WO2010126794A1 - Methods for increasing growth and yield of plants with methionine compounds - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention encompasses a method for increasing the growth and yield of plants. The method comprises administering to the plant a composition comprising an amount of a methionine compound that results in an increase in plant growth or yield compared to the growth or yield of the plant without the administration of the methionine compound.

Description

METHODS FOR INCREASING GROWTH AND YIELD OF PLANTS WITH

METHIONINE COMPOUNDS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention provides methods for enhancing the growth and yield of plants by administering methionine compounds to the plant.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Under natural growth conditions, plants use nutrients from the soil, water and solar energy to produce all the compounds needed for vegetative and productive development. Unfavorable weather conditions, poor soil fertility, pest attacks or diseases may impair the complicated metabolic processes of the plant, resulting in slower development and reduced yields, especially under intensive crop production techniques. Supplementing plants with compounds to help the plant overcome these stresses, as such, may provide a means to increase plant growth and yield.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Accordingly, one aspect of the invention encompasses a method for increasing the growth or yield of a plant. The method comprises administering to the plant a composition comprising an amount of a methionine compound that results in an increase in plant growth or yield compared to the growth or yield of the plant without the administration of the methionine compound.

[0004] Other aspects and iterations of the invention are described more thoroughly below.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention provides compositions and methods for providing a methionine compound to a plant. Typically, the methionine compound increases the growth and/or yield of the plant. Suitable methionine compounds are described below.

(I) Methionine Compounds

[0006] One aspect of the invention encompasses compounds having a methionine derivative or methionine analog (hereinafter referred to as "methionine compound").

(a) Methionine Sulfoxides and Sulfones

[0007] In one embodiment, the methionine compound is a methionine sulfoxide or methionine sulfone having formula (I):

wherein:

^* is a chiral carbon;

R₁ is methyl or ethyl;

R₂ is oxygen or hydrogen;

R₃ is an acyl group or hydrogen; and n is an integer from 1 to 3.

[0008] Compounds corresponding to formula (I) may be a methionine sulfoxide (i.e., when R₂ is hydrogen) or a methionine sulfone (i.e., when R₂ is oxygen). Depending upon the embodiment, the compound having formula (I) may be normethionine (i.e., n is 1 ), methionine (i.e., n is 2) or homomethionine (i.e., n is 3). In certain embodiments, when R₃ is an acyl group, the compound having formula (I) may be an acetyl methionine sulfoxide or an acetyl methionine sulfone. Examples of suitable acyl groups include formyl, acetyl, propionyl and succinyl. Exemplary acyl groups are formyl and acetyl. The compound having formula (I) may also be an ester derivative. Examples of suitable ester derivatives include methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, and butyl esters. For each embodiment with compounds having formula (I), both the D- and L-isomers are included within the scope of the invention. The invention also encompasses salts of compounds having formula (I). Suitable examples of salts include ammonium salts, alkaline earth metal salts (e.g., magnesium and calcium), alkali metal salts (e.g., lithium, sodium, and potassium), copper salts, zinc salts, cobalt salts, chromium salts, manganese salts, and iron salts.

[0009] In one embodiment, the compound having formula (I) is L- methionine sulfoxide or D-methionine sulfoxide (i.e., Ri is methyl; R₂ is hydrogen, R₃ is hydrogen and n is 2). In an alternative embodiment, the compound having formula (I) is L-methionine sulfone or D-methionine sulfone (i.e., Ri is methyl; R₂ is oxygen, R₃ is hydrogen and n is 2). In a further embodiment, the compound having formula (I) is N-acetyl-L-methionine sulfoxide or N-acetyl-D-methionine sulfoxide (i.e., Ri is methyl; R₂ is hydrogen, R₃ is acetyl and n is 2). In another embodiment, the compound having formula (I) is N-formyl-L-methionine sulfoxide or N-formyl-D-methionine sulfoxide (i.e., Ri is methyl; R₂ is hydrogen, R₃ is formyl and n is 2). In still another embodiment, the compound corresponding to formula (I) is N-acetyl-L-methionine sulfone or N-acetyl-D-methionine sulfone (i.e., Ri is methyl; R₂ is oxygen, R₃ is acetyl and n is 2). In an additional embodiment, the compound corresponding to formula (I) is N-formyl-L- methionine sulfone or N-formyl-D-methionine sulfone (i.e., Ri is methyl; R₂ is oxygen, R₃ is formyl and n is 2).

(b) Acyl Methionine Compounds

[0010] In an alternative embodiment, the methionine compound is an acyl methionine derivative having formula (II):

wherein:

^* is a chiral carbon; R₄ is methyl or ethyl; R₅ is an acyl group; n is an integer from 1 to 3.

[0011] The compound having formula (II) may be normethionine

(i.e., n is 1 ), methionine (i.e., n is 2) or homomethionine (i.e., n is 3). Examples of suitable acyl groups (i.e., R₅) include formyl, acetyl, propionyl and succinyl. Exemplary acyl groups are formyl and acetyl. The compound having formula (II) may also be an ester derivative. Examples of suitable ester derivatives include methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, and butyl esters. For each embodiment with compounds having formula (II), both the D- and L-isomers are included within the scope of the invention. The invention also encompasses salts of compounds having formula (II). Suitable examples of salts include ammonium salts, alkaline earth metal salts (e.g., magnesium and calcium), alkali metal salts (e.g., lithium, sodium, and potassium), copper salts, zinc salts, cobalt salts, chromium salts, manganese salts, and iron salts.

[0012] In one embodiment, the compound having formula (II) is N- acetyl-L-methionine or N-acetyl-D-methionine (i.e., R₄ is methyl; R₅ is acetyl and n is 2). In another embodiment, the compound having formula (I) is N-formyl-L- methionine or N-formyl-D-methionine (i.e., R₄ is methyl; R₅ is formyl and n is 2). In still another embodiment, the compound having formula (II) is N-propionyl-L- methionine or N-propionyl-D-methionine (i.e., R₄ is methyl; R₅ is propionyl and n is 2). In a further embodiment, the compound having formula (II) is N-succinyl-L- methionine or N-succinyl-D-methionine (i.e., R₄ is methyl; R₅ is succinyl and n is 2).

(c) Peptides having Methionine

[0013] In a further alternative embodiment, the methionine compound may include more than one methionine amino acid residue. In this context, the methionine compound may be a peptide that includes from about 1 to about 5 methionine amino acid residues. In an additional embodiment, the methionine compound may be a peptide that has from about 2 to about 4 methionine amino acid residues. In a further embodiment, the methionine compound may be a peptide having three methionine amino acid residues. In an exemplary embodiment, the methionine compound may be a dipeptide corresponding to formula (III):

(III) wherein:

^* is a chiral carbon;

R₆ and Ri₂ are independently methyl or ethyl;

R₇, Rs, Rio and Rn are independently oxygen or hydrogen;

Rg is an acyl group or hydrogen; n is an integer from 1 to 3; and m is an integer from 1 to 3.

[0014] Compounds corresponding to formula (III) may include one methionine sulfoxide group (e.g., one of R₇ or R₈ is hydrogen and one is oxygen) or two methionine sulfoxide groups (e.g., one of R₇ or R₈ is hydrogen and one is oxygen; and one of Rn or R₁₂ is hydrogen and one is oxygen). Alternatively, compounds corresponding to formula (III) may include one methionine sulfone group (e.g., R₇ or R₈ are oxygen) or two methionine sulfone groups (e.g., R₇, R₈, Rio, and Rn are oxygen). Depending upon the embodiment, the compound having formula (III) may include, one or two normethionines (i.e., n and/or m is 1 ), one or two methionines (i.e., n and/or m is 2) or one or two homomethionines (i.e., n and/or m is 3), and any combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the compound having formula (III) may include an acyl group. Examples of suitable acyl groups include formyl, acetyl, propionyl and succinyl. Exemplary acyl groups are formyl and acetyl. The compound having formula (III) may also be an ester derivative. Examples of suitable ester derivatives include methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, and butyl esters. For each embodiment with compounds having formula (III), both the D- and L-isomers are included within the scope of the invention. In one embodiment the compound may be a D-D-isomer. In an alternative embodiment, the compound may be L-L-isomer. In a further embodiment, the compound may be a D-L-isomer. The invention also encompasses salts of compounds having formula (III). Suitable examples of salts include ammonium salt, alkaline earth metal salts (e.g., magnesium and calcium), alkali metal salts (e.g., lithium, sodium, and potassium), copper salts, zinc salts, cobalt salts, chromium salts, manganese salts, and iron salts.

(d) Hydroxy! Analogs of Methionine

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the methionine compound is a hydroxyl analog of methionine. In one embodiment, the hydroxyl analog of methionine is a compound having formula (IV):

(IV)

wherein:

^* is a chiral carbon;

Ri₃ is methyl or ethyl; and

Ri₄ and Ri₅ are independently oxygen or hydrogen. [0016] Compounds corresponding to formula (IV) may be a methionine sulfoxide hydroxyl analog (i.e., when one of Ri₄ or Ri₅ is hydrogen and one is oxygen) or a methionine sulfone hydroxyl analog (i.e., when Ri₄ and Ri₅ are oxygen). The compound having formula (IV) may be normethionine (i.e., n is 1 ), methionine (i.e., n is 2) or homomethionine (i.e., n is 3). In an exemplary embodiment, the compound having formula (IV) is methionine. The compound having formula (IV) may also be an ester derivative. Examples of suitable ester derivatives include methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, and butyl esters. For each embodiment with compounds having formula (IV), both the D- and L-isomers are included within the scope of the invention. The invention also encompasses salts of compounds having formula (IV). Suitable examples of salts include ammonium salts, alkaline earth metal salts (e.g., magnesium and calcium), alkali metal salts (e.g., lithium, sodium, and potassium), copper salts, zinc salts, cobalt salts, chromium salts, selenium salts, manganese salts, and iron salts. [0017] In a further exemplary embodiment, the methionine compound is the hydroxyl analog of methionine corresponding to formula (V):

[0018] The compound having formula (V) is 2-hydroxy-

4(methylthio)-butanoic acid (commonly known as "HMTBA" and sold by Novus International, St. Louis, Mo under the trade name ALIMET®). A variety of HMTBA salts, chelates, esters, amides, and oligomers are also suitable for use in the invention. Representative salts of HMTBA, in addition to the ones described below, include the ammonium salts, the stoichiometric and hyperstoichiometric alkaline earth metal salts (e.g., magnesium and calcium), the stoichiometric and hyperstoichiometric alkali metal salts (e.g., lithium, sodium, and potassium), and the stoichiometric and hyperstoichiometric zinc salt. Representative esters of HMTBA include the methyl, ethyl, 2-propyl, butyl, and 3-methylbutyl esters of HMTBA. Representative amides of HMTBA include methylamide, dimethylamide, ethylmethylamide, butylamide, dibutylamide, and butylmethylamide. Representative oligomers of HMTBA include its dimers, trimers, tetramers and oligomers that include a greater number of repeating units.

[0019] In another embodiment, the compound may be selenomethionine. In this iteration, for example, the compound may be CH₃-Se- CH₂CH₂CHNH₂COOH .

[0020] In another embodiment, the compound may be methoxinine.

In this iteration, for example, the compound may be CH₃-O- CH₂CH₂CHNH₂COOH .

[0021] In another embodiment, the compound may be ethionine. In this iteration, for example, the compound may be CH₃CH₂S- CH₂CH₂CHNH₂COOH . [0022] In another embodiment, the compound may be methionine sulfoxide. In this iteration, for example, the compound may be CH₃S=O- CH₂CH₂CHNH₂COOH .

[0023] In another embodiment, the compound may be methionine sulfoximine. In this iteration, for example, the compound may be CH₃(S=O=N)- CH₂CH₂CHNH₂COOH .

[0024] In another embodiment, the compound may be norvaline. In this iteration, for example, the compound may be (CH₃)₂CH₂- CH₂CH₂CHNH₂COOH .

[0025] In another embodiment, the compound may be norleucine.

In this iteration, for example, the compound may be CH₃- CH₂- CH₂CH₂CHNH₂COOH .

(II) Compositions containing Methionine Compounds

[0026] Yet another aspect of the present invention encompasses a composition that may be utilized to provide methionine to a plant. The composition may include a methionine compound and at least one fertilizer. In other iterations of the invention, the composition may also comprise a herbicide, an insecticide, and/or a microbicide. Suitable fertilizers, and other components of a composition are detailed below.

(a) fertilizers

[0027] A composition of the invention may comprise at least one fertilizer in addition to at least one methionine compound. As used herein, fertilizer refers to a composition capable of providing nutrition to a plant. For instance, a fertilizer may provide, in varying proportions, the three primary plant nutrients (also called macronuthents): nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The macronutrients are consumed in larger quantities and may be present as a whole number or tenths of percentages in plant tissues (on a dry matter weight basis). Alternatively or additionally, the fertilizer may provide secondary plant nutrients such as calcium, sulfur, or magnesium. Moreover, a fertilizer may provide a trace element (or micronutrient) such as boron, chlorine, and molybdenum. Micronuthents may be required in concentrations ranging from 5 to 100 parts per million (ppm) by mass.

[0028] Fertilizers may be artificial or naturally occurring. Non- limiting examples of naturally occurring fertilizers may include manure, slurry, worm castings, peat, seaweed, sewage, mine rock phosphate, sulfate of potash, limestone and guano. Fertilizers may also include conventional fertilizer source materials that contain phosphorous, potassium or nitrogen. The amounts of available nitrogen, phosphorous and potash, "NPK," may be varied in accordance with the requirements of the plants to be fertilized. Conventional fertilizer percentages such as 16:8:8; 8:4:4; 5:5:5; 15:5:5 or 22:11 :11 or the like may be provided by a fertilizer of the invention. Urea, ammonium sulfate, mono- ammonium phosphate or other known sources of nitrogen may be used alone or in mixtures as the source of nitrogen. Diammonium phosphate may be used as a source of both nitrogen and phosphorous. Alternately, mono-ammonium phosphate, super phosphate, or triple super phosphate, a phosphate rock containing three times as much phosphoric acid as super phosphate, may be used as the source of phosphorous. Potassium chloride, potassium sulfate or other potassium salt may be used to provide the potash. Trace elements and secondary nutrients such as calcium, magnesium and sulfur may be included in the mixture, if desired. The trace elements may include iron, copper, manganese, barium, zinc, chlorine, vanadium, selenium, sodium, molybdenum or any other element required by a plant.

[0029] Suitable fertilizers may be in the form of a powder, a granule, a liquid, or a nutritionally enriched soil. Methods of making various fertilizer forms are well known in the art. The ratio of fertilizer to methionine compound in a composition of the invention can and will vary. In some embodiments, the ratio of fertilizer to methionine compound(s) is about 1 :1 , 1 :2, 1 :3, 1 :4, 1 :5, 1 :6, 1 :7, 1 :8, 1 :9, or 1 :10. In other embodiments, the ratio is about 2:1 , 3:1 , 4:1 , 5:1 , 6:1 , 7:1 , 8:1 , 9:1 , or 10:1.

(b) other components

[0030] Yet another aspect of the invention provides compositions comprising insecticides, microbicides, herbicides, plant-growth regulators and other components. In some cases, synergism can be expected from the use of the compositions of this invention. Usually, the other components of a composition of the invention will not exceed about 50% of the composition. In some embodiments, the other components will not exceed about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, or 45% of the composition.

/. microbicides

[0031] In one embodiment, a composition of the invention may comprise a microbicide. Suitable microbicides may include a fungicide or a bactericide. As will be appreciated by a skilled artisan, the choice of a fungicide or bactericide can and will vary depending upon the plant and the microbial target. Suitable non-limiting examples of fungicides and bactericides that may be used include the following: carbamate fungicides such as 3,3'- ethylenebis(tetrahydro-4,6-dimethyl-2H-1 ,3,5-thiadiazine-2-thione), zinc or manganese ethylenebis(dithiocarbamate), bis(dimethyldithiocarbamoyl)disulfide, zinc propylenebis(dithiocarbamate) bis(dimethyldithiocarbamoyl)ethylenediamine; nickel dimethyldithiocarbamate, methyl 1 -(butylcarbamoyl)-2-benzimidazolecarbamate, 1 ,2-bis(3- methoxycarbonyl-2-thioureido)benzene, 1-isopropylcarbamoyl-3-(3,5- dichlorophenyl)hydantoin, potassium N-hydroxymethyl-N-methyldithiocarbamate and 5-methyl-10-butoxycarbonylamino-10,11 -dehydrodibenzo (b,f)azepine; pyridine fungicides such as zinc bis(1 -hydroxy-2(1 H)pyhdinethionate) and 2- pyhdinethiol-1 -oxide sodium salt; phosphorus fungicides such as O,O-diisopropyl S-benzylphosphorothioate and O-ethyl S,S-diphenyldithiophosphate; phthalimide fungicides such as N-(2,6-diethylphenyl)phthalimide and N-(2,6-diethylphenyl)-4- methylphthalinnide; dicarboxyimide fungicides such as N-trichloromethylthio-4- cyclohexene-1 ,2-dicarboxyimide and N-tetrachloroethylthio^-cyclohexene-i ,2- dicarboxyimide; oxathine fungicides such as 5,6-dihydro-2-methyl-1 ,4-oxathine- 3-carboxanilido-4,4-dioxide and 5,6-dihydro-2-methyl-1 ,4-oxathine-3- carboxanilide; naphthoquinone fungicide such as 2,3-dichloro-1 ,4- naphthoquinone, 2-oxy-3-chloro-1 ,4-naphthoquinone copper sulfate; pentachloronitrobenzene; 1 ,4-dichloro-2,5-dimethoxybenzene; 5-methyl-s- triazol(3,4-b)benzthiazole; 2-(thiocyanomethylthio)benzothiazole; 3-hydroxy-5- methylisooxazole; N-2,3-dichlorophenyltetrachlorophthalamic acid; 5-ethoxy-3- trichloromethyl-1 -2,4-thiadiazole; 2,4-dichloro-6-(O-chloroanilino)-1 ,3,5-triazine; 2,3-dicyano-1 ,4-dithioanthraquinone; copper 8-quinolinate, polyoxine; validamycin; cycloheximide; iron methanearsonate; diisopropyl-1 ,3-dithiolane-2- iridene malonate; 3-allyloxy-1 ,2-benzoisothiazol-1 ,1 -dioxide; kasugamycin; Blasticidin S; 4,5,6,7-tetrachlorophthalide; 3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)-5-ethenyl-5- methyloxazolizine-2,4-dione; N-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)-1 ,2-dimethylcyclopropane- 1 ,2-dicarboxyimide; S-n-butyl-5'-para-t-butylbenzyl-N-3- pyhdyldithiocarbonylimidate; 4-chlorophenoxy-3,3-dimethyl-1 -(1 H,1 ,3,4-thazol-1 - yl)-2-butanone; methyl-D,L-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-N-(2'- methoxyacetyl)alaninate; N-propyl-N-[2-(2,4,6-trichlorophenoxy)ethyl]imidazol-1 - carboxamide; N-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)succinimide; tetrachloroisophthalonithle; 2- dimethylamino-4-methyl-5-n-butyl-6-hydroxypyhnnidine; 2,6-dichloro-4- nitroaniline; 3-methyl-4-chlorobenzthiazol-2-one; 1 ,2,5,6-tetrahydro-4H- pyrrolo[3,2,1 -i,j]quinoline-2-one; 3'-isopropoxy-2-methylbenzanilide; 1 -[2-(2,4- dichlorophenyl)-4-ethyl-1 ,3-dioxorane-2-ylmethyl]-1 H,1 ,2,4-thaz ol; 1 ,2- benzisothiazoline-3-one; basic copper chloride; basic copper sulfate; N'- dichlorofluoromethylthio-N,N-dimethyl-N-phenylsulfannide; ethyl-N-(3- dimethylaminopropyl)thiocarbamate hydrochloride; piomycin; S,S-6- methylquinoxaline-2,3-diyldithiocarbonate; complex of zinc and manneb; di-zinc bis(dimethyldithiocarbamate) ethylenebis (dithiocarbamate) and glyphosate. Additional suitable fungicides may include a chlorothalonil-based fungicide, a strobilurin based fungicide, a triazole based fungicide or a suitable combination of these fungicides. Non-limiting examples of suitable strobilurin based fungicides include azoxystrobin, pyraclostrobin, or trifloxystrobin. Representative examples of triazole-based fungicides include myclobutanil, propiconazole, tebuconazol, and tetraconazole.

ii. herbicides

[0032] In another embodiment, a composition of the invention may comprise an herbicide. Non-limiting examples of herbicides that may be used include, without limitation, imidazolinone, acetochlor, acifluorfen, aclonifen, acrolein, AKH-7088, alachlor, alloxydim, ametryn, amidosulfuron, amitrole, ammonium sulfamate, anilofos, asulam, atrazine, azafenidin, azimsulfuron, BAS 620H, BAS 654 00H, BAY FOE 5043, benazolin, benfluralin, benfuresate, bensulfuron-methyl, bensulide, bentazone, benzofenap, bifenox, bilanafos, bispyhbac-sodium, bromacil, bromobutide, bromofenoxim, bromoxynil, butachlor, butamifos, butralin, butroxydim, butylate, cafenstrole, carbetamide, carfentrazone-ethyl, chlormethoxyfen, chloramben, chlorbromuron, chloridazon, chlohmuron-ethyl, chloroacetic acid, chlorotoluron, chlorpropham, chlorsulfuron, chlorthal-dimethyl, chlorthiamid, cinmethylin, cinosulfuron, clethodim, clodinafop- propargyl, clomazone, clomeprop, clopyralid, cloransulam-methyl, cyanazine, cycloate, cyclosulfamuron, cycloxydim, cyhalofop-butyl, 2,4-D, daimuron, dalapon, dazomet, 2,4DB, desmedipham, desmetryn, dicamba, dichlobenil, dichlorprop, dichlorprop-P, diclofop-methyl, difenzoquat metilsulfate, diflufenican, dimefuron, dimepiperate, dimethachlor, dimethametryn, dimethenamid, dimethipin, dimethylarsinic acid, dinitramine, dinocap, dinoterb, diphenamid, diquat dibromide, dithiopyr, diuron, DNOC, EPTC, esprocarb, ethalfluralin, ethametsulfuron-methyl, ethofumesate, ethoxysulfuron, etobenzanid, fenoxaprop-P-ethyl, fenuron, ferrous sulfate, flamprop-M, flazasulfuron, fluazifop- butyl, fluazifop-P-butyl, fluchloralin, flumetsulam, flumiclorac-pentyl, flumioxazin, fluometuron, fluoroglycofen-ethyl, flupoxam, flupropanate, flupyrsulfuron-methyl- sodiu- m, flurenol, fluridone, flurochloridone, fluroxypyr, flurtamone, fluthiacet- methyl, fomesafen, fosamine, glufosinate-amnnoniunn, glyphosate, glyphosinate, halosulfuron-methyl, haloxyfop, HC-252, hexazinone, imazamethabenz-methyl, imazamox, imazapyr, imazaquin, imazethapyr, imazosuluron, imidazilinone, indanofan, ioxynil, isoproturon, isouron, isoxaben, isoxaflutole, lactofen, lenacil, linuron, MCPA, MCPA-thioethyl, MCPB, mecoprop, mecoprop-P, mefenacet, metamitron, metazachlor, methabenzthiazuron, methylarsonic acid, methyldymron, methyl isothiocyanate, metobenzuron, metobromuron, metolachlor, metosulam, metoxuron, metribuzin, metsulfuron-methyl, molinate, monolinuron, naproanilide, napropamide, naptalam, neburon, nicosulfuron, nonanoic acid, norflurazon, oleic acid (fatty acids), orbencarb, oryzalin, oxadiargyl, oxadiazon, oxasulfuron, oxyfluorfen, paraquat dichloride, pebulate, pendimethalin, pentachlorophenol, pentanochlor, pentoxazone, petroleum oils, phenmedipham, picloram, piperophos, pretilachlor, primisulfuron-methyl, prodiamine, prometon, prometryn, propachlor, propanil, propaquizafop, propazine, propham, propisochlor, propyzamide, prosulfocarb, prosulfuron, pyraflufen-ethyl, pyrazolynate, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl, pyrazoxyfen, pyributicarb, pyridate, pyriminobac-methyl, pyrithiobac-sodium, quinclorac, quinmerac, quinoclamine, quizalofop, quizalofop-P, rimsulfuron, sethoxydim, siduron, simazine, simetryn, sodium chlorate, STS system (sulfonylurea), sulcotrione, sulfentrazone, sulfometuron-methyl, sulfosulfuron, sulfuric acid, tar oils, 2,3,6- TBA, TCA-sodium, tebutam, tebuthiuron, terbacil, terbumeton, terbuthylazine, terbutryn, thenylchlor, thiazopyr, thifensulfuron-methyl, thiobencarb, tiocarbazil, tralkoxydim, tri-allate, triasulfuron, triaziflam, tribenuron-methyl, triclopyr, trietazine, trifluralin, triflusulfuron-methyl, and vernolate.

Hi. insecticides

[0033] In still another embodiment, a compositon of the invention may comprise an insecticide. Representative examples of suitable insecticides may include the following: phosphoric insecticides such as O,O-diethyl O-(2- isopropyl-4-methyl-6-pyrimidinyl)phosphorothioate, O,O-dimethyl S-2- [(ethylthio)ethyl]phosphorodithioate, O,O-dimethyl O-(3-methyl-4- nitrophenyl)thiophosphate, O,O-dimethyl S-(N- methylcarbannoylnnethyl)phosphorodithioate, O,O-dimethyl S-(N-methyl-N- formylcarbamoylnnethyl) phosphorodithioate, O,O-dimethyl S-2-[(ethylthio)ethyl] phosphorodithioate, O,O-diethyl S-2-[(ethylthio)ethyl] phosphorodithioate, O₁O- dimethyl-1 -hydroxy-2,2,2-thchloroethylphophonate, O,O-diethyl-O-(5-phenyl-3- isooxazolyl)phosphorothioate, O,O-dimethyl O-(2,5-dichloro-4- bromophenyl)phosphorothioate, O,O-dimethyl O-(3-methyl-4- methylmercaptophenyl)thiophosphate, O-ethyl O-p-cyanophenyl phenylphosphorothioate, O,O-dimethyl-S-(1 ,2- dicarboethoxyethyl)phosphorodithioate, 2-chloro-(2,4,5- trichlorophenyl)vinyldimethyl phosphate, 2-chloro-1 -(2,4- dichlorophenyl)vinyldimethyl phosphate, O,O-dimethyl O-p-cyanophenyl phosphorothioate, 2,2-dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate, O,O-diethyl 0-2,4- dichlorophenyl phosphorothioate, ethyl mercaptophenylacetate O,O-dimethyl phosphorodithioate, S-[(6-chloro-2-oxo-3-benzooxazolinyl)methyl] O,O-diethyl phosphorodithioate, 2-chloro-1 -(2,4-dichlorophenyl)vinyl diethylphosphate, O₁O- diethyl O-(3-oxo-2-phenyl-2H-pyhdazine-6-yl) phosphorothioate, O,O-dimethyl S- (1-methyl-2-ethylsulfinyl)-ethyl phophorothiolate, O,O-dimethyl S- phthalimidomethyl phosphorodithioate, O,O-diethyl S-(N-ethoxycarbonyl-N- methylcarbamoylmethyl)phosphorodithioate, O,O-dimethyl S-[2-methoxy-1 ,3,4- thiadiazol-5-(4H)-onyl-(4)-methyl] dithiophosphate, 2-methoxy-4H-1 ,3,2- benzooxaphosphohne 2-sulfide, O,O-diethyl O-(3,5,6-trichloro-2- pyhdyl)phosphorothiate, O-ethyl O-2,4-dichlorophenyl thionobenzene phosphonate, S-[4,6-diamino-s-triazine-2-yl-methyl] O,O-dimethyl phosphorodithioate, O-ethyl O-p-nitrophenyl phenyl phosphorothioate, O₁S- dimethyl N-acetyl phosphoroamidothioate, 2-diethylamino-6-methylpyrimidine-4- yl-diethylphosphorothionate, 2-diethylamino-6-methylpyrimidine-4-yl- dimethylphosphorothionate, O,O-diethyl O-N-(methylsulfinyl) phenyl phosphorothioate, O-ethyl S-propyl O-2,4-dichlorophenyl phosphorodithioate and cis-3-(dimethoxyphosphinoxy)N-nnethyl-cis-crotone amide; carbamate insecticides such as 1 -naphthyl N-methylcarbamate, S-methyl N- [methylcarbamoyloxy]thioacetoimidate, m-tolyl methylcarbamate, 3,4-xylyl methylcarbamate, 3,5-xylyl methylcarbamate, 2-sec-butylphenyl N- methylcarbamate, 2,3-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-7-benzofuranylmethylcarbamate, 2- isopropoxyphenyl N-methylcarbamate, 1 ,3-bis(carbamoylthio)-2-(N,N- dimethylamino)propane hydrochloride and 2-diethylamino-6-methylpyhmidine-4- yl-dimethylcarbamate; and another insecticides such as N,N-dimethyl N'-(2- methyl-4-chlorophenyl)formamidine hydrochloride, nicotine sulfate, milbemycin, 6-methyl-2,3-quinoxalinedithiocyclic S,S-dithiocarbonate, 2,4-dinitro-6-sec- butylphenyl dimethylacrylate, 1 ,1-bis(p-chlorophenyl) 2,2,2-trichloroethanol, 2-(p- tert-butylphenoxy)isopropyl-2'-chloroethylsulfite, azoxybenzene, di-(p- chlorophenyl)-cyclopropyl carbinol, di[tri(2,2-dimethyl-2-phenylethyl)tin]oxide, 1- (4-chlorophenyl)-3-(2,6-difluorobenzoyl) urea and S-tricyclohexyltin O₁O- diisopropylphosphorodithioate.

(c) formulations

[0034] It is envisioned that components listed above may be combined with one or more agents that are conventionally employed in the formulation of agricultural and horticultural compositions. The compositions of this invention, including concentrates that require dilution prior to application, typically may contain at least one methionine compound and an adjuvant in liquid or solid form. The compositions may be prepared by admixing the components with or without an adjuvant plus diluents, extenders, carriers, and conditioning agents to provide compositions in the form of wettable powder, soluble powder, dust, aerosol, microcapsules, finely-divided particulate solids, granules, pellets, solutions, dispersions or emulsions. In one embodiment, a composition will be in the form of a dust or powder for use in dusting the plant with a composition of the invention, such as by crop dusting. In another embodiment, the components may be mixed with an adjuvant such as a finely divided solid, a liquid of organic origin, water, a wetting agent, a dispersing agent, an emulsifying agent or any suitable combination of these agents.

[0035] A variety of suitable solid, liquid, and gaseous carriers may be utilized in the compositions of the invention. Suitable solid carriers include, for example, fine powders or granules of clays (e.g. kaolin clay, diatomaceous earth, synthetic hydrated silicon dioxide, attapulgite clay, bentonite and acid clay), talcs, other inorganic minerals (e.g. sericite, powdered quartz, powdered sulfur, activated carbon, calcium carbonate and hydrated silica), and salts for chemical fertilizers (e.g. ammonium sulfate, ammonium phosphate, ammonium nitrate, urea and ammonium chloride). Suitable liquid carriers include, for example, water, alcohols (e.g. methanol and ethanol), ketones (e.g. acetone, methyl ethyl ketone and cyclohexanone), aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g. benzene, toluene, xylene, ethylbenzene and methylnaphthalene), aliphatic hydrocarbons (e.g. hexane and kerosene), esters (e.g. ethyl acetate and butyl acetate), nitriles (e.g. acetonitrile and isobutyronitrile), ethers (e.g. dioxane and diisopropyl ether), acid amides (e.g. dimethylformamide and dimethylacetamide), and halogenated hydrocarbons (e.g. dichloroethane, thchloroethylene and carbon tetrachloride). Suitable gaseous carriers include, for example, butane gas, carbon dioxide, and fluorocarbon gas.

[0036] In one embodiment, the formulation will include a wetting agent (i.e., also known as a surfactant). Typically, a suitable wetting agent will enhance the contact and uptake of the components of the composition by the plant via a variety of mechanisms such as by causing increased spreading and retention of the components. A variety of wetting agents of the cationic, anionic or non-ionic type may be used. Non-limiting examples of wetting agents suitable for use include alkyl benzene and alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, alkyl and alkyl aryl sulfonates, alkyl amine oxides, alkyl and alkyl aryl phosphate esters, organosilicones, fluoro-organic wetting agents, alcohol ethoxylates, alkoxylated amines, sulfated fatty alcohols, amines or acid amides, long chain acid esters of sodium isothionate, esters of sodium sulfosuccinate, sulfated or sulfonated fatty acid esters, petroleum sulfonates, sulfonated vegetable oils, ditertiary acetylenic glycols, block copolymers, polyoxyalkylene derivatives of alkylphenols (particularly isooctylphenol and nonylphenol) and polyoxyalkylene derivatives of the mono-higher fatty acid esters of hexitol anhydrides (e.g., sorbitan). Further examples may include ethoxylated sorbitan, ethoxylated fatty acid, polysorbate- 80, glycerol oleate, oleate salts, coconate salts, laurelate salts and suitable combinations of any of these wetting agents. In one embodiment, the surfactant is a non-ionic surfactant.

[0037] In another embodiment, the composition may include a dispersant. Examples of dispersant include methyl, cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, sodium lignin sulfonates, polymeric alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, sodium naphthalene sulfonate, polymethylene bisnaphthalene sulfonate, and neutralized polyoxyethylated derivatives or ring-substituted alkyl phenol phosphates. Stabilizers may also be used to produce stable emulsions, such as magnesium aluminum silicate and xanthan gum.

[0038] The active compounds may also be formulated as a spray in the form of an aerosol. When formulated as an aerosol spray, the formulation is generally charged in a container under pressure together with a propellant. Examples of suitable propellants include fluorothchloromethane or dichlorodifluoromethane.

(d) formulations

[0039] It is envisioned that components listed above may be combined with one or more agents that are conventionally employed in the formulation of agricultural and horticultural compositions. The compositions of this invention, including concentrates that require dilution prior to application, typically may contain at least one metal compound and an adjuvant in liquid or solid form. The compositions may be prepared by admixing the components with or without an adjuvant plus diluents, extenders, carriers, and conditioning agents to provide compositions in the form of wettable powder, soluble powder, dust, aerosol, microcapsules, finely-divided particulate solids, granules, pellets, solutions, seed coatings, dispersions or emulsions. In one embodiment, a composition will be in the form of a dust or powder for use in dusting the plant with a composition of the invention, such as by crop dusting. In another embodiment, the components may be mixed with an adjuvant such as a finely divided solid, a liquid of organic origin, water, a wetting agent, a dispersing agent, an emulsifying agent, a spreader, a sticker, a thickening agent, or any suitable combination of these agents.

[0040] A variety of suitable solid, liquid, and gaseous carriers may be utilized in the compositions of the invention. Suitable solid carriers include, for example, fine powders or granules of clays (e.g. kaolin clay, diatomaceous earth, synthetic hydrated silicon dioxide, attapulgite clay, bentonite and acid clay), talcs, other inorganic minerals (e.g. sericite, powdered quartz, powdered sulfur, activated carbon, calcium carbonate and hydrated silica), and salts for chemical fertilizers (e.g. ammonium sulfate, ammonium phosphate, ammonium nitrate, urea and ammonium chloride). Suitable liquid carriers include, for example, water, alcohols (e.g. methanol and ethanol), ketones (e.g. acetone, methyl ethyl ketone and cyclohexanone), aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g. benzene, toluene, xylene, ethylbenzene and methylnaphthalene), aliphatic hydrocarbons (e.g. hexane and kerosene), esters (e.g. ethyl acetate and butyl acetate), nitriles (e.g. acetonitrile and isobutyronitrile), ethers (e.g. dioxane and diisopropyl ether), acid amides (e.g. dimethylformamide and dimethylacetamide), and halogenated hydrocarbons (e.g. dichloroethane, thchloroethylene and carbon tetrachloride). Suitable gaseous carriers include, for example, butane gas, carbon dioxide, and fluorocarbon gas.

[0041] In one embodiment, the formulation may include a wetting agent (i.e., also known as a surfactant or spreader). Typically, a suitable wetting agent will enhance the contact and uptake of the components of the composition by the plant via a variety of mechanisms such as by causing increased spreading and retention of the components. A variety of wetting agents of the cationic, anionic or non-ionic type may be used. Non-limiting examples of wetting agents suitable for use include alkyl benzene and alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, alkyl and alkyl aryl sulfonates, alkyl amine oxides, alkyl and alkyl aryl phosphate esters, organosilicones, fluoro-organic wetting agents, alcohol ethoxylates, alkoxylated amines, sulfated fatty alcohols, amines or acid amides, long chain acid esters of sodium isothionate, esters of sodium sulfosuccinate, sulfated or sulfonated fatty acid esters, petroleum sulfonates, sulfonated vegetable oils, ditertiary acetylenic glycols, block copolymers, polyoxyalkylene derivatives of alkylphenols (particularly isooctylphenol and nonylphenol) and polyoxyalkylene derivatives of the mono-higher fatty acid esters of hexitol anhydrides (e.g., sorbitan). Further examples may include ethoxylated sorbitan, ethoxylated fatty acid, polysorbate- 80, glycerol oleate, oleate salts, coconate salts, laurelate salts and suitable combinations of any of these wetting agents. In one embodiment, the surfactant is a non-ionic surfactant.

[0042] In another embodiment, the composition may include a dispersant. Examples of dispersant include methyl, cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, sodium lignin sulfonates, polymeric alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, sodium naphthalene sulfonate, polymethylene bisnaphthalene sulfonate, and neutralized polyoxyethylated derivatives or ring-substituted alkyl phenol phosphates. Stabilizers may also be used to produce stable emulsions, such as magnesium aluminum silicate and xanthan gum.

[0043] In another embodiment, the composition may include a sticker. Typically, a suitable sticker will increase the firmness of attachment of finely-divided solids or other water-soluble or water-insoluble materials to the solid surfaces of the plant such as leaves and stems, and which may be measured in terms of resistance to time, wind, water, mechanical or chemical action. Non-limiting examples of stickers include latex-based resins, beta- pinene, free fatty acids, alkanolamides, gum arabic, gum karaya, gum tragacanth, guar gum, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, carrageenan, alginate salt, casein, dextran, pectin, agar, 2-hydroxyethyl starch, 2-aminoethyl starch, 2- hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose salt, cellulose sulfate salt, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyacrylamide, and gelatin.

[0044] In still another embodiment, the composition may include a thickening agent. Typically, a suitable thickening agent increases the viscosity of the composition. Non-limiting examples of suitable thickening agents include polyethylene glycols, glycerol, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, gelatin, pectin, zinc oxide, starch, bentonite, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, starches, gums, casein, gelatin, phycocolloids, polyvinyl alcohol, carboxyvinylates, silicates, colloidal silica, alginates, talc, magnesium aluminum silicate, xanthan gum, cornstarch, potato starch, soy starch, and wheat starch.

[0045] The active compounds may also be formulated as a spray in the form of an aerosol. When formulated as an aerosol spray, the formulation is generally charged in a container under pressure together with a propellant. Examples of suitable propellants include fluorothchloromethane or dichlorodifluoromethane.

[0046] The active compounds may be formulated in the form of a seed coating that includes the active compounds as well as at least one coating agent. Typically, suitable seed coatings house ingredients to enhance seed propagation, as well as to protect the seeds from fungal infestation, pest insects, and damage during packaging, shipping and planting. Non-limiting examples of coating agents include polymers, such as acrylics, modified polyacrylamides, vinyl acrylics, a neutralized copolymer of acrylic acid (AA) or methacrylic acid (MAA) and a lower acrylate, a crosslinked copolymer of vinyl acetate and a lower alkyl acrylate, proteins, polysaccharides, polyesters, polyurethanes, polyvinyl alcohol, hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetates, polyvinyl methyl ether, polyvinyl methyl ether-maleic anhydride, and polyvinylpyrrolidone. [0047] The seed coating may be formed using methods known in the art. For example, the active compounds may be mixed with an emulsion polymer, the emulsion polymer may be applied to the seed, and the polymer may be allowed to dry on the seed. The seed coating may be applied using known methods including but not limited to immersing the seeds in an emulsion polymer, spraying the seeds with the emulsion polymer, rotary drum coating, and coating using a fluidized bed apparatus such as a Wurster apparatus.

[0048] The amount of seed coating that is applied to a seed can and will vary depending in part on the number and amounts of active compounds incorporated into the seed coating, the size of the seed, and the desired material properties of the seed coating. The seed coating may be resistant to abrasion or fracture during manufacture, packaging, transport, and planting. In addition, the seed coating may be resistant to forming aggregated clumps of seeds during storage or planting. Further, the seed coating may be resistant to storage conditions such as heat or humidity.

[0049] However, the seed coating may also degrade when exposed to conditions conducive to germination once the seed is planted. In particular, the seed coating may degrade in such a way that the seed receives adequate oxygen, water, and nutrients to support germination and subsequent emergence. In addition, the seed coating may degrade in such a way that the growing shoot of the germinated seed may emerge from the seed. For example, the coating agent material may be water-permeable and may further swell and form pores, channels or other physical openings when exposed to moisture in an amount sufficient to support germination. In another example, the coating agent material may be susceptible to degradation only within a temperature range conducive to seed germination. The material properties of the seed coating can and will vary depending in part on the size and shape of the seed, the desired germination conditions, the coating agent, and the thickness and overall amount of the seed coating. [0050] The thickness of the seed coating may be sufficiently thin to allow normal respiration and germination of the seed. In one embodiment, the thickness of the seed coating applied to a seed may vary between about 0.01 mm and about 5 mm. In other embodiments, the thickness of the seed coating may vary between about 0.01 mm and about 0.1 mm, about 0.05 mm and about 0.2 mm, about 0.1 mm and about 0.4 mm, about 0.2 mm and about 0.8 mm, about 0.5 mm and about 1.5 mm, about 1 mm and about 2 mm, about 1.5 mm and about 2.5 mm, about 2 mm and about 4 mm, and about 3 mm and about 5 mm. In another embodiment, the weight of the seed coating may vary between about 1 % and about 100% of the weight of the uncoated seed. In other embodiments, the weight of the seed coating may vary between about 1 % and about 10%, about 5% and about 20%, about 10% and about 30%, about 20% and about 40%, about 50% and about 70%, about 60% and about 80%, about 70% and about 90%, and about 80% and about 100% of the weight of the uncoated seed.

(Ill) Methods for providing methionine

[0051] In general, the method of the invention encompasses administering the methionine compound (or a composition containing the methionine compound) to the plant in an amount and under conditions such that the growth and or yield of the plant is increased. Typically, an "effective amount" of a methionine compound, as used herein, can and will vary depending in part on the methionine compound and the plant. Generally speaking, however, no increase in growth or production of the plant will occur either below or above the effective amount. As guidance for determining the effective amount, the methionine needs of a plant may be calculated for a growing season using methods commonly known in the art. The calculated nutrient needs may then be used to calculate the effective amount. For instance, the effective amount of the methionine compound will usually be about 10x, 9x, 8x, 7x, 6x, 5x, 4x, 3x, 2x, 1x, 0.75x, 0.5x, or 0.25x of the methionine needs of the plant. In some embodiments, the methionine concentration of the soil may be considered in determining the effective amount.

[0052] A method of the invention may comprise administering at least two, at least three, or at least four methionine compounds to a plant.

[0053] Methods of measuring the effectiveness of a methionine compound in delivering methionine to a plant are generally known in the art. For instance, the foliar nutrient concentration of the plant may be determined, using methods commonly known in the art, before and after application of the methionine compound. Alternatively, the marketable yield for a plant provided the methionine compound may be compared to a similarly situated plant that was not provided the methionine compound. As used herein, "marketable yield" refers to the product or attribute of the plant affected by the methionine compound. For instance, marketable yield may refer to an increase in harvestable grain, vegetables, fruits, flowers, or seeds. Additionally, marketable yield may refer to the growth of the plant, the hardiness of the plant (including flowers), and/or the color or taste of the plant.

(a) plants

[0054] The methionine compound is suitable for use in a wide variety of plants. It is envisioned, without being bound to any particular theory, that the methionine compound will provide a variety of benefits to the plant. Generally speaking, though, the benefit may be increased growth or production of the plant. For example, in vegetable plants, fruit plants, grain plants, or other harvestable plants, the benefit may be an increase in marketable yield, or an improvement in marketable yield, such as better taste or better color. Alternatively, in floral plants such as houseplants, the benefit may be hardier flowers, a greater number of flowers, or better floral color.

[0055] A plant, as used herein, is to be interpreted broadly to include both crop and non-crop plants and both edible and non-edible plants. For instance, plants may include the class of higher and lower plants, including angiosperms (i.e., monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous plants), gymnosperms, ferns, horsetails, psilophytes, lycophytes, bryophytes, and multicellular algae. In a typical embodiment, the plant may be any vascular plant, for example monocotyledons or dicotyledons or gymnosperms. In particular, plants may include vegetable plants, herb and spice plants, fruit plants, trees, house plants, and grain plants. Non-limiting examples of plants are detailed below.

/. vegetables

[0056] In one embodiment, the plant is a vegetable plant. Non- limiting examples of vegetables may include leafy and salad vegetables such as Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus), Bitterleaf (Vernonia calvoana), Bok choy (Brassica rapa Pekinensis and Chinensis groups), Brussels sprout (Brassica oleracea Gemmifera group), Cabbage {Brassica oleracea Capitata group), Catsear (Hypochaeris radicata), Celtuce (Lactuca sativa var. asparagina), Ceylon spinach (Basella alba), Chicory (Cichorium intybus), Chinese Mallow (Malva verticillata), Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium), Corn salad (Valerianella locusta), Cress (Lepidium sativum), Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), Endive (Cichorium endivia), Epazote (Chenopodium ambrosioides), Fat hen (Chenopodium album), Fiddlehead (Pteridium aquilinum, Athyrium esculentum), Fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis), Golden samphire (Inula crithmoides), Good King Henry (Chenopodium bonus-henricus), Ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum), Kai-lan (Brassica rapa Alboglabra group), Komatsuna (Brassica rapa Pervidis or Komatsuna group), Kuka (Adansonia spp.), Lagos bologi (Talinum fruticosum), Land cress (Barbarea verna), Lettuce (Lactuca sativa), Lizard's tail (Houttuynia cordata), Melokhia (Corchorus olitorius, Corchorus capsularis), Mizuna greens (Brassica rapa Nipposinica group), Mustard (Sinapis alba), New Zealand Spinach (Tetragonia tetragonioides), Orache (Atriplex hortensis), Polk (Phytolacca americana), Radicchio (Cichorium intybus), Garden Rocket (Eruca sativa), Samphire (Crithmum maritimum), Sea beet (Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima), Seakale (Crambe maritima), Sierra Leone bologi (Crassocephalum spp.), Soko (Celosia argentea), Sorrel (Rumex acetosa), Spinach (Spinacia oleracea), Summer purslane {Portulaca oleracea), Swiss chard {Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla var. flavescens), Tatsoi {Brassica rapa Rosularis group), Watercress (Nasturtium officinale), Water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) and Winter purslane (Claytonia perfoliata); fruiting and flowering vegetables such as Armenian cucumber (Cucumis melo Flexuosus group), Eggplant or Aubergine (Solarium melongena), Avocado (Persea americana), Bell pepper (Capsicum annuum), Bitter melon (Momordica charantia), Caigua (Cyclanthera pedata), Cape Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana), Cayenne pepper (Capsicum frutescens), Chayote (Sechium edule), Chili pepper (Capsicum annuum Longum group), Cucumber (Cucumis sativus), Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus), Luffa (Luffa acutangula, Luffa aegyptiaca), Malabar gourd (Cucurbita ficifolia), Marrow (Cucurbita pepo), Parwal (Trichosanthes dioica), Perennial cucumber (Coccinia grandis), Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima, Cucurbita pepo), Pattypan squash, Snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina), Sweetcorn (Zea mays), Sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum Grossum group), Tinda (Praecitrullus fistulosus), Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), Tomatillo (Physalis philadelphica), Winter melon (Benincasa hispida), West Indian gherkin (Cucumis anguria) and Zucchini or Courgette (Cucurbita pepo); podded vegetables such as American groundnut (Apios americana), Azuki bean (Vigna angularis), Black-eyed pea (Vigna unguiculata subsp. unguiculata), Chickpea (Cicer arietinum), Drumstick (Moringa oleifera), Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus), Fava bean (Vicia faba), French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba), Horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum), Indian pea (Lathyrus sativus), Lentil (Lens culinaris), Moth bean (Vigna acontifolia), Mung bean (Vigna radiata), Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), Pea (Pisum sativum), Peanut (Arachis hypogaea), Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan), Rice bean (Vigna umbellatta), Runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus), Soybean (Glycine max), Tarwi (tarhui, chocho; Lupinus mutabilis), Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius), Urad bean (Vigna mungό), Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens), Winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) and Yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis); bulb and stem vegetables such as Asparagus {Asparagus officinalis), Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus), Celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum), Celery (Apium graveolens), Elephant Garlic (Allium ampeloprasum var. ampeloprasum), Florence fennel (Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce), Garlic (Allium sativum), Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea Gongylodes group), Kurrat (Allium ampeloprasum var. kurrat), Leek (Allium porrum), Nopal (Opuntia ficus-indica), Onion (Allium cepa), Prussian asparagus (Ornithogalum pyrenaicum), Shallot (Allium cepa Aggregatum group), Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum) and Wild leek (Allium tricoccum); root and tuberous vegetables such as Acorn squash (Cucurbita pepo), Ahipa (Pachyrhizus ahipa), Arracacha (Arracacia xanthorrhiza), Bamboo shoot, Beetroot (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris), Black cumin (Bunium persicum), Broadleaf arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia), Canna (Carina spp.), Carrot (Daucus carota), Cassava (Manihot esculenta), Chinese artichoke (Stachys affinis), Daikon (Raphanus sativus Longipinnatus group), Earthnut pea (Lathyrus tuberosus), Elephant Foot yam (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius), Ensete (Ensete ventricosum), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Gobo (Arctium lappa), Hamburg parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. tuberosum), Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus), Jfcama (Pachyrhizus erosus), Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa), Pignut (Conopodium majus), Plectranthus (Plectranthus spp.), Potato (Solanum tuberosum), Prairie turnip (Psoralea esculenta), Radish (Raphanus sativus), Rutabaga (Brassica napus Napobrassica group), Salsify (Tragopogon porrifolius), Scorzonera (Scorzonera hispanica), Skirret (Sium sisarum), Sweet Potato (Kumara), Taro (Colocasia esculenta), Ti (Cordyline fruticosa), Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus), Turnip (Brassica rapa Rapifera group), Ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus), Wasabi (Wasabia japonica), Water chestnut (Eleocharis dulcis), Yacόn (Smallanthus sonchifolius), and Yam (Dioscorea spp.). H. herb and spice plants

[0057] In another embodiment, the plant is an herb and/or a spice plant. Non-limiting examples of herbs and spices may comprise Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi), Alkanet (Anchusa arvensis), Allspice (Pimenta dioica), Almond, Amchur - mango powder (Mangifera), Angelica (Angelica archangelica), Anise (Pimpinella anisum), Aniseed myrtle (Syzygium anisatum), Annatto (Bixa orellana L), Apple mint (Mentha suaveolens), Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), Asafoetida (Ferula assafoetida), Berberis, Banana, Basil (Ocimum basilicum), Bay leaves, Black cardamom, Black cumin, Blackcurrant, Black lime, Bladder wrack (Fucus vesiculosus), Blue-leaved mallee (Eucalyptus polybractea), Bog Labrador tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum), Boldo (Peumus boldus), Bolivian Coriander (Porophyllum ruderale), Borage (Borago officinalis), Calendula, Calumba (Jateorhiza calumba), Cananga, Chamomile, Candle nut, Cannabis, Caper (Capparis spinosa), Caraway, Cardamom, Carob Pod, Cassia, Casuahna, Catnip, Cat's Claw, Catsear, Cayenne pepper, Celastrus Paniculatus, Celery salt, Celery seed, Centaury, Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium), Chickweed, Chicory, Chile pepper, Chipotle, Chives (Allium schoenoprasum), Cicely (Myrrhis odorata), Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum), Cinchona (Cinchona), Cinnamon (and Cassia), Cinnamon Myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia), Clary, Cleavers, Clover, Cloves, Coffee, Comfrey, Common Rue, Condurango, Coptis, Coriander, Costmary (Tanacetum balsamita), Couchgrass, Cow Parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris), Cowslip, Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus), Cress, Cuban Oregano (Plectranthus amboinicus), Cudweed, Cumin, Curry leaf (Murraya koenigii), Damiana (Turnera aphrodisiaca, T. diffusa), Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), Demulcent, Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), Dill seed, Dill (Anethum graveolens), Dorrigo Pepper (Tasmannia stipitata) Echinacea, Echinopanax Elatum, Edelweiss, Elderberry, Elderflower, Elecampane, Eleutherococcus senticosus, Emmenagogue, Epazote (Chenopodium ambrosioides), Ephedra, Eryngium foetidum, Eucalyptus, Eyebright, Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Fenugreek, Feverfew, Figwort, File powder, Fo-ti-tieng, Fumitory, Galangal, Garam masala, Garden cress, Garlic chives, Garlic, Ginger, (Zingiber officinale), Ginkgo biloba, Ginseng, Ginseng, Siberian (Eleutherococcus senticosus), Goat's Rue (Galega officinalis), Goada masala, Gotu Kola, Grains of paradise (Aframomum melegueta), Grains of SeNm (Xylopia aethiopica), Grape seed extract, Green tea, Ground Ivy, Guaco, Gypsywort, Hawthorn (Crataegus sanguinea), Hawthorne Tree, Herbes de Provence, Hibiscus, Holly, Holy Thistle, Hops, Horehound, Horseradish, Horsetail (Equisetum telmateia), Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis), ImIi (Tamarind), Jalap, Jasmine, Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum), Joe Pye weed (Gravelroot), John the Conqueror, Juniper, Kaffir Lime Leaves [Citrus hystrix, C. papedia), Kaala masala, Knotweed, Kokam, Labrador tea, Lady's Bedstraw, Lady's Mantle, Land cress, Lavender (Lavandula spp.), Ledum, Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis), Lemon basil, Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus, C. flexuosus, and other species), Lemon lronbark (Eucalyptus staigeriana), Lemon mint, Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora), Lemon Thyme, Lemon verbena (Lippia citriodora), Licorice - adaptogen, Lime Flower, Limnophila aromatica, Lingzhi, Linseed, Liquorice, Long pepper, Lovage (Levisticum officinale), Luohanguo, Mace, Mahlab, Malabathrum, Manchurian Thorn Tree (Aralia manchurica), Mandrake, Marjoram (Origanum majorana), Marrubium vulgare, Marsh Labrador Tea, Marshmallow, Mastic, Meadowsweet, Mei Yen, Melegueta pepper (Aframomum melegueta), Mint (Mentha spp.), Milk thistle (Silybum), Bergamot (Monarda didyma), Motherwort, Mountain Skullcap, Mullein (Verbascum thapsus), Mustard, Mustard seed, Nashia inaguensis, Neem, Nepeta, Nettle, Nigella sativa, Nigella (Kolanji, Black caraway), Noni, Nutmeg, (and Mace), Oenothera (Oenothera biennis et al), Olida (Eucalyptus olida), Oregano (Origanum vulgare, O. heracleoticum, and other species), Orris root, Osmorhiza, Olive Leaf, Pandan leaf, Paprika, Parsley (Petroselinum crispum), Passion Flower, Patchouli, Pennyroyal, Pepper (black, white, and green), Peppermint, Peppermint Gum (Eucalyptus dives), Perilla, Plantain, Pomegranate, Ponch phoran, Poppy seed, Primrose (Primula), Psyllium, Purslane, Quassia, Quatre epices, Ramsons, Ras el-hanout, Raspberry, Reishi, Restharrow, Rhodiola rosea, Riberry (Syzygium luehmannii), Rocket/Arugula, Roman chamomile, Rooibos, Rosehips, Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), Rowan Berries, Rue, Safflower, Saffron, Sage (Salvia officinalis), Saigon Cinnamon, St John's Wort, Salad Burnet (Sanguisorba minor or Poterium sanguisorba), Salvia, Sichuan Pepper (Sansho), Sassafras, Savory (Satureja hortensis, S. Montana), Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis), Scutellaria costaricana, Senna, Senna obtusifolia, Sesame seed, Sheep Sorrel, Shepherd's Purse, Sialagogue, Siberian Chaga, Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), Siraitia grosvenohi (luohanguo), Skullcap, Sloe Berries, Smudge Stick, Sonchus, Sorrel (Rumex spp.), Southernwood, Spearmint, Speedwell, Squill, Star anise, Stevia, Strawberry Leaves, Suma (Pfaffia paniculata), Sumac, Summer savory, Sutherlandia frutescens, Sweet grass, Sweet cicely (Myrrhis odorata), Sweet woodruff, Szechuan pepper (Xanthoxylum piperitum), Tacamahac, Tamarind, Tandooh masala, Tansy, Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus), Tea (Camellia sinensis), Teucrium polium, Thai basil, Thistle, Thyme, Toor DaII, Tormentil, Tribulus terresths, Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Twinleaf onion, Uva Ursi also known as Bearberry, Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia), Vasaka, Vervain, Vetiver, Vietnamese Coriander (Persicaria odorata), Wasabi (Wasabia japonica), Watercress, Wattleseed, Wild ginger, Wild Lettuce, Wild thyme, Winter savory, Witch Hazel, Wolfberry, Wood Avens, Wood Betony, Woodruff, Wormwood, Yarrow, Yerba Buena, Yohimbe, Yomogi, and Zedoary Root.

Hi. fruit plants

[0058] In yet another embodiment, the plant is a fruit plant. Non- limiting examples of fruits may include Apple and crabapple (Malus), Chokeberry (Aronia), Hawthorn (Crataegus and Rhaphiolepis), Loquat (Eryobotrya japonica), Medlar (Mespilus germanica), Pear, European and Asian species (Pyrus), Quince (Cydonia oblonga and Chaenomeles), Rose hip, Rowan (Sorbus), Service tree (Sorbus domestica), Serviceberry or Saskatoon (Amelanchier), Shipova (Sorbopyrus auricularis), Apricot (Prunus armeniaca or Armeniaca vulgaris), Cherry, sweet, black, sour, and wild species (Prunus avium, Prunus serotina, P. cerasus, and others), Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), Greengage, a cultivar of the plum, hybrids of the preceding species, such as the pluot, aprium and peacotum, Peach (of the normal and white variety) and its variant the nectarine (Prunus persica), Plum, of which there are several domestic and wild species, Blackberry, of which there are many species and hybrids, such as dewberry, boysenberry, olallieberry, tayberry and loganberry (genus Rubus), Cloudberry (Rubus chamaemorus), Loganberry (Rubus loganobaccus), Raspberry, several species (genus Rubus), Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis), Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus), Wineberry (Rubus phoenicolasius), Bearberry (Arctostaphylos spp.), Bilberry or whortleberry (Vaccinium spp.), Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.), Crowberry (Empetrum spp.), Cranberry (Vaccinium spp.), Huckleberry (Vaccinium spp.), Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea), Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo), not to be confused with the Strawberry (Fragaria), Agaf (Euterpe), Barberry (Berberis; Berberidaceae), Currant (Ribes spp.; Grossulariaceae), red, black, and white types, Elderberry (Sambucus; Caprifoliaceae), Gooseberry (Ribes spp.; Grossulariaceae), Hackberry (Celtis spp.; Cannabaceae), Honeysuckle: the berries of some species (called honeyberries) are edible, others are poisonous (Lonicera spp.; Caprifoliaceae), Mulberry (Morus spp.; Moraceae), Mayapple (Podophyllum spp.; Berberidaceae), Nannyberry or sheepberry (Viburnum spp.; Caprifoliaceae), Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium; Berberidaceae), Sea-buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides; Elaeagnaceae), Sea Grape (Coccoloba uvifera; Polygonaceae), Wolfberry (Lycium barbarum, Lycium spp.; Solanaceae), Arhat (Siraitia grosvenorii; Cucurbitaceae), Che (Cudrania tricuspidata; Moraceae), Chinese Mulberry, Cudrang, Mandarin Melon Berry, Silkworm Thorn, zhe, Durian, Goumi (Elaeagnus multiflora ovata; Elaeagnaceae), Hardy Kiwi (Actinidia arguta), Kiwifruit or Chinese gooseberry (Actinidia spp.; Actinidiaceae), Lapsi (Choerospondias axillaris Roxb.), Nungu, Persimmon (aka Sharon Fruit) (Diospyros kaki; Ebenaceae), Rhubarb (Rheum rhaponticum; Polygonaceae), Sageretia (Sageretia theezans; Rhamnaceae) also called Mock Buckthorn, American grape: North American species (e.g., Vitis labrusca; Vitaceae) and American-European hybrids are grown where grape (Vitis vinifera) is not hardy and are used as rootstocks, American Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum; Berbeήdaceae), American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana; Ebenaceae), Beach Plum (Prunus maritima), Blueberry (Vaccinium, sect. Cyanococcus; Ericaceae), Buffaloberry (Shepherdia argenta; Elaeagnaceae), Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), Cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco; Chrysobalanaceae), Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccus), False-mastic (Mastichodendron foetidissimum; Sapotaceae), Ground Plum (Astragalus caryocarpus; Fabaceae), also called Ground-plum milk-vetch, Pawpaw (Asimina triloba; Annonaceae), Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana; Ebenaceae), Pigeon plum (Coccoloba diversifolia; Polygonaceae), SaIaI berry (Gaultheria shallon; Ericaceae), Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis; Rosaceae), Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens; Ericaceae), Texas persimmon (Diospyros texana; Ebenaceae), Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus; Rosaceae), Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia; Rosaceae), Cardόn (Pachycereus pringlei; Cactaceae), Dragonfruit (Hylocereus undatus; Cactaceae), also called pitaya, Prickly pear (Opuntia spp.; Cactaceae), Saguaro (Carnegiea gigantea; Cactaceae), Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides), Manoao (Manoao colensoi), Nageia (Nageia spp.), Podocarpus (Podocarpus spp.), Prumnopitys (Prumnopitys spp.), Rimu (Dacrydium cupressinum), Butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata), Cushaw squash (Cucurbita mixta), Hubbard squash, Buttercup squash (Cucurbita maxima), Pumpkin, Acorn squash, Zucchini, Summer squash (Cucurbita pepovarieties), Horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus), Melon (Cucumis melo): cantaloupe, galia, and other muskmelons, honeydew, Raisin tree (Hovenia dulcis, Rhamnaceae) also called Japanese Raisin Tree, Strawberry (Fragaria spp.; Rosaceae), Black mulberry (Morus nigra; Moraceae), Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas; Cornaceae), Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera; Arecaceae), Fig (Ficus spp. Moraceae), Grape, called raisin, sultana, or currant when it is dried. (Vitis spp.; Vitaceae), Jujube (Ziziphus zizyphus; Rhamnaceae), Olive {Olea europea; Oleaceae), Pomegranate {Punica granatum; Punicaceae), Sycamore fig {Ficus sycomorus; Moraceae), LemonCitron (Citrus medica), Clementine (Citrus reticulata var. Clementine), Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), hybrids of the preceding species, such as the Orangelo, Tangelo, Rangpur and UgIi fruit, Kumquat (Fortunella), Lemon (Citrus limon), Limes, Key Lime (Citrus aurantifolia), Persian lime, also known as tahiti lime, Kaffir lime (Citrus hystix), Mandarin (Citrus reticulata), Orange, of which there are sweet (Citrus sinensis) and sour (Citrus aurantium) species, Pomelo (also known as the shaddock) (Citrus maxima), Sweet Lemon (Citrus limetta), Tangerine, Avocado (Persea americana; Lauraceae), Carob (Ceratonia siliqua; Fabaceae), Feijoa (Feijoa sellowiana; Myrtaceae), Guava (Psidium guajava; Myrtaceae), Kumquat (Fortunella spp.; Rutaceae), Longan (Euphoria longan; Sapindaceae), Lύcuma (Pouteria lucuma; Sapotaceae), Lychee (Litchi chinensis; Sapindaceae), Passion fruit or Grenadilla (Passiflora edulis and other Passiflora spp.; Passifloraceae), Peanut (Arachis hypogaea; Fabaceae), Pond-apple (Annona glabra; Annonaceae) also called Alligator-apple and Monkey-apple, Strawberry guava (Psidium litorale; Myrtaceae), Tamarillo or Tree Tomato (Cyphomandra betacea; Solanaceae), Ugni (Ugni molinae; Myrtaceae), Yangmei (Myrica rubra; Myricaceae), also called Yamamomo, Chinese Bayberry, Japanese Bayberry, Red Bayberry, or Chinese strawberry tree, Papayas Acerola (Malpighia glabra; Malpighiaceae), also called West Indian Cherry or Barbados Cherry, Ackee (Blighia sapida or Cupania sapida; Sapindaceae), African cherry orange (Citropsis schweinfurthii; Rutaceae), Amazon Grape (Pourouma cecropiaefolia; Moraceae), Araza, Avocado, Agaf (Euterpe oleracea; Arecaceae), or assai, Babaco (Carica pentagona; Caricaceae), Bael (Aegle marmelos; Rutaceae), Banana (Musacea spp.; Musaceae); its starchy variant is the plantain, Barbadine (granadilla; maracuja-agu in Portuguese), Barbados Cherry (Malpighia glabra L.; Malpighiaceae), also called Acerola, West Indian Cherry, Betel Nut, Bilimbi (Averrhoa bilimbi; Oxalidaceae) also called cucumber tree or tree sorrel, Biriba, Bitter gourd, Black sapote, Bottle gourd, Brazil nut, Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis; Moraceae), Burmese grape {Baccaurea sapida; Cucurbitaceae), Calabash {Lagenaria siceraria; Bignoniaceae), Calabashtree, CamuCamu (Myrciaria dubia; Myrtaceae), Canistel, Cape gooseberry, Carambola (Averrhoa carambola; Oxalidaceae), also called star fruit or five fingers, Cashew, Cempedak or Champedak (Artocarpus champeden; Moraceae), Ceylon gooseberry, Chenet (guinep or ackee; pitomba-das-Guinas in Portuguese), Cherimoya (Annona cherimola; Annonaceae), Chili pepper, Caimito (caimite; related to the yellow abiu - egg fruit), Cacao, Coconut (Cocos spp.; Arecaceae), Coffee, Cupuagu, Custard apple (Annona reticulata; Annonaceae), also called Bullock's Heart, Damson plum (Chrysophyllum oliviforme; Sapotaceae), also called Satin Leaf, Date, Date-plum (Diospyros lotus; Ebenaceae), Dragonfruit (Hylocereus spp.; Cactaceae), also called pitaya, Durian (Durio spp.; Bombacaceae), Eggfruit (Pouteria campechiana; Sapotaceae), also called canistel or yellow sapote, Elephant apple (Dillenia indica; Dilleniaceae), Giant granadilla, Golden Apple, Guarana (Paullinia cupana; Sapindaceae), Guava, Guavaberry or Rumberry; (Myrciaria floribunda; Myrtaceae), Hog plum (tapereba in Portuguese), Horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus; Cucurbitaceae), Huito (Genipa americana; Rubiaceae); also called jagua, genipap, jenipapo, Indian almond, Indian fig, Indian jujube, Indian Prune (Flacourtia rukan; Flacourtiaceae), Jaboticaba (Myrciaria cauliflora; Myrtaceae), also called Brazilian Grape Tree, Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Moraceae), also called nangka, Jambul (Syzygium cumini; Myrtaceae), Jatoba (Hymenae coubaril; Leguminosae; Caesalpinioideae), Jocote, also called Jamaica Plum, Kandis (Garcinia forbesii; Clusiaceae), Keppel fruit (Stelechocarpus burakol; Annonaceae), Kumquat, Kundong (Garcinia sp.; Clusiaceae), Lablab, Langsat (Lansium domesticum), also called longkong or duku, Lansones (Lansium domesticum spp.; Meliaceae), Lemon, Leucaena, Lime, Longan, Loquat, Lucuma, Lychee, Mabolo (Diospyros discolor; Ebenaceae) also known as a velvet persimmon, Macadamia, Mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota; Sapotaceae); also known as mamee apple; abricό in Portuguese Mamoncillo (Melicoccus bijugatus; Sapindaceae), also known as quenepa, genip or Fijian Longan, Mandarin, Manila tamarind (or Monkeypod, Pithecellobium dulce), Mango (Mangifera indica; Anacardiaceae), Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana; Clusiaceae), Marang (Artocarpus odoratissima; Moraceae), a breadfruit relative, Melinjo, Melon pear, Monstera (Monstera deliciosa; Araceae) also called Swiss Cheese Plant, Split-leaf Philodendron, Morinda, Mountain soursop, Mundu, Mung bean, Muskmelon, Nance, Naranjilla, LuIo (Solanum quitoense; Solanaceae), Nutmeg, Neem, Oil Palm, Okra, Papaya (Carica papaya; Caricaceae), Peach palm, Peanut butter fruit (Bunchosia argentea; Malpighiaceae), Pequi or Souari Nut (Caryocar brasiliense; Caryocaraceae), Pewa (peach palm; pupunha in Portuguese), Pigeon pea, PiIi nut, Pineapple (Ananas comosus or Ananas sativas; Bromeliaceae), Pitomba (Eugenia luschnathiana or Talisia esculenta), Plantain, Poha or Cape Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana; Solanaceae), Pois doux (Inga edulis, ice-cream bean, or inga-cipό in Portuguese), Poisonleaf (Dichapetalum cymosum), Pommecythere or pomcite (Spondias cytherea); also known as golden apple, June plum or Jew plum and ambarella, and as cajamanga in Portuguese, Pommerac (Eugenia malaccensis); also known as Otaheite apple; Malay apple; jambo in Portuguese, Pulasan, Pummelo, Pupunha or peach-palm (Bactris gasipaes; Palmae); also known as pewa, Queensland nut, Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum; Sapindaceae), Red Mombin (Spondias purpurea; Anacardiaceae), Riberry (Syzygium luehmannii; Myrtaceae), also called Lilly PiIIy, Lillipilli, Chinese Apple, Ridged gourd, Salak (Salacca edulis), also called snakefruit, Santol (Sandoricum koetjape; Meliaceae), Sapodilla (Achras/Manilkara zapota; Sapotaceae), also called chiku, mespel, naseberry, sapadilla, snake fruit, sawo, Sea grape, Soncoya, Soursop (Annona muricata; Annonaceae), also called guanabana, Soybean, Star apple (Chrysophyllum cainito), also called caimito or caimite, Strawberry guava, Strawberry pear, Sugar apple (Annona squamosa; Annonaceae); ata in Portuguese, Summer squash, Surinam Cherry (Eugenia uniflora; Myrtaceae) also called Brazilian Cherry, Cayenne Cherry, Pitanga, Sweet granadilla, Sweet orange, Sweet pepper, Sweetsop, Rose apple {Syzygium jambos; Myrtaceae), also called Malay apple, Tamarind (Tamarindus indica; Caesalpiniaceae), Vanilla, Water apple, Watermelon, Wax apple (Syzygium samarangense), Wax gourd, White sapote, and Winged bean.

iv. trees

[0059] In still another embodiment, the plant may be a tree. In some embodiments, the plant may be a Dicotyledon (Magnoliopsida; broadleaf or hardwood trees). Non-limiting examples may include the Adoxaceae (Moschatel family), such as

Moschatel (Adoxa moschatellina), Elderberry (Sambucus species), Sinadoxa (Sinadoxa corydalifolia), and Viburnum (Viburnum species); the Altingiaceae (Sweetgum family) such as Sweetgum (Liquidambar species); the Anacardiaceae (Cashew family) such as Cashew (Anacardium occidentale), Mango (Mangifera indica), Pistachio (Pistacia vera), Sumac (Rhus species), and Lacquer tree (Toxicodendron verniciflua); the Annonaceae (Custard apple family) such as Cherimoya (Annona cherimola), Custard apple (Annona reticulate), Pawpaw (Asimina triloba), and Soursop (Annona muricata); the Apocynaceae (Dogbane family) such as Pachypodium (Pachypodium species); the Aquifoliaceae (Holly family) such as Holly (Ilex species); the Araliaceae (Ivy family) such as Kalopanax (Kalopanax pictus); the Betulaceae (Birch family) such as Alder (Alnus species), Birch (Betula species), Hornbeam (Carpinus species), and Hazel (Corylus species); the Bignoniaceae such as Catalpa (Catalpa species); the Cactaceae (Cactus family) such as Saguaro (Carnegiea gigantean); the Cannabaceae (Cannabis family) such as Hackberry (Celtis species); the Cornaceae (Dogwood family) such as Dogwood (Cornus species); the Dipterocarpaceae family such as Garjan (Dipterocarpus species) and Sal (Shorea species); the Ebenaceae (Persimmon family) such as Persimmon (Diospyros species); the Ericaceae (Heath family) such as Arbutus (Arbutus species); the Eucommiaceae (Eucommia family) such as Eucommia (Eucommia ulmoides); the Fabaceae (Pea family) such as Acacia {Acacia species), Honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos), Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), Laburnum (Laburnum species), and Pau Brasil, Brazilwood, (Caesalpinia echinata); the Fagaceae (Beech family) such as Chestnut (Castanea species), Beech (Fagus species), Southern beech (Nothofagus species), Tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus), and Oak (Quercus species); the Fouquiehaceae (Boojum family) such as Boojum (Fouquieήa columnaris); the Hamamelidaceae (Witch-hazel family) such as Persian Ironwood (Parrotia persica); the Juglandaceae (Walnut family) such as Walnut (Juglans species), Hickory (Carya species), and Wingnut (Pterocarya species); the Lauraceae (Laurel family) such as Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis), and Avocado (Persea Americana); the Lecythidaceae (Paradise nut family) such as Brazil Nut (Bertholletia excelsa); the Lythraceae Loosestrife family such as Crape-myrtle (Lagerstroemia species); the Magnoliaceae (Magnolia family) such as Tulip tree (Liriodendron species) and Magnolia (Magnolia species); the Malvaceae (Mallow family; including Tiliaceae, Sterculiaceae and Bombacaceae) such as Baobab (Adansonia species), Silk-cotton tree (Bombax species), Bottletrees (Brachychiton species), Kapok (Ceiba pentandra), Durian (Durio zibethinus), Balsa (Ochroma lagopus), Cacao (cocoa) (Theobroma cacao), and Linden (Basswood, Lime) (Tilia species); the Meliaceae (Mahogany family) such as Neem (Azadirachta indica), Bead tree (Melia azedarach), and Mahogany (Swietenia mahagoni); the Moraceae (Mulberry family) such as Fig (Ficus species) and Mulberry (Morus species); the Myristicaceae (Nutmeg family) such as Nutmeg (Mysristica fragrans); the Myrtaceae (Myrtle family) such as Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus species), Myrtle (Myrtus species) and Guava (Psidium guajava); the Nyssaceae (Tupelo family; sometimes included in Cornaceae) such as Tupelo (Nyssa species) and Dove tree (Davidia involucrate); the Oleaceae (Olive family) such as Olive (Olea europaea) and Ash (Fraxinus species); the Paulowniaceae (Paulownia family) such as Foxglove Tree (Paulownia species); the Platanaceae (Plane family) such as Plane (Platanus species); the Rhizophoraceae (Mangrove family) such as Red Mangrove (Rhizophora mangle); the Rosaceae (Rose family) such as Rowans, Whitebeams, Service Trees {Sorbus species), Hawthorn (Crataegus species), Pear (Pyrus species), Apple (Malus species), Almond (Prunus dulcis), Peach (Prunus persica), Apricot (Prunus armeniaca), Plum (Prunus domestica) and Cherry (Prunus species); the Rubiaceae (Bedstraw family) such as Coffee (Coffea species); the Rutaceae (Rue family) such as Citrus (Citrus species), Cork-tree (Phellodendron species) and Euodia (Tetradium species); the Salicaceae (Willow family) such as Aspen (Populus species), Poplar (Populus species) and Willow (Salix species); the Sapindaceae (including Aceraceae, Hippocastanaceae) (Soapberry family) such as Maple (Acer species), Buckeye, Horse-chestnut (Aesculus species), Mexican Buckeye (Ungnadia speciosa), Lychee (Litchi sinensis) and Golden rain tree (Koelreuteria); the Sapotaceae (Sapodilla family) such as Argan (Argania spinosa), Gutta-percha (Palaquium species) and Tambalacoque, or "dodo tree" (Sideroxylon grandiflorum, previously Calvaria major); the Simaroubaceae family such as Tree of heaven (Ailanthus species); the Theaceae (Camellia family) such as Gordonia (Gordonia species) and Stewartia (Stewartia species); the Thymelaeaceae (Thymelaea family) such as Ramin (Gonystylus species); the Ulmaceae (Elm family) such as Elm (Ulmus species) and Zelkova (Zelkova species); and the Verbenaceae family such as Teak (Tectona species).

[0060] In other embodiments, the tree may be a Monocotyledon

(Liliopsida). Non-limiting examples may include the Agavaceae (Agave family) such as Cabbage tree (Cordyline australis), Dragon tree (Dracaena draco), and Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia); the Arecaceae (Palmae) (Palm family) such as Areca Nut (Areca catechu), Coconut (Cocos nucifera), Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera) and Chusan Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei); and the Poaceae (grass family) such as Bamboos (Poaceae subfamily Bambusoideae)

[0061] In still other embodiments, the tree may be a Conifer

(Pinophyta; softwood trees). Non-limiting examples may include the Araucariaceae (Araucaria family) such as Araucaria (Araucaria species), Kauri (Agathis species) and Wollemia (Wollemia nobilis); the Cupressaceae (Cypress family) such as Cypress {Cupressus and Chamaecyparis species), Juniper {Juniperus species), Alerce or Patagonian cypress (Fitzroya cupressoides), Sugi {Cryptomeria japonica), Coast Redwood {Sequoia sempervirens), Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum), Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), Western Redcedar (Thuja plicata) and Bald Cypress (Taxodium species); the Pinaceae (Pine family) such as White pine (Pinus species), Pinyon pine (Pinus species), Pine (Pinus species), Spruce (Picea species), Larch (Larix species), Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga species), Fir (Abies species) and Cedar (Cedrus species); the Podocarpaceae (Yellowwood family) such as African Yellowwood (Afrocarpus falcatus), Totara (Podocarpus totara), Miro (Prumnopitys ferruginea), Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides) and Rimu (Dacrydium cupressinum); Sciadopityaceae such as Kusamaki (Sciadopitys species); and the Taxaceae (Yew family) such as Yew (Taxus species).

[0062] In certain embodiments, the tree may be a Ginkgos

(Ginkgophyta) of the Ginkgoaceae (Ginkgo family) such as Ginkgo biloba. In some embodiments, the tree may be a Cycads (Cycadophyta). Non-limiting examples may include Cycadaceae (Cycad family) such as Ngathu cycad (Cycas angulata). In some other embodiments, the tree may be from the Zamiaceae (Zamia family) such as Wunu cycad (Lepidozamia hopei). In still some other embodiments, the tree may be a Fern (Ptehdophyta), such as a Cyatheaceae or a Dicksoniaceae, including the tree ferns, Cyathea, Alsophila, and Dicksonia.

v. houseplants

[0063] In a further embodiment, the plant may be a houseplant.

Non-limiting examples may include tropical and subtropical houseplants such as Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen), Aphelandra squarrosa (Zebra Plant), Araucaria heterophylla (Norfolk Island Pine), Asparagus densiflorus (Asparagus Fern), Begonia species and cultivars, Bromeliaceae (Bromeliads), Chamaedorea elegans (Parlor Palm), Chlorophytum comosum (Spider Plant), Citrus, compact cultivars such as the Meyer Lemon, Dracaena, Dieffenbachia (Dumbcane), Epipremnum aureum (Golden Pothos), Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig), Ficus elastica (Rubber Plant), Mimosa pudica (Sensitive Plant), Nephrolepis exaltata cv. Bostoniensis (Boston Fern), Orchidaceae (the orchids), Peperomia species, Philodendron species, Maranta (The Prayer Plants), Saintpaulia (African violet), Sansevieria trifasciata (Mother-inlaw's tongue), Schefflera arboricola (Umbrella Plant), Sinningia speciosa (Gloxinia), Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily), and Tradescantia zebrina (Purple Wandering Jew); succulents such as Aloe barbadensis (Syn. Aloe vera), Cactaceae (Cacti), and Crassula ovata (Jade Plant); forced bulbs such as Crocus, Hyacinthus (Hyacinth), and Narcissus (Narcissus or Daffodil); and temperate houseplants such as Hedera helix (English Ivy) and Saxifraga stolonifera (Strawberry Begonia).

vi. grains

[0064] In still a further embodiment, the plant may be a grain plant

(a cereal). Non-limiting examples may include barley, buckwheat, corn or maize, millet, oats, quinoa, rice, wild rice, rye, spelt, and wheat.

(b) administration

[0065] The methionine compound of the invention may be administered to a plant by any effective means. In some embodiments, the methionine compound is combined with a liquid and sprayed and/or dripped onto the plant (i.e. foliar application or fertigation). In other embodiments, the methionine compound may be applied directly to the soil. In still other embodiments, the methionine compound may be administered to a plant in a composition as described in section I above. If the methionine compound is administered as part of a composition, then the methionine compound may be administered simultaneously or sequentially with the other components of the composition. [0066] It is also envisioned that a methionine compound of the invention, or a composition as detailed in section I above, may be applied to a plant or its progeny at various stages of its development. In this context, the term "plant" includes whole plants and parts thereof, including, but not limited to, shoot vegetative organs/structures (e.g., leaves, stems and tubers), roots, flowers and floral organs/structures (e.g., bracts, sepals, petals, stamens, carpels, anthers and ovules), seed (including embryo, endosperm, and seed coat) and fruit (the mature ovary), plant tissue (e.g., vascular tissue or ground tissue) and cells (e.g., guard cells or egg cells), and progeny of the plant or any of the aforementioned parts of the plant. In an exemplary embodiment, the application occurs during the stages of germination, seedling growth, vegetative growth, and reproductive growth. More typically, applications of the present invention occur during vegetative and reproductive growth stages.

[0067] It is envisioned that the method may involve more than one application of the composition to the plant or its progeny. For example, the number of applications may range from about 1 to about 5 or more. The applications, as detailed herein, may be made at the same or different stages of the plant's life cycle.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A method for increasing the growth or yield of a plant, the method comprising administering to the plant a composition comprising an amount of a methionine compound that results in an increase in plant growth or yield compared to the growth or yield of the plant without the administration of the methionine compound.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the methionine compound is a hydroxyl analog of methionine having formula (IV):

R₁₄ OH

., OH

R₁ ,

° (IV) wherein:

^* is a chiral carbon;

Ri₃ is methyl or ethyl; and,

Ri₄ and Ri₅ are independently oxygen or hydrogen.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the methionine compound is 2- hydroxy-4(methylthio)butanoic acid.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plant is selected from the group consisting of a vegetable plant, a fruit plant, and a grain plant.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the composition further comprises at least one ingredient selected from the group consisting of a fertilizer, a herbicide, an insecticide, a microbicide, and combinations thereof. The method of claim 1 , wherein the compound is administered to the plant by a method selected from the group consisting of foliar application, irrigation, as a soil supplement, and combinations thereof.