WO2025155924A1 - Agricultural animal deterrence composition - Google Patents

Abstract

The disclosure relates to methods and compositions for improving plant growth by repelling common vertebrate and invertebrate animal pests. Pest deterrent compositions and methods of producing and applying them are disclosed.

Description

AGRICULTURAL ANIMAL DETERRENCE COMPOSITION

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/622,349, filed on January 18. 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The disclosure relates to compositions for deterring animal pests from damaging garden or commercial plants/crops, and methods of application of same.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Farmers and amateur gardeners alike must contend with loss of plants or damage to plants caused by a variety of different creatures, which often attack seasonally and cause extensive economical damage to fruits, flowers, vegetable produce and agricultural equipment alike. Deer, such as white-tailed deer, cause millions of dollars’ worth of damage to farmers annually. Feral swine cause significant damage to agriculture, as they will eat almost any crop. Birds peck at fruit and flowers, and also damage surrounding dripper or sprinkler tubing in order to quench their thirst. Rodents similarly damage plants, grain, fruit, and other agricultural equipment. Other animals, such as racoons, moles, shrews, squirrels, etc. also cause similar problems.

[0004] The resulting damage lowers the visual appeal of a garden, attracts unwanted pests and disease, and runs the risk of spreading the pest infestation to nearby houses. In commercial farms, the damage reduces crop yields, can lead to disease, and also lowers marketable crop, as even minor damage can render a fruit or veggie unmarketable to consumers.

[0005] One solution is to apply one of the many pesticides which is suited to act against the most damaging creature (birds, mammals, rodents); however this is not environmentally safe, as these materials are can be hazardous to the grower during application, and/or to the consumer via ingestion or even skin contact.

[0006] Thus, there is an urgent need for alternative means for controlling garden and/or agricultural pests. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] The present disclosure provides pest deterrent compositions for improved pest control in amateur and commercial plant grows. Specifically, the as-filed specification provides for a pest deterrence composition that is human-safe and based on natural oils and fragrances. The pest deterrent composition can be applied to the soil or used as a foliar spray, as part of liquid fertilizers or granular fertilizers. This formulation is designed to deter both vertebrate and nonvertebrate animals from consuming the leaves, flowers, fruits, and seedlings of food crops. This deterrence is achieved in a manner that does not harm animals, while also being safe for use by the end user.

[0008] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) essential oil; and b) flavoring agent.

[0009] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 20-60% w/w essential oil; b) 5-20% w/w flavoring agent; c) 30-70% w/w carrier oil; and d) 5-20% w/w surfactant.

[0010] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 30-70% w/w edible vegetable oil; b) 20-60% w/w essential oil; c) 5-20% w/w flavoring agent; d) 5-25% w/w alkylphenol ethoxylate; e) 0.1-20% w/w protic solvent; and I 5-50% w/w aprotic solvent.

[0011] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 30-70% w/w sesame seed oil; b) 20-60% w/w lemongrass oil; c) 5-20% w/w methyl anthranilate; d) 5-25% w/w nonylphenol ethoxylate; and optionally e) 5-70% w/w solvent.

[0012] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0.1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; and c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil.

[0013] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil; and d) 50-80% w/w sugar.

[0014] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil; d) 50-80% w/w sugar; and e) 1-5% w/w translocating formulation. [0015] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil; d) 50-80% w/w sugar; e) 1-5% w/w translocating formulation; and f) 0. 1-1.0% w/w weak acid.

[0016] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w lemongrass oil; b) 0.1 -5.0% w/w methyl anthranilate; c) 10-30% w/w sesame seed oil; and d) 50-80% w/w sugar; e) 1-5% w/w translocating formulation; and f) 0.1 -1.0% w/w citric acid.

[0017] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of growing a plant, said method comprising applying the pest deterrent composition of any one of the foregoing embodiments to a plant.

[0018] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of protecting a plant from animal pests, said method comprising applying the pest deterrent composition of any one of the foregoing embodiments to a plant.

[0019] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of recovering yield in a plant damaged by animal pests, said method comprising applying the pest deterrent composition of any one of the foregoing embodiments to a plant.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The accompanying figures, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate some, but not the only or exclusive, example embodiments and/or features. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed herein are to be considered illustrative rather than limiting.

[0021] FIG. 1A shows a graph comparing the percent increase in growth of vegetation as measured viaNVDI in peanut fields treated with a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure compared to untreated control fields. For the treated fields, the graph shows a 35% increase in NVDI at day 20 after treatment and a 47.9% increase at day 35 after treatment. The untreated control fields showed only 21.6% and 23.2% increases in NVDI at day 20 and day 35, respectively. FIG. IB shows a representative photo of the fields on the day of application, showing minimal plant matter due to the significant consumption of the plants by deer pests. FIG. 1C shows an aerial view of the treated fields 37 days after treatment, showing significant plant growth. [0022] FIG. 2A-2B show the results of a field trial of a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure in a soybean field suffering from significant damage caused by deer consumption. The right half of the field was treated with the pest deterrent composition, while the left half of the field was an untreated control. FIG. 2A shows an aerial photo of both sides of the field on day 21 after a first application of the pest deterrent composition to the right side: the right side shows green vegetation, while the left side is largely barren. FIG. 2B shows an aerial photo of both sides of the field on day 30 after the second application of the pest deterrent composition to the right side: the right side shows dense, dark green growth, while the left side shows light green plant growth with more barren patches.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] All publications, patents and patent applications, including any drawings and appendices, are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0024] The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed disclosures, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

Definitions

[0025] As used herein, the term “about” refers to plus or minus 10% of the referenced number, unless otherwise stated or otherwise evident by the context (such as when a range would exceed 100% of a possible value or fall below' 0% of a possible value). For example, reference to an absolute content of a composition ingredient of “about 1%” means that that ingredient can be present at any amount ranging from 0.9% to 1.1% content by weight. The term “about” also refers to plus or minus a day when referring to a length of time measured in days. The term “w/w” or “ t/wt” is used to refer to the w eight percentage of a component of a composition, measured by dividing the weight of the component by the overall weight of the composition comprising the component.

[0026] The term "a" or "an" refers to one or more of that entity; for example, “a solvent” refers to one or more solvents or at least one solvent. As such, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more" and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. In addition, reference to “an element” by the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude the possibility⁷ that more than one of the elements is present, unless the context clearly requires that there is one and only one of the elements.

[0027] The International Code of Zoological Nomenclature defines rank, in the nomenclatural sense, as the level, for nomenclatural purposes, of a taxon in a taxonomic hierarchy (e.g.. all families are for nomenclatural purposes at the same rank, which lies between superfamily and subfamily). While somewhat arbitrary⁷, there are seven main ranks defined by the international nomenclature codes: kingdom, phylum/di vision, class, order, family, genus, and species.

Overview

[0028] The disclosure relates to methods and compositions for improving plant health/repelling pests, wherein the composition is a pest deterrent composition comprising: a) essential oil; and b) flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises a carrier oil. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises a surfactant. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises a solvent. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises a translocating formulation. The disclosure further relates to application methods and compositions for plant pest and pathogen control comprising applying an effective amount of the pest deterrent to plants. Methods of making such compositions are also described.

Essential Oil

[0029] In some embodiments, the present disclosure teaches pest deterrent compositions comprising an essential oil.

[0030] As used herein “essential oil” refers to a natural oil typically obtained by distillation or expression (e.g.. cold pressing) and having the characteristic fragrance of the plant or other source from which it is extracted.

[0031] Persons having skill in the art will be familiar with essential oils that can be used in industrial and agricultural formulations. Considerations in the selection of, and formulation with, essential oils include, but are not limited to concentration, aroma, and cost. Essential oils are highly concentrated, often requiring a large quantity of plant material to produce a small amount of oil. For instance, it may take numerous pounds of lavender flowers to produce just one ounce of lavender essential oil. This can affect cost, but also may also be relevant to dosing, as some oils may have more pronounced effects than others. Essential oils possess the distinctive aroma or fragrance of the plant from which they are extracted. These scents can range from floral to herbal, citrusy, woody, or spicy, depending on the plant source. [0032] A non- limiting list of exemplary essential oils that can be included in the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, allspice berry essential oil, angelica seed essential oil, anise seed essential oil, basil essential oil, bay laurel essential oil, bay essential oil, bergamot essential oil, orange essential oil, camphor essential oil, caraway seed essential oil, cardamom seed essential oil, carrot seed essential oil, cassia essential oil, catnip essential oil, cedarwood essential oil, celery seed essential oil. chamomile german essential oil, chamomile roman essential oil, vanilla essential oil, cacao (chocolate) essential oil, cinnamon bark essential oil, cinnamon leaf essential oil, citronella essential oil, clary sage essential oil, clove bud essential oil, coriander seed essential oil, cypress essential oil, elemi essential oil, eucalyptus essential oil, fennel essential oil, fir needle essential oil, frankincense essential oil, geranium essential oil, ginger essential oil, grapefruit pink essential oil, helichrysum essential oil, hop essential oil, hyssop essential oil, juniper berry essential oil, labdanum essential oil, lavender essential oil, lemon essential oil, lemongrass essential oil, lime essential oil, magnolia essential oil, mandarin essential oil, maijoram essential oil, melissa essential oil, mugwort essential oil, myrrh essential oil, myrtle essential oil, neroli essential oil, niaouli essential oil, nutmeg essential oil, orange sweet essential oil, oregano essential oil, palmarosa essential oil, patchouli essential oil, pennyroyal essential oil, pepper black essential oil, peppermint essential oil, petitgrain essential oil, pine needle essential oil, radiata essential oil, ravensara essential oil, rose essential oil, rosemary essential oil, rosewood essential oil, sage essential oil, sandalwood essential oil, spearmint essential oil, spikenard essential oil, spruce essential oil, star anise essential oil, sweet annie essential oil, tangerine essential oil, tea tree essential oil, thyme red essential oil, verbena essential oil, vetiver essential oil, wintergreen essential oil, wormwood essential oil, yarrow essential oil, ylang ylang extra essential oil, jasmine essential oil. and ylang ylang III essential oil.

[0033] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions of the present disclosure comprise lemongrass essential oil. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions of the present disclosure comprise citronella essential oil. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions of the present disclosure comprise wintergreen essential oil.

Flavoring Agent

[0034] In some embodiments, the present disclosure teaches pest deterrent compositions comprising a flavoring agent. Persons having skill in the art will be familiar with handling and formulation with flavoring agents to produce food and agricultural products. Flavoring agents can be any non-toxic ingredient capable of imparting a distinctive flavor. [0035] In some embodiments, flavoring agents are those which have been Generally Recognized as Safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In some embodiments, flavoring agents are compliant with other FDA guidelines and regulations. Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 on flavorings and certain food ingredients with flavoring properties for use in/on foods was adopted on 16 December 2008 and entered into force on 20 January 2009. It lays down general requirements for safe use of flavorings and provides definitions for different t pes of flavorings: flavoring substances, flavoring preparations, thermal process flavorings, smoke flavorings, flavor precursors, and other flavorings.

[0036] In some embodiments flavoring agents comprise artificial sweeteners, flavor enhancers, artificial flavorings and natural identical flavors.

[0037] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent comprises an artificial sweetener or sugar alcohol or an agriculturally acceptable salt thereof (i.e. an agriculturally acceptable salt of the artificial sweetener or the sugar alcohol). The salt of the artificial sweetener or the sugar alcohol may be any agriculturally acceptable salt, for example, an alkali metal salt such as a sodium salt or a potassium salt; an alkaline earth metal salt such as a magnesium salt or a calcium salt; an amine salt such as a dimethylamine or triethylamine salt or an ammonium salt; an inorganic acid salt such as a hydrochloride, a perchlorate, a sulfate or a nitrate; or an organic acid salt such as an acetate or a methanesulfonate. In some embodiments, the artificial sweetener or the sugar alcohol artificial sweetener or the sugar alcohol, or agriculturally acceptable salt thereof, may also be in the form of a hydrate.

[0038] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent comprises flavor enhancer. As used herein, the term “flavor enhancer” is meant to encompass both flavoring preparations and thermal process flavorings as defined in Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. Thus, the term “flavor enhancer”, as used herein, covers all kinds of reaction flavors obtained by reacting an amine or a source of amine with a reducing sugar or a source of reducing sugar, irrespective of the source of these starting materials.

[0039] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent comprises an artificial flavoring. The term “artificial flavor” or “artificial flavoring” means any substance, the function of which is to impart flavor, which is not derived from a spice, fruit or fruit juice, vegetable or vegetable juice, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud. root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof. [0040] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent comprises a natural or natural identical flavoring. As used herein, “natural flavorings" are those flavor compounds that can be found in nature. “Nature-identical flavorings” are human-made aroma compounds that are chemically identical to some substance that can be found in nature. They are synthesized from chemicals or isolated by means of chemical processes.

[0041] A non-limiting list of flavoring agents compatible with the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure are provided in Table 1.

Table 1: Non-Limiting List of Flavoring Agents. [0042] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 1-30% w/w flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 5-20% w/w flavoring agent.

[0043] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent is a ketone, ether, ester, and/or amino-based flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent is a ketone-based flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent is an ether-based flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent is an ester-based flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent is an amino-based flavoring agent.

[0044] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent comprises benzaldehyde, methyl anthranilate, ethylvanillin, diacetyl, ethyl decadienoate, ethyl propionate, eucalyptol, manzanate, or menthone. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent comprises benzaldehyde, methyl anthranilate, or ethyl propionate. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent comprises methyl anthranilate.

Carrier Oil

[0045] In some embodiments, the present disclosure teaches pest deterrent compositions comprising a carrier oil. In some embodiments, the carrier oil is a medium chain triglyceride oil. In some embodiments, the carrier oil is a vegetable oil.

[0046] As used herein, a '‘vegetable oil” refers to oil derived from a plant material (e.g., grain), oleaginous microorganisms, and the like. Persons having skill in the art will be familiar with the wide variety⁷ of vegetable oils that can be used in agricultural compositions. Non-limiting examples of a vegetable oil can be chosen from com oil, soybean oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower oil. olive oil, castor bean oil, wheat germ oil. sorghum oil, rice bran oil, barley oil, oat oil, millet see oil, rye oil, combinations thereof, and the like. Table 2, below provides additional information on known vegetable oils that are compatible with the present invention.

Table 2: Vegetable Oils

[0047] In some embodiments, vegetable oils of the present disclosure can include a triglyceride component, a diglyceride component and/or a monoglyceride component. In some embodiments, vegetable oils of the present disclosure can be blends of two or more vegetable oils, or of vegetable oils with other oils.

[0048] In some embodiments, a vegetable oil composition can be derived from one or more process streams in a biorefinery⁷. Non-limiting examples process streams in a biorefinery⁷ include a fermentation product stream that has been produced via fermentation of a vegetable material, a whole stillage stream and/or a stream derived from whole stillage such as thin stillage, syrup, oil emulsion, oil product (e.g., distiller's com oil (DCO)) and the like. In some embodiments, one or more such process streams can be concentrated, diluted, or combined (mixed) with one or more biorefinery process streams to provide a vegetable oil composition having a weight ratio of vegetable oil component to water as described above. For example, at least one process stream that includes vegetable oil component (e.g., a stillage stream such as whole stillage, thin stillage, syrup, oil emulsion, oil product (e.g., distiller's com oil (DCO)), and the like) and at least one process stream that includes an aqueous component (e.g., a stillage stream such as whole stillage, backset, recycled process water, thin stillage, syrup, oil emulsion, make-up water (e.g.. fresh make-up water) and the like)) can be combined (mixed) together to form a vegetable oil composition. In some embodiments, the combined streams can be concentrated or diluted as desired (e.g., to provide a vegetable oil composition having a weight ratio of vegetable oil component to water as described above).

Surfactant

[0049] In some embodiments, the present disclosure teaches pest deterrent compositions comprising a surfactant. Surfactants, short for surface-active agents, are compounds that lower the surface tension between two substances, allowing them to mix more effectively. They find wide usage in various industries, including agriculture, personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and food.

[0050] Persons having skill in the art will be familiar with the selection and use of surfactants in agricultural compositions. A non-limiting list of surfactants compatible with the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure includes Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide (CTAB), a Polysorbate, a Cocoamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB), an Alkyl Polyglucoside (APGs), a Sorbitan Ester, a Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Lauryl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI), an Alkylphenol, an Alkylphenol ethoxylate, a Nonylphenol Ethoxylate, a Octylphenol Ethoxylate, and Dimethyl Dioctadecyl Ammonium Chloride.

[0051] Examples of non-ionic surface-active agents include, but are not limited to, alkoxylates, N-substituted fatty acid amides, amine oxides, esters, sugar-based surfactants, polymeric surfactants, and mixtures thereof, allinol, nonoxynol, octoxynol, oxycastrol, oxysorbic (for example, polyoxyethylated sorbitol fatty-acid esters, thalestol, and polyethylene glycol octylphenol ether (TRITON®). In some embodiments, the surfactant is polysorbate-20.

[0052] Examples of ionic surfactants for use with the pest deterrent compositions described herein may include anionic surfactants such as alkali, alkaline earth or ammonium salts of sulfonates, sulfates, phosphates, carboxylates, and mixtures thereof. Examples of sulfonates are alkylarylsulfonates, diphenylsulfonates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, lignin sul-fonates, sulfonates of fatty acids and oils, sulfonates of ethoxylated alkylphenols, sulfonates of alkoxylated arylphe-nols, sulfonates of condensed naphthalenes, sulfonates of dodecyl- and tridecylbenzenes, sulfonates of naphthalenes and alkylnaphthalenes, sulfosuccinates or sulfosuccina-mates. Examples of sulfates are sulfates of fatty acids and oils, of ethoxylated alkylphenols, of alcohols, of ethoxylated alcohols, or of fatty acid esters. Examples of phosphates are phosphate esters. Examples of carboxylates are alkyl carboxylates, and carboxylated alcohol or alkylphenol ethoxy-lates.

[0053] In some embodiments the surfactant in the pest deterrent composition comprises an alkylphenol. Alkylphenols are organic compounds that belong to a class of synthetic-nonionic surfactants widely employed in the manufacture of detergents, adhesives, cosmetics, emulsifiers and household cleaners. Alkylphenols have been used in some formulations of agricultural pesticides to help disperse active ingredients.

[0054] In some embodiments the surfactant in the pest deterrent composition comprises an alkylphenol ethoxylate. Alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs) are a group of organic substances that are used as surfactants in many consumer products. They are nonionic surfactants that are made by reacting branched-chain alkylphenols with ethylene oxide.

[0055] Common types of APEOs include nonylphenol ethoxylates and octylphenol ethoxylates. Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) are derived from nonylphenol and ethylene oxide. Octylphenol ethoxylates (OPEs) are similar in structure to NPEs but derived from octylphenol. Thus, in some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure comprises a nonylphenol ethoxylate. In some embodiments, the surfactant comprises Tergitol™ NP-6.

[0056] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure comprises a octylphenol ethoxylate.

[0057] Nonylphenol and octylphenol ethoxylates can be further categorized based on the length of their ethylene oxide chains. For example, nonylphenol can be reacted with four units of ethylene oxide to form NPE4 compound. When reacted with an ethylene oxide chain of 9 units, it forms an NPE9 compound. Similarly, octylphenol reacted with 4 unit long ethylene oxide chain would form an OPE4 compound

[0058] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions of the present disclosure comprise NPE1 , NPE2, NPE3, NPE4, NPE5, NPE6, NPE7, NPE8, NPE9, NPE10, NPE12, NPE13, NPE14, NPE15, NPE16, NPE17, NPE18, NPE19, or NPE20.

[0059] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions of the present disclosure comprise OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4, OPE5, OPE6, OPE7, OPE8, OPE9, OPE10, OPE12, OPE13, OPE14, OPE15. OPE16, OPE17, OPE18, OPE19, or OPE20. Solvents

[0060] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions of the present disclosure comprise an additional solvent. Solvents can help solubilize non-liquid ingredients, and can also stabilize formulations. Solvents can dilute ingredients, and further impart desirable properties to compositions. Persons having skill in the art will be familiar with selection and formulation of solvents for agricultural applications. In some embodiments, any solvent capable of solubilizing or mixing with one or more ingredients of the pest deterrent composition can be used.

[0061] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions of the present disclosure comprises a protic solvent. As used herein, a “protic solvent” is a solvent that contains a labile H+. The molecules of such solvents readily donate protons (H+) to solutes, often via hydrogen bonding. Thus, protic solvents tend to have a hydrogen atom bound to an oxygen (as in a hydroxyl group -OH), a nitrogen (as in an amine group -NH2 or -NH-), or fluoride (as in hydrogen fluoride).

[0062] A non-limiting list of protic solvents comprise: water, alcohols (such as methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, butanol, etc.), Formic Acid (HCOOH), Acetic Acid (CH3COOH), ammonium hydroxide, HCL, Hydrazine (N2H4), Pyridine (C5H5N), Diethylamine ((C2H5)2NH), Triethylamine ((C2H5)3N, Dimethylformamide (DMF) (C3H7NO), Dimethylacetamide (DMA) (C4H9NO), Ethylene Glycol (C2H6O2), Glycerol (C3H8O3). Phenol (C6H5OH), Propylene Glycol (C3H8O2), Diethyl Ether (C2H5OC2H5), and Triethyl Citrate (C12H20O7).

[0063] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure comprises an aprotic solvent. Aprotic solvents are organic compounds that lack labile hydrogen atoms (e.g., hydrogen directly bonded to electronegative atoms like oxygen or nitrogen). They don't readily donate protons, but are still able to dissolve many solutes. A non-limiting list of aprotic solvents comprise Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO), Dimethylformamide (DMF), Acetonitrile, N,N-Dimethylacetamide (DMAc), Hexamethylphosphoramide (HMPA), Tetrahydrofuran (THF), Methylene Chloride (Di chloromethane), and 1 ,2-Dichloroethane.

Translocating Formulation

[0064] In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure comprises a translocating formulation. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors hypothesize that the translocating formulation allows for the pest deterrent composition to penetrate more deeply into the plant for a more durable, long-lasting effect in deterring pests.

[0065] An exemplary formulation of a translocating formulation herein comprises 85-97% w/w water. 0.1-3% w/w aldehyde. 0.5-5.0% w/w weak acid, and 0.5-5% w/w biopolymer.

[0066] In some embodiments, a translocating formulation of the disclosure comprises a biopolymer, a weak acid, and an aldehyde.

Biopolymer

[0067] Biopolymers serve many functions in agricultural compositions. They can act as plant growth promoters, biopesticides, soil conditioners, and fertilizer coatings, among other uses. Biopolymers are useful because they are largely biodegradable and biocompatible. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation of the disclosure comprises a biopolymer. In some embodiments, the biopolymer is a synthetic biopolymer. In some embodiments, the biopolymer is a polysaccharide, a hydrocolloid, or a protein-based biopolymer.

[0068] In some embodiments, the biopolymer is a natural biopolymer. In some embodiments, the biopolymer is derived from plants, animals, or microorganisms. In some embodiments, the biopolymer is starch, chitosan, cellulose, alginate, pectin, gelatin, or collagen.

[0069] In some embodiments, the biopolymer is a polysaccharide. In some embodiments, the biopolymer is chitosan, chitin, cellulose, alginate, pectin, xanthan gum, hyaluronic acid, guar gum. carrageenan, starch, arabinoxylan. or fucoidan.

[0070] In some embodiments, the biopolymer is biodegradable. In some embodiments, the biopolymer is chitosan, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), lignin, or silk fibroin.

[0071] In some embodiments, the biopolymer is a hydrocolloid. In some embodiments, the biopolymer is alginate, xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan, pectin, or gellan gum.

[0072] In some embodiments, the biopolymer is a protein-based biopolymer. In some embodiments, the biopolymer is gelatin, silk fibroin, keratin, or collagen.

[0073] In some embodiments, the biopolymer is a synthetic polymer. In some embodiments, the biopolymer is polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), or poly vinyl alcohol (PVA).

[0074] In some embodiments, the biopolymer is chitosan. [0075] In some embodiments, a translocating formulation of the disclosure comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%. 4%, 5%, 6%. 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20% w/w biopolymer, including all values and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation comprises 0.1-10% w/w biopolymer. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation comprises 0.5-5% w/w biopolymer. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation comprises 1-3% w/w biopolymer.

Solvent for biopolymer

[0076] In some embodiments, the translocating formulation comprises a solvent for dissolving the biopolymer, depending on the type of biopolmyer. In some embodiments, the solvent is water. In some embodiments, the solvent is an acid, e.g., as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the solvent is an alkaline solution. In some embodiments, the solvent is a polar organic solvent. In some embodiments, the solvent is an ionic liquid. In some embodiments, the solvent is DMSO. In some embodiments, the solvent is a weak acid, e g., as disclosed herein.

Weak acid

[0077] In some embodiments, a translocating formulation of the disclosure comprises a weak acid. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises more than one weak acid. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises two weak acids. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 weak acids.

[0078] In some embodiments, the weak acid is acetic acid, ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, boric acid, citric acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, gallic acid, gluconic acid, glycolic acid, itaconic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, phosphoric acid, propionic acid, sorbic acid, succinic acid, or tartaric acid. In some embodiments, the weak acid is phosphoric acid. In some embodiments, the weak acid is acetic acid. In some embodiments, the weak acid is citric acid. In some embodiments, the weak acid is lactic acid.

[0079] In some embodiments, a translocating formulation of the disclosure comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20% w/w weak acid, including all values and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation comprises 0.1-10% w/w weak acid. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation comprises 0.5-5% w/w weak acid. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation comprises 2-4% w/w weak acid.

Aldehyde

[0080] In some embodiments, a translocating formulation of the disclosure comprises an aldehyde.

[0081] In some embodiments, the aldehyde is acetaldehyde, benzaldehyde, cinnamaldehyde, crotonaldehyde, formaldehyde, furfural, glutaraldehyde, glycolaldehyde, malonaldehyde, paraformaldehyde. In some embodiments, the aldehyde is glutaraldehyde. In some embodiments, the aldehyde is furfural. In some embodiments, the aldehyde is formaldehyde.

[0082] In some embodiments, a translocating formulation of the disclosure comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%. 4%, 5%, 6%. 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20% w/w aldehyde, including all values and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation comprises 0.1-10% w/w aldehyde. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation comprises 0.5-5% w/w aldehyde. In some embodiments, a translocating formulation comprises 1-3% w/w aldehyde.

[0083] In some embodiments, the dilution factor of the compounds may vary, but the relative ratio is maintained. I.e., in some embodiments, the formulation comprises 2:2: 1 :0.7 ratio of biopolymer: weak acid: biopolymer solventaldehyde. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises between a 1:5 and 5: 1 ratio of biopolymer and a weak acid. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises between a 1 : 3 and 3 : 1 ratio of biopolymer and a weak acid. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises between a 1 :5 and 5: 1 ratio of biopolymer and biopolymer solvent. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises between a 1:3 and 3:1 ratio of biopolymer and biopolymer solvent. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises between a 1:5 and 5: 1 ratio of biopolymer and an aldehyde. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises between a 1 :3 and 3: 1 ratio of biopolymer and an aldehyde. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises between a 1 :5 and 5: 1 ratio of a weak acid and an aldehyde. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises between a 1 :3 and 3:1 ratio of a weak acid and an aldehyde.

Other Agents

[0084] In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure comprises a sugar. In some embodiments, the sugar is selected from glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltose, lactose, trehalose, raffinose, stachyose. mannitol, sorbitol, arabinose, xylose, galactose, starch, cellulose, pectin, dextran, glucans, xylan. and molasses. In some embodiments, the sugar is molasses.

[0085] In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure comprises a buffering agent, a solubilizing agent, and/or a preservative. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, fumaric acid, oxalic acid, gluconic acid, succinic acid, ascorbic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, benzoic acid, sorbic acid, itaconic acid, glycolic acid, formic acid, boric acid, phosphoric acid, ammonium citrate, potassium citrate, citric acid, or sodium citrate. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises citric acid.

Pest Deterrent Composition Formulation

[0086] The present disclosure teaches various pest deterrent composition recipes. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises a) an essential oil; and b) a flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises a carrier oil. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises a surfactant. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises a solvent. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises a translocating formulation.

[0087] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition has a density of 6-10 Ibs/gallon, including all values and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition has a density of about 7-9 Ibs/gallon. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition has a density of about 8 Ibs/gallon. In some embodiments, density is measured at about room temperature. In some embodiments, density' is measured at 68°F.

[0088] In some embodiments the pest deterrent composition comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%, 2%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3%, 3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%,

20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%,

36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%,

52%, 53%, 54%. 55%. 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%,

68%. 69%, or 70% vegetable oil by weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 30- 60% w/w carrier oil. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 5-40% w/w carrier oil. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 10-30% w/w carrier oil.

[0089] In some embodiments the pest deterrent composition comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%, 2%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3%, 3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5%. 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%,

20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%,

36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%,

52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%,

68%, 69%, or 70% essential oil by weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 20- 50% w/w essential oil. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 3-30% w/w essential oil. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 5-20% w/w essential oil.

[0090] In some embodiments the pest deterrent composition comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%, 2%. 2.1%, 2.2%. 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%. 2.6%, 2.7%. 2.8%, 2.9%, 3%. 3.1%, 3.2%. 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%,

20%, 21%, 22%, 23%. 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%,

36%. 37%. 38%. 39%. 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%,

52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%,

68%, 69%, or 70% flavoring agent by weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 5- 20% w/w flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 0. 1- 5.0% w/w flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 0.5-2.0% w/w flavoring agent.

[0091] In some embodiments the pest deterrent composition comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%, 2%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3%, 3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%,

20%, 21%. 22%. 23%. 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%,

36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%,

52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%,

68%, 69%, or 70% surfactant by weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 1-25% w/w surfactant. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 5-20% w/w surfactant.

[0092] In some embodiments the pest deterrent composition comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%, 2%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3%, 3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5%. 6%, 7%. 8%. 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%.

20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%,

36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%,

52%, 53%, 54%, 55%. 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%,

68%. 69%. or 70% solvent by weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges therebetween.

[0093] In some embodiments the pest deterrent composition comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%. 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%, 2%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3%, 3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5%. 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%,

20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%,

36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%,

52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%,

68%, 69%, or 70% protic solvent by weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges therebetween.

[0094] In some embodiments the pest deterrent composition comprises about 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%, 2%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3%, 3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5%. 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%. 24%. 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%,

36%, 37%. 38%. 39%. 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%,

52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%,

68%, 69%, or 70% aprotic solvent by weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges therebetween.

[0095] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises about 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%. 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%. 27%. 28%. 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%,

41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%,

57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%,

73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%,

89%, 90%. 91%. 92%, 93%, 94%, or 95% sugar by weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 30-85% w/w sugar. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 50-75% w/w sugar.

[0096] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises an acid, e.g., as a buffering agent, preservative agent, or solubilizing agent. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises about 0.05%. 0.06%, 0.07%, 0.08%, 0.09%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%. 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%. 0.9%, 1%, 1.1%. 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%. 1.5%. 1.6%, 1.7%. 1.8%, 1.9%, 2%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3%, 3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, or 15% acid by weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 0.05%-3% w/w acid. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises 0. 1%-1% w/w acid.

[0097] In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure comprises about 50-80% w/w sugar, about 10-25% w/w carrier oil, about 5-20% w/w essential oil, about 1-5% w/w translocating formulation, about 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent, and about 0. 1-1.0% w/w weak acid.In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure comprises about 60-70% w/w sugar, about 15-20% w/w carrier oil, about 10-15% w/w essential oil, about 2-4% w/w translocating formulation, about 0.5-2.0% w/w flavoring agent, and about 0.1 -0.5% w/w weak acid. [0098] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure comprises other agriculturally acceptable additives, auxiliaries, and/or excipients. Additional components may act to improve the stability of the composition, improve the homogeneity of the composition, improve the function of the composition in planta, or provide other qualities to the composition and/or to the methodology of the present disclosure.

[0099] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises capsaicin. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition does not comprise capsaicin.

[0100] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure further comprises amino acids, minerals, salts, solvents, stabilizers, hormones, enzymes, vitamins, chitin, chitosan, carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid derivatives, linoleic acid and other fatty acids, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), microbial consortia or isolates, bioregulators, biostimulants, and other additives known in the art to elicit a biological, biochemical, physiological, and/or physiochemical response from the plant, or to stabilize the composition, or to elicit specific metabolite production in the plant.

[0101] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure comprises other active or inactive ingredients. In some embodiments, the composition includes at least one fungicide. Example fungicides include, but are not limited to, azoxystrobin, bifujunzhi, coumethoxystrobin, coumoxystrobin; dimoxystrobin, enes-troburin, enoxastrobin, fenaminstrobin, fenoxystrobin, flufenoxystrobin, fluoxastrobin, jiaxiangjunzhi, kresoxim- methyl, mandestrobin, metominostrobin, orysastrobin. picoxystrobin, pyraclostrobin, pyrametostrobin, pyraox-ystrobin, triclopyricarb, trifloxystrobin, methyl 2-[2-(2,5-dimethy Iphenyloxymethy l)pheny 1] -3 -methoxy aery late, pyribencarb, triclopyricarb/chlorodincarb, famoxadon, fena-midon, cyazofamid, amisulbrom, benodanil, bixafen, boscalid, carboxin, fenfuram, fluopyram, flutolanil, fluxapy-roxad, furametpyr, isopyrazam, mepronil, oxy carboxin, pen-flufen, penthiopyrad. sedaxane. tecloftalam. thifluzamide. N-( 4 trifluoromethy Ithio-bipheny 1-2-yl )-3-difluoromethy 1-1-methy 1-1 H-pyrazole-4- carboxamide, N-(2-(l,3,3-trimeth-ylbutyl)phenyl)-l,3-dimethyl-5-fluoro-l H-pyrazole-4- car-boxamide, N-[9-( dichloromethylene )-l,2,3,4-tetrahydro-l, 4-methanonaphthalen-5-yl]-3- ( difluoromethyl)-! -methyl- H-pyrazole-4-carboxamide, diflumetorim, binapacryl, dinobuton, dinocap, meptyl-dinocap, fluazinam, ferimzone, ametoctradin, silthiofam, azaconazole, bitertanol, bromuconazole, cyproconazole, difenoconazole, diniconazole, diniconazole-M, epoxiconazole; fenbuconazole. fluquinconazole, flusilazole, flutriafol, hexaconazole, imibenconazole, ipconazole, metconazole, myclobutanil, oxpoconazole, paclobutrazole, penconazole, propiconazole, prothioconazole, simeconazole, tebuconazole, tetraconazole, triadimefon, triadimenol, triticonazole, uniconazole, imazalil, pefurazoate. prochloraz, triflumizole, pyrimidines, fenari-mol, nuarimol, pyrifenox, triforine, aldimorph, dodemorph, dodemorph acetate, fenpropimorph, tridemorph, fenpropidin, piperalin, spiroxamine, fenhexamid, benalaxyl, benal- axyl-M, kiralaxyl; metalaxyl, metalaxyl-M (mefenoxam), ofurace; oxadixyl, hymexazole, octhilinone, oxolinic acid, bupirimate, benomyl, carbendazim, fuberidazole. thiaben-dazole, thiophanate-methyl, 5-chloro-7-( 4-methyl-piperi-din-l-yl)-6- (2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)-[l,2,4 ]triazolo[l ,5-a ]pyrimidine, diethofencarb, ethaboxam, pencycuron, fluopicolid, zoxainid, metrafenon, pyriofenon, cyprodinil, mepanipyrim, pyrimethanil, fluoroimide, iprodione, procymidone, vinclozolin fenpiclonil, fludioxonil, quinoxyfen, edifenphos, iprobenfos, pyrazophos, isoprothiolane, dicloran, quintozene, tecnazene, tolclofos-methyl, biphenyl, chloroneb, etridiazole, dimethomorph, flumorph, mandipropamid, pyrimorph, benthiavalicarb, iprovalicarb, valifenal-ate and 4-fluorophenyl N- (l-(l-( 4-cyanophenyl)ethanesul-fonyl)but-2-yl)carbamate, propamocarb, propamocarb hydrochloride, ferbam, mancozeb. maneb, metiram. propineb, thiram, zineb, ziram, anilazine, chlorothalonil, captafol, captan, folpet, dichlofluanid, dichlorophen, flusulfamide, hexachlorobenzene, pentachlorophenol, phthalid, tolylfluanid, N-( 4-chloro-2-nitrophenyl)-N- ethyl-4-methyl-benzenesulfonamide, guanidine, dithianon, validamycin, polyoxin B, pyroquilon, tricyclazole, carpropamid. dicyclomet, fenoxanil, and mixtures thereof.

[0102] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition of the present disclosure comprises at least one growth regulator.

[0103] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition comprises an excipient, diluent, binder, disintegrant, inert filler, pH stabilizer, spreader, fixative, defoamer, carrier, antimicrobial agent, fertilizer, nutrient composition, pesticide, herbicide, fungicide, insecticide, nematicide, molluscicide, antifreeze agent, antioxidant, preservative, or anti -aggregation agent.

[0104] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition may be prepared as a concentrate for industrial application and further dilution or as a fully diluted ready -to-apply composition. The pest deterrent composition disclosed herein include liquid and/or dry forms and include dry stock components that are added to water or other liquids prior to application to the plant in an aqueous form. Liquid compositions include aqueous, polar, or non-polar solutions. The compositions may comprise an oil-in-water emulsion or a water-in-oil emulsion. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition is diluted. In some embodiments the pest deterrent composition is concentrated. In some embodiments the composition is aqueous. Methods Comprising Application of Pest Deterrent Compositions

[0105] The present disclosure also provides methods comprising the application of a pest deterrent composition disclosed herein. In one aspect, the disclosure provides a method of growing a plant, said method comprising applying a pest deterrent composition disclosed herein to the plant. In another aspect, the disclosure provides a method of protecting a plant from pests, said method comprising applying a pest deterrent composition disclosed herein to the plant.

Modes of application

[0106] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition is applied to the soil. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition is applied as a soil spray or soil drench. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition is applied as a granular soil treatment.

[0107] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition is applied to the aerial biomass of a plant. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition is applied as a foliar spray.

[0108] In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition is applied to the seeds. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition is applied as a seed treatment or seed coating.

[0109] In some embodiments, pest deterrent compositions of the present disclosure are applied to any plant or plant propagation material that may benefit from protection against pest damage. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions are applied to seeds, seedlings, plants, or plant parts. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions are applied to plant parts. Plant parts include grains, seeds, seedlings, plant tissues, leaves, branches, stems, bulbs, tubers, roots, root hairs, rhizomes, cuttings, flowers, and fruits. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent compositions are applied to grains. In some embodiments, pest deterrent compositions of the disclosure are applied to an area where a plant will grow including soil, a plant root zone or a furrow.

[0110] In some embodiments, timing of application coincides with pressure from pests. In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition is applied before the initiation of crop destruction by pests. For example, in some embodiments, if pests begin crop destruction as soon as a crop emerges, then soil is treated prior to crop emergence, e.g., at or near planting. In some embodiments, if crop destruction begins post crop emergence, then foliar applications are applied and occur as soon as or prior to when damage occurs. In some embodiments, application occurs prior to onset of crop damage. In some embodiments, application occurs after the onset of crop damage, i.e., when damage is discovered. [OHl] In some embodiments, if multiple applications are applied, application frequency is once every 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 weeks, including all values and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, application frequency is about once every 3 weeks. In some embodiments, for emerged plants, application occurs about every 2-4 weeks. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition is applied to the soil and then followed by foliar applications 5-20 days later. In some embodiments, applications occur every 2-4 weeks until crop is harvested or until crop has reached a growth stage that is less susceptible to pest damage. In some embodiments, applications are separated by about 3 weeks. In some embodiments, applications are separated by about 1 month. In some embodiments, applications are separated by 1-2 months.

[0112] In some embodiments, the number of applications on a given plant varies depending on the intensity and frequency of pressure from pests. In some embodiments, more applications are recommended for higher pest pressure: fewer applications are recommended for lower pest pressure. In some embodiments, pest deterrent compositions of the disclosure are applied 1- 100 times, including all values and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the pest deterrent composition of the disclosure is applied 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28. 29, or 30 times.

[0113] In some embodiments, for broadcast soil applications, the pest deterrent composition is applied at a rate of 5-100 fl. oz. per acre, including all values and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, for broadcast soil applications, the pest deterrent composition is applied at a rate of 10-50 fl. oz. per acre. In some embodiments, for broadcast soil applications, the pest deterrent composition is applied at a rate of 20-40 fl. oz. per acre. In some embodiments, for broadcast soil applications, the pest deterrent composition is applied at a rate of about 32 fl. oz. per acre.

[0114] In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure is applied as a foliar application at a rate of 1-100 fl. oz. per acre, including all values and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure is applied as a foliar application at a rate of 5-50 fl. oz. per acre. In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure is applied as a foliar application at a rate of 10-20 fl. oz. per acre. In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure is applied as a foliar application at a rate of about 16 fl. oz. per acre. In some embodiments, a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure is applied as a foliar application at a rate of about 32 fl. oz. per acre. Pests

[0115] Pest deterrent compositions of the disclosure are used to deter pests from consuming or otherwise damaging a plant or part of a plant. In some embodiments, the pest is a vertebrate or invertebrate pest.

[0116] In some embodiments, the pest is an invertebrate pest. In some embodiments, the pest is an arthropod, a mollusk, an annelid, a platyhelminthes, a nematode, or a hemichordate. In some embodiments, the pest is an insect, a worm, a nematode, a flatworm, an arachnid, or a myriapod, in some embodiments, the pest is selected from the list consisting of aphids, whiteflies, caterpillars, armyworms, cutworms, thrips, leafhoppers, grasshoppers, locusts, spider mites, slugs, snails, beetles, weevils, borers, moths, fruit flies, nematodes, com earworms, tomato homworms, Colorado potato beetles, wireworms, flea beetles, com rootworms, cabbage loopers, cucumber beetles, scale insects, Japanese beetles, stink bugs, fruit borers, onion maggots, leaf miners, mealybugs, grasshopper sparrow, raspberry crown borers, raspberry fruitworms, strawberry weevils, olive fruit flies, apple maggots, citrus leafminer, citrus psyllids, banana weevils, mango fruit flies, coffee berry borers, sugarcane borers, rice weevils, sugarcane aphids, sorghum midge, cowpea aphids, and aphelenchoides.

[0117] In some embodiments, the pest is a vertebrate pest. In some embodiments, the pests are selected from deer, rabbits, rats, mice, birds, wild boars, gophers, groundhogs, squirrels, moles, voles, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, skunks, dogs, cats, opossums, armadillos, woodchucks, pocket gophers, bears, chipmunks, badgers, beavers, porcupines, pigs, snakes, frogs, toads, lizards, elk, moose, and shrews. In some embodiments, the pest is warm-blooded. In some embodiments, the pest is a mammal. In some embodiments, the pest is a rodent. In some embodiments, the pest is a deer. In some embodiments, the pest is a swine.

Outcomes

[0118] In some embodiments, a method herein achieves a desired outcome via application of a pest deterrent composition to a plant. In some embodiments, a method of the disclosure results in less pest damage incurred by a plant to which a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure has been applied compared to a control plant. In some embodiments, a method of the disclosure results in higher yield of a plant to which the composition has been applied compared to a control plant.

[0119] In some embodiments, a method of the disclosure results in improved appearance, health, fitness, yield, harvested biomass, harvested weight, harvested volume, number of harvested plant parts, or size of harvested plant parts. Harvestable plant parts include, for example, fruits, vegetables, roots, grains, tubers, leaves, flowers, seeds, and nuts. In some embodiments, e.g., for some grasses, lettuces, feed crops, and forage crops, a harvestable plant part is the entire aerial biomass of the plant. In some embodiments, a method of the disclosure results in fewer animal incursions or reduced length of animal incursions into the planting area.

[0120] In some embodiments, a method herein discourages pests from consuming the leaves, flowers, fruits, and/or seedlings of the plant to which the pest deterrent composition is applied.

[0121] In some embodiments, a method herein allows for recovery' of yield after damage due to pests. In some embodiments, a method herein allows for at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%. 70%. 80%. or 90% yield recovery from a pest-damaged field compared to the yield of an undamaged field. In some embodiments, a method herein allows for about 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% yield recovery from a pest-damaged field compared to the yield of an undamaged field. In some embodiments, a method herein allows for at most about 10%, 20%. 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% yield recovery from a pest-damaged field compared to the yield of an undamaged field.

Plants

[0122] The methods of the present disclosure are applicable to any plant. In some embodiments, the plant is an agricultural crop, an agronomic crop, a horticultural crop, or an ornamental plant. In some embodiments, a method of the present disclosure is employed on an agronomical crop selected from the list consisting of wheat, rice, com, soybean, alfalfa, forage crops, beans, sugar beets, canola, and cotton. In some embodiments, a method of the disclosure is employed on a horticultural crop selected from the list consisting of vegetables, fruits, flowers, ornamentals, and lawn grasses. In some embodiments, a method of the disclosure is employed on an ornamental plant selected from the list consisting of flowers, shrubs, grasses, and trees.

[0123] Plants include both monocots and dicots. In some embodiments, the methods of the disclosure are employed on monocots, such as agapanthus, asparagus, bamboo, bananas, com, daffodils, garlic, ginger, grass, lilies, onions, orchids, rice, sugarcane, tulips, and wheat. In some embodiments, the methods of the disclosure are employed on dicots, such as apples, beans, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, cosmos, daisies, peaches, peppers, potatoes, roses, sweet pea, and tomatoes. In some embodiments, the agricultural crop is a food crop, feed crop, cereal crop, oil seed crop, pulse, fiber crop, sugar crop, forage crop, medicinal crop, root crop, tuber crop, vegetable crop, fruit crop, or garden crop.

[0124] In some embodiments, the plant is a cereal crop. In some embodiments, the plant is a grain-producing plant. In some embodiments, the plant is a wheat, rice, com (maize), barley, oat, rye, quinoa, millet, sorghum, buckwheat, amaranth, teff, spelt, farro, or bulgur plant. In some embodiments, the plant is a wheat, rice, com, soybean, alfalfa, forage crop, bean, sugar beet, canola, or cotton plant. In some embodiments, the plant is a com plant.

EXAMPLES

Example 1: Formulation of Illustrative Pest Deterrent Compositions of the Disclosure Formulation A

[0125] 500 g of safflower oil was charged into a 1 L vessel. 100 g of benzaldehyde liquid was charged into the vessel and mixed until fully dissolved. 300 g of citronella (containing citronellal) was then charged into the vessel and mixed until fully dissolved. 100 g of Nonylphenol 9 mol surfactant was then charged and mixed until fully dissolved.

Formulation B

[0126] 500 g canola oil was charged into a 1 L vessel. 100 g of wintergreen oil (containing methyl salicylate) was charged into the vessel and mixed until fully dissolved. 300 g of ethyl propionate was then charged into the vessel and mixed until fully dissolved. 100 g of Nonylphenol 6 mol surfactant was then charged and mixed until fully incorporated to give the final product.

Formulation C

[0127] 500 g sesame oil was charged into a 1 L vessel. 100 g methyl anthranilate was charged into the vessel and mixed until fully dissolved. 300 g of lemongrass oil was then charged into the vessel and mixed until fully dissolved. 100 g of Nonylphenol 4 mol surfactant was then charged and mixed until fully incorporated to give the final product.

Example 2: Pest Deterrent Composition Comprising Translocating Formulation

[0128] A pest deterrent composition was prepared with active ingredients as in Example 1, with 15-25% w/w carrier oil, 8-15% w/w essential oil; and 0.5-5% w/w flavoring agent. To this was added 55-75% w/w sugar; and 0.1-1.0% w/w citric acid. The formulation also comprised about 1-5% w/w of a translocating formulation to allow for translocation of the pest deterrent composition ingredients into the plant for longer term pest deterrent effects. The translocating formulation comprised 85-97% w/w water, 0.5-5% w/w formaldehyde (37%), 0.5-5% w/w phosphoric acid, 0.5-5% w/w acetic acid, and 0.5-5% w/w chitosan.

[0129] Without wishing to be bound by theory , the inventors theorize that the combination of the essential oil and the flavoring agent produce the deterring effect on pests, while the translocation agent increases the durability of the effect.

Example 3: Application of a Pest Deterrent Composition of the Disclosure to Peanut Plants Enabled Significant Rebound Growth After Pest Damage

Materials and Methods

[0130] A pest deterrent composition of Example 2 was applied at a rate of 16 oz/acre to peanut plants that were under pressure from deer consumption. Results of application were monitored via Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). Percent change in NDVI was measured for 1.37 acres of untreated fields compared to 5.21 acres of treated fields.

Results

[0131] FIG. 1A shows the results in percent change NDVI measured at day 20 and day 35 post-treatment compared to control. The treated fields experienced a significant rebound in peanut plant growth, achieving a 47.9% increase in NDVI compared to only 23.4% in the control field. A photograph from the treated area on the day of application is shown in FIG. IB, when the plants had already experienced a high degree of damage from the deer incursions. FIG. 1C shows an aerial view of the significant growth of vegetation in the treated field 37 days after treatment with the pest deterrent composition, demonstrating that the plants were able to achieve a remarkable recovery of grow th after treatment reduced further pest damage.

[0132] Without being bound by any particular theory, the inventors theorize that the combination of essential oil and flavoring agent in pest deterrent compositions of the disclosure results in flavor combinations and odors that, while being pleasing to vertebrate pests in their individual parts, were unpalatable to vertebrate pests in combination. Application of these compositions to peanut plants resulted in a significant rebound in growth because of the decreased consumption of the plants by pests.

Example 4: Application of Pest Deterrent Composition Salvages Yield in Soybean Field Trial

[0133] A soybean field in North Carolina had experienced significant damage caused by deer. A pest deterrent composition according to Example 2 was applied as a foliar treatment at a rate of 16 oz/acre to one half of the field after the onset of deer-related damage to determine if yield could be rescued. Two applications were made, 21 days apart. The other half of the field was left untreated as a control.

[0134] A typical yield for this soybean field is in the range of 50-60 bushels/acre. Because of the serious damage incurred by deer in this area, the untreated control side of the field did not recover its growth sufficiently throughout the growing season and produced 0 bushels of soybeans. By contrast, the half of the field treated with a pest deterrent composition of the disclosure yielded 25 bushels/acre of soybeans. These results demonstrate that pest deterrent compositions of the disclosure are able to rescue yield from severely pest-damaged fields. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B show photos of the untreated and treated sides of the field, shortly before the second application, and 30 days after the second application of the pest deterrent composition, respectively. These photos demonstrate a clear and marked improvement in soybean growth in the treated side of the field compared to the untreated side of the field.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0135] All references, articles, publications, patents, patent publications, and patent applications cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entireties for all purposes. However, mention of any reference, article, publication, patent, patent publication, and patent application cited herein is not. and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that they constitute valid prior art or form part of the common general knowledge in any country in the w orld.

NUMBERED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0136] Notwithstanding the appended claims, the disclosure sets forth the following numbered embodiments:

1. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) essential oil; and b) flavoring agent.

2. The pest deterrent composition of embodiment 1, wherein the composition comprises 1-75% w/w of essential oil.

3. The pest deterrent composition of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the composition comprises 10-45% w/w of essential oil. The pest deterrent composition of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the composition comprises 5-20% w/w of essential oil or 10-15% w/w of essential oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein the essential oil comprises an aldehyde-containing compound. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein the essential oil comprises an ester-containing compound. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-6. wherein the essential oil is selected from the group consisting of allspice berry essential oil, angelica seed essential oil, anise seed essential oil, basil essential oil, bay laurel essential oil, bay essential oil, bergamot essential oil, blood orange essential oil, camphor essential oil, caraway seed essential oil, cardamom seed essential oil. carrot seed essential oil, cassia essential oil, catnip essential oil, cedarwood essential oil, celery seed essential oil, chamomile german essential oil, chamomile roman essential oil, vanilla essential oil, cacao (chocolate) essential oil, cinnamon bark essential oil, cinnamon leaf essential oil, citronella essential oil, clary’ sage essential oil, clove bud essential oil, coriander seed essential oil, cypress essential oil, elemi essential oil, eucalyptus essential oil, fennel essential oil, fir needle essential oil, frankincense essential oil, geranium essential oil, ginger essential oil, grapefruit pink essential oil, helichrysum essential oil, hop essential oil, hyssop essential oil, juniper berry' essential oil, labdanum essential oil. lavender essential oil, lemon essential oil, lemongrass essential oil, lime essential oil, magnolia essential oil, mandarin essential oil, maijoram essential oil, melissa essential oil, mugwort essential oil, myrrh essential oil, myrtle essential oil, neroli essential oil, niaouli essential oil, nutmeg essential oil, orange sweet essential oil, oregano essential oil, palmarosa essential oil, patchouli essential oil, pennyroyal essential oil, pepper black essential oil, peppermint essential oil, petitgrain essential oil, pine needle essential oil, radiata essential oil, ravensara essential oil, rose essential oil, rosemary’ essential oil, rosewood essential oil, sage essential oil, sandalwood essential oil, spearmint essential oil, spikenard essential oil, spruce essential oil, star anise essential oil, sweet annie essential oil, tangerine essential oil, tea tree essential oil, thyme red essential oil, verbena essential oil, vetiver essential oil, wintergreen essential oil, wormwood essential oil, yarrow essential oil, ylang ylang extra essential oil and ylang ylang III essential oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the essential oil comprises methyl salicylate, neral, citral, geranyl acetate, and/or citronellal. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-8, wherein the essential oil comprises citronella, Wintergreen oil. and/or lemongrass oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-9, wherein the essential oil comprises lemongrass oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-10, wherein the composition comprises 0.1-30% w/w flavoring agent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-11, wherein the composition comprises 0.1-5% w/w flavoring agent or 0.5-2. % w/w flavoring agent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-12, wherein the flavoring agent is a ketone, ether, ester, and/or amino-based flavoring agent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-13, wherein the flavoring agent comprises an artificial sweetener, a flavor enhancer, an artificial flavoring, a flavor extract, or a natural identical flavor. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-14, wherein the flavoring agent comprises benzaldehyde, methyl anthranilate, ethylvanillin, diacetyl, ethyl decadienoate. ethyl propionate, eucalyptol, manzanate, or menthone. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-15, wherein the flavoring agent comprises benzaldehyde, methyl anthranilate, or ethyl propionate. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-16, wherein the flavoring agent comprises methyl anthranilate. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-17, wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-18, wherein the composition comprises 5-80% w/w carrier oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-19, wherein the composition comprises 10-30% w/w carrier oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-20, wherein the composition comprises 15-25% w/w carrier oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-21, wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil, and wherein the carrier oil is a vegetable oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-22, wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil, and wherein the carrier oil is edible. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-23, wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil, wherein the carrier oil is a vegetable oil, and wherein the vegetable oil is selected from the group consisting of: olive oil, canola oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, com oil, palm oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, sesame oil, grapeseed oil, peanut oil. rice bran oil, flaxseed oil, hempseed oil. hazelnut oil, safflower oil. walnut oil. pumpkin seed oil, mustard oil. macadamia nut oil. black cumin seed oil, camelina oil, apricot kernel oil, argan oil, tamanu oil, moringa oil, pistachio oil, pomegranate seed oil, chia seed oil, flaxseed oil, and hempseed oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-24, wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil that is a vegetable oil, and wherein the vegetable oil comprises sesame seed oil, canola oil, or safflower oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-25, wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil that is a vegetable oil. and wherein the vegetable oil comprises sesame seed oil. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-26, wherein the composition comprises a surfactant. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-27, wherein the composition comprises 5-25% w/w surfactant. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-28, wherein the composition comprises a surfactant, and wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of sodium laury l sulfate (SLS), cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), a polysorbate, a cocoamidopropyl betaine (CAPB), an alkyl poly glucoside (APGs), a sorbitan ester, a sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), lauryl glucoside, sodium cocoyl isethionate (SCI), an alkylphenol, an alkylphenol ethoxylate, a nonylphenol ethoxylate, a octylphenol ethoxylate, and dimethyl dioctadecyl ammonium chloride. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-29, wherein the composition comprises a surfactant, and wherein the surfactant comprises an alkylphenol. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-30, wherein the composition comprises a surfactant, and wherein the surfactant comprises an alkylphenol ethoxylate. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-31, wherein the composition comprises a surfactant, and wherein the surfactant comprises a nonylphenol ethoxylate. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-32, wherein the composition comprises a surfactant, and wherein the surfactant comprises an octylphenol ethoxylate. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-33, wherein the composition comprises a surfactant, and wherein the surfactant comprises Tergitol™ NP-6, NP-4, or NP-9. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-34, wherein the composition comprises a solvent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-35, wherein the composition comprises a solvent, and wherein the solvent comprises a protic solvent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-36, wherein the composition comprises a solvent, and wherein the solvent comprises an aprotic solvent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-37, wherein the composition comprises a protic solvent and an aprotic solvent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-38, wherein the composition comprises a solvent, and wherein the solvent comprises a protic solvent selected from the group consisting of: water, ethanol, methanol, isopropanol, butanol, formic acid, acetic acid, ammonia solution, hydrochloric acid, hydrazine, pyridine, diethylamine, triethylamine, dimethylformamide, dimethylacetamide, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, triethyl citrate, and phenol. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-39, wherein the composition comprises a solvent, and wherein the solvent comprises an aprotic solvent selected from the group consisting of: Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO), Dimethylformamide (DMF), Acetonitrile, N,N-Dimethylacetamide (DMAc), Hexamethylphosphoramide (HMPA), Tetrahydrofuran (THF), Methylene Chloride (Dichloromethane), and 1 ,2-Dichloroethane. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-40, wherein the composition comprises 5-70% w/w solvent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-41, wherein the composition comprises 0. 1-20% w/w protic solvent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-42, wherein the composition comprises 5-50% w/w aprotic solvent. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-43, wherein the composition comprises a sugar. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-44, wherein the composition comprises a sugar selected from the list consisting of: glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltose, lactose, trehalose, raffinose, stachyose, mannitol, sorbitol, arabinose, xylose, galactose, starch, cellulose, pectin, dextran, glucans, xylan, molasses. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-45, wherein the composition comprises about 30-90% w/w sugar, 50-80% w/w sugar, or 60-70% w/w sugar. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-45, wherein the composition comprises a weak acid, optionally selected from acetic acid, ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, boric acid, citric acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, gallic acid, gluconic acid, glycolic acid, itaconic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, phosphoric acid, propionic acid, sorbic acid, succinic acid, and tartaric acid. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-45, wherein the composition comprises 0. 1-1.0% w/w or 0. 1-0.5% w/w of a weak acid. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-48, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-49, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising a biopolymer. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-50, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising a biopolymer selected from alginate, arabinoxylans, carrageenan, cellulose, chitin, chitosan, collagen, fucoidan, gellan gum, gelatin, guar gum, hyaluronic acid, keratin, lignin, pectin, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), silk fibroin, starch, and xanthan gum. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-51, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising a biopolymer selected from chitin, chitosan, cellulose, alginate, pectin, hyaluronic acid, fucoidan, guar gum, and xanthan gum. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-52, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising 0. 1-10.0% w/w biopolymer. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-53, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising 0.5-5.0% w/w biopolymer. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-54, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising one or more weak acids. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-55, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising one or more weak acids selected from acetic acid, ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, boric acid, citric acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, gallic acid, gluconic acid, glycolic acid, itaconic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, phosphoric acid, propionic acid, sorbic acid, succinic acid, and tartaric acid. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-56, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising one or more weak acids selected from acetic acid, citric acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, phosphoric acid, propionic acid, and sorbic acid. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-57, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising 0. 1-10.0% w/w of one or more weak acids. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-58, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising 0.5-5.0% w/w of one or more weak acids. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-59, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising an aldehyde. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-60, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising an aldehyde selected from acetaldehyde, benzaldehyde, cinnamaldehyde, crotonaldehyde, formaldehyde, furfural, glutaraldehyde, glycolaldehyde, malonaldehyde, and paraformaldehyde. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-61, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising an aldehyde selected from benzaldehyde, cinnamaldehyde, formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, and paraformaldehyde. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-62, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising 0.5-5.0% w/w of an aldehyde. The pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-63, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising 80-97% w/w water. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 20-60% w/w essential oil; b) 5-20% w/w flavoring agent; c) 30-70% w/w carrier oil; and d) 5-20% w/w surfactant. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 30-70% w/w edible vegetable oil; b) 20-60% w/w essential oil; c) 5-20% w/w flavoring agent; d) 5-25% w/w alkylphenol ethoxylate; e) 0. 1-20% w/w protic solvent; and f) 5-50% w/w aprotic solvent. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 30-70% w/w sesame seed oil; b) 20-60% w/w lemongrass oil; c) 5-20% w/w methyl anthranilate; d) 5-25% w/w nonylphenol ethoxylate; and optionally e) 5 -70% w/w s ol v ent. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; and c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil; and d) 50-80% w/w sugar. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil; d) 50-80% w/w sugar; and e) 1 -5% w/w translocating formulation. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil; d) 50-80% w/w sugar; e) 1-5% w/w translocating formulation; and f) 0.1-1.0% w/w weak acid. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w lemongrass oil; b) 0.1-5.0% w/w methyl anthranilate; c) 10-30% w/w sesame seed oil; and d) 50-80% w/w sugar; e) 1-5% w/w translocating formulation; and f) 0.1-1.0% w/w citric acid. A method of growing a plant, said method comprising applying the pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-72 to a plant. A method of protecting a plant from animal pests, said method comprising applying the pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-72 to a plant. A method of recovering yield in a plant damaged by animal pests, said method comprising applying the pest deterrent composition of any one of embodiments 1-72 to a plant. The method of any one of embodiments 73-75, wherein the pest deterrent repels a pest selected from the group consisting of: deer, rabbits, rats, mice, birds, wild boars, gophers, groundhogs, squirrels, moles, voles, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, skunks, dogs, cats, opossums, armadillos, woodchucks, pocket gophers, bears, chipmunks, badgers, beavers, porcupines, pigs, elk, moose, and shrews. The method of any one of embodiments 73-75, wherein the pest deterrent repels deer. The method of any one of embodiments 73-77, wherein a plant or grain receiving application of the pest deterrent composition displays less pest damage compared to a control plant or grain not receiving the pest deterrent composition. The method of any one of embodiments 73-78, wherein a plant receiving application of the pest deterrent composition displays at least about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95% less pest damage compared to a control plant not receiving the pest deterrent composition. The method of any one of embodiments 73-78, wherein a plant receiving application of the pest deterrent composition displays at least about 10% less pest damage compared to a control plant not receiving the pest deterrent composition. The method of any one of embodiments 73-80, wherein the plant is a grain. The method of any one of embodiments 73-81, wherein the plant is a peanut, wheat, rice, com, soybean, alfalfa, forage crop, bean, sugar beet, canola, or cotton plant. The method of any one of embodiments 73-82, wherein the plant comprises a vegetable, fruit, flower, ornamental, lawn grass, shrub, or tree. The method of any one of embodiments 73-83, wherein fields comprising plants receiving applications of the pest deterrent composition suffer from fewer animal incursions, compared to fields comprising control plants not receiving the pest deterrent composition. The method of any one of embodiments 73-84, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied as a soil spray or soil drench. The method of any one of embodiments 73-85, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied as a foliar spray. The method of any one of embodiments 73-86, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied as a seed treatment or seed coating. The method of any one of embodiments 73-87, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied as a granular soil treatment. The method of any one of embodiments 73-88, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied 1-10 times to the plant. The method of any one of embodiments 73-89, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied once every 2-4 weeks. The method of any one of embodiments 73-90, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied at a rate of 5-50 fl. oz. per acre.

Claims

1. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) essential oil; and b) flavoring agent.

2. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises 1-25% w/w of essential oil, optionally 5-20% essential oil.

3. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the essential oil comprises an aldehyde-containing compound or an ester-containing compound.

4. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the essential oil is selected from the group consisting of allspice berry essential oil, angelica seed essential oil, anise seed essential oil, basil essential oil, bay laurel essential oil, bay essential oil, bergamot essential oil, blood orange essential oil, camphor essential oil, caraway seed essential oil, cardamom seed essential oil, carrot seed essential oil, cassia essential oil, catnip essential oil, cedarwood essential oil, celery seed essential oil, chamomile german essential oil, chamomile roman essential oil, vanilla essential oil. cacao (chocolate) essential oil. cinnamon bark essential oil, cinnamon leaf essential oil, citronella essential oil, clary sage essential oil, clove bud essential oil, coriander seed essential oil, cypress essential oil, elemi essential oil, eucalyptus essential oil, fennel essential oil, fir needle essential oil, frankincense essential oil, geranium essential oil, ginger essential oil, grapefruit pink essential oil, helichrysum essential oil, hop essential oil, hyssop essential oil, juniper berry essential oil, labdanum essential oil, lavender essential oil, lemon essential oil, lemongrass essential oil, lime essential oil, magnolia essential oil, mandarin essential oil, marjoram essential oil, melissa essential oil, mugwort essential oil, myrrh essential oil, myrtle essential oil. neroli essential oil, niaouli essential oil, nutmeg essential oil, orange sweet essential oil, oregano essential oil, palmarosa essential oil, patchouli essential oil, pennyroyal essential oil, pepper black essential oil, peppermint essential oil, petitgrain essential oil, pine needle essential oil, radiata essential oil, ravensara essential oil, rose essential oil, rosemary essential oil, rosewood essential oil. sage essential oil, sandalwood essential oil, spearmint essential oil, spikenard essential oil, spruce essential oil, star anise essential oil, sweet annie essential oil, tangerine essential oil, tea tree essential oil, thyme red essential oil, verbena essential oil, vetiver essential oil, wintergreen essential oil, wormwood essential oil, yarrow essential oil, ylang ylang extra essential oil and ylang ylang III essential oil.

5. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the essential oil comprises methyl salicylate, neral, citral, geranyl acetate, and/or citronellal.

6. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the essential oil comprises citronella, wintergreen oil, and/or lemongrass oil, optionally wherein the essential oil comprises lemongrass oil.

7. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises 0. 1-10% w/w flavoring agent, optionally 0.5-5.0% w/w flavoring agent.

8. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the flavoring agent: a) is a ketone, ether, ester, and/or amino-based flavoring agent; b) comprises an artificial sweetener, a flavor enhancer, an artificial flavoring, a flavor extract, or a natural identical flavor; and/or c) comprises benzaldehyde, methyl anthranilate, ethylvanillin, diacetyl, ethyl decadienoate, ethyl propionate, eucalyptol, manzanate, or menthone, optionally wherein the flavoring agent comprises benzaldehyde, methyl anthranilate, or ethyl propionate, optionally wherein the flavoring agent comprises methyl anthranilate.

9. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil, optionally wherein the composition comprises 20-80% w/w carrier oil, optionally 30-70% w/w carrier oil.

10. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil, optionally 10-30% w/w carrier oil, optionally 15-25% w/w carrier oil.

11. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil, and wherein the carrier oil is a vegetable oil, optionally an edible oil.

12. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil, wherein the carrier oil is a vegetable oil, and wherein the vegetable oil is selected from the group consisting of: olive oil, canola oil. soybean oil, sunflower oil. com oil, palm oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, sesame oil, grapeseed oil, peanut oil, rice bran oil, flaxseed oil, hempseed oil, hazelnut oil, safflower oil, walnut oil, pumpkin seed oil, mustard oil, macadamia nut oil, black cumin seed oil. camelina oil, apricot kernel oil, argan oil. tamanu oil, moringa oil, pistachio oil, pomegranate seed oil, chia seed oil, flaxseed oil, and hempseed oil.

13. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises a carrier oil that is a vegetable oil, and wherein the vegetable oil comprises sesame seed oil, canola oil, or safflower oil, optionally sesame seed oil.

14. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises a surfactant, optionally 5-25% w/w surfactant, optionally wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). a polysorbate, a cocoamidopropyl betaine (CAPB), an alkyl polyglucoside (APGs), a sorbitan ester, a sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), lauryl glucoside, sodium cocoyl isethionate (SCI), an alkylphenol, an alkylphenol ethoxylate, a nonylphenol ethoxylate, a octylphenol ethoxylate, and dimethyl dioctadecyl ammonium chloride.

15. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises a surfactant, and wherein the surfactant comprises: a) an alkylphenol, optionally an alkylphenol ethoxylate; b) a nonylphenol ethoxylate; c) an octylphenol ethoxylate; or d) Tergitol™ NP-6, NP-4, or NP-9.

16. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises a solvent, optionally wherein: a) the composition comprises a protic solvent or an aprotic solvent; b) the composition comprises a protic solvent and an aprotic solvent; c) the composition comprises a protic solvent selected from the group consisting of: water, ethanol, methanol, isopropanol, butanol, formic acid, acetic acid, ammonia solution, hydrochloric acid, hydrazine, pyridine, diethylamine, triethylamine, dimethylformamide, dimethylacetamide, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, tri ethyl citrate, and phenol; d) the composition comprises an aprotic solvent selected from the group consisting of: Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO). Dimethylformamide (DMF), Acetonitrile, N,N-Dimethylacetamide (DMAc), Hexamethylphosphoramide (HMPA), Tetrahydrofuran (THF), Methylene Chloride (Dichloromethane), and 1,2- Dichloroethane; and/or e) the composition comprises 5-70% w/w solvent, optionally wherein the composition comprises 0.1-20% w/w protic solvent and/or 5-50% w/w aprotic solvent.

17. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1. wherein the composition comprises a sugar, optionally selected from the list consisting of: glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltose, lactose, trehalose, raffinose, stachyose, mannitol, sorbitol, arabinose, xylose, galactose, starch, cellulose, pectin, dextran, glucans, xylan, molasses.

18. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises about 30-90% w/w sugar, 50-80% w/w sugar, or 60-70% w/w sugar.

19. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises a weak acid, optionally selected from acetic acid, ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, boric acid, citric acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, gallic acid, gluconic acid, glycolic acid, itaconic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, phosphoric acid, propionic acid, sorbic acid, succinic acid, and tartaric acid.

20. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises 0. 1 - 1.0% w/w or 0.1 -0.5% w/w of a weak acid.

21. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation, optionally wherein the formulation comprises: a biopolymer, a weak acid, and an aldehyde.

22. The pest deterrent composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises a translocating formulation comprising: a) 0. 1-10.0% w/w, optionally 0.5-5.0% w/w, biopolymer selected from chitosan, alginate, arabinoxylans, carrageenan, cellulose, chitin, collagen, fucoidan, gellan gum, gelatin, guar gum, hyaluronic acid, keratin, lignin, pectin, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), silk fibroin, starch, and xanthan gum, optionally selected from chitin, chitosan, cellulose, alginate, pectin, hyaluronic acid, fucoidan, guar gum, and xanthan gum. optionally chitosan; b) 0. 1-10.0% w/w, optionally 0.5-5.0% w/w, one or more weak acids, optionally selected from acetic acid, ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, boric acid, citric acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, gallic acid, gluconic acid, glycolic acid, itaconic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, phosphoric acid, propionic acid, sorbic acid, succinic acid, and tartaric acid, optionally acetic acid and/or phosphoric acid; c) 0.1-10.0% w/w, optionally 0.5-5.0% w/w, of an aldehyde, optionally selected from acetaldehyde, benzaldehyde, cinnamaldehyde, crotonaldehyde, formaldehyde, furfural, glutaraldehyde, glycolaldehyde, malonaldehyde, and paraformaldehyde, optionally formaldehyde; and d) 80-97% w/w water.

23. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; and c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil, and optionally: i) 50-80% w/w sugar and/or ii) 1-5% w/w translocating formulation.

24. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w essential oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w flavoring agent; c) 10-30% w/w carrier oil; d) 50-80% w/w sugar; e) 1-5% w/w translocating formulation; and f) 0.1-1.0% w/w weak acid.

25. A pest deterrent composition comprising: a) 5-20% w/w lemongrass oil; b) 0. 1-5.0% w/w methyl anthranilate; c) 10-30% w/w sesame seed oil; and d) 50-80% w/w sugar; e) 1-5% w/w translocating formulation; and f) 0.1- 1.0% w/w citric acid.

26. A method of growing a plant, said method comprising applying the pest deterrent composition of any one of claims 1-25 to a plant.

27. A method of protecting a plant from animal pests, said method comprising applying the pest deterrent composition of any one of claims 1-25 to a plant.

28. A method of recovering yield in a plant damaged by animal pests, said method comprising applying the pest deterrent composition of any one of claims 1-25 to a plant.

29. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the pest deterrent repels a pest selected from the group consisting of: deer, rabbits, rats, mice, birds, wild boars, gophers, groundhogs, squirrels, moles, voles, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, skunks, dogs, cats, opossums, armadillos, woodchucks, pocket gophers, bears, chipmunks, badgers, beavers, porcupines, pigs, elk, moose, and shrews.

30. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the pest deterrent repels deer.

31 . The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein a plant or grain receiving application of the pest deterrent composition displays less pest damage compared to a control plant or grain not receiving the pest deterrent composition.

32. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein a plant receiving application of the pest deterrent composition displays at least about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95% less pest damage compared to a control plant not receiving the pest deterrent composition.

33. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein a plant receiving application of the pest deterrent composition displays at least about 10% less pest damage compared to a control plant not receiving the pest deterrent composition.

34. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the plant is a grain.

35. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the plant is a peanut, wheat, rice, com, soybean, alfalfa, forage crop, bean, sugar beet, canola, or cotton plant.

36. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the plant comprises a vegetable, fruit, flower, ornamental, lawn grass, shrub, or tree.

37. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein fields comprising plants receiving applications of the pest deterrent composition suffer from fewer animal incursions, compared to fields comprising control plants not receiving the pest deterrent composition.

38. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied as a soil spray or soil drench.

39. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied as a foliar spray.

40. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied as a seed treatment or seed coating.

41. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied as a granular soil treatment.

42. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied 1-10 times to the plant.

43. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied once every 2-4 weeks.

44. The method of any one of claims 26-28. wherein the pest deterrent composition is applied at a rate of 5-50 fl. oz. per acre.