| abstract |
The present invention provides a pesticide formulation that is effective, non-persistent in the environment, and meets the criteria for use in organic food production as set for the by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI). The formulation may be used for the control and eradication of pathogens such as germs and viruses, insects, insect larvae, mold, slime and fungus, and algae. The compositions provide a formulation containing an oxidizing compound in conjunction with a botanically derived surfactant/membrane permeablization agent. The formulation typically contains a hydrogen peroxide generating compound(s) and saponin glycoside compounds, which, in combination, show enhanced activity towards insects, pathogens algae, slime, mold and fungus. The method is exemplified by applying an effective amount of a composition containing an aqueous mixture of hydrogen peroxide and surface-active saponin botanical extracts preferentially derived from Quillaja saponaria and/or Yucca schidigera , to water bodies, surfaces, and in or on turf. The composition is also effective for control of odors and sulfurous black layer found in turf. |