, the term "seaweed extract" typically refers to a liquid or solid containing or consisting of two or more, preferably five or more, more preferably ten or more, or even 50 or more compounds naturally occurring in seaweed, and, in the case of the liquid, optionally a solvent. Any amounts or contents of "seaweed extract" specified herein preferably refer to the amounts of the dry matter of the "seaweed extract", i.e. based on the "seaweed extract" excluding any solvent.

As used herein the term "liquid" preferably refers to a liquid at 25 °C and 1 atm.

Preferably, the process of preparation the seaweed extract is according to the procedure described in GB 664,989 A, in particular as set out in any of claims 1 to 5 of this document.

As used herein the term "active agents" are preferably agents that are present in the algal extract obtained by various processes of algal extraction. The algal extract may contain one or more than one active compound selected from, but not limited to polysaccharides, such as, especially, laminarin and fucans; free and conjugated sugars; polyphenols; mannitol; growth hormones; lipids; proteins; amino acids; vitamins; betaines; sterols; glucuronic acid and mineral salts.

Preferably the seaweed extract comprises alginic acid, fucoidins and mannitol.

As used herein the term "biostimulant" is preferably any substance or microorganism applied to plants in order to enhance nutrition efficiency, abiotic stress tolerance and/or crop quality traits, regardless of its nutrient content.

As used herein the term "active ingredient" is preferably the part of a substance or compound, including algal extract, that produces its chemical or biological effect, such as biostimulation.

As used herein the term "mitigating abiotic stress" is preferably one or more of: (i) increasing plant vigour, (ii) increasing root growth and development, (iii) increasing shoot growth and development, (iv) increasing plant growth rate, (v) increasing photosynthetic rate and capacity, or (vi) improving yield.

As used herein the term "crop productivity" is a measure of the amount of agricultural output produced for a given amount of inputs, preferably is a measure of the amount of agricultural output produced (such as crops etc.) for a given amount of inputs (such as seeds etc.), such as an index of multiple outputs divided by an index of multiple inputs (e.g., the value of all farm outputs divided by the value of all farm inputs).

Methods of identifying and measuring indicia of abiotic stress in plants are known to those of skill in the art and can include visual assessments of plant vitality, such as a reduction in the number or size of plants or parts thereof, a reduction in seed germination or emergence, or a reduction in seedling growth rates or vigour; gravimetric assessment of biomass yield, such as fresh or dry weights of shoots or roots; optical scanner-based assessments of plant parts, such as scanning of leaves or root systems and algorithmic determinations of leaf area or root lengths; physiological or biochemical assessments, such as cell membrane stability or relative leaf water content; and photosynthetic assessments of plant stress levels using reflectance or spectroscopy-based methods, such as determination of photosynthetic efficiency, linear electron flow, non-photochemical quenching, and relative chlorophyll levels.

As used herein the term "fertilizer" is preferably selected from organic and inorganic fertilizers such as those selected from but not limited to urea, NPK, nitrogen based fertilizers, phosphate, calcium, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, nickel, cobalt, boron and their salts and derivatives.

As used herein the term "micronutrient" is preferably selected from but not limited to iron, manganese, boron, molybdenum, zinc, chlorine, sodium, cobalt, silicon, nickel, chlorine, aluminium, vanadium, selenium and their salts and derivatives.

As used herein the term "derivative" is preferably a compound that is derived from a similar compound by a chemical reaction. More preferably, the term "derivative" refers to salts, solvates, alkyl esters, acyl esters, or alkyl ethers, wherein the alkyl and acyl preferably contain 1 to 24 carbon atoms and are preferably aliphatic. Even more preferably, the term "derivative" refers to salts and solvates.

As used herein the term "sticker" is preferably a material for binding the seaweed to the seed. Typically, the sticker is an oil. More preferably a seed oil.

As used herein the term "composition" preferably includes (apart from the oil and the at least two surfactants) a mixture or mixtures of the seaweed with another component, such as an additional biostimulant. In some embodiments, the composition may comprise at least one additional pesticide. In some embodiments, the composition may comprise an additional one or more co-formulants.

As used herein the term "agriculturally acceptable carrier" preferably refers to a solvent which is known and accepted in the art for the formation of compositions for agricultural or horticultural use. Examples of solvents include, but are not limited to, propylene glycol and isopropanol. As used herein the term "solvent" preferably refers to any substance, usually liquid, which is capable of dissolving one or several substances, thus creating a solution. Preferably does not include water.

As used herein the term "additive" preferably refers to any substance that itself is not an active ingredient but is added to the composition. Examples of additives include, but are not limited to, adjuvants, surfactants, anti-freeze agents, anti-foam agents, and preservatives.

As used herein, the term "excipient" preferably refers to any chemical which has no biostimulant activity, such as surfactant(s), solvent(s), or adjuvant(s). One or more excipients can be added to any composition disclosed herein.

As used herein, the term "surfactant" preferably called surface-active agent, substance such as a detergent that, when added to a liquid, reduces its surface tension, thereby increasing its spreading and wetting properties. Typically, are usually organic compounds that have amphiphilic nature, which means that this molecule contains a hydrophilic group, and a hydrophobic group. Typically, a surfactant contains both a water-soluble component and a water-insoluble component. Preferably surfactants may function as emulsifiers, wetting agents, detergents, foaming agents, or dispersants.

As used herein, the term "dispersant" or "dispersing agent" preferably refers to any substance, typically a surfactant, that is added to a suspension of solid or liquid particles in a liquid to improve the separation of the particles and to prevent their settling or clumping. Preferably the dispersant or the dispersing agent refers to a polymeric amphoteric dispersant. Preferred examples are one or more esters of alkoxylated diethylethanolamine, polymethacrylic acid and acrylate backbone with polyoxyethylene chains.

As used herein, the term "amphoteric" preferably refers to a substance that has the ability to act either as an acid or a base, typically within a pH-range of 1 to 12. As used herein, the term "polymeric amphoteric dispersant" preferably refers to alkoxylated diethylethanolamine esters polymers. Preferably to a polyoxyethylene (12) di-ethyl ethanol amine mono- trimerate (Atlox™ 4915).

As used herein, the term "alkoxylated" preferably refers to a product produced by addition of ethylene oxide, propylene oxide and/or butylene oxide e.g., fatty acids such as via an alkoxylation process.

As used herein, the term "ester" preferably refers to molecules when the hydrogen on the carboxyl group of an alkanoic acid, preferably an aliphatic Ci-6 alkanoic acid, more preferably acetic acid is replaced with an alkyl group, preferably an aliphatic Ci-6 alkyl group, more preferably an ethyl group. Other examples of esters include ethyl propanoate, propyl methanoate, propyl ethanoate, and methyl butanoate. Glycerides are fatty acid esters of glycerol.

As used herein, the term "emulsifier" preferably refers to any chemical which is a surfaceactive agent that promotes the formation of an emulsion. Preferably the emulsifier is a sorbitol-based surfactant. A preferred example of a sorbitol-based surfactant is polyoxyethylene sorbitol hexaoleate.

The term "alkyl" as used herein, and unless explicitly specified, preferably relates to a Ci-28 aliphatic hydrocarbon group, more preferably a Ci-is aliphatic hydrocarbon group, such as a Ci- 6 aliphatic hydrocarbon group.

As used herein, the term "polyol-based" preferably refers to ethers and esters of polyols. The polyols are preferably selected from diols, triols, tetraols, pentaols, hexaols, heptaols and octaols, more preferably from pentaols and hexaols, each preferably containing from 2 to 10 carbon atoms. Preferred examples of polyols are sugar-alcohols, preferably selected from ethylene glycol, glycerol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, xylitol, ribitol, mannitol, sorbitol, galactitol, fucitol, iditol, inositol, volemitol, isomalt, maltitol, lactitol, maltotriitol, and maltotetraitol. The sugar is preferably a mono- or disaccharide, more preferably a monosaccharide. Sugar-alcohols can be obtained from sugars by hydrogenation. The ethers and esters of polyols can be obtained by etherification with an alkoxanol (such as polyethylene glycol or mono-alkylated polyethylene glycol) or alkanol, such as an aliphatic alkanol having 1 to 28, preferably 6 to 18 carbon atoms, or esterification with an alkoxanolic acid (such as a carboxylic acid with a polyethylene glycol or mono-alkylated polyethylene glycol residue) or an alkanoic acid, such as an aliphatic alkanoic acid having 1 to 28, preferably 6 to 18 carbon atoms. It is to be understood that there may, e.g., be one, two, three, four or even five or more of the hydroxyl groups of the polyol may be esterified or etherified.

As used herein, the term "sorbitol-based" preferably refers to ethers and esters of sorbitol. The ethers and esters are preferably as defined with respect to the term "polyol-based" above.

As used herein, the "dispersant" or "dispersing agent" and "emulsifier" preferably refer to different chemical compounds.

As used herein, the term "antifoam" preferably refers to a foam suppressor agent for aqueous and non-aqueous systems. Preferably to a silicone-based antifoams, typically polydimethylsiloxanes.

As used herein, the term "silicone-based" preferably refers to molecules with one or more silicon atoms, such as molecules made of silicon materials.

As used herein, the term "chelating agent" preferably refers to a chemical compound that binds to metal ions. Preferably the term "chelating agent" refers to an ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid and/or n- hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA).

As used herein, the term "rheological aid" or "rheological modifier" preferably refers to substances that alter the rheological properties of a material. Typically, they are added to formulations to increase viscosity and to control the finished product's properties and characteristics in a desired manner. Preferably the term "rheological aid" or "rheological modifier" refers to polysaccharides such as polysaccharides obtainable from natural sources such as trees, plants, and algae. Common examples include xanthan gum, carrageenan, guar gum, and alginates and any agricultural acceptable salts thereof.

An "agricultural acceptable salt" may be formed, e.g., by protonation of an atom carrying an electron lone pair which is susceptible to protonation, such as an amino group, with an inorganic or organic acid, or as a salt of a carboxylic acid group with a cation. Exemplary base addition salts comprise, for example: alkali metal salts such as sodium or potassium salts; alkaline earth metal salts such as calcium or magnesium salts; zinc salts; ammonium salts; aliphatic amine salts such as trimethylamine, triethylamine, dicyclohexylamine, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, procaine salts, meglumine salts, ethylenediamine salts, or choline salts; aralkyl amine salts such as A/,A/-dibenzylethylenediamine salts, benzathine salts, benethamine salts; heterocyclic aromatic amine salts such as pyridine salts, picoline salts, quinoline salts or isoquinoline salts; quaternary ammonium salts such as tetramethylammonium salts, tetraethylammonium salts, benzyltrimethylammonium salts, benzyltriethylammonium salts, benzyltributylammonium salts, methyltrioctylammonium salts or tetrabutylammonium salts; and basic amino acid salts such as arginine salts, lysine salts, or histidine salts. Exemplary acid addition salts comprise, for example: mineral acid salts such as hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, sulfate salts, nitrate salts, phosphate salts (such as, e.g., phosphate, hydrogenphosphate, or dihydrogenphosphate salts), carbonate salts, hydrogencarbonate salts or perchlorate salts; organic acid salts such as acetate, propionate, butyrate, pentanoate, hexanoate, heptanoate, octanoate, cyclopentanepropionate, decanoate, undecanoate, oleate, stearate, lactate, maleate, oxalate, fumarate, tartrate, malate, citrate, succinate, glycolate, nicotinate, benzoate, salicylate, ascorbate, or pamoate (embonate) salts; sulfonate salts such as methanesulfonate (mesylate), ethanesulfonate (esylate), 2-hydroxyethanesulfonate (isethionate), benzenesulfonate (besylate), p- toluenesulfonate (tosylate), 2-naphthalenesulfonate (napsylate), 3-phenylsulfonate, or camphorsulfonate salts; and acidic amino acid salts such as aspartate or glutamate salts.

As used herein, the term "polysaccharides" preferably refers to long chains of carbohydrate molecules (such as 2 or more, preferably 10 or more, more preferably 20 or more, even more preferably 40 or, preferably 1000 or less, more preferably 500 or less monosaccharide units). The "polysaccharides" optionally contain sulfate groups, such as one, two, or three sulfate groups. Common examples include pentasaccharide repeat units, comprising glucose, mannose, and glucuronic acid in the molar ratio 2:2:1, and galactopyranose disaccharides, each of which contains zero, one, two, or three sulfate groups and any agricultural acceptable salts thereof.

As used herein, the term "fatty acid" preferably refers to a carboxylic acid with an aliphatic chain, which can be saturated or unsaturated. Most naturally occurring fatty acids have an unbranched chain of an even number of carbon atoms (including the carbon atom of the carboxyl group), from 4 to 28. Preferably from 10 to 20. More preferably from 16 to 19.

As used herein, the term "vegetable oil" preferably refers to a group of oils and fats that are derived from seeds, nuts, cereal grains, and fruits. Vegetable oils typically comprise mixtures of triacylglycerols, such as fatty acid triglycerides.

As used herein the terms "oil" and "fat" are used interchangeably and preferably refer to any fatty acid triglycerides and/or mixtures thereof. More preferably, the term "oil" refers to fatty acid triglycerides which are liquid at 25 °C and 1 atm, whereas the term "fat" refers to fatty acid triglycerides which are solid at 25 °C and 1 atm.

As used herein, the term "seed oil" preferably refers to an oil obtained from the seed (endosperm) of some plants, rather than the fruit (pericarp). Most vegetable oils typically are seed oils. Examples are sunflower, corn, rapeseed oil and sesame oils.

As used herein the term "stable" when used in connection with a composition preferably means that the composition is physically stable and chemically stable.

As used herein, the term "chemically stable" preferably means that no significant decomposition of the active components was observed after at least 2 weeks of storage in a sealed package at a temperature of 54 °C in a sealed container. The term "significant" in this context preferably means that less than 10 wt%, preferably less than 5 wt%, more preferably less than 2 wt%, even more preferably less than 1 wt% of the respective components are decomposed. As used herein, the term "physically stable" preferably means that no significant sedimentation was observed after at least 2 weeks of storage in a sealed package at a temperature of 54 °C. Stability may be assessed according to the test protocol established by the Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council Ltd. (CIPAC). Stability can be assessed under normal storage conditions which is after two years storage at room temperature. Stability can also be assessed under accelerated storage conditions which is after 2 weeks storage at 54 °C or after 8 weeks at 40 °C or after 12 weeks at 35 °C or after 3 months at room temperature or at after 2 weeks at 0 °C.

As used herein, the term "BBCH" refers to Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt, und CHemische Industrie, is an abbreviation used in agriculture to refer to the BBCH scale, which is a system for phenological growth stages of plants. It stands for the three organizations that developed the scale. The BBCH scale provides a standardized way to describe the growth and development of various crops throughout their life cycle. It consists of a numerical code that represents specific growth stages or phenological events in plants. Each code corresponds to a particular stage of development, such as emergence, flowering, fruiting, or senescence. The BBCH scale is widely used in agricultural research, crop management, and phenological observations. It allows researchers, agronomists, and farmers to communicate and compare growth stages across different crops and regions, facilitating better timing for various agricultural practices like irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvest.

As used herein, the term "SPAD" refers to Soil Plant Analysis Development, is a handheld device that measures the relative chlorophyll concentration in leaves, which is an indicator of plant health and nutrient status. The SPAD meter works by shining a specific wavelength of light onto a leaf surface and measuring the light that is transmitted or reflected back. Chlorophyll absorbs light most efficiently in the red and blue regions of the spectrum, so the SPAD meter measures the amount of light absorbed by the leaf in these wavelengths. Based on the light absorption, the meter provides a numerical reading, typically referred to as the SPAD value. The SPAD value obtained from the meter can be used to estimate the chlorophyll content of the leaf and indirectly assess the plant's nutritional status. It is particularly useful for monitoring nitrogen levels in crops since chlorophyll production depends on an adequate supply of nitrogen. By measuring SPAD values in different parts of a field or at different growth stages, one can make informed decisions regarding fertilizer application, nitrogen management, and overall crop health.

As used herein, the term "DAP" refers to days after application.

As used herein the term "mixture" refers, but is not limited, to a combination in any physical form, e.g., blend, solution, alloy, or the like.

As used herein the term "combination" typically means an assemblage of agrochemicals for application either by simultaneous or contemporaneous application.

As used herein the term "simultaneous" when used in connection with application of agrochemicals typically means that the agrochemicals are applied in an admixture, for example, a tank mix. For simultaneous application, the combination may be the admixture or separate containers each containing an agrochemical that are combined prior to application.

As used herein the term "contemporaneous" when used in connection with application of biostimulants typically means that an individual biostimulant is applied separately from another biostimulant or premixture at the same time or at times sufficiently close together such that at least one benefit from combining the biostimulants is achieved, for example, if two active components are applied contemporaneously, an activity that is additive or more than additive or synergistic relative to the activity of either active component alone at the same dose is achieved.

As used herein the term "tank mix" typically means one or more of the components of the composition of the present invention are mixed in a spray tank at the time of spray application or prior to spray application.

As used herein the term "effective" when used in connection with an amount of the combination, mixture or composition preferably refers to an amount of the combination, mixture or composition that achieve a beneficial level of biostimulation when applied to the locus where the pest is to be controlled and/or prevented.

As used herein the term "amount" typically refers to a content of the component in the composition in weight per total weight of said composition.

As used herein the term "effective amount" typically refers to an amount of the active component that is commercially recommended for use to control and/or prevent pest. The commercially recommended amount for each active component, often specified as application rates of the commercial formulation, may be found on the label accompanying the commercial formulation. The commercially recommended application rates of the commercial formulation may vary depending on factors such as the plant species and the kind of biostimulation.

As used herein the term "ha" refers to hectare.

The term "a" or "an" as used herein includes the singular and the plural, unless specifically stated otherwise. Therefore, the terms "a", "an", or "at least one" is used interchangeably in this application. For example, the term "a seaweed" is used interchangeably with the term "one or more seaweeds" and the term "an oil" is used interchangeably with the term "one or more oils".

Throughout the application, descriptions of various embodiments are described using the term "comprising"; This term is to be understood as also encompassing the terms "consisting essentially of" and/or "consisting of".

The term "about" herein specifically includes ±10 % from the indicated values in the range. In addition, the endpoints of all ranges directed to the same component or property herein are inclusive of the endpoints, are independently combinable, and include all intermediate points and ranges. It is understood that where a parameter range is provided, all integers within that range, and tenths thereof, are also provided by the invention as if the integers and tenths thereof are expressly described herein. For example, "0.1% to 70%" includes 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5% etc. up to 70%.

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference.

The following examples illustrate the practice of preferred subject-matter of the present invention but should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present subject matter. Other embodiments apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art from consideration of the specification and examples herein that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims are part of this invention. The specification, including the examples, is intended to be exemplary only, without limiting the scope and spirit of the invention.

Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be described.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a composition comprising: (i) a seaweed, (ii) an oil, and (iii) at least two surfactants, wherein said composition has a pH ranging from about 3 to about 6.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the seaweed is an active ingredient, preferably wherein the seaweed is the only active ingredient in the composition.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the composition is stable.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the composition is a plant biostimulant composition. Preferably, the seaweed comprised within the composition of the present invention is a brown algae.

Preferably, the algae is a member of the class Phaeophyceae.

More preferably, the member of the class Phaeophyceae is the species Ascophyllum nodosum.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the seaweed is an extract obtained from said algae.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the extract is in the form of a Soluble Seaweed Extract Powder (SSEP) or Liquid Seaweed Extract (LSX).

More preferably, the amount of said seaweed extract is from about 1 % to about 20 %, by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the amount of said seaweed extract is from about 5 % to about 10 %, by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the oil is a triglyceride fatty acid ester such as a vegetable oil, and seed oil; or a monoester derived from a vegetable, or seed; or a mixture thereof.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein said triglyceride fatty acid ester is a vegetable oil such as soybean oil, olive oil, almond oil, canola oil, omega-9 canola oil, castor oil, coconut oil, corn oil, palm oil, peanut oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, and tung oil; a seed oil such as rape seed oil, sunflower seed oil, cotton seed oil, and linseed oil; or a mixture thereof.

The present invention also provides wherein said triglyceride fatty acid ester is a seed oil.

More preferably, said seed oil is rape seed oil. More preferably, the amount of said oil is from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. The present invention also provides the composition wherein the amount of said oil is from about 5 % to about 10 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein said surfactants comprise a mixture of two surfactants each independently selected from the group consisting of a dispersant or an emulsifier. The dispersant is preferably selected from alkoxylated diethylethanolamine and the emulsifier is preferably selected from polyoxyethylene sorbitol hexaoleate.

More preferably, one of said surfactants is a polymeric amphoteric surfactant; and the other one is a polyol-based (preferably sorbitol-based) surfactant. It is to be understood that the polymeric amphoteric surfactant and the polyol-based surfactant are different chemical compounds.

The polymeric amphoteric surfactant is preferably selected from esters (particularly trimerate esters) of alkoxylated di(Ci to C4 alkyl)diethanolamine such as trimerate esters of alkoxylated diethylethanolamine (such as alkoxylated diethylethanolamine mono-trimerate) including polyoxyethylene (12) di-ethyl ethanolamine mono-trimerate. An example of such an amphoteric polymer surfactant is available under the trade name Atlox™ 4915.

The polymeric amphoteric surfactant is most preferably alkoxylated diethylethanolamine, more preferably polyoxyethylene (12) diethyl ethanol amine mono-trimerate, even more preferably Atlox™ 4915.

The polyol-based surfactant preferably has a structure in which a polyol has been polyoxyalkylated (e.g. by reaction with alkyleneoxide, such as ethyleneoxide and/or propyleneoxide) and then acylated (e.g. by rection with a fatty acid, fatty acid anhydride, fatty acid ester or fatty acid chloride).

The polyols are preferably selected from diols, triols, tetraols, pentaols, hexaols, heptaols and octaols, more preferably from pentaols and hexaols, each preferably containing from 2 to 30 (preferably 3 to 20, more preferably 4 to 8, such as 5, 6 or 7) carbon atoms. Preferred examples of polyols are sugar-alcohols, preferably selected from ethylene glycol, glycerol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, xylitol, ribitol, mannitol, sorbitol, galactitol, fucitol, iditol, inositol, volemitol, isomalt, maltitol, lactitol, maltotriitol, and maltotetraitol. The sugar is preferably a mono- or disaccharide, more preferably a monosaccharide. Sugar-alcohols can be obtained from sugars by hydrogenation. The polyol is preferably sorbitol.

The polyol-based surfactant preferably contains about 5 to 500, more preferably 5 to 100, even more preferably 10 to 100, still more preferably 10 to 80, still even more preferably 20 to 60, such as 30 to 50 alkylene oxide groups per molecule.

The acyl group is preferably a fatty acid residue having 6 to 28, preferably 6 to 18 carbon atoms. It is to be understood that, e.g., be one, two, three, four or even five or more of the hydroxyl groups (preferably at least half of the hydroxyl groups, more preferably at least all but one of the hydroxyl groups, still more preferably all of the hydroxyl groups) of the polyol may be polyoxyalkylated and/or acylated.

The polyol-based surfactant is preferably polyoxyethylene sorbitol hexaoleate, more preferably polyoxyethylene (40) sorbitol hexaoleate, even more preferably Atlas™ G-1086.

Preferably, the amount of said polymeric amphoteric dispersant is from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition; and the amount of said polyol- based (preferably sorbitol-based) surfactant is from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the amount of said polymeric amphoteric dispersant is from about 5 % to about 10 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition; and the amount of said polyol-based (preferably sorbitol-based) surfactant is from about 5 % to about 10 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the pH of said (biostimulant)composition is obtained by an addition of an acid. The present invention also provides the composition wherein said acid is selected from citric acid, succinic acid, phosphoric acid, acetic acid, carbonic acid, ascorbic acid, sorbic acid, L- ornithine, L-proline, L-tryptophan, beta-alanine, D/L-alanine, L-carnitine, L-cysteine, L- arginine, L-glutamic acid, gallic acid, orthosilic acid, and a mixture thereof.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein said composition has a pH ranging from about 4 to about 5.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the plant biostimulant composition further comprises a co-formulant.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the co-formulant is selected from an anti-foam, a preservative, an anti-freezing agent, a dispersant, a solvent, an emulsifier, a carrier, an adjuvant, a rheological aid, a chelating agent, and a mixture thereof.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the biostimulant composition further comprising an additional active ingredient.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein the additional active ingredient is selected from a pesticide, a biostimulant, and a mixture thereof.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein said pesticide is selected from a herbicide, a fungicide, an insecticide, a nematicide, acaricide, and a mixture thereof.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein said biostimulant is selected from an amino-acid, an amino-acid betaine, a microorganism, an inorganic fertilizer, such as nitrogen fertilizer, phosphorus fertilizer, an organic fertilizer, such as amino acid and fulvic and humic acid, and a mixture thereof.

The present invention also provides the composition, wherein the (plant biostimulant) composition comprising: (i) an Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract,

(ii) a seed oil,

(iii) a mixture of two surfactants each independently selected from the group consisting of a dispersant and an emulsifier, and

(iv) water, wherein said composition has a pH ranging from about 3 to about 6, and said pH is obtained by an addition of an acid and/or a salt thereof.

More preferably, said composition comprises (or is obtainable by mixing):

(i) an Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract in the form of a Soluble Seaweed Extract Powder (SSEP) or Liquid Seaweed Extract (LSX),

(ii) a rape seed oil,

(iii) a mixture of two surfactants wherein one of said surfactants is a polymeric amphoteric surfactant; and the other one is a polyol-based (preferably sorbitol-based) surfactant, and

(iv) water, and

(v) citric acid and/or a salt thereof.

The present invention also provides the composition wherein said composition comprises (or is obtainable by mixing):

(i) an Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract in the form of a Soluble Seaweed Extract Powder (SSEP) or Liquid Seaweed Extract (LSX) in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition,

(ii) a rape seed oil in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition,

(iii) a mixture of two surfactants wherein one of said surfactants is a polymeric amphoteric surfactant in an amount of from about 1 %to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition; and the other one is a polyol-based (preferably sorbitol-based) surfactant in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition,

(iv) water, and

(v) citric acid and/or a salt thereof. The present invention also provides the composition wherein said composition comprises (or is obtainable by mixing):

(iii) a mixture of two surfactants wherein one of said surfactants is a polymeric amphoteric surfactant in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition; and the other one is a polyol-based (preferably sorbitol-based) surfactant in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition,

(iv) water, and

(v) L-carnitine and/or a salt thereof.

(iv) chelating agent,

(v) water, and

(vi) citric acid or L-carnitine and/or a salt thereof. The present invention also provides the composition wherein said composition comprises (or is obtainable by mixing):

(iv) chelating agent,

(v) rheological aid,

(vi) water, and

(vii) citric acid or L-carnitine and/or a salt thereof.

A preferred exemplary composition of the present invention contains or consists of powdered seaweed extract, propylene glycol, rapeseed oil, antifoam (preferably OR-10™), preservative (preferably Proxel™ GXL), a polymeric amphoteric surfactant (preferably Atlox™ 4915), a polyol-based (preferably sorbitol-based) surfactant (preferably Atlas™ G-1086), water, one or both of l-carnitine HCI and citric acid, and optionally one or both of rheozan and EDTA.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of crop productivity management in a plant comprising applying to the plant, a seed of the plant or to a growth medium of the plant an effective amount of the composition as described above.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a method of preventing or mitigating the effects of abiotic stress in a plant comprising applying to the plant, a seed of the plant or to a growth medium of the plant an effective amount of the composition as described herein.

The mitigating abiotic stress preferably comprises one or more of: (i) increasing plant vigour,

(ii) increasing root growth and development,

(iii) increasing shoot growth and development,

(iv) increasing plant growth rate,

(v) increasing photosynthetic rate and capacity, or

(vi) improving yield.

The method preferably comprises applying to the seed of the plant an effective amount of the composition as described above.

More preferably, the method comprises applying said composition at a rate of from about 0.1 L to about 8 L per tonne of seed.

Even more preferably, said composition is applied at a rate of from about 0.5 L to about 4 L per tonne of seed.

The present invention also provides a seed coated with the composition as described above.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a coated seed which is obtainable by applying the composition as described above to a seed and optionally drying.

Said coating is preferably in the form of a solution for seed treatment.

Said seed may be of any suitable seed type, including, but not limited to row crops, fruits and vegetables.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a use of a composition as described above to prevent or mitigate the effects of abiotic stress or to manage crop productivity in a plant.

The present invention also provides a use of a composition as described above to prevent or mitigate the effects of abiotic stress. The present invention also provides said use of a composition as described above to manage crop productivity in a plant.

Each aspect and/or embodiment disclosed herein is contemplated as being applicable to each of the other disclosed embodiments. Thus, all combinations of the various elements described herein are within the scope of the invention. In addition, the elements recited in composition embodiments can be used in the combination, mixture, method, use, package and process embodiments described herein and vice versa.

This invention will be better understood by reference to the Examples which follow, but those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the specific experiments detailed are only illustrative of the invention as described more fully in the claims which follow thereafter.

The invention is illustrated by the following examples without limiting it thereby.

Examples

The following examples are meant to illustrate the present invention. The examples are presented to exemplify the invention and are not to be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention. The (powdered) seaweed extract was obtained from Acadian™ Plant health -Acadian™ soluble seaweed extract powder. The other materials were obtained as follows:

Example 1: SSEP based composition with L-Carnitine HCI - APH-1036

The propylene glycol, Atlox™ 4915, Atlas™ G-1086, OR-IO™ and Proxel™ GXL were added to water and mixed using low shear until homogenous (approx. 30 minutes). The L-Carnitine HCI was added whilst the batch was continuing to be low shear mixed over about 5 minutes. The Acadian™ soluble seaweed extract powder was then added slowly whilst the batch was continuing to be mixed over about 30 minutes. Finally, the rapeseed oil was added and high shear mixed for at least 5 minutes. The pH of the composition of Example 1 was about 4.

All 3 above mentioned compositions showed good storage stability properties. Example 2: SSEP based composition with citric acid - APH-1037

The propylene glycol, citric acid, Atlox™ 4915, Atlas™ G-1086, OR-IO™ and Proxel™ GXL were added to water and mixed using low shear until homogenous (approx. 30 minutes). The Acadian™ soluble seaweed extract powder was then added slowly whilst the batch was continuing to be mixed over about 30 minutes. Finally, the rapeseed oil was added and high shear mixed for at least 5 minutes.

The pH of the composition of Example 2 was about 4.

All 3 above mentioned compositions showed good storage stability properties.

Example 3: SSEP based composition with rheological aid & chelating agent

Adding 80 % of the propylene glycol, citric acid, Atlox™ 4915, Atlas™ G-1086, EDTA, OR-10™ and Proxel™ GXL to 90% of the water and mixing using low shear until the solution is homogenous (approx. 30 minutes). Adding Acadian™ soluble seaweed extract powder slowly whilst the batch is continuing to be mixed over about 30 minutes. Next, adding the rapeseed oil and high shear mixing for at least 5 minutes. Adding Rheozan® to the remaining 20 % of propylene glycol and the Atlox™ 4915. Adding the remaining 10 % of water to the Rheozan®/propylene glycol mixture and mixing with low shear until a homogenous gel is formed. Adding said gel to the rest of the formulation and mixing with high shear for up to 5 minutes to homogenise.

This composition is expected to show good storage stability properties.

Storage stability of composition Examples 1 and 2 will be presented in Tables 1 and 2.

Table 1: composition of Example 1 storage stability data

Table 2: composition of Example 2 storage stability data

It has been well established that by using the specific surfactant system in a certain pH, a stable, flowable liquid formulation is obtained. The pH adjustment for stability is novel for seaweed extracts.

It was surprisingly discovered that not only a specific surfactant combination (e.g. Atlox™ 4915 + Atlas™ G-1086), but also a specific pH range was critical for the stability, flowability and carelessness of the composition. The use of Atlox™ 4915 as a dispersant for Ascophyllum Nodosum was not known before the present invention.

Furthermore, the inventors were surprised to discover that the pH can be maintained using different acids, such as citric acid and L-Carnitine. The use of the dispersant system and pH adjustment to ensure a small well dispersed particle that shows good storage stability with minimal separation, is hereby presented for the first time.

Dust data for different stickers will be presented in tables 3 and 4. Table 3: dust data for Atlox™ SemSera, Adsee™ ST-4, Rapeseed Oil and Glycerol with a Liquid seaweed concentrate (LSX) on wheat

Table 4: dust data for Agrimer™ 30, Agrimer™ VA 6, Sokalan® K 90 P, and Rapeseed Oil with no seaweed concentrate on wheat

500 g of seed was treated at the required application rate and allowed to dry in paper bags for at least 48 hours. 100 g of seed was tested at a time using a Heubach Dustmeter with the following parameters: Airflow = 20 L/min; Rotation = 30 rpm; Time = 120 sec. A filter disc was weighed before and after the run to determine the amount of dust collected.

The inventors have shown that rapeseed oil acts as a good sticker for the compositions of the presented invention. It showed an excellent adhesion to the seed and has good storage stability properties. The use of rapeseed oil as a sticker has shown a reduction in dust off compared to other sticker technologies. It was surprisingly discovered the emulsification of the rapeseed oil is achieved with high shear mixing. The dispersant and emulsifier system results in a formulation with a well dispersed small particle size that has shown good storage stability with minimal separation.

The use of rapeseed oil as a sticker for seaweed extracts was not known before the present invention.

Biological experiments of composition of example 1 (APH-1036) will be presented in Figures 1 to 9.

These experiments were performed as field trials under the following conditions:

The purpose was to evaluate the benefits of APH-1036 when applied as a seed treatment on maize & soybean in field conditions in Spain and Canada, 2022.

Crops: Maize & soybean trials conducted by independent CROs in EU & Canada. Randomised Complete Block Design with 6 replicates per treatment.

Stress: Artificial stress applied during the season - target 40 - 50 % reduction in water compared to standard irrigation recommendations.

Assessments: Crop emergence and stand count, Crop growth & enhancement (vigour, foliar & root), Chlorophyll content indication - SPAD, Pod set and number (soybean), Cob weight. Evaluation details and Quality trait:

Crop vigour: (0-10 scale)

0 = plants with no vigour (no foliage).

1 = Plants show a vigour of 10 % compared to best vigorous plants (vigour 10 (most vigorous plants)).

2 - 4 = Intermediate rates within 20 to 40 %.

5 = Plants show a vigour of 50 % compared to best vigorous plants (vigour 10 (most vigorous plants)).

6 - 9 = Intermediate rates within 60 to 90 %.

10 = full vigour (standard foliage vigour for the crop in normal conditions, best vigorous plants).

S = Stressed, NS = Non stressed

Results:

For crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - vigour on maize, figure 1 demonstrates that a seed treatment with APH 1036 increased vigour of stressed maize seeds, showing said increase of the stressed maize seeds in Spain over the stressed control and surprisingly, even higher vigour over the un-stressed control maize seeds.

For crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - vigour on maize figure 2 demonstrates that the seed treatment with APH 1036 increased vigour of stressed maize seeds, showing said increase of the stressed maize seeds in Canada over the stressed control 32 days after application, and surprisingly, even higher vigour over the un-stressed control maize seeds.

For crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - SPAD on maize, figure 3 demonstrates that the seed treatment with APH 1036 increased SPAD of stressed maize seeds, showing said increase of the stressed maize seeds in Canada over the stressed control 46 days after application.

For crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - biomass (foliar fresh) assessment on maize, figure 4 demonstrates that the seed treatment with APH 1036 increased the weight (in grams) of fresh biomass by foliar application of stressed maize seeds, showing said increase of the stressed maize seeds in Canada over the stressed control 41 days after application.

For yield indicator of APH-1036 - 50 cob weight (kg) of Maize, figure 5 demonstrates that the seed treatment with APH 1036 increased the 50-cob weight (in kilograms) of stressed maize seeds, showing said increase of the stressed maize seeds in Canada over the stressed control even 101 days after application.

For crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - biomass (foliar fresh) assessment on soybean, figure 6 demonstrates that the seed treatment with APH 1036 increased the biomass weight (in grams) of fresh roots byfoliar application of stressed soybean seeds, showing said increase of the stressed soybean seeds in Spain over the stressed control. For crop growth and enhancement assessment of APH-1036 - biomass (foliar dry) assessment on soybean, figure 7 demonstrates that the seed treatment with APH 1036 increased the biomass weight (in grams) of dry roots by foliar application of stressed soybean seeds, showing said increase of the stressed soybean seeds in Spain over the stressed control. This indicates that the yield is increased after treatment.

For yield indicator of APH-1036 - number of pods/plant assessment on soybean, figure 8 demonstrates that the seed treatment with APH 1036 increased the number of pods per plant of stressed soybean seeds, showing said increase of the stressed soybean seeds in Canada over the stressed control, 104 days after application. Also, showing good dose response activity. This indicates that the yield is increased after treatment.

For yield indicator of APH-1036 - number of pod weight/plant (g) assessment on soybean, figure 9 demonstrates that the seed treatment with APH 1036 increased the pod weight per plant (in grams) of stressed soybean seeds, showing said increase of the stressed soybean seeds in Canada over the stressed control, 104 days after application. This indicates that the yield is increased after treatment.

Biological experiments of composition of example 1 (APH-1036) will be presented in Figures 10 and 11.

These experiments were performed as bioassays under the following conditions:

Medium: field soil.

Replication: 4 biological replicates per treatment group.

Controlled environment room maintained at 20/25 °C day/night, 16/8 h photoperiod, 70 % humidity, 400 pmol m-2 s-1 PAR for the first 7 days. After 7 days, plants were moved to the greenhouse maintained at 25/20 °C at a 16/8 h photoperiod (light/dark).

Assessment timing ATP: two weeks after seeding.

Assessment timing Nodulation: six weeks after seeding.

Results:

For soil health of APH-1036 - bioassay of soybean (3 true leaves) - ATP content, figure 10 demonstrates that the seed treatment with APH 1036 increased soil ATP, indicating an increase in microbial biomass in the soil.

For soil health of APH-1036 - bioassay of soybean - nodulation, figure 11 demonstrates that an increase in nodules at 6 weeks, as soybeans are flowering. Seed treatment with APH 1036 increased nodules on plants, indicating more nitrogen fixation in plants treated with APH- 1036.

Biological experiments of composition of example 2 (APH-1037) will be presented in Figures 12 to 20.

These experiments were performed as bioassays under the following conditions:

Medium: field soil.

Replication: 6 cell packs per treatment group 1 seed per cell for corn (36 seeds) and 3 seeds per cell for wheat (108 seeds).

Controlled environment room maintained at 25/20 °C Day/night, 16/8 h photoperiod, 70 % humidity, 400 pmol m~² s^-1 PAR.

Under salinity stress: irrigated the stress group with 200mM of NaCI 7 days after sown. Reduce irrigation stress: stopped irrigation to the stress group 7 days after sown.

Assessment timing: two weeks after sown.

Results:

For dose response of APH-1037 - not stressed - dry shoot weight on corn, figure 12 clearly demonstrated that APH-1037 showed good dose response on corn seeds. Under non-stressed conditions, APH-1037 increased shoot growth. This indicates increased resource availability of treated seeds to allow for greater shoot growth (uptake or photosynthesis).

For salinity of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on wheat - root length measurement, figure 13 demonstrates under salinity stress conditions on wheat seeds, APH-1037 increased root growth. Under stressed conditions, shoot growth is often impacted first, resulting in an increase in the root:shoot ratio.

For reduced irrigation of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn - root length measurement, figure 14 demonstrates that under reduced irrigation conditions, APH-1037 increased root growth of treated corn seeds. Under stressed conditions, shoot growth is often impacted first, resulting in an increase in the root:shoot ratio.

For salinity of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn - root length measurement, figure 15 demonstrates that APH-1037 further increased the root:shoot beyond the corn seedling's natural response (increased root growth without reducing shoot growth). A greater root:shoot increases the volume of soil that can be explored and thereby the availability and uptake of water and minerals, which will allow for improved shoot growth over time, especially under high salinity conditions.

For salinity of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn - fine roots measurement, figure 16 demonstrates that APH-1037 further increased fine roots growth of corn seeds under high soil salinity conditions.

For reduced irrigation of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn - root length measurement, figure 17 demonstrates that APH-1037 further increased the root:shoot beyond the corn seedling's natural response (increased root growth without reducing shoot growth). A greater root:shoot increases the volume of soil that can be explored and thereby the availability and uptake of water and minerals, which will allow for improved shoot growth over time, also under reduced irrigation conditions. For reduced irrigation of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on corn -fine roots measurement, figure 18 demonstrates that APH-1037 further increased fine roots growth of corn seeds under reduced irrigation conditions.

For reduced irrigation of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on wheat - root length measurement, figure 19 demonstrates that APH-1037 further increased the rootshoot beyond the wheat seedling's natural response (increased root growth without reducing shoot growth). A greater root:shoot increases the volume of soil that can be explored and thereby the availability and uptake of water and minerals, which will allow for improved shoot growth over time, especially reduced irrigation conditions.

For reduced irrigation of APH-1037 - post emergence stress on wheat - fine roots measurement, figure 20 demonstrates that APH-1037 further increased fine roots growth of wheat seeds under reduced irrigation conditions.

Dust-off results of composition of Example 1 (APH-1036) will be presented in Figures 21 and 23.

These experiments were performed under the following conditions:

100 g of seed was tested at a time using a Heubach Dustmeter with the following parameters: Airflow = 20 L/min; Rotation = 30 rpm; Time = 120 sec. A filter disc was weighed before and after the run to determine the amount of dust collected.

Results:

For dust-off results on Wheat when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water, figure 21 demonstrates that APH-1036 has much lower dust off when applied to a wheat seed (Skyfall) compared to an untreated seed.

For dust-off results on Maize when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water, figure 22 demonstrates that APH-1036 has much lower dust off when applied to a maize seed (Lovely) compared to an untreated seed. For dust-off results on Soybean when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water, figure 23 demonstrates that APH-1036 has much lower dust off when applied to a soybean seed (conventional) compared to an untreated seed.

Dust-off results of composition of example 2 (APH-1037) will be presented in Figures 24 and 26.

These experiments were performed as bioassays under the following conditions:

Results:

For dust-off results on Maize when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water, figure 24 demonstrates that APH-1037 has much lower dust off when applied to a maize seed (Lovely) compared to an untreated seed.

For dust-off results on Soybean when treated with 1 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 3 mL/kg of water, figure 25 demonstrates that APH-1037 has much lower dust off when applied to a soybean seed (conventional) compared to an untreated seed.

For dust-off results on Soybean when treated with 2 mg/kg of APH-1037 and 2 mL/kg of water figure 26 demonstrates that APH-1037 has much lower dust off when applied to a soybean seed (conventional) compared to an untreated seed.

Claims

1. A composition comprising:

(i) a seaweed,

(ii) an oil, and

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the seaweed is a brown algae.

3. The composition according to claim 2, wherein said brown algae is a member of the class Phaeophyceae.

4. The composition according to claim 3, wherein said member of the class Phaeophyceae is the species Ascophyllum nodosum.

5. The composition according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the seaweed is seaweed or seaweed extract, preferably seaweed extract, wherein the amount of said seaweed extract is from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight based on dry matter of the seaweed extract, relative to the total weight of the composition.

6. The composition according to claim 5, wherein said oil is rape seed oil.

7. The composition according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the amount of said oil is from about 1 % to about 20 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

8. The composition according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein one of said surfactants is a polymeric amphoteric surfactant; and the other one is a polyol-based surfactant, preferably a sorbitol-based surfactant.

9. The composition accordingto claim 8, wherein the amount of said polymeric amphoteric surfactant is from about 5 % to about 10 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition; and the amount of said polyol-based surfactant is from about 5 % to about 10 % by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

10. The composition according to any one of claims 1-9, comprising:

(ii) a rape seed oil,

(iii) a mixture of two surfactants wherein one of said surfactants is a polymeric amphoteric surfactant; and the other one is a polyol-based surfactant such as a sorbitol- based surfactant,

(iv) water, and

(v) citric acid and/or a salt thereof.

11. A method of crop productivity management in a plant comprising applying to the plant, to a seed of the plant or to a growth medium of the plant an effective amount of the composition according to any of claims 1 to 10.

12. A method of preventing or mitigating the effects of abiotic stress in a plant comprising applying to the plant, a seed of the plant or to a growth medium of the plant an effective amount of the composition according to any of claims 1 to 10.

13. The method accordingto any one of claims 11 or 12, wherein said composition is applied at a rate of from about 0.1 L to about 8 L per tonne of seed.

14. A coated seed which is obtainable by applying the composition according to any one of claims 1-10 to a seed and optionally drying.

15. Use of a composition according to any one of claims to 1-10 in crop productivity management and/or to prevent or mitigate the effects of abiotic stress in a plant.