DESC:
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention relates to an agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues. Particularly, the present invention relates to a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues and a method for controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds using the solid agrochemical composition thereof. More particularly, the field of application of the solid agrochemical composition is as suicidal germination agents.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
Parasitic plants are among the most troublesome pests in agricultural crops around the world. They settle in the host plant with the help of their special organs and penetrate the vascular tissues of the host plant and fulfil their nutritional, water, and mineral requirements from the host plant. Parasitic plants of the Striga, Alectra, and Orobanche genera (Orobanchaceae) are noxious root parasites on many food crops, causing serious losses in the crop yields in many parts of the world. These are particularly harmful to some crops of major economic interest such as sorghum, maize, sugar cane, beans, etc.

Control of these parasitic plants is extremely difficult, because they produce a large number of seeds that remain viable in the soil for many years until they detect germination stimulants released from host roots. They have a strong dependence on germination stimulants that are released by the host plants. Knowledge of the structure and bioactivity of these stimulants plays an essential role in designing control methods for these weeds/parasitic plants.

A germination stimulant of Striga seeds termed strigol was first isolated in 1966 from cotton root exudates by Cook et al. Following this discovery, several strigol-related compounds have been identified as germination stimulants of parasite seeds in root exudates of various plant species. A group of these lactones were named as strigolactones.

The strigolactones (such as strigol, alectrol, sorgolactone, orobanchol, etc.) are natural compounds extracted from root exudates of various plant species. They were originally described as agents inducing the germination of seeds of parasitic plants of the groups Striga and Orobanche. A new approach called suicidal germination, which involves germination of the seeds in the absence of host plants was then developed using strigolactones, in the struggle against parasitic plants. Suicide germination comprises treating agricultural soils, which are likely to be infested with parasitic plants, with strigolactone analogues, the treatment being carried out at a time when the plant to be cultivated is not yet growing in said agricultural soils, or before sowing/planting the crops. Various synthetic analogues of the strigolactones have been prepared since then and have been tested for their germination stimulant activity. Synthetic analogues are easier to obtain than the natural compounds and are therefore, more suitable for application on an industrial scale. By timely application of such synthetic analogues, germination of the dormant seeds of the parasitic plants is falsely signalled or induced and the parasitic plants, without a host plant to infest, ultimately die. Seasonal applications of these germination stimulants in the absence of a host plant would gradually deplete this seed bank.

Certain known synthetic strigolactone analogues are methyl phenlactonoates and Nijmegen-1 compounds among other. Methyl phenlactonoates, are a class of strigolactone analogues and have been disclosed in the patent publication WO2018060865A1, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated in entirety herein by reference. Methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound is a representative compound of methyl phenlactonoates for usage in aforesaid agricultural applications. Also, Nijmegen-1 compound is another strigolactone analogue found to be effective as a suicidal germination agent. Therefore, synthetic strigolactone analogues have excellent prospects for use in combating parasitic weeds.

Although suicidal germination originated as an attractive and effective method, it is still not considered practically possible, because of the alleged untimely decomposition of the stimulants in the soil as well as the (observed) uncontrollable seed germination. Furthermore, several strigolactone analogues had been developed over the last few decades, but the problem of their efficacy, stability, and synthesis remains unsolved leading to a need for developing a stable composition comprising the strigolactone analogues.

It is known in the art that formulating any active ingredient involves balancing several competing factors such as physicochemical stability and biological efficacy. To balance these factors, excipients/adjuvants/surfactants are added to the active ingredient, which play an important role by boosting bio-performance and improving the environmental profile of the agrochemical compositions. Similarly, while developing solid compositions of synthetic strigolactone analogues, issues were faced pertaining to solubility problems of the active ingredients in the composition. This also led to side effects on the host crop as well as instability of the composition in the soil and leaching of the composition. Also, the selection of suitable germination stimulants, suitable surfactants, application protocol, and appropriate formulation for field application remained challenging barriers for successful practice of suicidal germination concept. Therefore, there still exists a need to develop an efficient and stable solid composition of synthetic strigolactone analogues for agricultural application, which is user-friendly, highly compatible with strigolactone analogues, and stable for a sufficient period of time and overcomes the issue of leaching of the composition.

OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION:
It is a primary objective of the present disclosure to provide an agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues.

It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a stable solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues selected from methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3), Nijmegen-1, or combinations thereof.

It is yet another objective of the present disclosure to provide a process for preparation of a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds by applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds by applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues for inducing/stimulating striga seed germination.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds by applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues in an amount that is suitable for inducing/stimulating the development of striga seeds.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds by applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues, for the growth of the host plant.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising at least one strigolactone analogue.

In an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I:

Formula I
wherein Re is an optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or an optionally substituted C6-C24 alkylaryl group; and
wherein Rz is selected from the group comprising hydrogen, a monovalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkyl group, or a bivalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkylene group, which bonds to the optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or the optionally substituted C6-C24 alkylaryl group of Re, forming a ring; and
wherein Ra, Rb and Rc, are independent from each other, and represent:
(a) a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group, a formyloxy group, a formylamino group or a carbamate group;
(b) a substituent R1, wherein R1 represents C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C3-C8-cycloalkyl, or C1-C8-alkoxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(c) a substituent —OR2, wherein R2 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-alkylaminocarbonyl or C1-C8-alkoxycarbonyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(d) a substituent —NR3R4, wherein R3 and R4, are independent from each other, and represent a hydrogen atom, C1-C8 alkyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-halogenoalkylcarbonyl, phenyl or benzyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(e) a substituent —(O)—R5, wherein R5 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl or C1-C8-alkyloxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, NHR5 or NR5R5 (where the two substituents R5 may be the same or different), —NR5(OH);
(f) a substituent —S(O)n—R6, wherein n is 0, 1 or 2 and R6 represents C1-C8-alkyl in which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, —NHR6 or NR6R6 (where the two substituents R6 may be the same or different); or
(g) a 4-, 5-, 6- or 7-membered heterocyclic ring comprising up to 4 heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur, wherein in each of these rings the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms; and
wherein Rf represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group or C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, or C3-C8-cycloalkyl.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III:

Formula II Formula III

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues for controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a process for preparation of a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues, to the soil for inducing/stimulating striga seed germination before sowing crop seeds.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues, to the soil for reduction in striga emergence leading to the growth of the host plant.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
Figure 1A: Scheme of the experiment conducted for Striga seed germination bioassays under lab conditions
Figure 2A: Scheme of the experiment conducted for Striga emergence in pots under greenhouse conditions.
Figure 2B: Granular formulation of the two strigolactone analogues (at 5.0 µM) applied for two times in Striga infested pots. Striga emergence counted after 70 days after rice sowing.
Figure 2C: Values of each bar showing percentage of emergence of Striga per plot.
Figure 2D: Average plant height of rice host plant measured at 70 DAS.
Figure 3A: Scheme of mini box experiments conducted for Striga emergence.
Figure 3B: Striga germination in eplee bags.
Figure 3C: Striga emergence in millet host crop.
Figure 4A: Scheme of field box experiments; Effect of GR formulation of the germination stimulants.
Figure 4B: Striga emergence in maize field in Kenya.
Figure 4C: Striga emergence in sorghum field in Burkina Faso.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
The following description is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness. The terms used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings but are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided for illustration purpose only and not for limiting the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

For the purposes of the present disclosure, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative variations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. Moreover, other than in any operating examples, or where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing, for example, quantities of materials/ingredients used in the specification are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about”. Thus, before describing the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particularly exemplified systems or process parameters that may of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments of the disclosure only and is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure in any manner. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and in no way limits the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Prior to setting forth the present subject matter in detail, it may be helpful to provide definitions of certain terms used herein.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the disclosure, suitable methods and materials are described herein.

As used herein, the terms “comprising”, “including”, “having”, “containing”, “involving” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. The terms “preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the disclosure that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances. The aspects and embodiments described herein shall also be interpreted to replace the clause “comprising” with either “consisting of” or with “consisting essentially of” or with “consisting substantially of”.

“About” or “approximately” as used herein is inclusive of the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, considering the measurement in question and the error associated with measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, “about” can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±10% or ±5% of the stated value.

The use of the terms “a”, “an” and “the” and similar referents (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms first, second etc., as used herein are not meant to denote any particular ordering, but simply for convenience to denote a plurality of, for example, layers.

All methods described herein can be performed in a suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”), is intended merely to better illustrate the disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure as used herein.

While the disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

The expression of various quantities in terms of “%” or “% w/v” or “% w/w” means the percentage by weight of the total solution or composition unless otherwise specified.

As used herein, the term “pre-emergence” refers to the time point before seedlings emerge from the ground. When any agrochemical composition is applied at pre-emergence stage, it prevents establishment of the germinated weed seedlings.

As used herein, the term “post-emergence” refers to the time point after seedlings emerge from the ground. When any agrochemical composition is applied at post-emergence stage, it prevents growth of the germinated weed seedlings.

As used herein the term “plant” or “crop” refers to whole plants, plant organs (e.g., leaves, stems, twigs, roots, trunks, limbs, shoots, fruits etc.), plant cells, or plant seeds. This term also encompasses plant crops such as fruits. The term “plant” may further include the propagation material thereof, which may include all the generative parts of the plant such as seeds and vegetative plant material such as cuttings and tubers, which can be used for the multiplication of the plant. This includes seeds, tubers, spores, corms, bulbs, rhizomes, sprouts basal shoots, stolons, and buds and other parts of plants, including seedlings and young plants, which are to be transplanted after germination or after emergence from soil.

The term “locus” as used herein denotes the vicinity or area designated for growth of a desired crop, and in which control of the growth and/or spread of undesirable vegetation is desired. The locus includes the vicinity of desired crop plants wherein undesirable vegetation growth has either occurred, is most likely to occur, or is yet to occur.

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

The term “agrochemical” used herein is understood to denote an agricultural chemical such as pesticides, fungicides, insecticides, acaricides, herbicides, nematicides, plant growth regulators and can be used interchangeably.

The salts referred to herein are agrochemically acceptable salts. As used herein, an “agrochemically acceptable salt” means a salt which is acceptable for use in agrochemical or horticultural use.

The terms “excipient” or “additive” or “auxiliary” mean inactive substance that forms a part of the composition. The terms “excipient” or “additive” or “auxiliary” mean essentially the same thing and can be used interchangeably.

As used herein, the term “improving plant growth” results in an increase in either the yield, as described above, or the vigour of the plant, as described above, or both the yield and the vigour of the plant. Improvement in plant vigour means that certain traits are improved qualitatively or quantitatively when compared with the same trait in a control plant which has been grown under the same conditions in the absence of the method of the invention. Such traits include, but are not limited to, early and/or improved germination, improved emergence, the ability to use less seeds, increased root growth, a more developed root system, increased root nodulation, increased shoot growth, increased tillering, stronger tillers, more productive tillers, increased or improved plant stand, less plant verse (lodging), an increase and/or improvement in plant height, an increase in plant weight (fresh or dry), bigger leaf blades, greener leaf colour, increased pigment content, increased photosynthetic activity, earlier flowering, longer panicles, early grain maturity, increased seed, fruit or pod size, increased pod or ear number, increased seed number per pod or ear, increased seed mass, enhanced seed filling, less dead basal leaves, delay of senescence, improved vitality of the plant, increased levels of amino acids in storage tissues and/or less inputs needed (e.g. less fertiliser, water and/or labour needed). A plant with improved vigour may have an increase in any of the aforementioned traits or any combination or two or more of the aforementioned traits. Improvement in plant growth means that certain traits are improved qualitatively or quantitatively when compared with the same trait in a control plant which has been grown under the same conditions in the absence of the method of the invention. Such traits include, but are not limited to, improved visual appearance of the plant, reduced ethylene (reduced production and/or inhibition of reception), improved quality of harvested material, e.g., seeds, fruits, leaves, vegetables (such improved quality may manifest as improved visual appearance of the harvested material) and the like.

With respect to the present invention the term “suicidal germination” refers to the application of seed germination stimulant, such as strigolactone analogues, in the absence of a host, resulting in germination which is followed by seedlings death and leading to elimination/reduction of seed bank in soil.

As used herein, the term “germination stimulants” or “parasitic weed seed germination stimulants” refer to strigolactones, which are capable of stimulating the seed germination of parasitic weed species, especially striga and Orobanche species, but are also known to be the “branching factor” that weed species need to recognise and colonise the host plant.

As used herein, the term “host plant” refers to the plant species which are infected by parasitic weed species.

With respect to the present invention, the term “strigolactone analogue” is also referred to as SL analogues or strigolactone analogues or strigolactone analogues compound.

As used herein, the compositions are interchangeably referred to as formulations.

As described herein, the term “WG” or “WDG” refers to water dispersible granules. A water dispersible granule is defined as a formulation which disperses or dissolves rapidly when added to water. Water-dispersible granules are formulated as small granules by blending and agglomerating a ground solid active ingredient together with surfactants and other formulation ingredients which disperse into finer/primary particles when immersed in water.

As described herein, the term “GR” refers to extruded granules or spheronised granules or broadcast granules.

As defined herein, the term “powder” refers to a wettable powder, dusting powder.

As described herein, the term “WP” refers to a wettable powder, which can be a powder formulation to be applied as a suspension after dispersion in water.

Unless otherwise specified, the structures shown include all stereoisomers, enantiomers, diastereomers, geometric isomers, and the like, as understood by one skilled in the art. The compounds and compositions also include, for example, salts, solvates, polymorphs, and the like. As used throughout the disclosure, the strigolactone analogue or other active ingredients, include their salts, esters, ethers, polymorphs including solvates and hydrates. A salt includes salts that retain the biological effectiveness and properties of the active ingredient, and which are not biologically or otherwise undesirable, and include derivatives of the disclosed compounds in which the parent compound is modified by making inorganic and organic, non-toxic, acid or base addition salts thereof. The salts can be synthesized from the parent compound by conventional chemical methods.

With respect to the present invention, strigolactone analogue compounds of formula II are interchangeably referred to as Nijmegen-1 compound or Nijmegen compound.

With respect to the present invention, strigolactone analogue compound of formula III referred to as (E)-methyl 3-(4-methyl-5-oxo-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-yloxy)-2-phenylacrylate) which is interchangeably referred to as methyl phenlactonoate 3 compound or MP3 compound.

The inventors of the present disclosure observed that stable solid agrochemical compositions of synthetic germination stimulants, such as Nijmegen-1 and/or MP3 compounds, were developed by the inventors to be suitable for the intended purpose, which are slow releasing and easy to apply. It has been further noted that the physico-chemical stability and the biological activity of the solid formulation could be achieved by preparing granular, extended granular and/or wettable powder formulation of strigolactone analogues such as Nijmegen-1 and/or MP3 compounds.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a solid composition comprising strigolactone analogues.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues.

In an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising at least one strigolactone analogue.

In an embodiment, said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I:

Formula I
wherein Re is an optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or an optionally substituted C6-C24 alkylaryl group; and
wherein Rz is selected from the group comprising hydrogen, a monovalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkyl group, or a bivalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkylene group, which bonds to the optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or the optionally substituted C6-C24 alkyl aryl group of Re, forming a ring; and
wherein Ra, Rb and Rc, are independent from each other, and represent:
(a) a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group, a formyloxy group, a formylamino group or a carbamate group;
(b) a substituent R1, wherein R1 represents C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C3-C8-cycloalkyl, or C1-C8-alkoxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(c) a substituent —OR2, wherein R2 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-alkylaminocarbonyl or C1-C8-alkoxycarbonyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(d) a substituent —NR3R4, wherein R3 and R4, independently from each other, represent a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-halogenoalkylcarbonyl, phenyl or benzyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(e) a substituent —(O)—R5, wherein R5 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl or C1-C8-alkyloxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, NHR5 or NR5R5 (where the two substituents R5 may be the same or different), —NR5(OH);
(f) a substituent —S(O)n—R6, wherein n is 0, 1 or 2 and R6 represents C1-C8-alkyl in which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, —NHR6 or NR6R6 (where the two substituents R6 may be the same or different); or
(g) a 4-, 5-, 6- or 7-membered heterocyclic ring comprising up to 4 heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms; and
wherein Rf represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group or C1-C8-alkyl-, C2-C8 alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, or C3-C8-cycloalkyl.

In an embodiment, the strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III:

In an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a solid composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

In an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I:

Formula I
wherein Re is an optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or an optionally substituted C6-C24 alkylaryl group; and
wherein Rz is selected from the group comprising hydrogen, a monovalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkyl group, or a bivalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkylene group, which bonds to the optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or the optionally substituted C6-C24 alkyl aryl group of Re, forming a ring; and
wherein Ra, Rb and Rc, are independent from each other, and represent:
(a) a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group, a formyloxy group, a formylamino group or a carbamate group;
(b) a substituent R1, wherein R1 represents C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C3-C8-cycloalkyl, or C1-C8-alkoxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(c) a substituent —OR2, wherein R2 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-alkylaminocarbonyl or C1-C8-alkoxycarbonyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(d) a substituent —NR3R4, wherein R3 and R4, independently from each other, represent a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-halogenoalkylcarbonyl, phenyl or benzyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(e) a substituent —(O)—R5, wherein R5 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl or C1-C8-alkyloxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, NHR5 or NR5R5 (where the two substituents R5 may be the same or different), —NR5(OH);
(f) a substituent —S(O)n—R6, wherein n is 0, 1 or 2 and R6 represents C1-C8-alkyl in which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, —NHR6 or NR6R6 (where the two substituents R6 may be the same or different); or
(g) a 4-, 5-, 6- or 7-membered heterocyclic ring comprising up to 4 heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms; and
wherein Rf represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group or C1-C8-alkyl-, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, or C3-C8-cycloalkyl.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least two agrochemically acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment, said agrochemically acceptable excipient is selected from the group comprising surfactant(s), tackifier(s), sticker(s), carrier(s), filler(s), photo-protector(s), penetrant(s), preservative(s), colorant(s), or combinations thereof.

In another embodiment, the surfactants may be selected from ionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, fillers may be selected from insoluble fillers and soluble fillers.

In an embodiment, fillers may be selected preferably from precipitated silica and diatomaceous earth kaolin, dibasic ammonium phosphate. Examples of fillers may include an organic or inorganic solid inert substance such as talc, clay, diatomaceous earth, magnesium aluminium silicate, aluminium silicate, white carbon black, pyrophyllite, light calcium carbonate, high clay, organic bentonite, and the like, and mixtures thereof.

Preservatives used may be benzisothiazolinone, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one & 2 methyl-4-isothiazolin -3 one, glutaraldehyde, chloromethylisothiazolinone (CMIT)/ Methylisothiazolinone (MIT), 2.2-dibromo-3-nitrilopropioamide, natamycin & nisin, bronopol/CMIT/MIT.

Exemplary colorants (for example in red, blue and green) are, for example, pigments, which are sparingly soluble in water, and dyes, which are water-soluble. Examples are inorganic coloring agents (for example iron oxide, titanium oxide, and iron hexacyanoferrate) and organic coloring agents (for example alizarin, azo and phthalocyanin coloring agents).

In a preferred embodiment, said agrochemically acceptable excipient comprises at least one surfactant.

In a preferred embodiment, said agrochemically acceptable excipient comprises at least one carrier.

In a preferred embodiment, said agrochemically acceptable excipient comprises at least one surfactant and at least one carrier.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least two agrochemically acceptable excipient comprising at least one surfactant and at least one carrier.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.

In an embodiment, the solid agrochemical composition according to present invention comprises:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I.

In an embodiment, the solid agrochemical composition according to present invention comprises:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.01% w/w to about 90% w/w strigolactone analogue of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 90% w/w strigolactone analogue of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w compound of formula I of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w compound of formula I of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the surfactant is selected from the group comprising non-ionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 40% w/w surfactant of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the non-ionic surfactant is selected from the group comprising polyalkylene oxide block co-polymers, linear or branched polyethoxylated C10-C18 fatty alcohols, wherein the ethoxyl number (EO) ranges from 5 to 10; polyethoxylated castor oil, wherein the ethoxyl number ranges from 15 to 40; polyethoxylated distyrylphenols having an ethoxylation number between 12 to 25; polyethoxylated tristyrylphenols having an ethoxylation number between 15 to 40; C12-C18 mono-, di and tri-esters of polyethoxylated sorbitan wherein the ethoxylation number ranges from 4 to 20; C10-C16 mixtures of alkyl polyglycosides optionally polyethoxylated or polypropoxylated wherein said alkylpolyglycosides have a different ethoxylation or propoxylation number, comprised between 10 to 25; polyethoxylated-polypropoxylated C8-C14 aliphatic alcohols; polyaryl phenolethoxylate wherein the ethoxyl/propoxyl number is between 15 to 40, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the non-ionic surfactant is selected from the group comprising phenol ethoxylates, alcohol ethoxylates, fatty acid ethoxylates, sorbitan ethoxylates (polysorbates), alkyl polyglucosides, alkyl amine ethoxylates, alkyl amine oxides, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the non-ionic surfactant is selected from the group comprising polyoxymethylene sorbitan monolaurate, tristyrylphenol ethoxylates, tridecyl alcohol ethoxylate, ethylene oxide-propylene oxide (EO-PO) block co-polymers, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w non-ionic surfactant of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the anionic surfactant is selected from the group comprising alkali or alkaline salt of carboxylates, alkali or alkaline-earth salts of alkyl benzene sulfonates, alkylbenzene phosphonates, alkyl ether sulfates, salts or derivatives of lignosulfonates, alkali or alkaline earth salts of sulfosuccinate esters, alkali or alkaline earth salts of alkyl sulfates or polyacid polymers such as potassium polycarboxylate, sodium polyacrylate, sodium polymethacrylate or mixed combinations (copolymers) of styrene, acrylic, methacrylic acid monomer residues and polymaleic acid (e.g., from maleic acid or maleic anhydride), or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the anionic surfactant is selected from the group comprising calcium salt of alkyl benzene sulfonate such as calcium dodecyl sulfonate; polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate; alkali salt of lauryl sulfate such as sodium lauryl sulfate; alkyl naphthalene sulfonate or its alkali salt such as sodium alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, sodium naphthalene sulfonate, sodium alkyl naphthalene sulfonate sulfosuccinate, derivatives of lignosulfonates such as sodium lignosulfonate, alkali salt of naphthalene sulfonate condensate such as sodium salt of naphthalene sulfonate condensate, tristyrylphenol sulphate, tristyrylphenol phosphate esters, linear benzene sulphonates and alkyl ether sulphates, alkali salt resin of styrene methacrylic copolymer such as sodium salt resin of styrene methacrylic copolymer, modified styrene acrylic polymer, alkali salt of polycarboxylate such as potassium polycarboxylate, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w anionic surfactant of total weight of the composition.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) optionally, at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient(s).

In an embodiment, said agrochemically acceptable excipient comprises at least one carrier.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) optionally at least one carrier.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.

In an embodiment, the solid agrochemical composition according to present invention comprises:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I.

In an embodiment, the solid agrochemical composition according to present invention comprises:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In an embodiment, the carrier used in the solid agrochemical composition is selected from the group comprising one or more carriers, fillers, diluents, or combinations thereof.

According to another embodiment, the carrier comprises mineral carriers, plant carriers, synthetic carriers, water-soluble carriers, or combinations thereof. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that it is possible to utilize different carriers without departing from the scope of the present invention. The carriers are commercially manufactured and available through various companies.

In another embodiment, the carrier comprises minerals like clay such as china clay, acid clay, kaolin such as kaolinite, dickite, nacrite, and halloysite, serpentines such as chrysotile, lizardite, antigorite, and amesite, synthetic and diatomaceous silicas, precipitated silica, colloidal silica, attapulgite, bentonite, magnesium aluminum silicate, white carbon black, dolomite, montmorillonite minerals such as sodium montmorillonite, smectites, such as saponite, hectorite, sauconite, and hyderite, micas, such as pyrophyllite, talc, agalmatolite, muscovite, phengite, sericite, and illite, silicas such as cristobalite and quartz, such as attapulgite and sepiolite; vermiculite, laponite, pumice, bauxite, hydrated aluminas, perlite, sodium bicarbonate, volclay, vermiculites, limestone, natural and synthetic silicates, charcoal, silicas, wet process silicas, dry process silicas, calcined products of wet process silicas, surface-modified silicas, mica, zeolite, diatomaceous earth, derivatives thereof; chalks, fuller's earth, loess, mirabilite, white carbon, slaked lime, synthetic silicic acid, starch, modified starch, cellulose, plant carriers such as cellulose, chaff, wheat flour, wood flour, starch, rice bran, wheat bran, and soyabean flour, casein sodium, sucrose, salt cake, potassium pyrophosphate, sodium tripolyphosphate, their derivatives, or combinations thereof. Commercially available silicates can also be used.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 20% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 40% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 50% w/w to about 95% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the solid composition comprises from about 50% w/w to about 90% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) a strigolactone analogue selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III; in an amount ranging from about 0.1% w/w to about 30%;
b) at least one surfactant in an amount ranging from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w; and
c) at least one carrier in an amount ranging from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w.
In an embodiment, the solid agrochemical composition further comprises at least one coating agent.

In an embodiment, the coating agent used is selected from the group comprising polymers, waxes, rosin derivatives, fatty derivatives, sterols, gums, or combinations thereof.

In another embodiment, the polymer used are natural or synthetic polymers such as shellac, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, polymethyl-metacrylate, or combinations thereof. The rosin derivatives comprise partially dimerized rosin, partially hydrogenated rosin, salts of alkali or alkaline metals, adducts of maleic acid/anhydride, adducts of fumaric acid/anhydride or adducts of pentaerythritol, or combinations thereof. The waxes used are natural or synthetic wax comprising bee wax, carnoba, bayberry and sugar cane waxes, petroleum waxes, or combinations thereof. The fatty derivatives comprise fatty acids, alkali or alkaline metals salts of these fatty acids, fatty acid amides, fatty alcohols and fatty esters, or mixtures thereof. In this context, “fatty” means long-chain aliphatic. In particular, the acid may be a carboxylic acid, such as stearic acid, and the salts may be calcium, magnesium, zinc or aluminum salts. The acid amide may be stearamide. The alcohol may be stearyl alcohol. The ester is formed from reaction of a long-chain acid with a long-chain alcohol. The ester may be a fatty acid ester of a fatty alcohol or a fatty acid ester of glycerol. The sterols comprise long-chain sterol esters. The gums comprise rosin gum, stearic acid, guar, sodium alginates, hydroxymethyl polycellulose, carboxy methyl cellulose, or combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the coating agent is a rosin gum.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant;
c) optionally at least one carrier; and
d) optionally at least one coating agent.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant;
c) at least one carrier; and
d) at least one coating agent.

In an embodiment, the solid agrochemical composition is in a form of granules (GR), powders, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the solid agrochemical composition is in the form of granules comprising water dispersible granules (WDG or WG), broadcast granules, extruded granules, spray dried granules, spheronised granules, coated granules, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the solid agrochemical composition is in the form of powders comprising wettable powder (WP), dusting powder, dustable powder (DP), or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the solid agrochemical composition in the form of granules (GR) is obtained by methods comprising pan granulation, spray drying, extrusion, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, there is provided a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

In an embodiment, there is provided a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least two agrochemically acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment, there is provided a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.

In an embodiment, the granular agrochemical composition further comprises at least one coating agent.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 90% w/w strigolactone analogue, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, there is provided a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one surfactant.

In an embodiment, there is provided a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one surfactant;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I.

In an embodiment, there is provided a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w compound of formula I, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of the total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, there is provided a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one surfactant;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In an embodiment, there is provided a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II;
b) at least one surfactant;
c) at least one carrier; and
d) optionally at least one coating agent.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a granular agrochemical composition comprising:
a) methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III;
b) at least one surfactant;
c) at least one carrier; and
d) optionally at least one coating agent.

In an embodiment, there is provided a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

In an embodiment, there is provided a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least two agrochemically acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment, there is provided a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one surfactant.

In an embodiment, there is provided a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.

In an embodiment, the granular agrochemical composition further comprises at least one coating agent.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 90% w/w strigolactone analogue, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, there is provided a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one surfactant;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I.

In an embodiment, there is provided a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w compound of formula I, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, there is provided a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II;
b) at least one surfactant;
c) at least one carrier; and
d) optionally at least one coating agent.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III, from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w surfactant, and from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w carrier of total weight of the composition.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder agrochemical composition comprising:
a) methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III;
b) at least one surfactant;
c) at least one carrier; and
d) optionally at least one coating agent.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a process for preparing a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a process for preparing a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least two agrochemically acceptable excipients.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a process for preparing a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one surfactant;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a process for preparing a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one surfactant;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a process for preparing a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a process for preparing a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In an embodiment, there is provided a process for preparing a granular agrochemical composition, the process comprising:
a) preparing a mixture comprising at least one strigolactone analogue and at least one surfactant in at least one organic solvent;
b) converting the mixture of step a) into the granular agrochemical composition.

In an embodiment, in step a) the organic solvent used is selected from, the group comprising aromatic hydrocarbons, ketonic solvents, amide solvents such as dialkyl decanamides, poly carbonate solvents, lactone-based solvents, pyrrolidine base solvents, aprotic solvents, alkyl caprylates, vegetable oils, mineral oils and alkylated seed oils, their derivatives, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the organic solvent is selected from the group comprising aromatic hydrocarbons such as high solvency C11 aromatic fluid, high solvency C10 aromatic fluid, high solvency C9 aromatic fluid; ketonic solvents such as acetone, cyclohexanone; lactone-based solvents such as gamma butyrolactone and gamma valero lactone; Lactic acid derivatives such as ethyl hexyl lactate and dimethyl lactate; or combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the organic solvent comprises a mixture of ketonic solvents such as acetone, cyclohexanone; and lactone-based solvents such as gamma butyrolactone and gamma valero lactone.

In an embodiment, the organic solvent comprises a mixture of ketonic solvent and lactone-based solvent in a ratio from about 1:9 to about 9:1.

In an embodiment, the organic solvent comprises a mixture of ketonic solvent and lactone-based solvent in a ratio of about 1:1.

In a preferred embodiment, the organic solvent comprises a mixture of gamma butyrolactone and acetone in a ratio of about 1:1.

In an embodiment, the granular composition obtained in step b) is optionally, coated with at least one coating agent.

In an embodiment, the coating agent is dissolved in a suitable solvent for coating.

In an embodiment, the suitable solvent used may be selected from the group comprising water, an alcohol such as ethanol, methanol and the like, a ketone such as acetone, an ester such as ethyl acetate, an amide such as N,N-dimethylformamide, an aliphatic/cyclic hydrocarbon such as hexane, heptane, an aromatic solvent such as xylene/s, toluene, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the suitable solvent is xylene/s.

In an embodiment, the mixture of step a) comprising said strigolactone analogue and at least one surfactant in at least one organic solvent is converted into the granular agrochemical composition by either of the following steps:
(i) admixing with a carrier selected from the group comprising soapstone, kaolin, talc, or combinations thereof and preparing a dough, extruding the dough into granules and drying the same to obtain the granular agrochemical composition; or
(ii) spraying/absorbing on blank granules selected from the group comprising bentonite, attapulgite, ceramic, montmorillonite, pumice, sepiolite, diatomaceous earth, clay, sand, dolomite, calcite, or combinations thereof and drying the same to obtain the granular agrochemical composition.

In an embodiment, there is provided a process for preparing a granular agrochemical composition, the process comprising:
a) preparing a mixture comprising said strigolactone analogue and at least one surfactant in at least one organic solvent;
b) spraying/absorbing said mixture on a carrier to obtain the granular composition; and
c) optionally, coating the granular composition obtained in step b) with a coating agent.

In another embodiment, there is provided a process for preparing a granular agrochemical composition, the process comprising:
a) preparing a mixture comprising said strigolactone analogue and at least one surfactant in at least one organic solvent;
b) granulating the mixture obtained in step a) to obtain granules; and
c) drying the granules to obtain the granular composition.

In another embodiment, there is provided a process for preparing a granular agrochemical composition, the process comprising:
a) preparing a mixture comprising said strigolactone analogue and at least one surfactant in at least one organic solvent;
b) granulating the mixture obtained in step a) to obtain granules;
c) drying the granules to obtain the granular composition; and
d) optionally, coating the granular composition obtained in step c) with a coating agent.

In yet another embodiment, there is provided a process for preparing a granular agrochemical composition , the process comprising:
a) preparing a mixture comprising said strigolactone analogue and at least one surfactant in at least one organic solvent;
b) preparing a dough by adding a diluent to the mixture of step a);
c) extruding the dough to obtain granules; and
d) drying the granules to obtain the granular composition.

In yet another embodiment, there is provided a process for preparing a granular agrochemical composition , the process comprising:
a) preparing a mixture comprising said strigolactone analogue and at least one surfactant in at least one organic solvent;
b) preparing a dough by adding a diluent to the mixture of step a);
c) extruding the dough to obtain granules;
d) drying the granules to obtain the granular composition; and
e) optionally, coating the granular composition obtained in step c) with a coating agent.

According to an embodiment, the process of preparing a solid agrochemical composition according to present invention results into granular formulation by way of pan granulation, pin agglomerator, fluidized bed granulation spray drying, extrusion, spheronizer, freeze drying, or combinations thereof. The granules are also extruded through the extruder to obtain extruded granules.

According to an embodiment, there is provided the process of preparing solid agrochemical composition according to present invention in the form of granules by way of extrusion.

According to an embodiment, the order of addition and mixing of the agrochemical ingredients or excipients is not narrowly critical. In one embodiment, for example, the dry ingredients are blended, and the composition is then mixed with a diluent to obtain a dough.

According to an embodiment, the diluent used is water.

According to an embodiment, the diluent may be added as a fine spray to prepare dough from the composition to obtain granules.

According to an embodiment, the mixture of above ingredients is obtained using a suitable blender such as ribbon blender, V-blender, high intensity low mixer, plough shear mixer, kneader mixer, or the like.

According to an embodiment, a blend of said strigolactone analogue, at least one surfactant and at least one carrier may be milled to obtain a uniform blend. The milling may be performed in a suitable device such as air jet mill, air classifier mill, hammer mill, pin disc mill, or the like. Jet mills are shear or pulverizing machines in which the particles to be milled are accelerated by gas flows and pulverized by collision. There are a number of different types of jet mill designs, such as double counterflow (opposing jet) and spiral (pancake) fluid energy mills.?

According to an embodiment, the drying of granules may be performed in a suitable drying equipment such as spray drier or fluidized bed spray drier or fluid bed spray granulator.

In yet another embodiment, the invention relates to a process for preparing a solid agrochemical composition in form of wettable powder.

According to an embodiment, the process for preparing a solid agrochemical composition according to present invention in the form of a wettable powder comprises:
a) mixing of at least one strigolactone analogue, at least one surfactant and at least one carrier in a suitable mixer to obtain a mixture; and
b) grinding the mixture to obtain the wettable powder composition.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition comprising strigolactone analogues.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition comprising: a) at least one strigolactone analogue; b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition comprising: a) at least one strigolactone analogue; b) at least two agrochemically acceptable excipients.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition for controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition for controlling growth of target parasitic plants.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition for inducing/stimulating Striga seed germination.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition for inducing/stimulating Striga seed germination, before sowing crop seeds.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition for inducing/stimulating the development of Striga seeds.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition for reduction in Striga emergence leading to the growth of the host plant.

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of a solid agrochemical composition for controlling growth of target unwanted/parasitic plants, or weeds leading to growth of host plants.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition as described herein.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying to the soil a solid agrochemical composition as described herein.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying to the soil a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I:

Formula I
wherein Re is an optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or an optionally substituted C6-C24 alkylaryl group; and
wherein Rz is selected from the group comprising hydrogen, a monovalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkyl group, or a bivalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkylene group, which bonds to the optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or the optionally substituted C6-C24 alkylaryl group of Re, forming a ring; and
wherein Ra, Rb and Rc, are independent from each other, and represent:
(a) a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group, a formyloxy group, a formylamino group or a carbamate group;
(b) a substituent R1, wherein R1 represents C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C3-C8-cycloalkyl, or C1-C8-alkoxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(c) a substituent —OR2, wherein R2 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-alkylaminocarbonyl or C1-C8-alkoxycarbonyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(d) a substituent —NR3R4, wherein R3 and R4, are independent from each other, and represent a hydrogen atom, C1-C8 alkyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-halogenoalkylcarbonyl, phenyl or benzyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(e) a substituent —(O)—R5, wherein R5 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl or C1-C8-alkyloxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, NHR5 or NR5R5 (where the two substituents R5 may be the same or different), —NR5(OH);
(f) a substituent —S(O)n—R6, wherein n is 0, 1 or 2 and R6 represents C1-C8-alkyl in which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, —NHR6 or NR6R6 (where the two substituents R6 may be the same or different); or
(g) a 4-, 5-, 6- or 7-membered heterocyclic ring comprising up to 4 heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur, wherein in each of these rings the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms; and
wherein Rf represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group or C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, or C3-C8-cycloalkyl.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying to the soil a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III:

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying to the soil a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least two agrochemically acceptable excipients.

In an embodiment, the method comprises, applying to the soil a solid agrochemical composition as described herein for the control growth of a unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, before sowing crop seeds.

In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for controlling growth of target parasitic plant, the method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition in an amount that is suitable for growth of Striga plants.

In an embodiment, the unwanted parasitic plants/weeds is striga hermonthica, a member of the Orobanchaceae family.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying to the soil a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one surfactant;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I:

Formula I

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying to the soil a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying to the soil a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue; and
b) at least one surfactant;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying to the soil a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
c) at least one strigolactone analogue;
d) at least one surfactant; and
e) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition as described herein for inducing/stimulating striga seed germination.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a method for inducing/stimulating striga seed germination before sowing crop seeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition as described herein.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition as described herein in an amount that is suitable for inducing/stimulating the development of striga seeds, before sowing crop seeds.

In an embodiment, the method of application includes induction of parasitic weed seed germination by exogenous application of a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I, before sowing crop seeds.

In an embodiment, the method of application includes induction of parasitic weed seed germination by exogenous application of a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier;
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III, before sowing crop seeds.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition as described herein in an amount that is suitable for the growth of the striga plants.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition as described herein for the growth of the host plant.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition as described herein for reduction in striga emergence leading to the growth of the host plant.

In an aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition as described herein in an amount that is suitable for reducing striga infection in a crop field leading to the growth of the host plant.

In an embodiment, present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I, for reduction in striga emergence leading to the growth of the host plant.

In an embodiment, present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) at least one strigolactone analogue;
b) at least one surfactant; and
c) at least one carrier.
wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III, for reduction in striga emergence leading to the growth of the host plant.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method wherein the control of growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds is achieved by inducing germination of parasitic root plants before sowing crop seeds.

In an embodiment, the host plant includes rice, wheat, barley, rye, triticale, sugarcane, soybean, peanut, pulse crops, cotton, rape, sunflower, linseed, sugarbeet, fodder beet, potato, and/or dicotyledonous vegetables, or combinations thereof.

While the invention will now be described in connection with certain preferred embodiments in the following examples, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to these particular embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

EXAMPLES:
Example 1: Granular composition (GR)
Process:
Active ingredient selected from Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or MP3 compound of formula III, was dissolved in an organic solvent(s) followed by addition of at least one surfactant(s); and homogenized to produce a homogenous mixture. The carrier granules were charged into a mixing equipment and mixing was initiated. The homogenous mixture was sprayed on the carrier granules uniformly and then the granules were coated with a solution of a suitable solvent and a coating agent; followed by drying the granules to obtain the granular composition.

Table 1 discloses granular (GR) compositions prepared using the aforementioned process.
Table 1: Granular Compositions
Ingredients Formulation 1
(% w/w) Formulation 2
(% w/w)
MP3 compound 8.6 -
Nijmegen-1 compound - 8.78
Gamma butyrolactone/Acetone
(Solvent in a ratio of about 1:1) 8.4 8.4
Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate 2.2 2.2
Calcium salt of alkyl benzene sulfonate 2.2 2.2
Bentonite granules Q.S Q.S
For coating
Xylene 5.5 5.5
Rosin 2 2
Total 100 100

Stability Study of Formulation 1 and Formulation 2:
The formulations 1 and 2 were evaluated on various parameters to ascertain the stability of the composition developed according to the present invention. Stability parameters were evaluated in both ambient conditions (0 days) and accelerated heat stability (AHS) for 14 days at a temperature of about 54°C. Tables 2A and 2B disclose the stability studies of formulations 1 and 2, respectively.
Table 2A: Stability study of Formulation 1
Test Parameters Ambient Conditions
(0 day) AHS
(14 Days, 54°C)

Appearance Free flowing granules, free from extraneous matter Free flowing granules, free from extraneous matter
Active content ( % w/w) for MP3 compound 7.54 6.79
pH 4.62 4.68

Table 2B: Stability study of Formulation 2
Test Parameters Ambient Conditions
(0 day) AHS
(14 Days, 54°C)

Appearance Free flowing granules, free from extraneous matter Free flowing granules, free from extraneous matter
Active content (% w/w) for Nijmegan-1 compound 7.70 6.79
pH 5.20 5.26

It was found that, the active content of MP3 compound and Nijmegen-1 compound remained stable for ambient conditions as well as for AHS, 14 days at 54°C.

Example 2: Extruded Granular Composition
Process:
Active ingredient selected from Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or MP3 compound of formula III, at least one surfactant and a carrier were mixed in a suitable mixer to obtain a mixture. The mixture was then subjected to grinding and post-mixing. To the mixture was added required quantity of water and mixed properly to obtain a dough. The dough was extruded using a basket or radial or dome or screw or cone or axial extruder. The resultant granules were dried.

Table 3 discloses extruded granular compositions prepared using the aforementioned process.
Table 3: Extruded granular compositions
Ingredients Formulation3
(% w/w) Formulation 4
(% w/w) Formulation 5
(% w/w) Formulation 6
(% w/w)
MP3 compound 7.5 15 - -
Nijmegen-1 compound - - 7.5 15
Sodium lauryl sulfate 2 0 2 3
Sodium naphthalene sulfonate 0 3 3 0
Sodium lignosulfonate 6 0 6 0
Modified styrene acrylic polymer 0 10 0 10
Kaolin Q.S Q.S Q.S Q.S
Total 100 100 100 100

Example 3: Wettable Powder (WP) Composition
Process:
Active ingredient selected from Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or MP3 compound of formula III, at least one surfactant and a carrier were mixed in a suitable mixer followed by grinding and post-mixing to obtain a wettable powder.

Table 4 discloses wettable powder (WP) compositions prepared using the aforementioned process.
Table 4: Wettable powder compositions
Ingredients Formulation 7
(% w/w) Formulation 8
(% w/w) Formulation 9
(% w/w) Formulation 10
(% w/w)
MP3 compound 7.5 15 - -
Nijmegen-1 compound - - 7.5 15
Sodium lauryl sulfate 2 0 2 3
Sodium naphthalene sulfonate 0 3 3 0
Sodium lignosulfonate 6 0 6 0
Modified styrene acrylic polymer 0 10 0 10
Kaolin Q.S Q.S Q.S Q.S
Total 100 100 100 100

Example 4: Biological activity of the solid formulation of the Strigalactone analogues
Materials and Methods:
Striga hermonthica seeds were collected from a sorghum field in Sudan. Seeds of rice (cv IAC-165) were obtained from Africa Rice, Tanzania.

Striga Seed Germination in Response to the Granular Formulations (GR) of Strigalactone analogues under Lab Conditions:
A scheme of the experiment conducted for Striga seed germination bioassays is shown in Figure 1A.

The granular formulation of Strigalactone analogues - MP3 7.5% w/w and Nijmegen-1 7.5% w/w at a concentration of 10.0 mg per 5 mL water, showed Striga germination of about 58% and 59%, respectively. These outcomes indicated that granular formulations of both Strigalactone analogues were able to induce germination of various ecotypes of Striga seeds depending upon seed viability and dormancy.

Figure 1A discloses the scheme of the experiment conducted for Striga seed germination bioassays under lab conditions. In this, at d0 the Striga seeds were pre-conditioned by incubating at a temperature of about 30°C for 10 days in the dark in sealed petri plates. After 10 days of pre-conditioning, on the 11th day i.e., at d11, the granular composition was applied to the seeds, and after the seeds were incubated at a temperature of about 30°C in the dark for 24 hours, then the non-germinated seeds obtained were counted.

Striga Seed Emergence in Response to the Granular Formulations (GR) of Strigalactone analogues in Pots Under Greenhouse Conditions:
The biological activity of the granular formulations of Strigalactone analogues - MP3 7.5% w/w and Nijmegen-1 7.5% w/w was further examined in pots under greenhouse conditions at 5.0 µM concentration under greenhouse conditions. This is disclosed in Figures 2A and 2B. It was observed that granular formulations of both analogues showed about 77% to about 83% reduction in Striga emergence compared to blank treatment (Figure 2C). In addition, better reduction in Striga emergence leading to a better growth of the host plant, was indicated by an increase of about 60% to about 63% in plant height of the host crop, as shown in Figure 2D.

Figure 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D disclose the effect of granular formulation of strigolactone analogues (MP3 7.5% w/w GR and Nijmegen 7.5% w/w GR) on Striga emergence in pots under greenhouse conditions.

Striga Seed Emergence in Response to the Granular Formulation of Strigolactone analogues under mini box conditions:
Experiments were conducted for the granular formulation of strigolactone analogues MP3 7.5% w/w and Nijmegen-1 7.5% w/w to evaluated Striga seed germination in mini boxes at Institute of the Environment and Agricultural Research (INERA), Burkina Faso, at 5.0 µM concentration, as disclosed in Figure 3A. The granular formulation of both analogues showed about 48% to about 53% Striga seed germination, as disclosed in Figures 3B and 3C, respectively. Furthermore, in second study the emergence of A plants, following treatment with both analogues in the infested soil and planting the millet as a host crop, about 15% reduction in Striga emergence by Nijmegen 7.5% w/w and about 3% reduction in Striga emergence by MP3 was observed.

Figures 3A provides scheme of mini-box experiments conducted for Striga emergence. Figures 3B and 3C disclose the effect of granular formulation of strigolactone analogues (MP3 7.5% w/w GR and Nijmegen-1 7.5% w/w GR) on Striga infection under mini box conditions at INERA, Burkina Faso.

Granular formulation of MP3 7.5% w/w GR and Nijmegen-1 7.5% w/w GR (at 5.0 µM) were applied in Striga infested mini boxes. Striga germination was counted at 6 and 9 days after application in Burkina Faso, while the emergence was counted 90 days after pearl millet planting. Values of each bar represent the average of Striga germination/emergence.

Striga Seed Emergence in Response to the Granular Formulation of Strigolactone analogues under field conditions:
The efficacy of GR formulation of MP3 7.5% w/w and Nijmegen-1 7.5% w/w was investigated under naturally or artificially infested field conditions in Kenya and Burkina Faso at 5.0 µM concentration, as shown in Figure 4A. As compared to the blank treatment, about 45% to about 56% reduction in Striga emergence was observed in a maize field, as shown in Figure 4B, and about 23% to about 42% reduction in Striga emergence was observed in the sorghum field, as shown in Figure 4C, with the GR-formulation of both germination stimulants. In addition, in the sorghum, about 68% increase in panicle number, about 63% to about 107% increase in panicle weight, about 114% to about 164% increase in grain weight, and about 27% to about 59% increase in stalk weight in MP3 and Nijmegen treated plots, respectively over blank treatment was detected.

Figure 4A provides scheme of field box experiments. Effect of GR-formulation of the germination stimulants. Figures 4B and 4C discloses the effect of the granular formulation of MP3 7.5% w/w GR and Nijmegen 7.5% w/w GR on Striga infestation under field conditions in Kenya and Burkina Faso, respectively.

Granular MP3 7.5% w/w GR and Nijmegen-1 7.5% w/w GR were applied two times in Striga infested sorghum field. Maize and sorghum crops were sown after about 4 to 6 weeks from the last application. Striga emergence were measured after 110 days of host planting. Values of each bar show average number of Striga emergence per plot. Positive or negative values on the top of each bar are showing percentage increase or decrease of Striga over control. ns: non-significant.

It has thus been concluded that both formulations of selected strigolactone analogues demonstrated a considerable reduction in Striga emergence under lab conditions, in pot trial, under greenhouse conditions, and field trial experiments. In addition, the inventors of the present invention have successfully developed the solid formulation of strigolactone analogues with application as suicidal germination agents that are stable, handy, and effective against Striga seeds for large-scale field application.
,CLAIMS:
1. A solid agrochemical composition comprising at least one strigolactone analogue.

2. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a compound of formula I:

Formula I
wherein Re is an optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or an optionally substituted C6-C24 alkylaryl group; and
wherein Rz is selected from the group comprising hydrogen, a monovalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkyl group, or a bivalent optionally substituted C1-C12 alkylene group, which bonds to the optionally substituted C6-C24 aryl group or the optionally substituted C6-C24 alkylaryl group of Re, forming a ring; and
wherein Ra, Rb and Rc, are independent from each other, and represent:
(a) a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group, a formyloxy group, a formylamino group or a carbamate group;
(b) a substituent R1, wherein R1 represents C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C3-C8-cycloalkyl, or C1-C8-alkoxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(c) a substituent —OR2, wherein R2 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-alkylaminocarbonyl or C1-C8-alkoxycarbonyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(d) a substituent —NR3R4, wherein R3 and R4, are independent from each other, and represent a hydrogen atom, C1-C8 alkyl, C1-C8-alkylcarbonyl, C1-C8-halogenoalkylcarbonyl, phenyl or benzyl, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms;
(e) a substituent —(O)—R5, wherein R5 represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C8-alkyl or C1-C8-alkyloxy, in each of which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, NHR5 or NR5R5 (where the two substituents R5 may be the same or different), —NR5(OH);
(f) a substituent —S(O)n—R6, wherein n is 0, 1 or 2 and R6 represents C1-C8-alkyl in which the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms, —NH2, —NHR6 or NR6R6 (where the two substituents R6 may be the same or different); or
(g) a 4-, 5-, 6- or 7-membered heterocyclic ring comprising up to 4 heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur, wherein in each of these rings the hydrogen atoms may be partly replaced by other groups or atoms; and
wherein Rf represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group or C1-C8-alkyl, C2-C8-alkenyl, C2-C8-alkynyl, or C3-C8-cycloalkyl.

3. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said strigolactone analogue is selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III.

Formula II Formula III

4. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

5. The composition as claimed in claim 4, wherein the agrochemically acceptable excipient comprises at least one surfactant selected from the group comprising non-ionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, or combinations thereof.

6. The composition as claimed in claim 4, wherein the agrochemically acceptable excipient comprises at least one carrier.

7. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition comprises from about 0.01% w/w to about 90% w/w strigolactone analogue of total weight of the composition.

8. A solid agrochemical composition comprising:
a) a strigolactone analogue selected from a Nijmegen-1 compound of formula II or a methyl phenlactonoate 3 (MP3) compound of formula III, in an amount ranging from about 0.1% w/w to about 30% w/w;
b) at least one surfactant, in an amount ranging from about 0.1% w/w to about 50% w/w; and
c) at least one carrier, in an amount ranging from about 10% w/w to about 99% w/w,
of total weight of the composition.

9. The composition as claimed in claim 8, wherein the composition optionally comprises at least one coating agent, wherein the coating agent is a rosin gum.

10. The composition as claimed in claim 8, wherein the composition is in a form of granules (GR), extruded granules, wettable powders (WP), or combinations thereof.

11. A process for preparing the granular agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 10, the process comprises:
a) preparing a mixture comprising at least one strigolactone analogue and at least one surfactant in at least one solvent;
b) converting the mixture of step a) into the granular agrochemical composition; and
c) optionally, coating the granular agrochemical composition obtained in step b) with a coating agent.

12. The process as claimed in claim 11, wherein the solvent comprises a mixture of a ketonic solvent and a lactone-based solvent present in a ratio from about 1:9 to about 9:1.

13. A process for preparing the wettable powder agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 10, the process comprising:
a) mixing of at least one strigolactone analogue, at least one surfactant and at least one carrier in a suitable mixer to obtain a mixture; and
b) grinding the mixture to obtain the wettable powder agrochemical composition.

14. Use of the solid agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 1, for controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds.

15. A method for controlling growth of unwanted parasitic plants/weeds, said method comprising applying a solid agrochemical composition comprising at least one strigolactone analogue, to soil for inducing/stimulating Striga seed germination, before sowing crop seeds.

16. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the method reduces Striga emergence leading to growth of host plant.