Title of Invention	AGRICULTURAL CHEMICAL COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING THIOPHANATE-METHYL AND TRICYCLAZOLE
Abstract	The present invention provides an agricultural chemical composition comprising: (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether, (2) polycarboxylate, and (3) an agricultural chemical active ingredient. In addition, the present invention provides an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition comprising: thiophanate- methyl and tricyclazole as agricultural chemical active ingredients thereof, and a plant disease control method that uses the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition.

Title of Invention

AGRICULTURAL CHEMICAL COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING THIOPHANATE-METHYL AND TRICYCLAZOLE

Abstract

The present invention provides an agricultural chemical composition comprising: (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether, (2) polycarboxylate, and (3) an agricultural chemical active ingredient. In addition, the present invention provides an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition comprising: thiophanate- methyl and tricyclazole as agricultural chemical active ingredients thereof, and a plant disease control method that uses the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition.

Full Text	DESCRIPTION AGRICULTURAL CHEMICAL COMPOSITION, AGRICULTURAL AND HORTICULTURAL PESTICIDE, AND PLANT DISEASE CONTROL METHOD TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to an agricultural chemical composition containing two specific types of surfactants and agricultural chemical active ingredients. In addition, the present invention relates to an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition containing thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as active ingredients thereof, and to a method for controlling plant disease. The present application claims priority on Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-204222, filed in Japan on August 6, 2007, and on Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-204224, filed m Japan on August 6, 2007, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND ART [0002] Conventionally, in the cultivation of agricultural and horticultural crops, various agricultural chemical compositions have been used for the purpose of controlling weeds and harmful organisms. Agricultural chemical compositions ordinarily contain an agricultural chemical active ingredient and a surface activating ingredient that is used for the purpose of stabilizing and enhancing the effect of the agricultural chemical active ingredient. [0003] However, these compositions were not always considered to be satisfactory control agents due to the madequate control effects thereof, limitations on the use thereof due to the appearance of chemical-resistant pathogens, chemical damage or contamination of plant bodies, or toxicity to humans, livestock or fish and efifects on the environment. Thus, there has been a need to develop an agricultural chemical composition that can be used safely and is able to demonstrate a high level of control efifects on weeds and harmful organisms. [0004] However, rice blast is an important disease that affects paddy rice. Rice plants that have succumb to rice blast demonstrate slow growth, decreased yield, and increased incidence of brown discolored rice and damaged rice. The times at which rice blast is attempted to be controlled are divided into the mid-growth period during which control is targeted at rice leaf blast, and the late growth period during which control is targeted at head rice blast. However, although leaf rice blast has conventionally been able to controlled by applying control agents to seedlings, it has been difBcult to control head rice blast. [0005] In relation to the present invention, Patent Document 1 proposes a rice blast control agent composition that contains a preventive pesticide that has preventive effects on rice blast and a medium-chain fatty acid triglyceride. In addition, Patent Document 2 also proposes a control agent for plant diseases such as rice blast (agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition). However, since the control agent of Patent Document 2 also has inadequate control effects, has limitations on the use thereof due to the appearance of chemical-resistant pathogens, causes chemical damage or contamination to plant bodies, or is toxic to humans, livestock or fish and affects the environment, there are a considerable number of control agents that are not necessarily satisfactory. Thus, there is a need for the development of a control agent that can be used safely and is able to demonstrate high levels of preventive effects and/or therapeutic effects (to simply be referred to as "control effects") against plant diseases such as rice blast. [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2003-104820 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2002-308701 DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [Problems to be Solved by the Invention] [0006] In consideration of the circumstances as described above, an object of the present invention is to provide an agricultural chemical composition that can be used safely and has superior control effects against weeds and plant disease. In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide an agricultural chemical composition that can be used safely and has superior control effects against various types of plant diseases, and particularly against rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and head rice blast). In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition that can be used safely and has superior control effects against various types of plant diseases, and against rice blast in particular, and a plant disease control method that uses this agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition. [Means for Solving the Problems] [0007] As a result of conducting extensive studies on agricultural chemical compositions containing agricultural chemical active ingredients and surfactants in order to solve the aforementioned problems, the inventors of the present invention found that an agricultural chemical composition containing surfactants in the form of (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and (2) polycarboxylate can be used safely and has superior control effects for the control of weeds and plant disease, and particularly against rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and head rice blast), thereby leaduig to completion of the present invention. In addition, the inventors of the present invention found that an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition that contains thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as active ingredients thereof can be used safely and demonstrates superior control effects against various plant diseases, and particularly against rice blast, thereby leading to completion of the present invention. [0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an agricultural chemical composition is provided that contains (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether, (2) polycarboxylate, and (3) an agricultural chemical active ingredient, [0009] In the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, the polyoxyalkylene aryl ether of (1) above is preferably polyoxyalkylene aryl phenyl ether. The agricultural chemical composition of the present invention is preferably a wettable powder. In addition, in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, the agricultural chemical active ingredient of (3) above is preferably j^ricultural and horticultural pesticide active ingredient, and more preferably thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole. [0010] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition is provided that contains thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as agricultural chemical active ingredients. hi the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention, the thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole are preferably contained at a v^eight ratio (thiophanate-methyl:tricyclazole) within the range of 1:5000 to 500:1, and the total content of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole is preferably 0.01 to 90% by weight of the total weight of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition. In addition, the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention is preferably a wettable powder. According to a third aspect of the present invention, a plant disease control method is provided that comprises the application of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention to an agricultural or horticultural crop, [Effects of the Invention] [0011] The agricultural chemical composition and agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention can be used safely and has superior control effects against weeds and plant disease, and in particular has superior control effects against various types of plant diseases and against rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and head rice blast) in particular. In addition, as a result of using the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention, the plant disease control method of the present invention can be implemented over a long period of time and allows the obtaining of a high level of control efifects against plant diseases such as rice blast. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION [0012] The following provides a detailed explanation of the present invention. 1) Agricultural Chemical Composition The agricultviral chemical composition of the present invention contains (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether, (2) polycarboxylate, and (3) agricultural chemical active ingredients. [0013] (1) Polyoxyalkylene Aryl Ether Examples of the polyoxyalkylene moiety of the polyoxyalkylene aryl ether used in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention include polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene and combinations of polyoxyethylene and polyoxypropy lene. [0014] Examples of aryl moiety of the polyoxyalkylene aryl ether include aryl groups such as a phenyl group, 1-naphtyl group or 2-naphthyl group; alkylaryl groups such as a C8-C12 alkylphenyl group or di-C8-C12 alkylphenyl group; and, arylaryl groups such as a benzylphenyl group, styrylphenyl group, distyrylphenyl group or tristyrylphenyl group. [0015] Specific examples of polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers include polyoxyethylene (C8-C12) alkyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene benzyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene phenyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene styryl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene distyryl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene tristyryl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene styryl phenyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene di-(C8-C12) alkyl phenyl ether and polyoxyethylene (C8-C12) alkyl phenyl ether formalin condensation products. [0016] In the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, one type of these polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination. Among these polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers, polyoxyalkylene aryl phenyl ethers are preferable, and polyoxyethylene tristyryl phenyl ether is particularly preferable. [0017] Examples of polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers specifically include polyoxyethylene tristyryl phenyl ether (Soprophor BSU, Rhodia Nicca), polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene tristyryl phenyl ether (Soprophor 796/P, Rhodia Nicca), polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl phenyl ether (Antarox 461/P, Rhodia Nicca), and polyoxyethylene octyl phenyl ether (Nonal 109, Toho Chemical Industry). [0018] (2) Polycarboxylate The polycarboxylate used in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention is a salt of a polymer having structural units composed of carboxylic acid and having a molecular weight of about 1,000 to 50,000. Examples include (a) salts of ethylene-based xmsaturated monocarboxylic acid polymers, (b) salts of copolymers of ethylene-based unsaturated monocarboxylic acids and ethylene-based unsaturated dicarboxylic acids or anhydrides thereof, (c) salts of copolymers of ethylene-based unsaturated monocarboxylic acids, ethylene-based dicarboxylic acids or anhydrides thereof and C2-C6 alkenes, and (d) salts of copolymers of ethylene-based unsaturated monocarboxylic acids, ethylene-based dicarboxylic acids or anhydrides thereof and aromatic vinyl compounds. [0019] Examples of ethylene-based unsaturated monocarboxylic acids include acrylic acid, methacrylic acid and crotonic acid. Examples of ethylene-based unsaturated dicarboxylic acids include maleic acid, fumaric acid and itaconic acid. Examples of C2-C6 alkenes include ethylene, propene, butylene, isobutylene and diisobutylene. In addition, examples of aromatic vinyl compounds include styrene, a-methylstyrene, vinyltoluene and p-methylstyrene. [0020] Examples of polycarboxylates include salts of alkaline metals such as lithium, sodium or potassium of polycarboxylic acid; salts of alkaline earth metals such as calcium or magnesium of polycarboxylic acid; salts of amines such as monomethylamine, monoethylamin or dimethylamine of polycarboxylic acid; and, ammonium salts of polycarboxylic acid. [0021] Specific examples of polycarboxylates include salts of polyacrylic acid, sahs of copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid, salts of copolymers of isobutylene and maleic anhydride, salts of copolymers of acrylic acid and itaconic acid, salts of copolymers of methacrylic acid and itaconic acid, salts of copolymers of maleic acid and styrene, and salts of copolymers of maleic acid and diisobutylene. [0022] In the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, one type of these polycarboxylates can be used alone, or two or more types can be used in combination. Among these, salts of copolymers of maleic acid and diisobutylene are preferable. [0023] Examples of polycarboxylates specifically include a salt of a copolymer of isobutylene and maleic anhydride (Isobam 600SF35, Kuraray), a salt of a copolymer of isobutylene and maleic anhydride (Toxanon GR31 A, Sanyo Chemical Industries), polyacrylate (Poiz 530, Kao), ammonium polyacrylate (Poiz 532A, Kao), salt of copolymer of acrylic acid and maleic acid (Poiz 520, Poiz 521, Kao), and salt of copolymer of maleic anhydride and diisobutylene (Newkalgen-WG-5, Takemoto Oil & Fat). [0024] The weight ratio of the contents of the aforementioned (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether to the (2) polycarboxylate is normally 8:2 to 3:7 and preferably 7:3 to 5:5. [0025] The total amount of the aforementioned (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and the (2) polycarboxylate based on the total weight of the agricultural chemical composition is normally 0.1 to 10% by weight and preferably 1 to 5% by weight. [0026] (3) Agricultural Chemical Active Ingredients The agricultural chemical composition of the present invention contains agricultural chemical active ingredients. There are no particular limitations on tiie ^ricultural chemical active ingredients, and examples include agricultural and horticultural pesticide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural insecticide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural miticide active ingredients, herbicide active ingredients and plant growth regulator active ingredients. Specific examples of agricultural chemical active ingredients include, but are not limited to, the agricultural chemical active ingredients indicated below. [0027] (Pesticide Active Ingredients) 1,2-bis(3-methoxycarbonyl-2-thioureido) benzene (generic name: thiophanate-methyl), 5-methyl-l,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b] benzothiazole (generic name: tricyclazole), methyl l-(butylcarbonyl)-2-benzimidazole (generic name: benomyl), (E)-4-chloro-a,a,a-trifluoro-N-( 1 -imidazole-1 -yI-2-propoxyethylidene-o-toluidine (generic name: triflumizole), 3-chloro-N-(3-chloro-5-trifluoromethyl-2-pyridyl)-a,a,a-trifluoro-2,6-dinitro-P-toluidine (generic name: fluazinam), methyl-(E)-2-methoxyimino [a-(o-tolyloxy)-o-tolyl] acetate (generic name: kresoxim-methyl). [0028] (Insecticide Active Ingredients) (E)-N^-[(6-chloro-3-pyridyl)methyl]-N^-cyano-N^- methylacetamidine (generic name: acetamiprid), (2)l-(6-chloro-3-pyridylmethyl)-N-mtro (imidazolidin-2-ylidene) amine (generic name: imidacloprid), N-tert-butyI-N-(3,5-dimethyibenzoyI)-3-methoxy-2- methylbenzohydrazide (generic name: methoxyfenozide), l-naphthyl-N-methylcarbamate (generic name: NAC), 1 -(2,6-dichloro-4-trifluoromethyl)-3 -cyano-4- trifluoromethylsulfenyl-5-aminopyrazole (generic name: fipronil). [0029] (Miticide Active Ingredients) Trans-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-cyclohexyl-4-methyl-2-oxothiazolidine-3-carboxamide (generic name: hexythiazox), N-(4-tert-butylbenzyl)-4-chloro-3-ethyl-l -methylpyrazole-5- carboxamide (generic name: tebufenpyrad), (RS)-a-cyano-3- phenoxybenzyl-2,2,3,3-tetramethylcyclopropane carboxylate (generic name: fenpropathrin), (RS)-a-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl-N-(2-chloro-a,a,a-trifluoro-p-tolyi)-D-valinate (generic name: fluvalinate). [0030] (Herbicide Active Ingredients) 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-l,l-dimethylurea (generic name: DCMU), (2)S-(4-chloroben2yl)-N,N-diethylthiocarbamate (generic name: benthiocarb). [0031] (Plant Growth Regulator Active Ingredients) N-(dimethylamino)-succinamic acid (generic name: daminozide). [0032] One type of these agricultural chemical active ingredients can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination. In the present invention, among the active ingredients listed above, agricultural and horticultural pesticide active ingredients are used preferably for the agricultural chemical active ingredient, while the combined use of thiophanate-methyl [l,2-bis(3-methoxycarbonyl-2-thioureido) benzene] and tricyclazole [5-methyl-l,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b] benzothiazole] is particularly preferable. [0033] Although there are no particular lunitations on the content of agricultural chemical active ingredients in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, the content is normally 0.01 to 90% by weight and preferably 50 to 85% by weight. [0034] In the case of combining the use of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as agricultural chemical active ingredients, although there are no particular limitations on the weight ratio of the contents thereof, the weight ratio is normally within the range of 1:5000 to 500:1, preferably 1:1000 to 200:1, more preferably 1:100 to 100:1 and particularly preferably 1:10 to 10:1. When thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole are used at a weight ratio as indicated above in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, superior effects can be obtained that are equal to or greater than the additive effect obtained when the two are simply mixed. [0035] The agricultural chemical composition of the present invention can be formulated into various preparations corresponding to the purpose of use and the like. Namely, the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention can be used by formulating into the form of a preparation in accordance with ordinary methods by incorporating a suitable vehicle or adjuvant in the agricultural chemical active ingredients, polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and polycarboxylate. Examples of such preparation forms include wettable powders (WP), emulsions, flowable preparations, water-soluble powders, water-dispersible granules, liquids, emulsified preparations, suspensions, powders, foams, pastes, granules, aerosols, microcapsules, seed coating agents and smoking agents. In particular, wettable powders are preferable in terms of allowing the obtaining of superior control effects when used as a rice blast control agent. [0036] A wettable powder can be prepared by, for example, mixing the agricultural chemical active ingredients, polyoxyalkylene aryl ether, polycarboxylate and, if desired, other additives such as extenders, followed by forming into a fine powder. [0037] Examples of extenders include mineral powders such as talc, clay, bentonite, kaolinite clay, montmorillonite, pyrophyllite, acidic clay, diatomaceous earth, vermiculite, apatite, gypsum, mica, silica sand, calcium carbonate or pumice powder; synthetic extenders such as white carbon (amorphous silica) or titanium dioxide; plant-based powders such as crystalline cellulose, starch, wood powder, cork or coffee husks; polymer compounds such as polyvinyl chloride or petroleum resin; and, chemical fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate, ammonium phosphate, ammoniimi nitrate, urea, ammonium chloride or potassium chloride. One type of these extenders can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination. [0038] The amount of extender used is normally 5 to 50% by weight and preferably 10 to 30% by weight based on the total weight of the agricultural chemical composition. [0039] Examples of other additives include various types of adjuvants such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), gum arable, polyvinyl acetate, gelatin, casein or sodiimi alginate; stabilizers such as antioxidants or ultraviolet absorbers; and surfactants other than polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers and polycarboxylates. [0040] Although there are no particular limitations on the mean particle diameter of the wettable powder, it is preferably 10 to 100 jxm from the viewpoints of obtaining superior handling ease and water dilution properties. [0041] The agricultural chemical composition of the present invention may be used in combination with one type or two or more types of other active compounds such as insecticides, rodenticides, pesticides, insecticides and miticides, nematocides, fungicides, growth regulators, herbicides or synergists. [0042] The agricultural chemical composition as claimed in the present invention can be used to control a wide range of plant diseases. The following lists some typical examples thereof Rice Rice blast (Pyricularis oryzae) Rice sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani) Bakanae disease (Gibberella fujikuroi) Brown spot (Cochliobolus miyabeanus) Barley Loose smut (Ustilago nuda) Wheat Wheat scab (Gibberlla zeae) Leaf rust (Puccinia recondita) Eye.spot (Pseudocrecosporella herpotrichoides) [0043] Glume blotch (Leptosphaeria nodorum) Powdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis f. sp. tritici) Snow mold (Micronectriella nivalis) Kidney Bean Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) Small Red Bean Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) Soy Bean Stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) Peanut Brown leaf spot (Mycosphaerella arachidis) Sugar beet Cercospora leaf spot (Cercospora beticola) Cucumber Powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuliginea) Stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Tomato Leaf mold (Cladosporium fulvum) Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Eggplant Black rot (Corynespora melongenae) Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Onion Gray-mold neck rot (Botrytis allii) Strawberry Powdery mildew (Sohaerotheca humuli) Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Apple Powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha) Apple scab (Venturia inaequalis) Blossom blight (Monilinia mali) Persimmon Anthracnose (Gloeosporium kaki) Peach Brown rot (Monilinia fructicola) Grape Powdery mildew (Uncinula necator) Downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Pear Pear rust (Gymnosporangium asiaticum) Black spot (Altemaria kikuchiana) Tea Tea gray blight (Pestalotia theae) Anthracnose (CoUectotrichum theae-sinensis) Citrus Citrus scab (Elisinoe fawcetti) Blue mold (Pennisillium italicum) Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Grass Sclerotinia snow blight (Sclerotinia borealis) [0044] Among these plant diseases, the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention has particularly superior effects against rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and head rice blast). [0045] Examples of methods for applying the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention to agricultural and horticultural crops include applying to the plant body, seeds, water surface or soil either directly or after suitably diluting with water and the like. [0046] For example, in the case of using the agricultural chemical composition in the form of a wettable powder, the wettable powder is used after diluting to a prescribed concentration with water in the form of a solution, suspension or emulsion. The applied concentration of the wettable powder is normally 1 to 1000 ppm and preferably 10to250ppm. [0047] Although varying according to weather conditions, preparation form, time of application, application method, applied location, target control disease, target crop and the like, the applied amount of the agricultural chemical composition is normally 1 to 1000 g and preferably 100 to 600 g as the amount of active ingredients per hectare. Although varying according to the target crop and the like, the time of application is, in the case of targeting against rice blast, for example, starting four weeks before flowering to flowering. [0048] According to the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, superior control effects can be obtained against various crop diseases, and particularly against rice blast. In addition, the application period for control of crop diseases is long. Thus, there is a high degree of freedom in the application period of the agricultural chemical composition. 2) Agricultural and Horticultural Pesticide Composition The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention contains as agricultural chemical active ingredients thereof thiophanate-methyl [l,2-bis(3-methoxycarbonyl-2-thioureido) benzene] and tricyclazole [5-methyl-l ,2,4-tria2olo[3,4-b] benzothiazole]. [0049] Although there are no particular limitations on the mixing ratio of the thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole in the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention, it is normally a weight ratio within the range of 1:5000 to 500:1, preferably 1:1000 to 200:1, more preferably 1:100 to 100:1 and particularly preferably 1:10 to 10:1. The use of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole at a weight ratio as described above allows the obtaining of an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition that has superior effects that are equal to or greater than the additive effect obtained when the two are simply mixed. [0050] In addition, although there are no particular limitations on the total content of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole in the agricdtural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention, it is normally 0.01 to 90% by weight and preferably 50 to 85% by weight based on the total weight of the composition (or based on the total weight of the preparation in the case of using in the form of a preparation as will be subsequently described). [0051] Although the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention contains agricultural chemical active ingredients in the form of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as essential components thereof, it may also contain other agricultural chemical active ingredients. There are no particular limitations on the other agricultural chemical active ingredients, and examples thereof include conventionally knovra herbicide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural pesticide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural insecticide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural miticide active ingredients and plant growth regulator active ingredients. One type of these other agricultural chemical active ingredients can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination. [0052] The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention can be formulated into various preparations corresponding to the purpose of use and the like. Namely, the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention can be used by formulating into the form of a preparation in accordance with ordinary methods by incorporating thiophanate-methyl, tricyclazole and, as necessary, other agricultural chemical active ingredients in a suitable vehicle or adjuvant. Examples of preparation forms include the preparation forms used for the previously described agricultural chemical composition, and a wettable powder in particular is preferable in terms of allowing the obtaining of superior control effects when used as a rice blast control agent. [0053] A wettable powder can be prepared by, for example, using agricultural chemical active ingredients, surfactant, extender, and if desired, other additives. [0054] Examples of surfactants used include polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, sulfate ester salts thereof, alkylbenzene sulfonates, sulfate ester salts of higher alcohols, alkylnaphthalene sulfonates, polycarboxylates, lignin sulfonates, formaldehyde condensation products of alkyhiaphthalene sulfonates and isobutylene-maleic anhydride copolymers. [0055] Specific examples of polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers are the same as previously described. [0056] Examples of alkyl of polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers include linear or branched C8-C18 alkyl groups. [0057] Specific examples of polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers include polyoxyethylene (C12-C18) alkyl ethers, polyoxypropylene (C12-C18) alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block polymers and (C12-C18) alkylpolyoxyethylene- polyoxypropylene block polymer ethers. More specifically, these include polyoxyethylene cetyl ether (Emalex 100 Series, Nippon Nyukazai) and polyoxyethylene octyl dodecyl ether (Emalex OD Series, Nippon Nyukazai). [0058] specific examples of polycarboxylates are the same as previously described. [0059] One type of these surfactants can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination. At least one type of these surfactants selected from the group consisting of polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers and polycarboxylates is used preferably, while a combination of polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and polycarboxylate is used more preferably. [0060] In the case of combining the use of a polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and polycarboxylate, the combination of a polyoxyalkylene tristyryl phenyl ether and polycarboxylate is more preferable. Although there are no particular limitations on the weight ratio of the amounts of the polyoxyalkylene tristyryl phenyl ether and polycarboxylate used, it is preferably within the range of 8:2 to 3:7 and more preferably within the range of 7:3 to 5:5. [0061] The total amount of surfactant used is preferably within the range of 0.1 to 10% by weight and more preferably within the range of 1 to 5% by weight based on the total weight of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition. [0062] Additives such as an extender can be added as necessary, and specific examples thereof are as previously described. [0063] Although there are no particular limitations on the preparation form of the present mvention, a wettable powder is preferable. Although there are no particular limitations on the mean particle diameter of the wettable powder, it is preferably 10 to 100 ^m from the viewpoints of obtaining superior handling ease and water dilution properties. [0064] The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention may also be used in combination with one type or two or more types of active compounds other than thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole, examples of which include insecticides, rodenticides, pesticides, insecticides and miticides, nematocides, fimgicides, growth regulators, herbicides and synergists. [0065] The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition as claimed in the present invention can be used to control a wide range of plant diseases. Typical examples of plant diseases include the previously listed typical examples of plant diseases controlled using agricultural chemicals. [0066] The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention demonstrates superior effects against the plant disease of rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and head rice blast). [0067] 3) Plant Disease Control Method The plant disease control method of the present invention comprises the application of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention to agricultural and horticultural crops. Although there are no particular limitations on the agricultural and horticultural crops targeted for application, rice plants are particularly preferable. [0068] Examples of methods for applying the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition to agricultural and horticultural crops include applying the composition to the plant body, seeds, water surface or soil either directly or after suitably diluting with water and the like. [0069] For example, in the case of using the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition in the form of a wettable powder, the wettable powder is used after diluting to a prescribed concentration with water in the form of a solution, suspension or emulsion. The applied concentration of the wettable powder is normally 1 to 1000 ppm and preferably 10 to 250 ppm. [0070] Although varying according to weather conditions, preparation form, time of application, application method, applied location, target control disease, target crop and the like, the applied amount of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition is normally 1 to 1000 g and preferably 100 to 600 g as the amount of active ingredients per hectare. Although varying according to the target crop and the like, the time of application is, in the case of targeting against rice blast, for example, starting four weeks before flowering to flowering. [0071] According to the control method of the present invention, superior control effects can be obtained against various crop diseases, and particularly against rice blast. In addition, the application period for control of crop diseases is long. Thus, there is a high degree of freedom in the application period of the control agent (agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition). [Examples] [0072] Next, a more detailed explanation is provided of the present invention through examples thereof. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples. [0073] (Example 1) 3.0 parts by weight of a 1:1 (weight ratio) mixture of polyoxyethyiene tristyryl phenyl ether and precipitated silica (FPP-0S102, Nippon Nyukazai), 1.0 parts by weight of polycarboxylate (Newkalgen-WG-5, Takemoto Oil & Fat), 36.7 parts by weight of thiophanate-methyl (TOD-019P, Nippon Soda) and 40.7 parts by weight of tricyclazole were added to 18.6 parts by weight of kaolinate clay followed by mixing for 60 minutes with a ribbon blender (1000 W x 3000 L, 3.8 m^ 7.5 kw, Soda Engineering). [0074] The resulting mixture was crushed with a high-speed impact pulverizer (Contraplex 250CW, rotating speed in main unit: 11200 rpm, rotating speed at door: 2800 rpm, crushing performance: approx. 180 kg/hr, Hosokawa Micron). Next, the crushed powder was again mixed with a ribbon blender (1150 W x 3500 L, 4.0 m^, 5.5 kw, Soda Engineering). [0075] After again crushing the resulting mixture with a jet mill (Ulmax 18BU-9N, air flow rate: approx. 10 Nm^/h, crushing performance: approx. 90 kg/hr, Soda Engineering), the crushed powder was mixed for 60 minutes with a ribbon blender (1000 W x 3000 L, 4.0 m\ 7.5 kw. Soda Engineering) to prepare a Wettable Powder 1 having a mean particle diameter of 6.58 \|xm. [0076] (Text Example 1 Rice Blast Control Effect Confirmation Test) The following test was carried out to investigate the control effects of the Wettable Powder 1 obtained in Example 1 on rice blast. [0077] Rice seeds (variety: OM1490) were planted (180 kg/ha) and grown into rice plants followed by infestation with leaf rice blast or head rice blast and spraying with the Wettable Powder 1 at the timing and in the sprayed amounts indicated below. * When 20% of leafs were affected for leaf rice blast * 7 days before flowering for head rice blast [0078] The control effects of the Wettable Powder 1 on rice blast (both leaf rice blast and head rice blast) were evaluated based on disease incidence and disease index. [0079] a) Leaf Rice Blast (i) Disease Incidence Disease incidence was evaluated according to values calculated according to the following equation (1) by investigating the number of leaves that had been affected by rice leaf blast 1 day before, 7 days after, 14 days after and 21 days after spraying the Wettable Powder 1. The results are shown in the following Table 2. [0080] [Equation 1] No. of affected leaves ,.„ ... xlOO (1) Total no. of leafs [0081] (ii) Disease Index Three leaves each from the upper portions of 50 rice plants were investigated 1 day before, 7 days after, 14 days after and 21 days after spraying the Wettable Powder 1. The disease index of leaf rice blast was then calcxilated according to the following equation (2). The results are shown in the following Table 3. [0083] [Equation 2] [0084] In the above equation, N represents the total number of leaves investigated, ni represents the number of leaves afiFected by leaf rice blast corresponding to a score of 1, na represents the number of leaves affected by leaf rice blast corresponding to a score of 3, ns represents the number of leaves affected by leaf rice blast corresponding to a score of 5, n? represents the number of leaves afiFected by leaf rice blast corresponding to a score of 7, and ng represents the number of leaves afifected by leaf rice blast corresponding to a score of 9. [0085] Furthermore, scores for leaves afifected by leaf rice blast were determined according to the criteria indicated below. 1: Less than 1% of leaf affected 3: Less than 5% of leaf affected 5: Less than 25% of leaf affected 7: Less than 50% of leaf affected 9: 50% or more of leaf affected b) Head Rice Blast Fifty rice plant flowers were investigated 7 days before harvesting following by investigating the number of rice heads affected by head rice blast. The disease incidence of head rice blast was calculated according to the following equation (3). [0088] [Equation 3] [0089] In addition, the disease index was calculated according to the following equation (4). The results are also shown in the following Table 4. [0090] [Equation 4] [0091] In the above equation, N represents the number of flowers investigated, ni represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 1, n2 represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 2, nj represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 3, ru represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 4, and nj represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 5. [0092] Furthermore, scores for flowers afifected by head rice blast were determined according to the criteria indicated below. 1: Only 1 or 2 spikelets affected 2: Less than 30% of spikelet affected 3: 30% to 60% of spikelet affected 4: More than 60% of spikelet affected 5: One or more panicles affected [0094] On the basis of the above results, the Wettable Powder 1 of Example 1 was determined to demonstrate superior control effects against leaf rice blast and head rice blast without causing damage to the plants. [0095] (Test Example 2 Chemical Damage Test) The conditions of rice plants 2 days after, 4 days after and 7 days after spraying with the Wettable Powder 1 were observed to evaluate chemical damage attributable to the Wettable Powder 1. Rice plants were evaluated based on a scale of 1 to 9, assigning a score of" 1" when chemical damage was not observed and a score of "9" when the rice plant died. The results of the evaluations are shown in the following Table 1. [0096] On the basis of the above results, the Wettable Powder 1 of Example 1 was not observed to demonstrate chemical damage in the same manner as conventional pesticide compositions. [0098] (Example 2) Thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole were dissolved m DMF (containing 1.5% Tween20) at the ratios indicated in Table 5 followed by adjusting to the concentrations shown in Table 5 with deionized water containing 0.02% Tween20 to prepare chemical solutions. An adequate amount of the aforementioned chemical solutions were sprayed over entire potted rice plants at about the 3.5 leaf stage using an atomizer nozzle, and after allowing the chemical solutions to air-dry, the rice plants were infested with rice blast spores (test strain: Pyricularia oryzae strain Po-5) by spraying the entire plants with a suspension thereof (approx. 5x10^ spores/ml) followed by allowing to stand undisturbed under greenhouse conditions (in acrylic boxes) in a constant temperature chamber at 23°C. The covers of the boxes were opened after about 20 hours and then allowed to stand undisturbed while drying in the constant temperature chamber. The numbers of spots on the third or fourth leaf that had completely opened after infestation were investigated 7 or 8 days after infestation to calculate disease control values. Those results are shown in Table 5. As shown in Table 5, the control values of a treated group treated with chemical solutions containing thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole demonstrated results that were greater than Colby theoretical values. (Example 3) Thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole were dissolved in DMSO at the ratios shown in Tables 6 and 7, followed by dissolving the resulting solutions in PDA medium to the concentrations shown in Tables 6 and 7 to prepare agar plates. After preparing the agar plates, disks (4 mm in diameter) impregnated with Pyricularia oryzae strain Po-5 were placed on the agar plates. After allowing to stand undisturbed for 10 days at 20°C, the diameters of the resulting colonies were measured to determine mycelial growth inhibition rates. Those results are shown in Tables 6 and 7. As shown in Tables 6 and 7, the mycelial growth mhibition rates of the treated groups using agar plates (chemical solutions) containing thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole demonstrated results that were greater than the Colby theoretical values. [0101] On the basis of the above results, the combined use of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole was determined to allow the obtaining of synergistic eflfects. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The agricultural chemical composition and agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention can be used safely and demonstrate superior control effects against weeds and plant diseases, thereby making them industrially useful. 1. An agricultural chemical composition, comprising: (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether, (2) polycarboxylate, and (3) an agricultural chemical active ingredient. 2. The agricultural chemical composition according to claim 1, wherein the polyoxyalkylene aryl ether of (1) is polyoxyalkylene aryl phenyl ether. 3. The agricultural chemical composition according to claim 1, wherein the agricultural chemical composition is a wettable powder. 4. The agricultural chemical composition according to claim 1, wherein the agricultural chemical active ingredient of (3) is an agricultural and horticultural pesticide active ingredient. 5. The agricultural chemical composition according to claim 1, wherein the agricultural chemical active ingredient of (3) is thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole. 6. An agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition, comprising: thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as agricultural chemical active ingredients. 7. The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition according to claim 6, wherein the thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole are contained at a weight ratio within the range of 1:5000 to 500:1. 8. The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition according to claim 6, wherein the total content of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole is 0.01 to 90% by weight of the total weight of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition. 9. The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition according to claim 6, wherein the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition is a wettable powder. 10. A plant disease control method, comprising application of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition according to any of claims 6 to 9 to an agricultural or horticultural crop.

Full Text

DESCRIPTION
AGRICULTURAL CHEMICAL COMPOSITION, AGRICULTURAL AND HORTICULTURAL PESTICIDE, AND PLANT DISEASE CONTROL METHOD
TECHNICAL FIELD [0001]
The present invention relates to an agricultural chemical composition containing two specific types of surfactants and agricultural chemical active ingredients. In addition, the present invention relates to an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition containing thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as active ingredients thereof, and to a method for controlling plant disease.
The present application claims priority on Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-204222, filed in Japan on August 6, 2007, and on Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-204224, filed m Japan on August 6, 2007, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND ART [0002]
Conventionally, in the cultivation of agricultural and horticultural crops, various agricultural chemical compositions have been used for the purpose of controlling weeds and harmful organisms. Agricultural chemical compositions ordinarily contain an agricultural chemical active ingredient and a surface activating ingredient that is used for the purpose of stabilizing and enhancing the effect of the agricultural chemical active ingredient.

[0003]
However, these compositions were not always considered to be satisfactory control agents due to the madequate control effects thereof, limitations on the use thereof due to the appearance of chemical-resistant pathogens, chemical damage or contamination of plant bodies, or toxicity to humans, livestock or fish and efifects on the environment.
Thus, there has been a need to develop an agricultural chemical composition that can be used safely and is able to demonstrate a high level of control efifects on weeds and harmful organisms. [0004]
However, rice blast is an important disease that affects paddy rice. Rice plants that have succumb to rice blast demonstrate slow growth, decreased yield, and increased incidence of brown discolored rice and damaged rice. The times at which rice blast is attempted to be controlled are divided into the mid-growth period during which control is targeted at rice leaf blast, and the late growth period during which control is targeted at head rice blast. However, although leaf rice blast has conventionally been able to controlled by applying control agents to seedlings, it has been difBcult to control head rice blast. [0005]
In relation to the present invention, Patent Document 1 proposes a rice blast control agent composition that contains a preventive pesticide that has preventive effects on rice blast and a medium-chain fatty acid triglyceride.
In addition, Patent Document 2 also proposes a control agent for plant diseases such as rice blast (agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition). However, since the control agent of Patent Document 2 also has inadequate control effects, has

limitations on the use thereof due to the appearance of chemical-resistant pathogens, causes chemical damage or contamination to plant bodies, or is toxic to humans, livestock or fish and affects the environment, there are a considerable number of control agents that are not necessarily satisfactory.
Thus, there is a need for the development of a control agent that can be used safely and is able to demonstrate high levels of preventive effects and/or therapeutic effects (to simply be referred to as "control effects") against plant diseases such as rice blast.
[Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2003-104820
[Patent Document 2] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2002-308701
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [Problems to be Solved by the Invention] [0006]
In consideration of the circumstances as described above, an object of the present invention is to provide an agricultural chemical composition that can be used safely and has superior control effects against weeds and plant disease. In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide an agricultural chemical composition that can be used safely and has superior control effects against various types of plant diseases, and particularly against rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and head rice blast).
In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition that can be used safely and has superior control effects against various types of plant diseases, and against rice blast in particular, and a

plant disease control method that uses this agricultural and horticultural pesticide
composition.
[Means for Solving the Problems]
[0007]
As a result of conducting extensive studies on agricultural chemical compositions containing agricultural chemical active ingredients and surfactants in order to solve the aforementioned problems, the inventors of the present invention found that an agricultural chemical composition containing surfactants in the form of (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and (2) polycarboxylate can be used safely and has superior control effects for the control of weeds and plant disease, and particularly against rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and head rice blast), thereby leaduig to completion of the present invention.
In addition, the inventors of the present invention found that an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition that contains thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as active ingredients thereof can be used safely and demonstrates superior control effects against various plant diseases, and particularly against rice blast, thereby leading to completion of the present invention. [0008]
According to a first aspect of the present invention, an agricultural chemical composition is provided that contains (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether, (2) polycarboxylate, and (3) an agricultural chemical active ingredient, [0009]
In the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, the polyoxyalkylene aryl ether of (1) above is preferably polyoxyalkylene aryl phenyl ether.
The agricultural chemical composition of the present invention is preferably a

wettable powder.
In addition, in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, the agricultural chemical active ingredient of (3) above is preferably j^ricultural and horticultural pesticide active ingredient, and more preferably thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole. [0010]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition is provided that contains thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as agricultural chemical active ingredients.
hi the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention, the thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole are preferably contained at a v^eight ratio (thiophanate-methyl:tricyclazole) within the range of 1:5000 to 500:1, and the total content of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole is preferably 0.01 to 90% by weight of the total weight of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition.
In addition, the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention is preferably a wettable powder.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, a plant disease control method is provided that comprises the application of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention to an agricultural or horticultural crop, [Effects of the Invention] [0011]
The agricultural chemical composition and agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention can be used safely and has superior control effects against weeds and plant disease, and in particular has superior control effects against various types of plant diseases and against rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and

head rice blast) in particular.
In addition, as a result of using the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention, the plant disease control method of the present invention can be implemented over a long period of time and allows the obtaining of a high level of control efifects against plant diseases such as rice blast.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION [0012]
The following provides a detailed explanation of the present invention.
1) Agricultural Chemical Composition
The agricultviral chemical composition of the present invention contains (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether, (2) polycarboxylate, and (3) agricultural chemical active ingredients. [0013]
(1) Polyoxyalkylene Aryl Ether
Examples of the polyoxyalkylene moiety of the polyoxyalkylene aryl ether used in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention include polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene and combinations of polyoxyethylene and polyoxypropy lene. [0014]
Examples of aryl moiety of the polyoxyalkylene aryl ether include aryl groups such as a phenyl group, 1-naphtyl group or 2-naphthyl group; alkylaryl groups such as a C8-C12 alkylphenyl group or di-C8-C12 alkylphenyl group; and, arylaryl groups such as a benzylphenyl group, styrylphenyl group, distyrylphenyl group or tristyrylphenyl group.

[0015]
Specific examples of polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers include polyoxyethylene (C8-C12) alkyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene benzyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene phenyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene styryl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene distyryl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene tristyryl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene styryl phenyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene di-(C8-C12) alkyl phenyl ether and polyoxyethylene (C8-C12) alkyl phenyl ether formalin condensation products. [0016]
In the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, one type of these polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination.
Among these polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers, polyoxyalkylene aryl phenyl ethers are preferable, and polyoxyethylene tristyryl phenyl ether is particularly preferable. [0017]
Examples of polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers specifically include polyoxyethylene tristyryl phenyl ether (Soprophor BSU, Rhodia Nicca), polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene tristyryl phenyl ether (Soprophor 796/P, Rhodia Nicca), polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl phenyl ether (Antarox 461/P, Rhodia Nicca), and polyoxyethylene octyl phenyl ether (Nonal 109, Toho Chemical Industry). [0018]
(2) Polycarboxylate
The polycarboxylate used in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention is a salt of a polymer having structural units composed of carboxylic acid and having a molecular weight of about 1,000 to 50,000. Examples include (a) salts of ethylene-based xmsaturated monocarboxylic acid polymers, (b) salts of copolymers of

ethylene-based unsaturated monocarboxylic acids and ethylene-based unsaturated dicarboxylic acids or anhydrides thereof, (c) salts of copolymers of ethylene-based unsaturated monocarboxylic acids, ethylene-based dicarboxylic acids or anhydrides thereof and C2-C6 alkenes, and (d) salts of copolymers of ethylene-based unsaturated monocarboxylic acids, ethylene-based dicarboxylic acids or anhydrides thereof and aromatic vinyl compounds. [0019]
Examples of ethylene-based unsaturated monocarboxylic acids include acrylic acid, methacrylic acid and crotonic acid.
Examples of ethylene-based unsaturated dicarboxylic acids include maleic acid, fumaric acid and itaconic acid.
Examples of C2-C6 alkenes include ethylene, propene, butylene, isobutylene and diisobutylene.
In addition, examples of aromatic vinyl compounds include styrene, a-methylstyrene, vinyltoluene and p-methylstyrene. [0020]
Examples of polycarboxylates include salts of alkaline metals such as lithium, sodium or potassium of polycarboxylic acid; salts of alkaline earth metals such as calcium or magnesium of polycarboxylic acid; salts of amines such as monomethylamine, monoethylamin or dimethylamine of polycarboxylic acid; and, ammonium salts of polycarboxylic acid. [0021]
Specific examples of polycarboxylates include salts of polyacrylic acid, sahs of copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid, salts of copolymers of isobutylene and maleic anhydride, salts of copolymers of acrylic acid and itaconic acid, salts of

copolymers of methacrylic acid and itaconic acid, salts of copolymers of maleic acid
and styrene, and salts of copolymers of maleic acid and diisobutylene.
[0022]
In the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, one type of these polycarboxylates can be used alone, or two or more types can be used in combination.
Among these, salts of copolymers of maleic acid and diisobutylene are preferable. [0023]
Examples of polycarboxylates specifically include a salt of a copolymer of isobutylene and maleic anhydride (Isobam 600SF35, Kuraray), a salt of a copolymer of isobutylene and maleic anhydride (Toxanon GR31 A, Sanyo Chemical Industries), polyacrylate (Poiz 530, Kao), ammonium polyacrylate (Poiz 532A, Kao), salt of copolymer of acrylic acid and maleic acid (Poiz 520, Poiz 521, Kao), and salt of copolymer of maleic anhydride and diisobutylene (Newkalgen-WG-5, Takemoto Oil & Fat). [0024]
The weight ratio of the contents of the aforementioned (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether to the (2) polycarboxylate is normally 8:2 to 3:7 and preferably 7:3 to 5:5. [0025]
The total amount of the aforementioned (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and the (2) polycarboxylate based on the total weight of the agricultural chemical composition is normally 0.1 to 10% by weight and preferably 1 to 5% by weight. [0026]
(3) Agricultural Chemical Active Ingredients
The agricultural chemical composition of the present invention contains

agricultural chemical active ingredients.
There are no particular limitations on tiie ^ricultural chemical active ingredients, and examples include agricultural and horticultural pesticide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural insecticide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural miticide active ingredients, herbicide active ingredients and plant growth regulator active ingredients.
Specific examples of agricultural chemical active ingredients include, but are not limited to, the agricultural chemical active ingredients indicated below. [0027]
(Pesticide Active Ingredients)
1,2-bis(3-methoxycarbonyl-2-thioureido) benzene (generic name: thiophanate-methyl), 5-methyl-l,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b] benzothiazole (generic name: tricyclazole), methyl l-(butylcarbonyl)-2-benzimidazole (generic name: benomyl), (E)-4-chloro-a,a,a-trifluoro-N-( 1 -imidazole-1 -yI-2-propoxyethylidene-o-toluidine (generic name: triflumizole), 3-chloro-N-(3-chloro-5-trifluoromethyl-2-pyridyl)-a,a,a-trifluoro-2,6-dinitro-P-toluidine (generic name: fluazinam), methyl-(E)-2-methoxyimino [a-(o-tolyloxy)-o-tolyl] acetate (generic name: kresoxim-methyl). [0028]
(Insecticide Active Ingredients)
(E)-N^-[(6-chloro-3-pyridyl)methyl]-N^-cyano-N^- methylacetamidine (generic name: acetamiprid), (2)l-(6-chloro-3-pyridylmethyl)-N-mtro (imidazolidin-2-ylidene) amine (generic name: imidacloprid),
N-tert-butyI-N-(3,5-dimethyibenzoyI)-3-methoxy-2- methylbenzohydrazide (generic name: methoxyfenozide), l-naphthyl-N-methylcarbamate (generic name: NAC),

1 -(2,6-dichloro-4-trifluoromethyl)-3 -cyano-4- trifluoromethylsulfenyl-5-aminopyrazole
(generic name: fipronil).
[0029]
(Miticide Active Ingredients)
Trans-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-cyclohexyl-4-methyl-2-oxothiazolidine-3-carboxamide (generic name: hexythiazox), N-(4-tert-butylbenzyl)-4-chloro-3-ethyl-l -methylpyrazole-5- carboxamide (generic name: tebufenpyrad), (RS)-a-cyano-3- phenoxybenzyl-2,2,3,3-tetramethylcyclopropane carboxylate (generic name: fenpropathrin), (RS)-a-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl-N-(2-chloro-a,a,a-trifluoro-p-tolyi)-D-valinate (generic name: fluvalinate). [0030]
(Herbicide Active Ingredients)
3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-l,l-dimethylurea (generic name: DCMU), (2)S-(4-chloroben2yl)-N,N-diethylthiocarbamate (generic name: benthiocarb). [0031]
(Plant Growth Regulator Active Ingredients)
N-(dimethylamino)-succinamic acid (generic name: daminozide). [0032]
One type of these agricultural chemical active ingredients can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination.
In the present invention, among the active ingredients listed above, agricultural and horticultural pesticide active ingredients are used preferably for the agricultural chemical active ingredient, while the combined use of thiophanate-methyl [l,2-bis(3-methoxycarbonyl-2-thioureido) benzene] and tricyclazole [5-methyl-l,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b] benzothiazole] is particularly preferable.

[0033]
Although there are no particular lunitations on the content of agricultural chemical active ingredients in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, the content is normally 0.01 to 90% by weight and preferably 50 to 85% by weight. [0034]
In the case of combining the use of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as agricultural chemical active ingredients, although there are no particular limitations on the weight ratio of the contents thereof, the weight ratio is normally within the range of 1:5000 to 500:1, preferably 1:1000 to 200:1, more preferably 1:100 to 100:1 and particularly preferably 1:10 to 10:1. When thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole are used at a weight ratio as indicated above in the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, superior effects can be obtained that are equal to or greater than the additive effect obtained when the two are simply mixed. [0035]
The agricultural chemical composition of the present invention can be formulated into various preparations corresponding to the purpose of use and the like. Namely, the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention can be used by formulating into the form of a preparation in accordance with ordinary methods by incorporating a suitable vehicle or adjuvant in the agricultural chemical active ingredients, polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and polycarboxylate. Examples of such preparation forms include wettable powders (WP), emulsions, flowable preparations, water-soluble powders, water-dispersible granules, liquids, emulsified preparations, suspensions, powders, foams, pastes, granules, aerosols, microcapsules, seed coating agents and smoking agents. In particular, wettable powders are preferable in terms of

allowing the obtaining of superior control effects when used as a rice blast control
agent.
[0036]
A wettable powder can be prepared by, for example, mixing the agricultural chemical active ingredients, polyoxyalkylene aryl ether, polycarboxylate and, if desired, other additives such as extenders, followed by forming into a fine powder. [0037]
Examples of extenders include mineral powders such as talc, clay, bentonite, kaolinite clay, montmorillonite, pyrophyllite, acidic clay, diatomaceous earth, vermiculite, apatite, gypsum, mica, silica sand, calcium carbonate or pumice powder; synthetic extenders such as white carbon (amorphous silica) or titanium dioxide; plant-based powders such as crystalline cellulose, starch, wood powder, cork or coffee husks; polymer compounds such as polyvinyl chloride or petroleum resin; and, chemical fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate, ammonium phosphate, ammoniimi nitrate, urea, ammonium chloride or potassium chloride.
One type of these extenders can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination. [0038]
The amount of extender used is normally 5 to 50% by weight and preferably 10 to 30% by weight based on the total weight of the agricultural chemical composition. [0039]
Examples of other additives include various types of adjuvants such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), gum arable, polyvinyl acetate, gelatin, casein or sodiimi alginate; stabilizers such as antioxidants or ultraviolet absorbers; and surfactants other than polyoxyalkylene aryl

ethers and polycarboxylates. [0040]
Although there are no particular limitations on the mean particle diameter of the wettable powder, it is preferably 10 to 100 jxm from the viewpoints of obtaining superior handling ease and water dilution properties. [0041]
The agricultural chemical composition of the present invention may be used in combination with one type or two or more types of other active compounds such as insecticides, rodenticides, pesticides, insecticides and miticides, nematocides, fungicides, growth regulators, herbicides or synergists. [0042]
The agricultural chemical composition as claimed in the present invention can be used to control a wide range of plant diseases. The following lists some typical examples thereof Rice
Rice blast (Pyricularis oryzae)
Rice sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani)
Bakanae disease (Gibberella fujikuroi)
Brown spot (Cochliobolus miyabeanus) Barley
Loose smut (Ustilago nuda) Wheat
Wheat scab (Gibberlla zeae)
Leaf rust (Puccinia recondita)
Eye.spot (Pseudocrecosporella herpotrichoides)

[0043]
Glume blotch (Leptosphaeria nodorum)
Powdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis f. sp. tritici)
Snow mold (Micronectriella nivalis) Kidney Bean
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea)
Stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) Small Red Bean
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea)
Stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) Soy Bean
Stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) Peanut
Brown leaf spot (Mycosphaerella arachidis) Sugar beet
Cercospora leaf spot (Cercospora beticola) Cucumber
Powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuliginea)
Stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum)
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Tomato
Leaf mold (Cladosporium fulvum)
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Eggplant
Black rot (Corynespora melongenae)

Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Onion
Gray-mold neck rot (Botrytis allii) Strawberry
Powdery mildew (Sohaerotheca humuli)
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Apple
Powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha)
Apple scab (Venturia inaequalis)
Blossom blight (Monilinia mali) Persimmon
Anthracnose (Gloeosporium kaki) Peach
Brown rot (Monilinia fructicola) Grape
Powdery mildew (Uncinula necator)
Downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola)
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Pear
Pear rust (Gymnosporangium asiaticum)
Black spot (Altemaria kikuchiana) Tea
Tea gray blight (Pestalotia theae)
Anthracnose (CoUectotrichum theae-sinensis) Citrus

Citrus scab (Elisinoe fawcetti)
Blue mold (Pennisillium italicum)
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) Grass
Sclerotinia snow blight (Sclerotinia borealis) [0044]
Among these plant diseases, the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention has particularly superior effects against rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and head rice blast). [0045]
Examples of methods for applying the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention to agricultural and horticultural crops include applying to the plant body, seeds, water surface or soil either directly or after suitably diluting with water and the like. [0046]
For example, in the case of using the agricultural chemical composition in the form of a wettable powder, the wettable powder is used after diluting to a prescribed concentration with water in the form of a solution, suspension or emulsion. The applied concentration of the wettable powder is normally 1 to 1000 ppm and preferably 10to250ppm. [0047]
Although varying according to weather conditions, preparation form, time of application, application method, applied location, target control disease, target crop and the like, the applied amount of the agricultural chemical composition is normally 1 to 1000 g and preferably 100 to 600 g as the amount of active ingredients per hectare.

Although varying according to the target crop and the like, the time of application is, in the case of targeting against rice blast, for example, starting four weeks before flowering to flowering. [0048]
According to the agricultural chemical composition of the present invention, superior control effects can be obtained against various crop diseases, and particularly against rice blast. In addition, the application period for control of crop diseases is long. Thus, there is a high degree of freedom in the application period of the agricultural chemical composition.
2) Agricultural and Horticultural Pesticide Composition
The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention contains as agricultural chemical active ingredients thereof thiophanate-methyl [l,2-bis(3-methoxycarbonyl-2-thioureido) benzene] and tricyclazole [5-methyl-l ,2,4-tria2olo[3,4-b] benzothiazole]. [0049]
Although there are no particular limitations on the mixing ratio of the thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole in the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention, it is normally a weight ratio within the range of 1:5000 to 500:1, preferably 1:1000 to 200:1, more preferably 1:100 to 100:1 and particularly preferably 1:10 to 10:1. The use of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole at a weight ratio as described above allows the obtaining of an agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition that has superior effects that are equal to or greater than the additive effect obtained when the two are simply mixed. [0050]
In addition, although there are no particular limitations on the total content of

thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole in the agricdtural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention, it is normally 0.01 to 90% by weight and preferably 50 to 85% by weight based on the total weight of the composition (or based on the total weight of the preparation in the case of using in the form of a preparation as will be subsequently described). [0051]
Although the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention contains agricultural chemical active ingredients in the form of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as essential components thereof, it may also contain other agricultural chemical active ingredients. There are no particular limitations on the other agricultural chemical active ingredients, and examples thereof include conventionally knovra herbicide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural pesticide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural insecticide active ingredients, agricultural and horticultural miticide active ingredients and plant growth regulator active ingredients. One type of these other agricultural chemical active ingredients can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination. [0052]
The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention can be formulated into various preparations corresponding to the purpose of use and the like. Namely, the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention can be used by formulating into the form of a preparation in accordance with ordinary methods by incorporating thiophanate-methyl, tricyclazole and, as necessary, other agricultural chemical active ingredients in a suitable vehicle or adjuvant.
Examples of preparation forms include the preparation forms used for the previously described agricultural chemical composition, and a wettable powder in

particular is preferable in terms of allowing the obtaining of superior control effects
when used as a rice blast control agent.
[0053]
A wettable powder can be prepared by, for example, using agricultural chemical active ingredients, surfactant, extender, and if desired, other additives. [0054]
Examples of surfactants used include polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, sulfate ester salts thereof, alkylbenzene sulfonates, sulfate ester salts of higher alcohols, alkylnaphthalene sulfonates, polycarboxylates, lignin sulfonates, formaldehyde condensation products of alkyhiaphthalene sulfonates and isobutylene-maleic anhydride copolymers. [0055]
Specific examples of polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers are the same as previously described. [0056]
Examples of alkyl of polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers include linear or branched C8-C18 alkyl groups. [0057]
Specific examples of polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers include polyoxyethylene (C12-C18) alkyl ethers, polyoxypropylene (C12-C18) alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block polymers and (C12-C18) alkylpolyoxyethylene- polyoxypropylene block polymer ethers. More specifically, these include polyoxyethylene cetyl ether (Emalex 100 Series, Nippon Nyukazai) and polyoxyethylene octyl dodecyl ether (Emalex OD Series, Nippon Nyukazai). [0058]

specific examples of polycarboxylates are the same as previously described. [0059]
One type of these surfactants can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination.
At least one type of these surfactants selected from the group consisting of polyoxyalkylene aryl ethers, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers and polycarboxylates is used preferably, while a combination of polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and polycarboxylate is used more preferably. [0060]
In the case of combining the use of a polyoxyalkylene aryl ether and polycarboxylate, the combination of a polyoxyalkylene tristyryl phenyl ether and polycarboxylate is more preferable. Although there are no particular limitations on the weight ratio of the amounts of the polyoxyalkylene tristyryl phenyl ether and polycarboxylate used, it is preferably within the range of 8:2 to 3:7 and more preferably within the range of 7:3 to 5:5. [0061]
The total amount of surfactant used is preferably within the range of 0.1 to 10% by weight and more preferably within the range of 1 to 5% by weight based on the total weight of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition. [0062]
Additives such as an extender can be added as necessary, and specific examples thereof are as previously described. [0063]
Although there are no particular limitations on the preparation form of the present mvention, a wettable powder is preferable. Although there are no particular limitations

on the mean particle diameter of the wettable powder, it is preferably 10 to 100 ^m from the viewpoints of obtaining superior handling ease and water dilution properties. [0064]
The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention may also be used in combination with one type or two or more types of active compounds other than thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole, examples of which include insecticides, rodenticides, pesticides, insecticides and miticides, nematocides, fimgicides, growth regulators, herbicides and synergists. [0065]
The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition as claimed in the present invention can be used to control a wide range of plant diseases. Typical examples of plant diseases include the previously listed typical examples of plant diseases controlled using agricultural chemicals. [0066]
The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention demonstrates superior effects against the plant disease of rice blast (including both leaf rice blast and head rice blast). [0067]
3) Plant Disease Control Method
The plant disease control method of the present invention comprises the application of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention to agricultural and horticultural crops.
Although there are no particular limitations on the agricultural and horticultural crops targeted for application, rice plants are particularly preferable. [0068]

Examples of methods for applying the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition to agricultural and horticultural crops include applying the composition to the plant body, seeds, water surface or soil either directly or after suitably diluting with water and the like. [0069]
For example, in the case of using the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition in the form of a wettable powder, the wettable powder is used after diluting to a prescribed concentration with water in the form of a solution, suspension or emulsion. The applied concentration of the wettable powder is normally 1 to 1000 ppm and preferably 10 to 250 ppm. [0070]
Although varying according to weather conditions, preparation form, time of application, application method, applied location, target control disease, target crop and the like, the applied amount of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition is normally 1 to 1000 g and preferably 100 to 600 g as the amount of active ingredients per hectare.
Although varying according to the target crop and the like, the time of application is, in the case of targeting against rice blast, for example, starting four weeks before flowering to flowering. [0071]
According to the control method of the present invention, superior control effects can be obtained against various crop diseases, and particularly against rice blast. In addition, the application period for control of crop diseases is long. Thus, there is a high degree of freedom in the application period of the control agent (agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition).

[Examples] [0072]
Next, a more detailed explanation is provided of the present invention through examples thereof. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples. [0073]
(Example 1)
3.0 parts by weight of a 1:1 (weight ratio) mixture of polyoxyethyiene tristyryl phenyl ether and precipitated silica (FPP-0S102, Nippon Nyukazai), 1.0 parts by weight of polycarboxylate (Newkalgen-WG-5, Takemoto Oil & Fat), 36.7 parts by weight of thiophanate-methyl (TOD-019P, Nippon Soda) and 40.7 parts by weight of tricyclazole were added to 18.6 parts by weight of kaolinate clay followed by mixing for 60 minutes with a ribbon blender (1000 W x 3000 L, 3.8 m^ 7.5 kw, Soda Engineering). [0074]
The resulting mixture was crushed with a high-speed impact pulverizer (Contraplex 250CW, rotating speed in main unit: 11200 rpm, rotating speed at door: 2800 rpm, crushing performance: approx. 180 kg/hr, Hosokawa Micron). Next, the crushed powder was again mixed with a ribbon blender (1150 W x 3500 L, 4.0 m^, 5.5 kw, Soda Engineering). [0075]
After again crushing the resulting mixture with a jet mill (Ulmax 18BU-9N, air flow rate: approx. 10 Nm^/h, crushing performance: approx. 90 kg/hr, Soda Engineering), the crushed powder was mixed for 60 minutes with a ribbon blender (1000 W x 3000 L, 4.0 m\ 7.5 kw. Soda Engineering) to prepare a Wettable Powder 1 having a mean particle diameter of 6.58 |xm. [0076]

(Text Example 1 Rice Blast Control Effect Confirmation
Test)
The following test was carried out to investigate the control effects of the Wettable Powder 1 obtained in Example 1 on rice blast. [0077]
Rice seeds (variety: OM1490) were planted (180 kg/ha) and grown into rice plants followed by infestation with leaf rice blast or head rice blast and spraying with the Wettable Powder 1 at the timing and in the sprayed amounts indicated below.
* When 20% of leafs were affected for leaf rice blast
* 7 days before flowering for head rice blast [0078]
The control effects of the Wettable Powder 1 on rice blast (both leaf rice blast and head rice blast) were evaluated based on disease incidence and disease index. [0079]
a) Leaf Rice Blast
(i) Disease Incidence
Disease incidence was evaluated according to values calculated according to the following equation (1) by investigating the number of leaves that had been affected by rice leaf blast 1 day before, 7 days after, 14 days after and 21 days after spraying the Wettable Powder 1. The results are shown in the following Table 2. [0080]
[Equation 1]
No. of affected leaves ,.„ ...
xlOO (1)
Total no. of leafs [0081]

(ii) Disease Index
Three leaves each from the upper portions of 50 rice plants were investigated 1 day before, 7 days after, 14 days after and 21 days after spraying the Wettable Powder 1. The disease index of leaf rice blast was then calcxilated according to the following equation (2). The results are shown in the following Table 3. [0083]
[Equation 2]

[0084]
In the above equation, N represents the total number of leaves investigated, ni represents the number of leaves afiFected by leaf rice blast corresponding to a score of 1, na represents the number of leaves affected by leaf rice blast corresponding to a score of 3, ns represents the number of leaves affected by leaf rice blast corresponding to a score of 5, n? represents the number of leaves afiFected by leaf rice blast corresponding to a

score of 7, and ng represents the number of leaves afifected by leaf rice blast
corresponding to a score of 9.
[0085]
Furthermore, scores for leaves afifected by leaf rice blast were determined according to the criteria indicated below.
1: Less than 1% of leaf affected
3: Less than 5% of leaf affected
5: Less than 25% of leaf affected
7: Less than 50% of leaf affected
9: 50% or more of leaf affected

b) Head Rice Blast
Fifty rice plant flowers were investigated 7 days before harvesting following by investigating the number of rice heads affected by head rice blast. The disease incidence of head rice blast was calculated according to the following equation (3).

[0088]
[Equation 3]

[0089]
In addition, the disease index was calculated according to the following equation (4). The results are also shown in the following Table 4. [0090]
[Equation 4]

[0091]
In the above equation, N represents the number of flowers investigated, ni represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 1, n2 represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 2, nj represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 3, ru represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 4, and nj represents the number of flowers affected by head rice blast corresponding to a score of 5. [0092]
Furthermore, scores for flowers afifected by head rice blast were determined according to the criteria indicated below.
1: Only 1 or 2 spikelets affected
2: Less than 30% of spikelet affected
3: 30% to 60% of spikelet affected

4: More than 60% of spikelet affected 5: One or more panicles affected

[0094]
On the basis of the above results, the Wettable Powder 1 of Example 1 was determined to demonstrate superior control effects against leaf rice blast and head rice blast without causing damage to the plants. [0095]
(Test Example 2 Chemical Damage Test)
The conditions of rice plants 2 days after, 4 days after and 7 days after spraying with the Wettable Powder 1 were observed to evaluate chemical damage attributable to the Wettable Powder 1.
Rice plants were evaluated based on a scale of 1 to 9, assigning a score of" 1" when chemical damage was not observed and a score of "9" when the rice plant died. The results of the evaluations are shown in the following Table 1. [0096]

On the basis of the above results, the Wettable Powder 1 of Example 1 was not observed to demonstrate chemical damage in the same manner as conventional pesticide compositions. [0098]
(Example 2)
Thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole were dissolved m DMF (containing 1.5% Tween20) at the ratios indicated in Table 5 followed by adjusting to the concentrations shown in Table 5 with deionized water containing 0.02% Tween20 to prepare chemical solutions.
An adequate amount of the aforementioned chemical solutions were sprayed over entire potted rice plants at about the 3.5 leaf stage using an atomizer nozzle, and after allowing the chemical solutions to air-dry, the rice plants were infested with rice blast spores (test strain: Pyricularia oryzae strain Po-5) by spraying the entire plants with a suspension thereof (approx. 5x10^ spores/ml) followed by allowing to stand undisturbed under greenhouse conditions (in acrylic boxes) in a constant temperature chamber at 23°C. The covers of the boxes were opened after about 20 hours and then

allowed to stand undisturbed while drying in the constant temperature chamber. The numbers of spots on the third or fourth leaf that had completely opened after infestation were investigated 7 or 8 days after infestation to calculate disease control values. Those results are shown in Table 5. As shown in Table 5, the control values of a treated group treated with chemical solutions containing thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole demonstrated results that were greater than Colby theoretical values.

(Example 3)
Thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole were dissolved in DMSO at the ratios shown in Tables 6 and 7, followed by dissolving the resulting solutions in PDA medium to the concentrations shown in Tables 6 and 7 to prepare agar plates. After preparing the agar plates, disks (4 mm in diameter) impregnated with Pyricularia oryzae strain Po-5 were placed on the agar plates. After allowing to stand undisturbed for 10 days at 20°C, the diameters of the resulting colonies were measured to determine mycelial growth inhibition rates. Those results are shown in Tables 6 and 7. As shown in Tables 6 and 7, the mycelial growth mhibition rates of the treated groups using agar

plates (chemical solutions) containing thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole
demonstrated results that were greater than the Colby theoretical values.
[0101]

On the basis of the above results, the combined use of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole was determined to allow the obtaining of synergistic eflfects.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The agricultural chemical composition and agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition of the present invention can be used safely and demonstrate superior control effects against weeds and plant diseases, thereby making them industrially useful.

1. An agricultural chemical composition, comprising: (1) polyoxyalkylene aryl ether,
(2) polycarboxylate, and (3) an agricultural chemical active ingredient.
2. The agricultural chemical composition according to claim 1, wherein the
polyoxyalkylene aryl ether of (1) is polyoxyalkylene aryl phenyl ether.
3. The agricultural chemical composition according to claim 1, wherein the
agricultural chemical composition is a wettable powder.
4. The agricultural chemical composition according to claim 1, wherein the
agricultural chemical active ingredient of (3) is an agricultural and horticultural
pesticide active ingredient.
5. The agricultural chemical composition according to claim 1, wherein the
agricultural chemical active ingredient of (3) is thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole.
6. An agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition, comprising: thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole as agricultural chemical active ingredients.
7. The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition according to claim 6, wherein the thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole are contained at a weight ratio within the range of 1:5000 to 500:1.
8. The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition according to claim 6, wherein the total content of thiophanate-methyl and tricyclazole is 0.01 to 90% by weight of the total weight of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition.
9. The agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition according to claim 6, wherein the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition is a wettable powder.
10. A plant disease control method, comprising application of the agricultural and horticultural pesticide composition according to any of claims 6 to 9 to an agricultural or horticultural crop.

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Patent Number

272307

Indian Patent Application Number

547/CHENP/2010

PG Journal Number

14/2016

Publication Date

01-Apr-2016

Grant Date

29-Mar-2016

Date of Filing

28-Jan-2010

Name of Patentee

NIPPON SODA CO., LTD.

Applicant Address

2-1, OHTEMACHI 2-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO-100-8165

Inventors:

#	Inventor's Name	Inventor's Address
1	MURAHASHI, KAZUHIKO	C/O NIPPON SODA CO LTD.,2-1, OHTEMACHI 2-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO-100-8165
2	ISSHIKI, ATSUNORI	C/O NIPPON SODA CO., LTD., ODAWARA RESEARCH CENTER, 345, TAKADA, KANAGAWA-250-0280 ODAWARA-SHI

PCT International Classification Number

A01N25/30

PCT International Application Number

PCT/JP08/63969

PCT International Filing date

2008-08-04

PCT Conventions:

#	PCT Application Number	Date of Convention	Priority Country
1	2007-204224	2007-08-06	Japan
2	2007-204222	2007-08-06	Japan