WO2020216695A1 - Methods and compositions for the control of insects in crop plants - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided herein are methods for controlling insects in crop plants comprising seed treatment with oxazosulfyl. These methods allow increasing yield and are suitable controlling insects, especially grubs (larva) as well as for improving one or more agronomic characteristics of plants.

Description

METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR THE CONTROL OF INSECTS IN CROP PLANTS

Field

[0001] Provided herein are methods that are useful for the control of insects in crop plants by seed treatment. These methods allow increasing yield. These methods are suitable to control insects, especially grubs (larva). Moreover, they are suitable for improving one or more agronomic characteristics of plants.

Background

[0002] Oxazosulfyl is known as an insecticide from, e.g. WO 2014 119699, WO 2018 234478, WO 2015119699, JP 2017 113033, JP 2016 166246.

[0003] Seed coating methods and apparatus for then· application are disclosed in, for example, WO 2002/080675, WO 2002/028186, US 5,918,413, US 5,891,246, US 5,554,445, US 5,389,399, US 5,107,787, US 5,080,925, US 4,759,945, US 4,465,017, US 4,272,417, US 4,245,432, US 4,808,430 , US 5,876,739 and US 2003/0176428, among others.

[0004] In furrow methods are known, e.g. from

Summary

[0005] It was now surprisingly found that Oxazosulfyl is extremely suitable as a seed treatment, in a preferred embodiment for controlling corn root worm.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention refers to a method of controlling insects comprising the step of applying Oxazosulfyl

to a seed in form of a seed treatment before planting or in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed.

[0007] One preferred embodiment of this aspect refers to the method, wherein the seed is corn seed, cereal seed, soybean seed or rice seed, preferably corn seed, wheat seed barley seed, soybean seed or rice seed, more preferably a corn seed, barley seed, or rice seed, most preferably corn seed. [0008] One further preferred embodiment of this aspect or its preferred embodiment as described above refers to the method, wherein the insect is a soil dwelling grub, another preferred embodiment refers to this aspect or its preferred embodiments as described above, wherein the insect is selected from the group consisting of Diabrotica balteata, Diabrotica virgifera, Popillia species, Agriotes species, Phaedon cochleariae, Agrotis segetum, Spodoptera frugiperda, Rhopalosiphum padi, Myzus persicae, Aphis gossypiii and Nilaparvata lugens.

[0009] One further preferred embodiment of this aspect or any of its preferred embodiments as described above refers to the method, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the seed is coated with Oxazosulfyl and optionally with at least one further insecticide or fungicide.

[0010] One further preferred embodiment of this aspect or any of its preferred embodiments as described above refers to the method, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the seed is coated with Oxazosulfyl as the sole insecticide.

[0011] One further preferred embodiment of this aspect or any of its preferred embodiments as described above refers to the method, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the seed is coated with Oxazosulfyl as the sole insecticide or fungicide.

[0012] One further preferred embodiment of this aspect or any of its preferred embodiments as described above refers to the method, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the application rate of Oxazosulfyl is from 0,05 to 1 ,5 g Oxazosulfyl / kg seed.

[0013] One further preferred embodiment of this aspect or any of its preferred embodiments as described above which do not refer to seed treatment, refers to the method, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed, the method comprising:

A) making a furrow in a cultivated land;

B) seeding the furrow with seed;

C) applying to the furrow a composition comprising Oxazosulfyl; and

D) closing the furrow.

[0014] One further preferred embodiment refers to the latter preferred embodiment wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied in step C) as the sole insecticide.

[0015] One further preferred embodiment refers to the latter preferred embodiment wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied in step C) as the sole insecticide and no further fungicide is applied in step C). [0016] One further preferred embodiment refers to the latter preferred embodiment wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied in step C) as the sole insecticide and no further fungicide or nematicide is applied in step C).

[0017] A further aspect of the present invention refers to a seed coated with a layer comprising or consisting of Oxazosulfyl.

[0018] The term“ seed treatment” as used herein refers to any form of seed treatment known to the skilled person wherein a seed is bated, dipped or coated with at least one active ingredient (such as a nematicide, an insecticide or a fungicide). A seed treatment is performed prior to planting a seed.

[0019] The tern“exogenous treatment of seed” as used herein refers to applications of at least one active ingredient (such as a nematicide, an insecticide or a fungicide) to the soil surrounding a seed or the soil in which is seed is planted (e.g. in furrow application). The application to the soil can be performed before planting the seed, while planting the seed or after planting the seed. One example for such a treatment is in furrow application.

[0020] The term“soil dwelling grub” as used herein refers to the immature, wingless, and often worm like feeding form that hatches from the egg of an insect and is finally transformed into a pupa or chrysalis from which the adult emerges. Examples of soil dwelling grubs are coleopteran pests like Diabrotica balteata, Diabrotica virgifera, Popillia species, Agriotes species, and lepidopteran pests like Agrotis segetum.

[0021] The term“cereal” as used herein refers to seeds or plants or plant parts of wheat, barley, rye, oats and millet, sorghum, triticale, fonio, buckwheat (Polygonaceae), quinoa (Amaranthaceae) and chia (Lamiaceae).

[0022] The term“control” insects as used herein means a mortality rate of a pest of at least 70 %, more preferably 80 %, even more preferably 90% and the mortality rate is determined in % after 7 days after infestation of a seed or the surrounding soil of a seed with said pest compared to untreated seed control (untreated seed or untreated soil and untreated seed, respectively) under green-house conditions. Green house conditions are suitable to avoid immigration of further pests of the same (or a different) type.

[0023] The skilled person is aware that the term“a” as used herein for a seed in a method according to the invention refers to at least one seed, i.e. to one or more than one seeds. Application to Seeds

Seed treatment

[0025] The present invention therefore also relates in particular to a method for protecting seed and germinating plants from attack by pests, by treating the seed with Oxazosulfyl. The method of the invention for protecting seed and germinating plants from attack by pests encompasses a method in which the seed is treated simultaneously in one operation with Oxazosulfyl and co-components and optionally with at least one further pesticide such as a nematicide, an insecticide or a fungicide. It also encompasses a method in which the seed is treated at different times with Oxazosulfyl and co-components before planting the seed. Co-components are customary adjuvants, such as customary extenders and also solvents or diluents, colorants, wetters, dispersants, emulsifiers, antifoams, preservatives, secondary thickeners, stickers, gibberellins, and also water. Nematicides, insecticides or fungicides are not co-components in this sense.

[0026] Seed treatment sa used herein erfersto methods known in the art for treating seeds with Oxazosulfyl prior to planting such a seed (into a matrix such as soil, agar or another solid medium, preferably soil).

[0027] The invention likewise relates to the use of Oxazosulfyl for treating seed for the purpose of protecting the seed and the resultant plant against animal pests.

[0028] The invention relates, furthermore, to seed which for protection against animal pests has been treated with Oxazosulfyl. The invention also relates to seed which at the same time has been treated with Oxazosulfyl and co-components. The invention further relates to seed which has been treated at different times with Oxazosulfyl and co-components. In the case of seed which has been treated at different times with Oxazosulfyl and co-components, the individual active ingredients in the composition of the invention may be present in different layers on the seed. In this case, the layers which comprise Oxazosulfyl and co-components may optionally be separated by an intermediate layer. The invention also relates to seed in which Oxazosulfyl and co-components have been applied as a constituent of a coating or as a further layer or further layers in addition to a coating.

[0029] Furthermore, the invention relates to seed which, following treatment with Oxazosulfyl, is subjected to a film-coating process in order to prevent dust abrasion of the seed.

[0030] One of the advantages of the present invention is that, owing to the particular systemic properties of the compositions of the invention, the treatment of the seed with these compositions provides protection from animal pests not only to the seed itself but also to the plants originating from the seed, after they have emerged. In this way, it may not be necessary to treat the crop directly at the time of sowing or shortly thereafter. [0031] A further advantage is to be seen in the fact that, through the treatment of the seed with Oxazosulfyl, germination and emergence of the treated seed may be promoted.

[0032] It is likewise considered to be advantageous that Oxazosulfyl may also be used, in particular, on transgenic seed.

[0033] It is also stated that Oxazosulfyl may be used in combination with agents of the signalling technology, as a result of which, for example, colonization with symbionts is improved, such as rhizobia, mycorrhiza and/or endophytic bacteria, for example, is enhanced, and/or nitrogen fixation is optimized.

[0034] The compositions of the invention are suitable for protecting seed of any variety of plant which is used in agriculture, in greenhouses, in forestry or in horticulture. More particularly, the seed in question is that of cereals (e.g. wheat, barley, rye, oats and millet), maize, cotton, soybeans, rice, potatoes, sunflower, coffee, tobacco, canola, oilseed rape, beets (e.g. sugar beet and fodder beet), peanuts, vegetables (e.g. tomato, cucumber, bean, brassicas, onions and lettuce), fruit plants, lawns and ornamentals. Particularly important is the treatment of the seed of cereals (such as wheat, barley, rye, millet and oats), maize, soybeans, cotton, canola, oilseed rape and rice.

[0035] The methods are preferably used in connection with corn seeds. Preferably the corn seeds are those that are agronomically important.

[0036] The seed, preferably corn seed, may be a transgenic seed from which a transgenic plant can grow, preferably a corn seed from which a transgenic corn plant can grow, and incorporates a transgenic event that confers, for example, tolerance to a particular herbicide or combination of herbicides, increased disease resistance, enhanced tolerance to insects, drought, stress and/or enhanced yield. The seed may comprise a breeding trait, including for example, in one embodiment a disease tolerant breeding trait. In another embodiment, a seed, preferably a corn seed, includes at least one transgenic and at least one breeding trait.

[0037] The seed treatment method according to the invention may comprise applying a seed treatment composition comprising Oxazosulfyl to a seed, preferably a corn seed. Thus, the seed treatment method according to the invention may comprise applying a seed treatment composition comprising Oxazosulfyl to a seed, preferably a corn seed, prior to sowing the seed.

[0038] In a specific embodiment, the method may comprise applying a seed treatment composition containing as sole active ingredient (nematicide, fungicide or insecticide) Oxazosulfyl to a seed, preferably a corn seed. When applying a seed treatment composition to a seed prior to sowing the seed in this manner, seeds can be treated, for example, at a central location and then distributed for planting. This may permit a person who plants the seeds to avoid the complexity and effort associated with handling and applying the seed treatment compositions, and to merely plant the treated seeds in a manner that is conventional for regular untreated seeds. [0039] As already mentioned above, the treatment of transgenic seed Oxazosulfyl is particularly important. The seed in question here is that of plants which generally contain at least one heterologous gene that controls the expression of a polypeptide having, in particular, insecticidal and/or nematicidal properties. These heterologous genes in transgenic seed may come from microorganisms such as Bacillus, Rhizobium, Pseudomonas, Serratia, Trichoderma, Clavibacter, Glomus or Gliocladium. The present invention is particularly suitable for the treatment of transgenic seed which contains at least one heterologous gene from Bacillus sp. With particular preference, the heterologous gene in question comes from Bacillus thuringiensis.

[0040] For the purposes of the present invention, Oxazosulfyl is applied alone or in a suitable formulation to the seed. The seed is preferably treated in a condition in which its stability is such that no damage occurs in the course of the treatment. Generally speaking, the seed may be treated at any point in time between harvesting and sowing. Typically, seed is used which has been separated from the plant and has had cobs, hulls, stems, husks, hair or pulp removed. Thus, for example, seed may be used that has been harvested, cleaned and dried to a moisture content of less than 15% by weight. Alternatively, seed can also be used that after drying has been treated with water, for example, and then dried again.

[0041] When treating seed it is necessary, generally speaking, to ensure that the amount of the composition of the invention, and/or of other additives, that is applied to the seed is selected such that the germination of the seed is not adversely affected, and/or that the plant which emerges from the seed is not damaged. This is the case in particular with active ingredients which may exhibit phytotoxic effects at certain application rates.

[0042] Oxazosulfyl which can be used in accordance with the invention may be converted into the customary seed-dressing formulations, such as solutions, emulsions, suspensions, powders, foams, slurries or other coating compositions for seed, and also ULV formulations.

[0043] These formulations are prepared in a known manner, by mixing Oxazosulfyl with customary adjuvants, such as, for example, customary extenders and also solvents or diluents, colorants, wetters, dispersants, emulsifiers, antifoams, preservatives, secondary thickeners, stickers, gibberellins, and also water.

[0044] Colorants which may be present in the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention include all colorants which are customary for such purposes. In this context it is possible to use not only pigments, which are of low solubility in water, but also water-soluble dyes. Examples include the colorants known under the designations Rhodamin B, C.I. Pigment Red 112 and C.I. Solvent Red 1.

[0045] Wetters which may be present in the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention include all of the substances which promote wetting and which are customary in the formulation of active agrochemical ingredients. Use may be made preferably of alkylnaphthalenesulphonates, such as diisopropyl- or diisobutyl-naphthalenesulphonates.

[0046] Dispersants and/or emulsifiers which may be present in the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention include all of the nonionic, anionic and cationic dispersants that are customary in the formulation of active agrochemical ingredients. Use may be made preferably of nonionic or anionic dispersants or of mixtures of nonionic or anionic dispersants. Suitable nonionic dispersants are, in particular, ethylene oxide -propylene oxide block polymers, alkylphenol polyglycol ethers and also tristryrylphenol polyglycol ethers, and the phosphated or sulphated derivatives of these. Suitable anionic dispersants are, in particular, lignosulphonates, salts of polyacrylic acid, and arylsulphonate-formaldehyde condensates.

[0047] Antifoams which may be present in the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention include all of the foam inhibitors that are customary in the formulation of active agrochemical ingredients. Use may be made preferably of silicone anti foams and magnesium stearate.

[0048] Preservatives which may be present in the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention include all of the substances which can be employed for such purposes in agrochemical compositions. Examples include dichlorophen and benzyl alcohol hemiformal.

[0049] Secondary thickeners which may be present in the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention include all substances which can be used for such purposes in agrochemical compositions. Those contemplated with preference include cellulose derivatives, acrylic acid derivatives, xanthan, modified clays and highly disperse silica.

[0050] Stickers which may be present in the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention include all customary binders which can be used in seed-dressing products. Preferred mention may be made of polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol and tylose.

[0051] Gibberellins which may be present in the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention include preferably the gibberellins Al, A3 (= gibberellic acid), A4 and A7, with gibberellic acid being used with particular preference. The gibberellins are known (cf. R. Wegler, “Chemie der Pflanzenschutz- und Schadlingsbekampfungsmittel”, Volume 2, Springer Verlag, 1970, pp. 401-412).

[0052] The seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention may be used, either directly or after prior dilution with water, to treat seed of any of a wide variety of types. Accordingly, the concentrates or the preparations obtainable from them by dilution with water may be employed to dress the seed of cereals, such as wheat, barley, rye, oats and triticale, and also the seed of maize, rice, oilseed rape, peas, beans, cotton, sunflowers and beets, or else the seed of any of a very wide variety of vegetables. The seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention, or their diluted preparations, may also be used to dress seed of transgenic plants. In that case, additional synergistic effects may occur in interaction with the substances formed through expression.

[0053] For the treatment of seed with the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention, or with the preparations produced from them by addition of water, suitable mixing equipment includes all such equipment which can typically be employed for seed dressing. More particularly, the procedure when carrying out seed dressing is to place the seed in a mixer, to add the particular desired amount of seed-dressing formulations, either as such or following dilution with water beforehand, and to carry out mixing until the distribution of the formulation on the seed is uniform. This may be followed by a drying operation.

[0054] The application rate of the seed-dressing formulations which can be used in accordance with the invention may be varied within a relatively wide range. It is guided by the particular amount of Oxazosulfyl in the formulations, and by the seed. The application rates in the case of Oxazosulfyl are situated generally at between 0.001 and 50 g per kilogram of seed, preferably between 0,01 and 15 g per kilogram of seed. For example, in one aspect, the method comprises applying Oxazosulfyl to a seed, wherein the application rate of Oxazosulfyl is at least about 0,1 grams a.i. per kilograms of seed or at least 0,15 grams a.i. per kilograms of seed, 0,3 grams a.i. per kilograms of seed, 0,45 grams a.i. per kilograms of seed, 0,6 grams a.i. per kilograms of seed, 0,75 grams a.i. per kilograms of seed, or 0,9 grams a.i. per kilograms of seed. The method may comprise applying Oxazosulfyl at an application rate of from 0,3 to 0,9, from 0,45 to 0,75, or from 0,5 to 0,6 grams a.i. per kilogram of seed.

[0055] The seed treatment composition can be applied to seeds by any standard seed treatment methodology, including but not limited to mixing in a container (e.g., a bottle or bag), mechanical application, tumbling, spraying, immersion, and solid matrix priming. Any conventional active or inert material can be used for contacting seeds with the seed treatment composition, such as conventional film coating materials including but not limited to water-based film coating materials.

[0056] For example, the seed treatment composition can be introduced onto or into a seed by use of solid matrix priming. For example, a quantity of the seed treatment composition can be mixed with a solid matrix material and then the seed can be placed into contact with the solid matrix material for a period to allow the seed treatment composition to be introduced to the seed. The seed can then optionally be separated from the solid matrix material and stored or used, or the mixture of solid matrix material plus seed can be stored or planted directly. Non-limiting examples of solid matrix materials which are useful include polyacrylamide, starch, clay, silica, alumina, soil, sand, polyurea, polyacrylate, or any other material capable of absorbing or adsorbing the seed treatment composition for a time and releasing Oxazosulfyl of the seed treatment composition into or onto the seed. It is useful to make sure that the fungicide(s) and the solid matrix material are compatible with each other. For example, the solid matrix material should be chosen so that it can release Oxazosulfyl at a reasonable rate, for example over a period of minutes, hours, days, or weeks.

[0057] Imbibition is another method of treating seed with the seed treatment composition. For example, a plant seed can be directly immersed for a period of time in the seed treatment composition. During the period that the seed is immersed, the seed takes up, or imbibes, a portion of the seed treatment composition. Optionally, the mixture of plant seed and the seed treatment composition can be agitated, for example by shaking, rolling, tumbling, or other means. After imbibition, the seed can be separated from the seed treatment composition and optionally dried, for example by patting or air drying.

[0058] The seed treatment composition may be applied to the seeds using conventional coating techniques and machines, such as fluidized bed techniques, the roller mill method, rotostatic seed treaters, and drum coaters. Other methods, such as spouted beds may also be useful. The seeds may be pre-sized before coating. After coating, the seeds are typically dried and then transferred to a sizing machine for sizing. Such procedures are generally known in the art.

[0059] If the seed treatment composition is applied to the seed in the form of a coating, the seeds can be coated using a variety of methods known in the art. For example, the coating process can comprise spraying the seed treatment composition onto the seed while agitating the seed in an appropriate piece of equipment such as a tumbler or a pan granulator.

[0060] When coating seed on a large scale (for example a commercial scale), the seed coating may be applied using a continuous process. Typically, seed is introduced into the treatment equipment (such as a tumbler, a mixer, or a pan granulator) either by weight or by flow rate. The amount of treatment composition that is introduced into the treatment equipment can vary depending on the seed weight to be coated, surface area of the seed, the concentration of the fungicide(s) and/or other active ingredients in the treatment composition, the desired concentration on the finished seed, and the like. The treatment composition can be applied to the seed by a variety of means, for example by a spray nozzle or revolving disc. The amount of liquid may be determined by the assay of the formulation and the required rate of active ingredient necessary for efficacy. As the seed falls into the treatment equipment the seed can be treated (for example by misting or spraying with the seed treatment composition) and passed through the treater under continual movement/tumbling where it can be coated evenly and dried before storage or use.

[0061] Alternatively, the seed coating may be applied using a batch process. For example, a known weight of seeds can be introduced into the treatment equipment (such as a tumbler, a mixer, or a pan granulator). A known volume of seed treatment composition can be introduced into the treatment equipment at a rate that allows the seed treatment composition to be applied evenly over the seeds. During the application, the seed can be mixed, for example by spinning or tumbling. The seed can optionally be dried or partially dried during the tumbling operation. After complete coating, the treated sample can be removed to an area for further drying or additional processing, use, or storage. [0062] In a further alternative embodiment, the seed coating may be applied using a semi -ha tch process that incorporates features from each of the batch process and continuous process embodiments set forth above.

[0063] Seeds can be coated in laboratory size commercial treatment equipment such as a tumbler, a mixer, or a pan granulator by introducing a known weight of seeds in the treater, adding the desired amount of seed treatment composition, tumbling or spinning the seed and placing it on a tray to thoroughly dry.

[0064] Seeds can also be coated by placing the known amount of seed into a narrow neck bottle or receptacle with a lid. While tumbling, the desired amount of seed treatment composition can be added to the receptacle. The seed is tumbled until it is coated with the treatment composition. After coating, the seed can optionally be dried, for example on a tray.

[0065] The treated seeds may also be enveloped with a film overcoating to protect the insecticidal coating. Such overcoatings are known in the art and may be applied using conventional fluidized bed and drum film coating techniques. The overcoatings may be applied to seeds that have been treated with any of the seed treatment techniques described above, including but not limited to solid matrix priming, imbibition, coating, and spraying, or by any other seed treatment technique known in the art.

Application to Plants and/or Soil

Seed, Plant, or Soil Treatment Compositions

[0073] Another embodiment of the disclosure is generally related to a treatment composition comprising Oxazosulfyl for use in accordance with the methods or for preparation of the treated seeds described herein.

[0074] In some embodiments, the treatment composition may be an aqueous composition.

[0075] Generally, the treatment compositions described herein can comprise any adjuvants, excipients, or other desirable components known in the art. For example, in some embodiments, the treatment composition further comprises a surfactant.

[0076] Examples of anionic surfactants include alkyl sulfates, alcohol sulfates, alcohol ether sulfates, alpha olefin sulfonates, alkylaryl ether sulfates, arylsulfonates, alkylsulfonates, alkylaryl sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, mono- or diphosphate esters of polyalkoxylated alkyl alcohols or alkyl phenols, mono- or disulfosuccinate esters of alcohols or polyalkoxylated alkanols, alcohol ether carboxylates, phenol ether carboxylates. In one embodiment, the surfactant is an alkylaryl sulfonate.

[0077] Non-limiting examples of commercially available anionic surfactants include sodium dodecylsulfate (Na-DS, SDS), MORWET D-425 (a sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate condensate, available from Akzo Nobel), MORWET D-500 (a sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate condensate with a block copolymer, available from Akzo Nobel), sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid (Na-DBSA) (available from Aldrich), diphenyloxide disulfonate, naphthalene formaldehyde condensate, DOWFAX (available from Dow), dihexylsulfosuccinate, and dioctylsulfosuccinate, alkyl naphthalene sulfonate condensates, and salts thereof.

[0078] Examples of non-ionic surfactants include sorbitan esters, ethoxylated sorbitan esters, alkoxylated alkylphenols, alkoxylated alcohols, block copolymer ethers, and lanolin derivatives. In accordance with one embodiment, the surfactant comprises an alkylether block copolymer.

[0079] Non-limiting examples of commercially available non-ionic surfactants include SPAN 20, SPAN 40, SPAN 80, SPAN 65, and SPAN 85 (available from Aldrich); TWEEN 20, TWEEN 40, TWEEN 60, TWEEN 80, and TWEEN 85 (available from Aldrich); IGEPAL CA-210, IGEPAL CA-520, IGEPAL CA-720, IGEPAL CO-210, IGEPAL CO-520, IGEPAL CO-630, IGEPAL CO-720, IGEPAL CO-890, and IGEPAL DM-970 (available from Aldrich); Triton X-100 (available from Aldrich); BRIJ S10, BRIJ S20, BRIJ 30, BRIJ 52, BRIJ 56, BRIJ 58, BRIJ 72, BRIJ 76, BRIJ 78, BRIJ 92V, BRIJ 97, and BRIJ 98 (available from Aldrich); PLURONIC L-31, PLURONIC L-35, PLURONIC L-61, PLURONIC L-81, PLURONIC L-64, PLURONIC L-121, PLURONIC 10R5, PLURONIC 17R4, and PLURONIC 31R1 (available from Aldrich); Atlas G-5000 and Atlas G-5002L (available from Croda); ATLOX 4912 and ATLOX 4912-SF (available from Croda); and SOLUPLUS (available from BASF), LANEXOL AWS (available from Croda).

[0080] Non-limiting examples of cationic surfactants include mono alkyl quaternary amine, fatty acid amide surfactants, amidoamine, imidazoline, and polymeric cationic surfactants.

[0081] In some embodiments, the treatment composition comprises a co-solvent in addition to water. Non-limiting examples of co-solvents that can be used include ethyl lactate, methyl soyate/ethyl lactate co-solvent blends (e.g., STEPOSOL, available from Stepan), isopropanol, acetone, 1,2-propanediol, n- alkylpyrrolidones (e.g., the AGSOLEX series, available from ISP), a petroleum based-oil (e.g., AROMATIC series and SOLVESSO series available from Exxon Mobil), isoparaffinic fluids (e.g. ISOPAR series, available from Exxon Mobil), cycloparaffinic fluids (e.g. NAPPAR 6, available from Exxon Mobil), mineral spirits (e.g. VARSOL series available from Exxon Mobil), and mineral oils (e.g., paraffin oil).

[0082] Examples of commercially available organic solvents include pentadecane, ISOPAR M, ISOPAR V, and ISOPAR L (available from Exxon Mobil).

[0083] In some embodiments, the treatment composition comprising Oxazosulfyl, may be formulated, mixed in a seed treater tank, combined on the seed by overcoating, or combined with one or more additional active ingredients. The additional active ingredients may comprise, for example, an insecticide, a fungicide or a biological agent. In some embodiments, the treatment composition comprises comprise Oxazosulfyl and another pesticide, for example a nematicide, insecticide, fungicide, and/or herbicide. In some embodiments, the treatment composition comprises Oxazosulfyl and a biological agent. In one embodiment the treatment composition comprises Oxazosulfyl as sole insecticide, in another embodiment, the the treatment composition comprises Oxazosulfyl as sole nematicide, insecticide or fungicide (i.e. no other nematicide, insecticide or fungicide is present).

[0084] Non-limiting examples of insecticides and nematicides include carbamates, diamides, macrocyclic lactones, neonicotinoids, organophosphates, phenylpyrazoles, pyrethrins, spinosyns, synthetic pyrethroids, tetronic and tetramic acids. In another embodiment, insecticides and nematicides include abamectin, aldicarb, aldoxycarb, bifenthrin, carbofuran, chlorantraniliprole, clothianidin, cyantraniliprole, cyfluthrin, cyhalothrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, dinotefuran, emamectin, ethiprole, fenamiphos, fipronil, flubendiamide, fosthiazate, imidacloprid, ivermectin, lambda-cyhalothrin, milbemectin, tioxazafen, nitenpyram, oxamyl, permethrin, spinetoram, spinosad, spirodichlofen, spirotetramat, tefluthrin, thiacloprid, thiamethoxam, and thiodicarb.

[0085] In one embodiment, the insectide may be selected from the group consisting of clothianidin, thiamethoxam, tioxazafen, imidacloprid and combinations thereof.

[0086] Non-limiting examples of useful fungicides include aromatic hydrocarbons, benzimidazoles, benzothiadiazole, carboxamides, carboxylic acid amides, morpholines, phenylamides, phosphonates, quinone outside inhibitors (e.g. strobilurins), thiazolidines, thiophanates, thiophene carboxamides, and triazoles, Non-limiting examples of fungicides include acibenzolar-S-methyl, azoxystrobin, benalaxyl, bixafen, boscalid, carbendazim, chlorothalonil, cyproconazole, dimethomorph, epoxiconazole, fludioxonil, fluopyram, flutianil, flutolanil, fluxapyroxad, fosetyl-Al, ipconazole, isopyrazam, kresoxim- methyl, mefenoxam, metalaxyl, metconazole, myclobutanil, orysastrobin, penflufen, penthiopyrad, picoxystrobin, propiconazole, pyraclostrobin, sedaxane, silthiofam, tebuconazole, thifluzamide, thiophanate, tolclofos-methyl, trifloxystrobin, and triticonazole.

[0087] In one embodiment, the fungicide may be selected from the group consisting of ipconazole, metalaxyl, trifloxystrobin, pyraclostrobin, fluxapyroxad, sedaxane, fluopyram, mefenoxam, penflufen, azoxystrobin and combinations thereof.

[0088] Non-limiting examples of herbicides include ACCase inhibitors, acetanilides, AHAS inhibitors, carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitors, EPSPS inhibitors, glutamine synthetase inhibitors, PPO inhibitors, PS II inhibitors, and synthetic auxins. Non-limiting examples of herbicides include acetochlor, clethodim, dicamba, flumioxazin, fomesafen, glyphosate, glufosinate, mesotrione, quizalofop, saflufenacil, sulcotrione, 2,4-D, trifloxysulfuron, and halosulfuron.

[0089] In one embodiment, the herbicide may be selected from the group consisting of acetochlor, dicamba, glyphosate and combinations thereof. [0090] Additional actives may also comprise substances such as, biological agents for pest control, microbial extracts, plant growth activators or plant defense agents. Non-limiting examples of biological agents include bacteria, fungi, beneficial nematodes, and viruses.

[0091] In certain embodiments, the biological agent can be a bacterium of the genus Actinomycetes, Agrobacterium, Arthrobacter, Alcaligenes, Aureobacterium, Azobacter, Bacillus, Beijerinckia, Brevibacillus, Burkholderia, Chromobacterium, Clostridium, Clavibacter, Comamonas, Corynebacterium, Curtobacterium, Enterobacter, Flavobacterium, Gluconobacter, Hydrogenophaga, Klebsiella, Methylobacterium, Paenibacillus, Pasteuria, , Photorhabdus, Phyllobacterium, Pseudomonas, Rhizobia, Serratia, Sphingobacterium, Stenotrophomonas, Variovorax, and Xenorhabdus. In particular embodiments the bacteria is selected from the group consisting of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus firmus, Bacillus, lichenformis, Bacillus pumilus, Bacillus sphaericus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, Chromobacterium suttsuga, Pasteuria penetrans, Pasteuria usage, and Pseudomonas fluorescens.

[0092] In certain embodiments the biological agent can be a fungus of the genus Alternaria, Ampelomyces, Aspergillus, Aureobasidium, Beauveria, Colletotrichum, Coniothyrium, Gliocladium, Metarhizium, Muscodor, Paecilomyces, Bradyrhizobia, Trichoderma, Typhula, Ulocladium, and Verticillium. In another embodiment the fungus is Beauveria bassiana, Coniothyrium minitans, Gliocladium virens, Muscodor albus, Paecilomyces lilacinus, or Trichoderma polysporum.

[0093] In further embodiments the biological agents can be plant growth activators or plant defense agents including, but not limited to harpin, Reynoutria sachalinensis, jasmonate, lipochitooligosaccharides, salicylic acid and isoflavones. In another embodiment, the biological agent may be selected from the group consisting of Bacillus firmus.

[0094] Preferably, Oxazosulfyl is used to control at least one pest from the order of the Coleoptera, for example Acalymma vittatum, Adoretus spp., Aethina tumida, Agelastica alni, Agrilus spp., for example Agrilus planipennis, Agrilus coxalis, Agrilus bilineatus, Agrilus anxius, Agriotes spp., for example Agriotes linneatus, Agriotes mancus, Agriotes obscurus, Alphitobius diaperinus, Amphimallon solstitialis, Anobium punctatum, Anomala dubia, Anoplophora spp., for example Anoplophora glabripennis, Anthonomus spp., for example Anthonomus grandis, Anthrenus spp., Apion spp., Apogonia spp., Athous haemorrhoidales, Atomaria spp., for example Atomaria linearis, Attagenus spp., Baris caerulescens, Bruchidius obtectus, Bruchus spp., for example Bruchus pisorum, Bruchus rufimanus, Cassida spp., Cerotoma trifurcata, Ceutorrhynchus spp., for example Ceutorrhynchus assimilis, Ceutorrhynchus quadridens, Ceutorrhynchus rapae, Chaetocnema spp., for example Chaetocnema confinis, Chaetocnema denticulata, Chaetocnema ectypa, Cleonus mendicus, Conoderus spp., Cosmopolites spp., for example Cosmopolites sordidus, Costelytra zealandica, Ctenicera spp., Curculio spp., for example Curculio caryae, Curculio caryatrypes, Curculio obtusus, Curculio sayi, Cryptolestes ferrugineus, Cryptolestes pusillus, Cryptorhynchus lapathi, Cryptorhynchus mangiferae, Cylindrocopturus spp., Cylindrocopturus adspersus, Cylindrocopturus furnissi, Dendroctonus spp., for example Dendroctonus ponderosae, Dermestes spp., Diabrotica spp., for example Diabrotica balteata, Diabrotica barberi, Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi, Diabrotica undecimpunctata undecimpunctata, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, Diabrotica virgifera zeae, Dichocrocis spp., Dicladispa armigera, Diloboderus spp., Epicaerus spp., Epilachna spp., for example Epilachna borealis, Epilachna varivestis, Epitrix spp., for example Epitrix cucumeris, Epitrix fuscula, Epitrix hirtipennis, Epitrix subcrinita, Epitrix tuberis, Faustinus spp., Gibbium psylloides, Gnathocerus cornutus, Hellula undalis, Heteronychus arator, Heteronyx spp., Hoplia argentea, Hylamorpha elegans, Hylotrupes bajulus, Hypera postica, Hypomeces squamosus, Hypothenemus spp., for example Hypothenemus hampei, Hypothenemus obscurus, Hypothenemus pubescens, Lachnosterna consanguinea, Lasioderma serricorne, Latheticus oryzae, Lathridius spp., Lema spp., Leptinotarsa decemlineata, Leucoptera spp., for example Leucoptera coffeella, Limonius ectypus, Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus, Listronotus (= Hyperodes) spp., Lixus spp., Luperodes spp., Luperomorpha xanthodera, Lyctus spp., Megacyllene spp., for example Megacyllene robiniae, Megascelis spp., Melanotus spp., for example Melanotus longulus oregonensis, Meligethes aeneus, Melolontha spp., for example Melolontha melolontha, Migdolus spp., Monochamus spp., Naupactus xanthographus, Necrobia spp., Neogalerucella spp., Niptus hololeucus, Oryctes rhinoceros, Oryzaephilus surinamensis, Oryzaphagus oryzae, Otiorhynchus spp., for example Otiorhynchus cribricollis, Otiorhynchus ligustici, Otiorhynchus ovatus, Otiorhynchus rugosostriarus, Otiorhynchus sulcatus, Oulema spp., for example Oulema melanopus, Oulema oryzae, Oxycetonia jucunda, Phaedon cochleariae, Phyllophaga spp., Phyllophaga helleri, Phyllotreta spp., for example Phyllotreta armoraciae, Phyllotreta pusilla, Phyllotreta ramosa, Phyllotreta striolata, Popillia japonica, Premnotrypes spp., Prostephanus truncatus, Psylliodes spp., for example Psylliodes affinis, Psylliodes chrysocephala, Psylliodes punctulata, Ptinus spp., Rhizobius ventralis, Rhizopertha dominica, Rhynchophorus spp., Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, Rhynchophorus palmarum, Scolytus spp., for example Scolytus multistriatus, Sinoxylon perforans, Sitophilus spp., for example Sitophilus granarius, Sitophilus linearis, Sitophilus oryzae, Sitophilus zeamais, Sphenophorus spp., Stegobium paniceum, Sternechus spp., for example Sternechus paludatus, Symphyletes spp., Tanymecus spp., for example Tanymecus dilaticollis, Tanymecus indicus, Tanymecus palliatus, Tenebrio molitor, Tenebrioides mauretanicus, Tribolium spp., for example Tribolium audax, Tribolium castaneum, Tribolium confusum, Trogoderma spp., Tychius spp., Xylotrechus spp., Zabrus spp., for example Zabrus tenebrioides; from the order of the Lepidoptera, for example Achroia grisella, Acronicta major, Adoxophyes spp., for example Adoxophyes orana, Aedia leucomelas, Agrotis spp., for example Agrotis segetum, Agrotis ipsilon, Alabama spp., for example Alabama argillacea, Amyelois transitella, Anarsia spp., Anticarsia spp., for example Anticarsia gemmatalis, Argyroploce spp., Autographa spp., Barathra brassicae, Blastodacna atra, Borbo cinnara, Bucculatrix thurberiella, Bupalus piniarius, Busseola spp., Cacoecia spp., Caloptilia theivora, Capua reticulana, Carpocapsa pomonella, Carposina niponensis, Cheimatobia brumata, Chilo spp., for example Chilo plejadellus, Chilo suppressalis, Choreutis pariana, Choristoneura spp., Chrysodeixis chalcites, Clysia ambiguella, Cnaphalocerus spp., Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, Cnephasia spp., Conopomorpha spp., Conotrachelus spp., Copitarsia spp., Cydia spp., for example Cydia nigricana, Cydia pomonella, Dalaca noctuides, Diaphania spp., Diparopsis spp., Diatraea saccharalis, Dioryctria spp., for example Dioryctria zimmermani, Earias spp., Ecdytolopha aurantium, Elasmopalpus lignosellus, Eldana saccharina, Ephestia spp., for example Ephestia elutella, Ephestia kuehniella, Epinotia spp., Epiphyas postvittana, Erannis spp., Erschoviella musculana, Etiella spp., Eudocima spp., Eulia spp., Eupoecilia ambiguella, Euproctis spp., for example Euproctis chrysorrhoea, Euxoa spp., Feltia spp., Galleria mellonella, Gracillaria spp., Grapholitha spp., for example Grapholita molesta, Grapholita prunivora, Hedylepta spp., Helicoverpa spp., for example Helicoverpa armigera, Helicoverpa zea, Heliothis spp., for example Heliothis virescens, Hepialus spp., for example Hepialus humuli, Hofmannophila pseudospretella, Homoeosoma spp., Homona spp., Hyponomeuta padella, Kakivoria flavofasciata, Lampides spp., Laphygma spp., Laspeyresia molesta, Leucinodes orbonalis, Leucoptera spp., for example Leucoptera coffeella, Lithocolletis spp., for example Lithocolletis blancardella, Lithophane antennata, Lobesia spp., for example Lobesia botrana, Loxagrotis albicosta, Lymantria spp., for example Lymantria dispar, Lyonetia spp., for example Lyonetia clerkella, Malacosoma neustria, Maruca testulalis, Mamestra brassicae, Melanitis leda, Mods spp., Monopis obviella, Mythimna separata, Nemapogon cloacellus, Nymphula spp., Oiketicus spp., Omphisa spp., Operophtera spp., Oria spp., Orthaga spp., Ostrinia spp., for example Ostrinia nubilalis, Panolis flammea, Parnara spp., Pectinophora spp., for example Pectinophora gossypiella, Perileucoptera spp., Phthorimaea spp., for example Phthorimaea operculella, Phyllocnistis citrella, Phyllonorycter spp., for example Phyllonorycter blancardella, Phyllonorycter crataegella, Pieris spp., for example Pieris rapae, Platynota stultana, Plodia interpunctella, Plusia spp., Plutella xylostella (=Plutella maculipennis), Podesia spp., for example Podesia syringae, Prays spp., Prodenia spp., Protoparce spp., Pseudaletia spp., for example Pseudaletia unipuncta, Pseudoplusia includens, Pyrausta nubilalis, Rachiplusia nu, Schoenobius spp., for example Schoenobius bipunctifer, Scirpophaga spp., for example Scirpophaga innotata, Scotia segetum, Sesamia spp., for example Sesamia inferens, Sparganothis spp., Spodoptera spp., for example Spodoptera eradiana, Spodoptera exigua, Spodoptera frugiperda, Spodoptera praefica, Stathmopoda spp., Stenoma spp., Stomopteryx subsecivella, Synanthedon spp., Tecia solanivora, Thaumetopoea spp., Thermesia gemmatalis, Tinea cloacella, Tinea pellionella, Tineola bisselliella, Tortrix spp., Trichophaga tapetzella, Trichoplusia spp., for example Trichoplusia ni, Tryporyza incertulas, Tuta absoluta, Virachola spp.; from the order of the Orthoptera or Saltatoria, for example Acheta domesticus, Dichroplus spp., Gryllotalpa spp., for example Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa, Hieroglyphus spp., Locusta spp., for example Locusta migratoria, Melanoplus spp., for example Melanoplus devastator, Paratlanticus ussuriensis, Schistocerca gregaria; from the order of the Hemiptera, for example Acizzia acaciaebaileyanae, Acizzia dodonaeae, Acizzia uncatoides, Acrida turrita, Acyrthosipon spp., for example Acyrthosiphon pisum, Acrogonia spp., Aeneolamia spp., Agonoscena spp., Aleurocanthus spp., Aleyrodes proletella, Aleurolobus barodensis, Aleurothrixus floccosus, Allocaridara malayensis, Amrasca spp., for example Amrasca bigutulla, Amrasca devastans, Anuraphis cardui, Aonidiella spp., for example Aonidiella aurantii, Aonidiella citrina, Aonidiella inornata, Aphanostigma piri, Aphis spp., for example Aphis citricola, Aphis craccivora, Aphis fabae, Aphis forbesi, Aphis glycines, Aphis gossypii, Aphis hederae, Aphis illinoisensis, Aphis middletoni, Aphis nasturtii, Aphis nerii, Aphis pomi, Aphis spiraecola, Aphis viburniphila, Arboridia apicalis, Arytainilla spp., Aspidiella spp., Aspidiotus spp., for example Aspidiotus nerii, Atanus spp., Aulacorthum solani, Bemisia tabaci, Blastopsylla occidentalis, Boreioglycaspis melaleucae, Brachycaudus helichrysi, Brachycolus spp., Brevicoryne brassicae, Cacopsylla spp., for example Cacopsylla pyricola, Calligypona marginata, Capulinia spp., Carneocephala fulgida, Ceratovacuna lanigera, Cercopidae, Ceroplastes spp., Chaetosiphon fragaefolii, Chionaspis tegalensis, Chlorita onukii, Chondracris rosea, Chromaphis juglandicola, Chrysomphalus aonidum, Chrysomphalus ficus, Cicadulina mbila, Coccomytilus halli, Coccus spp., for example Coccus hesperidum, Coccus longulus, Coccus pseudomagnoliarum, Coccus viridis, Cryptomyzus ribis, Cryptoneossa spp., Ctenarytaina spp., Dalbulus spp., Dialeurodes chittendeni, Dialeurodes citri, Diaphorina citri, Diaspis spp., Diuraphis spp., Doralis spp., Drosicha spp., Dysaphis spp., for example Dysaphis apiifolia, Dysaphis plantaginea, Dysaphis tulipae, Dysmicoccus spp., Empoasca spp., for example Empoasca abrupta, Empoasca fabae, Empoasca maligna, Empoasca solana, Empoasca stevensi, Eriosoma spp., for example Eriosoma americanum, Eriosoma lanigerum, Eriosoma pyricola, Erythroneura spp., Eucalyptolyma spp., Euphyllura spp., Euscelis bilobatus, Ferrisia spp., Fiorinia spp., Furcaspis oceanica, Geococcus coffeae, Glycaspis spp., Heteropsylla cubana, Heteropsylla spinulosa, Homalodisca coagulata, Hyalopterus arundinis, Hyalopterus pruni, Icerya spp., for example Icerya purchasi, Idiocerus spp., Idioscopus spp., Laodelphax striatellus, Lecanium spp., for example Lecanium corni (=Parthenolecanium corni), Lepidosaphes spp., for example Lepidosaphes ulmi, Lipaphis erysimi, Lopholeucaspis japonica, Lycorma delicatula, Macrosiphum spp., for example Macrosiphum euphorbiae, Macrosiphum lilii, Macrosiphum rosae, Macrosteles facifrons, Mahanarva spp., Melanaphis sacchari, Metcalfiella spp., Metcalfa pruinosa, Metopolophium dirhodum, Monellia costalis, Monelliopsis pecanis, Myzus spp., for example Myzus ascalonicus, Myzus cerasi, Myzus ligustri, Myzus ornatus, Myzus persicae,. Myzus nicotianae, Nasonovia ribisnigri, Neomaskellia spp., Nephotettix spp., for example Nephotettix cincticeps,, Nephotettix nigropictus, Nettigoniclla spectra, Nilaparvata lugens, Oncometopia spp., Orthezia praelonga, Oxya chinensis, Pachypsylla spp., Parabemisia myricae, Paratrioza spp., for example Paratrioza cockerelli, Parlatoria spp., Pemphigus spp., for example Pemphigus bursarius, Pemphigus populivenae, Peregrinus maidis, Perkinsiella spp., Phenacoccus spp., for example Phenacoccus madeirensis, Phloeomyzus passerinii, Phorodon humuli, Phylloxera spp., for example Phylloxera devastatrix, Phylloxera notabilis, Pinnaspis aspidistrae, Planococcus spp., for example Planococcus citri, Prosopidopsylla flava, Protopulvinaria pyriformis, Pseudaulacaspis pentagona, Pseudococcus spp., for example Pseudococcus calceolariae, Pseudococcus comstocki, Pseudococcus longispinus, Pseudococcus maritimus, Pseudococcus viburni, Psyllopsis spp., Psylla spp., for example Psylla buxi, Psylla mali, Psylla pyri, Pteromalus spp., Pulvinaria spp., Pyrilla spp., Quadraspidiotus spp., for example Quadraspidiotus juglansregiae, Quadraspidiotus ostreaeformis, Quadraspidiotus perniciosus, Quesada gigas, Rastrococcus spp., Rhopalosiphum spp., for example Rhopalosiphum maidis, Rhopalosiphum oxyacanthae, Rhopalosiphum padi, Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominale, Saissetia spp., for example Saissetia coffeae, Saissetia miranda, Saissetia neglecta, Saissetia oleae, Scaphoideus titanus, Schizaphis graminum, Selenaspidus articulatus, Sipha flava, Sitobion avenae, Sogata spp., Sogatella furcifera, Sogatodes spp., Stictocephala festina, Siphoninus phillyreae, Tenalaphara malayensis,Tetragonocephela spp., Tinocallis caryaefoliae, Tomaspis spp., Toxoptera spp., for example Toxoptera aurantii, Toxoptera citricidus, Trialeurodes vaporariorum, Trioza spp., for example Trioza diospyri, Typhlocyba spp., Unaspis spp., Viteus vitifolii, Zygina spp..

[0095] In one preferred embodiment, Oxazosulfyl is used to control at least one pest from the order of the Coleoptera, from the family of the Chrysomelidae, for example Agriotes spp., for example Agriotes linneatus, Agriotes mancus, Agriotes obscurus, Phaedon cochleariae, Popillia japonica, especially Diabrotica spp., for example Diabrotica barberi, Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi, Diabrotica undecimpunctata undecimpunctata, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, Diabrotica virgifera zeae, especially Diabrotica balteata, from the order of the Hemiptera, from the family of the Delphacidae, especially Nilaparvata lugens, and from the family of the Aphididae , for example Aphis spp., for example Aphis citricola, Aphis craccivora, Aphis fabae, Aphis forbesi, Aphis glycines, Aphis gossypii, Myzus spp., for example Myzus ascalonicus, Myzus cerasi, Myzus ligustri, Myzus ornatus, Myzus persicae, Myzus nicotianae, especially Rhopalosiphum spp., for example Rhopalosiphum maidis, Rhopalosiphum oxyacanthae, Rhopalosiphum rufiabdoininale, especially Rhopalosiphum padi, from the order of the Lepidoptera, Agrotis spp., for example Agrotis segetum, Agrotis ipsilon, especially Spodoptera spp., for example Spodoptera eradiana, Spodoptera exigua, Spodoptera praefica, especially Spodoptera frugiperda.

[0096] In one more preferred embodiment, Oxazosulfyl is used to control either in form of a seed treatment or in form of an exogenous treatment (preferably in furrow application) at least one pest selected from the group consisting of soil dwelling grubs, like Diabrotica balteata, Diabrotica virgifera, Popillia species, Agriotes species, and other coleopteran pests like Phaedon cochleariae, lepidopteran pests like Agrotis segetum, Spodoptera frugiperda, aphicidal pests like Rhopalosiphum padi, Myzus persicae, Aphis gossypiii and hoppers like Nilaparvata lugens.

[0097] Aspect one of the invention refers to a method of controlling insects comprising the step of applying Oxazosulfyl

to a seed in form of a seed treatment before planting or in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed. [0098] The method according to aspect 1, wherein the seed is corn seed, cereal seed, soybean seed or rice seed, preferably corn seed, wheat seed barley seed, soybean seed or rice seed, more preferably a corn seed, barley seed, or rice seed, most preferably corn seed.

[0099] The method according to aspect 1, wherein the insect is a soil dwelling grub.

[00100] The method according to aspect 1, wherein the insect is selected from the group consisting of Diabrotica balteata, Diabrotica virgifera, Popillia species, Agriotes species, Phaedon cochleariae, Agrotis segetum, Spodoptera frugiperda, Rhopalosiphum padi, Myzus persicae, Aphis gossypiii and Nilaparvata lugens.

[00101] The method according to aspect 1, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the seed is coated with Oxazosulfyl and optionally with at least one further insecticide or fungicide.

[00102] The method according to aspect 1, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the seed is coated with Oxazosulfyl as the sole insecticide.

[00103] The method according to aspect 1, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the seed is coated with Oxazosulfyl as the sole insecticide or fungicide.

[00104] The method according to aspect 1, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the application rate of Oxazosulfyl is from 0,05 to 1,5 g Oxazosulfyl / kg seed.

[00105] The method according to aspect 1, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed, the method comprising:

A) making a furrow in a cultivated land;

B) seeding the furrow with seed;

C) applying to the furrow a composition comprising Oxazosulfyl; and

D) closing the furrow.

[00106] The method according to aspect 1, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed, the method comprising:

A) making a furrow in a cultivated land;

B) seeding the furrow with seed;

C) applying to the furrow a composition comprising Oxazosulfyl; and

D) closing the furrow

and said seed is corn. [00107] The method according to aspect 1, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed, the method comprising:

A) making a furrow in a cultivated land;

B) seeding the furrow with seed;

C) applying to the furrow a composition comprising Oxazosulfyl; and

D) closing the furrow;

and said seed is corn and Oxazosulfyl as the sole insecticide in step C).

[00108] The method according to aspect 1, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed, the method comprising:

A) making a furrow in a cultivated land;

B) seeding the furrow with seed;

C) applying to the furrow a composition comprising Oxazosulfyl; and

D) closing the furrow;

and said seed is corn and Oxazosulfyl as the sole insecticide or fungicide in step C).

[00109] The method according to aspect 1, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed, the method comprising:

A) making a furrow in a cultivated land;

B) seeding the furrow with seed;

C) applying to the furrow a composition comprising Oxazosulfyl; and

D) closing the furrow;

and said seed is corn and Oxazosulfyl as the sole insecticide, nematicide or fungicide in step C).

[00110] A seed coated with a layer comprising Oxazosulfyl.

[00111] Having described the embodiments in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations of the disclosure are possible without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Examples:

Diabrotica balteata -test, seed application (DIABBA)

Blank formulation:

2,0% Brilliantponceau 4 RC 70 2,0% Helioechtrubin 4B 10 5,0% Baykanol SL 4,0% Utrasil VN3 powder 1,5% ground emulsifier 1000 TR U 0,8% Baysilone defoamer E VM 30 84,7% Kaolin W Solvent: Aceton if necessary

[00112] To produce a suitable preparation of active compound, 1 part by weight of active compound is mixed with 4 parts by weight of blank formulation and the necessary part of solvent (amount depends on aggregate state of the active compound). Afterwards this preparation is dried. Depending on the application rate the needed amount of preparation is mixed with the corn seeds (Zea mays ) by adding some water and then the seeds are dried again.

[00113] The corn seeds are sown in sandy loam (5 kernels/pot, 2 pots /variant). After 3 days each pot is infested with 40 larvae of the banded cucumber beetle ( Diabrotica balteata). There are 2 untreated controls, one with larvae and one without larvae, to control the germination rate of the seeds.

[00114] 7 days after infection efficacy in % Abbott is determined. 100 % means the germination rate corresponds to that of the untreated, uninfected control plants and 0 % means the germination rate corresponds to that of the untreated, infected control plants.

[00115] In this test the following compound shows good efficacy after seed application: see list 1.

Rhopalosiphum padi -test, seed application (RHOPPA)

Blank formulation:

2,0% Brilliantponceau 4 RC 70

2,0% Helioechtrubin 4B 10 5,0% Baykanol SL 4,0% Utrasil VN3 powder 1,5% ground emulsifier 1000 TR U 0,8% Baysilone defoamer E VM 30 84,7% Kaolin W Solvent: Aceton if necessary

[00116] To produce a suitable preparation of active compound, 1 part by weight of active compound is mixed with 4 parts by weight of blank formulation and the necessary part of solvent (amount depends on aggregate state of the active compound). Afterwards this preparation is dried. Depending on the application rate the needed amount of preparation is mixed with the barley seeds ( Hordeum vulgare ) by adding some water and then the seeds are dried again.

[00117] The barley seeds are sown in sandy loam (10 kernels/pot, 2 pots /variant). After about 1 week each pot with barley plants (1.-2. leaf stage) is infested with a mixed population of grain aphids ( Rhopalosiphum padi ).

[00118] After 7 days mortality in % is determined. 100 % means all aphids have been killed and 0 % means none of the aphids have been killed.

[00119] In this test the following compound shows good efficacy after seed application: see list 1.

Nilaparvata lugens -test, seed application (NILALU)

Blank formulation:

2,0% Brilliantponceau 4 RC 70

2,0% Helioechtrubin 4B 10

5,0% Baykanol SL

4,0% Utrasil VN3 powder

1,5% ground emulsifier 1000 TR U

0,8% Baysilone defoamer E VM 30

84,7% Kaolin W

Solvent: Aceton if necessary [00120] To produce a suitable preparation of active compound, 1 part by weight of active compound is mixed with 4 parts by weight of blank formulation and the necessary part of solvent (amount depends on aggregate state of the active compound). Afterwards this preparation is dried. Depending on the application rate the needed amount of preparation is mixed with the rice seeds ( Oryza sativa ) by adding some water and then the seeds are dried again.

[00121] The rice seeds are sown in sandy loam (10 kernels/pot, 2 pots /variant). After about 1 week each pot with rice plants is infested with a mixed population of brown planthoppers ( Nilaparvata lugens).

[00122] After 7 days mortality in % is determined. 100 % means all hoppers have been killed and 0 % means none of the hoppers have been killed.

[00123] In this test the following compound shows good efficacy after seed application: see list 1.

Spodoptera frugiperda -test, seed application (SPODFR)

Blank formulation:

2,0% Brilliantponceau 4 RC 70

2,0% Helioechtrubin 4B 10

5,0% Baykanol SL

4,0% Utrasil VN3 powder

1,5% ground emulsifier 1000 TR U

0,8% Baysilone defoamer E VM 30

84,7% Kaolin W

Solvent: Aceton if necessary

[00124] To produce a suitable preparation of active compound, 1 part by weight of active compound is mixed with 4 parts by weight of blank formulation and the necessary part of solvent (amount depends on aggregate state of the active compound). Afterwards this preparation is dried. Depending on the application rate the needed amount of preparation is mixed with the corn seeds ( Zea mays ) by adding some water and then the seeds are dried again.

[00125] The corn seeds are sown in sandy loam (1 kernel/pot, 3 pots/variant). After 5 days each pot is infested with 5 larvae of the fall army worm (Spodoptera frugiperda).

[00126] 7 days after infection mortality in % is determined. 100 % means all larvae have been killed and 0 % means none of the larvae have been killed.

In this test the following compound shows good efficacy after seed application: see list 1. List 1

Claims

Claims:

1. A method of controlling insects comprising the step of applying Oxazosulfyl

to a seed in form of a seed treatment before planting or in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the seed is corn seed, cereal seed, soybean seed or rice seed, preferably corn seed, wheat seed barley seed, soybean seed or rice seed, more preferably a corn seed, barley seed, or rice seed, most preferably corn seed.

3. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the insect is a soil dwelling grub.

4. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the insect is selected from the group consisting of Diabrotica balteata, Diabrotica virgifera, Popillia species, Agriotes species, Phaedon cochleariae, Agrotis segetum, Spodoptera frugiperda, Rhopalosiphum padi, Myzus persicae, Aphis gossypiii and Nilaparvata lugens.

5. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the seed is coated with Oxazosulfyl and optionally with at least one further insecticide or fungicide.

6. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the seed is coated with Oxazosulfyl as the sole insecticide.

7. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the seed is coated with Oxazosulfyl as the sole insecticide or fungicide.

8. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a seed treatment and the application rate of Oxazosulfyl is from 0,05 to 1,5 g Oxazosulfyl / kg seed.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein Oxazosulfyl is applied to a seed in form of a exogenous treatment of a seed, the method comprising:

A) making a furrow in a cultivated land;

B) seeding the furrow with seed;

C) applying to the furrow a composition comprising Oxazosulfyl; and

D) closing the furrow.

10. A seed coated with a layer comprising Oxazosulfyl.