Key Points

• Green technology safely eliminates citrus canker, bacterial leaf spot, and other plant diseases
• Simultaneously enhances plant growth while destroying infectious microbes
• Uses EPA-approved ingredients and meets all industry requirements for commercial viability

University of Central Florida researchers have invented T-SOL™, a chelate-based therapeutic nutrient that promotes plant growth and minimizes the threat of microbial infection. Unlike other biocides, which only destroy microorganisms, T-SOL™ simultaneously enhances plant growth, increases crop yields, and protects plants from bacterial and fungal diseases (including citrus canker, citrus greening, scab, and bacterial leaf spot). Usable in liquid or powder form, the new green technology is eco-friendly and safely eliminates as much as 99 percent of harmful microorganisms from a plant’s surface, including Escherichia coli, Xanthomonas, and Staphylococcus aureus. T-SOL™ also minimizes phytotoxicity.

Technical Details

The invention encompasses the T-SOL™ formulation and methods of preparation. T-SOL™ is a chelate-based ternary complex consisting of an antimicrobial agent, a plant-compatible growth promoter, and a plant micronutrient. The formulation, which can be a powder or a sprayable liquid, uses EPA-approved ingredients and meets all industry requirements for commercial viability.

An example formulation can consist of hydrogen peroxide (the antimicrobial agent), urea (a hydrogen peroxide stabilizer and plant-compatible growth promoter), and divalent zinc ion (a plant micronutrient). The combination of the peroxide component with the stabilizer forms a metal-free, chelate-based complex that minimizes phytotoxicity, enhances plant growth, and has antimicrobial characteristics that defend plants against pathogens. Gluconate or salicylate can be alternatives to urea, and a sodium salt-based adjuvant can enhance the rainfastness of the formulation.

Benefits

• Controls a broad range of plant disease-causing microorganisms (both bacterial and fungal)
• Promotes plant growth
• Environmentally friendly (non-damaging to plants and animals)
• Increases crop yields

Applications

Agricultural biocide and fertilizer

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