Background Pests such as insects, arachnids, gastropods, fungi, mites, and nematodes are detrimental to man. Pests include pathogenic organisms that infest mammals and plants; some of these pests can spread disease as disease vectors. The pathogenic organisms that infest plants and cause economic loss of plant crops include insects, arachnids, gastropods, fungi and nematodes. The pathogenic organisms that infest animals include fungi, ticks, mites, fleas, and mosquitoes.

Other pests include cockroaches, termites and ants.

Methods for controlling plant pests include spraying plants with fungicides on a 6-7 day schedule when environmental conditions favor disease development. These methods are typically used for controlling fungal infestations such as rust and powdery mildew. Typical fungicides used include heavy metals such as copper, mercury and arsenic, as well as organophosphorous and organic chlorine compounds. These compounds are often not satisfactory because of their potential for polluting the soils, their strong physiological effects on the plants, their residual toxicity in food crops, their high animal toxicity, and the potential hazards to workers using them.

Other methods of controlling pests such as insects and soil pests, particularly nematodes and phylloxera, often involve the use of organophosphates, pyrethrum, pyrethroids (synthetic pyrethrum), mineral oil, oil, methoprene, and Baccillus thuringiensis israelensis crystal protein.

Generally, these compounds are applied directly onto the pest population to control the organisms. Many of these compounds are toxic to large animals, including man. Further, many compositions that function as pesticides accumulate in the environment to levels considered to be unsafe. In addition, many of these compounds have been found to contaminate natural resources such as drinking water. Such problems have led the government to ban the use of many pesticides, including DDT, Chlorodane, Lindane, Aldrin, Heptachlor, Dieldrin, and Mirex.

Compounds still in use present several disadvantages, including varying degrees of unwanted toxicity, they tend to be complex and expensive to produce, and it is often necessary to apply multiple pesticides to obtain satisfactory control of a variety of pests.

Biorational pesticides, i. e., those that are naturally-occurring, also are used in controlling pests. A method of induction of systemic resistance to powdery mildew in cucumber by phosphates has been described (Reuvenl, et al. Biol. Agric. & Hort. (1993) 9: 305-315). The phosphate salts serve the dual purpose of acting as a foliar fertilizer and as an agent for inducing resistance to pathogenic organisms. However, excessive use of phosphates produces agricultural runoffs that can cause water pollution. Methods for controlling powdery mildew and black spot on roses have been described (Plant Disease (1992) 76: 247-251) which use sodium bicarbonate and light paraffinic petroleum oil. However, the bicarbonate salts are fungicidal only at pH 8.6 and are non-fungicidal at pH 6.0. The bicarbonate salts also can be phytotoxic as a function of environmental conditions at the time of treatment.

Also used for the control of powdery mildew in the field are anti-transpirants. Anti- transpirants are chemicals applied directly to a plant which reduce the rate of transpiration or water loss by the plant. Anti-transpirants form a film on a plant surface that acts as a barrier against invading pests. The anti-transpirant formulations are reported to have low mammalian toxicity, however, because the anti-transpirant controls pests through the formation of a protective barrier, it is useful only as a means of prevention rather than as a treatment of an already infected plant.

Therefore, it is of interest to identify and develop compositions and methods for controlling the growth of pest organisms which use formulations derived from natural products or are known to have lower environmental toxicity than the formulations currently in use, yet are effective in controlling pests without damaging a treated plant and/or plant part or a host tissue.

It also is of interest to develop a new composition which is effective against more than one kind of pest so as to decrease the need for application of multiple pest control agents. Ideally, the formulation is derivable from a readily available source. The formulation preferably is easy to manufacture and inexpensive.

Objects of the Invention One object of this invention is to provide a new family of pesticides based on easily obtainable compounds.

Another object of this invention is to provide a new family of pesticides using naturally- occurring compound or compounds derived from naturally occurring compounds.

Yet another object of this invention is to provide a new family of pesticides having low toxicity to ornamental and agricultural plants, domesticated animals and wildlife, and humans when used at a pesticidally effective level.

Other objects may be apparent to one of skill in the art upon reading the following specification.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to a method for controlling a pest population, such as by eliminating or deterring the growth of the pest population, using a composition containing a pesticidally effective amount of a compound of the invention. More particularly, this invention relates to pesticides comprising naturally-occurring compounds or compounds derived therefrom. The method finds use in controlling pest populations and in preventing infestation of a host with a pest, where the pest population is a plant pest population or a pest population that infests animals. The method of the invention includes the step of contacting the pest population with a pesticidally effective amount of a composition comprising a compound of the invention in combination with an agriculturally-acceptable carrier.

The invention is also directed to a method for preventing infestation of a host with a pest by contacting the host, such as by spraying, with a composition comprising a compound of the invention in combination with an agriculturally-acceptable carrier in an amount sufficient to prevent infestation.

The invention also provides a composition comprising a pesticidally active compound of the invention, and optionally a surfactant. The present invention is also directed to uses for such compositions in methods for preventing infestation of a host with a pest, for treating a fungal infestation of a fruit bearing plant in need thereof, and for treating an arthropod infestation on an ornamental plant in need thereof.

The invention also pertains to an article of manufacture comprising a container in association with instructions and/or a label indicating that the subject composition can be used to control pests, i. e., used as a pesticide and holding a composition comprising an agriculturally- acceptable carrier and a pesticidally active compound of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Methods and compositions for controlling a plant or an animal, particularly mammalian, pest population are provided. The composition is a pesticide and is either non-phytotoxic or non-dermal sensitive if the intended application is to the tissue of the host. Preferably, the compound is a naturally-occurring compound. The pest population is a pathogenic organism population which often spreads disease and/or damages the host, and includes plant pests and those that infest mammals.

As used herein the terms"pest","pest organism"and"pest population"refers to

organisms and microorganisms, including pathogens, that negatively affect plants or animals by colonizing, attacking or infecting them. This includes organisms that spread disease and/or damage the host and/or competes for host nutrients. These organisms include, by way of illustration, and not limitation: insects such as fleas, mosquitoes, bees such as yellow jackets and wasps, lice, cockroaches including the American and German cockroach, termites, houseflies and silverleaf whiteflies (Besimsai argentifolii), leaf hoppers such as the grape or potato leafhoppers (Cicidellidae), cabbage looper (Lepidoptera), ants such as the pharaoh ant, argentine ant, carpenter ant and fire ant, stink or lygus bugs, leafminers (Liriomyza trifollii), western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) and sucking or chewing insects such as thrips and aphids such as melon aphids (Aphis gossypii) and black bean aphids (Aphis fabae); arachnids such as spiders, ticks and mites, including plant mites such as two-spotted spider mites (Tetronmychua urticae), McDaniel mites, Pacific mites and European mites; gastropods such as slugs and snails; fungi such as powdery mildew including cladosporium, strawberry powdery mildew, rusts, botrytis, ergots, blight, downy mildew, eutypa, leaf spot, smut, Chytridimycota, Zygomycota, Asomycota, ringworm, rhizopus, rhizoctonia, pythium and erwinia; nematodes; and bacteria.

The present invention provides very efficacious pesticides which, in its preferred aspect, are designated as biorational. A biorational pesticide is a chemical substance of natural origin that can be synthesized. The preferred pesticides of the present invention have a lethal effect on specific pest targets. Unlike the bulk of currently available pesticides on the market, the preferred compositions have active ingredients that have been proven to be substantially non- toxic to man and domestic animals and which have minimal adverse effects on wildlife and the environment.

The efficacy of the subject composition is monitored by determining the mortality of or damage to the pest population, i. e., by determining its adverse effect upon treated pests. This includes damage to the pests, inhibition or modulation of pest growth, inhibition of pest reproduction by slowing or arresting its proliferation, or complete destruction/death of the pest, all of which are encompassed by the term"controlling". The term"pesticidally effective amount"is an amount of the compound of the invention, or a composition containing the compound, that has an adverse affect on at least 25% of the pests treated, more preferably at least 50%, most preferably at least 70% or greater. Preferably, an"effective pest-inhibiting amount"is an amount of the compound of the invention, or a composition containing the compound, where 25% or greater mortality against pests is achieved, preferably 50% or greater, more preferably

70% or greater mortality. Similarly, an"effective pest-growth modulating amount"is preferably one where 25% or greater pest-growth modulation is achieved, preferably 50% or greater, more preferably 70% of greater. The term"amount sufficient to prevent infestation"is also used herein and is intended to mean an amount that is sufficient to deter all but an insignificant sized pest population so that a disease or infected state is prevented.

The actual value of a pesticidally effective amount for a given compound is preferably determined by routine screening procedures employed to evaluate pesticidal activity and efficacy, such as are well known by those skilled in the art and as are described in the Examples.

It is expected that compounds of the invention having a higher level of pesticidal activity can be used in smaller amounts and concentrations, while those having a lower level of activity may require larger amounts or concentrations in order to achieve the same pesticidal effect. Efficacy is also monitored by phytotoxicity to the plants that are infested with the pest population, tissue damage to the host infected with the pest population and any adverse effects that might be experienced by a human user who is applying the composition to an infested plant or animal.

Accordingly, the amount of composition or active compound used in the methods of the invention, meets the mortality, modulation or prevention criteria above, and preferably has minimal or no adverse effect on ornamental and agricultural plants (such as phytotoxicity), wildlife and humans that may come into contact with such compound.

The compounds of the invention have pesticidal activity against one or more pests.

However, it is understood that certain compounds may be more effective on some pests than others, and may even be ineffective against some pests. However, that does not in any way detract from their value as pesticides since the invention contemplates using some of these compounds as broad, general acting pesticides, while others have utility as specific or selective pesticides. The Examples set forth below illustrate methods by which the broad-acting or selectivity of pesticidal activity may be readily ascertained.

Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention is a method for controlling a pest population, said method comprising providing said pest population with an effective pest-growth modulating amount of a composition comprising an agriculturally-acceptable carrier in combination with a compound of Formula (I) or (II): wherein: R'is arylalkyl, preferably arylCl 6alkyl; R2 is alkyl, preferably CI-6alkyl, or H; R3 is H, OH, or alkoxy, preferably Cl4alkoxy; R4 is H or OH; R5 is H, OH, or alkoxy, preferably C, 4alkoxy; and R6 is alkylcarbonyl, preferably Cl 5alkylcarbonyl or arylcarbonyl.

As used herein, the term"alkyl"means a branched or unbranched saturated monovalent hydrocarbon radical containing 1 to 12 carbon atoms, such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, tert-butyl, butyl, n-hexyl, n-octyl and the like, unless otherwise indicated. Preferably the alkyl group is a lower alkyl (branched or unbranched saturated monovalent hydrocarbon radical) having 1 to 6 carbon atoms (Cl 6), such as methyl, ethyl, tert-butyl, and the like.

The term"alkoxy"means the group-O- (alkyl) wherein alkyl is as herein defined.

Preferably the alkoxy group has 1 to 4 carbon atoms (Cl 4).

The term"arylalkyl"refers to a monovalent unsaturated aromatic carbocyclic radical having a single ring (e. g., phenyl) attached through an alkyl group, which preferably has 1 to 6 carbon atoms (Cl-6), i. e., arylCI-6alkyl. More preferably the arylalkyl group is an aromatic ring attached through a-CH2-group (e. g., benzyl).

The terms"alkylcarbonyl"and"arylcarbonyl"refer to alkyl and aryl groups, respectively, attached through a carbonyl,-C (O)- group, and include by way of example, methyl carbonyl, ethyl carbonyl and phenyl carbonyl. Preferably the alkylcarbonyl group is a Ci-salkylcarbonyl carbonyl group.

Compounds of particular interest include those listed in Tables I and II below, where the "R"groups correspond to the"R"groups defined for Formulas (I) and (II). It is to be understood that the compounds shown are merely representative and not exhaustive. Others will be apparent to those of skill in the art, given this disclosure.

Table I-Formula (I) Compounds Name R¹ R² R³ R4 R5 benzyl cinnamate Bz H H H H a-propylbenzyl cinnamate Bz Pr H H H

Name R¹ R² R³ R4 R5 a-amyl benzyl cinnamate Bz Am H a-hexyl benzyl cinnamate Bz Hex H H H benzyl coniferate Bz H-OCH3-OH H benzyl sinapate Bz H-OCH3-OH-OCH3 Table II-Formula (II) Compounds NameRRRRR cinnamyl acetate H3C-C (O)-H H cinnamyl benzoate Ph-C (O)-H H H H a-propyl cinnamyl benzoate Ph-C (O)- Pr H H H a-amyl cinnamyl acetate H3C-C (O)-Am H H a-hexyl cinnamyl benzoate Ph-C (O)- Hex H H H coniferyl acetate H3C-C (O)- H-OCH3-OH H coniferyl benzoate Ph-C (O)-H H a-amyl coniferyl acetate H3C-C (O)- Am H H H sinapyl acetate H3C-C (O)-H-OCH3-OH-OCH3 sinapyl benzoate Ph-C (O)- H-OCH3-OH-OCH3 The following abbreviations are used in Tables I and II:"Pr"is n-propyl,"Hex"is n- hexyl,"Am"is amyl,"Et"is ethyl,"Me"is methyl,"Ph"is phenyl and"Bz"is benzyl.

Compounds useful in the composition of this invention are available from sources known in the art, such as Aldrich Chemical Co. and Sigma Chemical Co, or are readily synthesized by techniques as are well known in the art.

Referring to Formulas (I) and (II), the preferred R'substituent is arylCI 6alkyl such as benzyl. The preferred R2 substituent is H or Cl 6alkyl such as n-propyl, n-hexyl or amyl. The preferred R3 substituent is H or Cl 4alkoxy such as methoxy. The preferred R substituent is H or C such as methoxy. The preferred R6 substituent is methylcarbonyl or phenyl carbonyl.

R6 is even more preferably methylcarbonyl. Also preferred are those compounds where one or more of R, R, R and R are H.

Compounds of Formula (I) of particular interest include, benzyl cinnamate, a-propyl benzyl cinnamate, a-amyl benzyl cinnamate, a-hexyl benzyl cinnamate, benzyl coniferate and benzyl sinapate. Particularly preferred compounds of Formula (I) include a-hexyl benzyl cinnamate and benzyl cinnamate.

Compounds of Formula (II) of particular interest include cinnamyl acetate, cinnamyl benzoate, a-propyl cinnamyl benzoate, a-amyl cinnamyl acetate, a-hexyl cinnamyl benzoate,

coniferyl acetate, coniferyl benzoate, a-amyl coniferyl acetate, sinapyl acetate and sinapyl benzoate. Preferred compounds of Formula (II) include cinnamyl acetate.

The subject composition offers several advantages over currently used pesticides. First, the preferred compounds used in the composition of the invention are naturally-occurring compounds, and as such are expected to generally exhibit a very high LD$o against animals and thus are relatively nontoxic to humans, domestic animals and wildlife. Consequently, when used for treating plant pests, food crops can be treated using the composition up to and immediately before the harvesting period, a practice that generally is avoided when using conventional methods of pest control. The composition also can be used to control the growth of pest organisms on harvested crops. The harvested food can be used directly as food for animals or humans with little fear of residual toxicity. By using the subject compositions, the environmental and health hazards involved in pest control are minimized by reducing the toxicity of the chemical compounds. Because of the low toxicity, when necessary, the composition can be used as a preventative on a repeated basis and, thus, can be integrated into integrated pest management (IPM) programs. The composition can be applied to skin or to objects such as clothing, fur, feathers, or hair which come into contact with skin when used to treat pests that infest animals. The active compound, i. e., the active ingredient, of the pesticides of the present invention are believed to be biorational chemicals that qualify for the US EPA Biorational Program.

Another advantage of the composition is that the compounds used have not previously been used as a pesticide against microorganisms, and therefore, fungal and bacterial pathogens and other pest organisms have not acquired resistance to them. Disease resistance to chemicals other than the heavy metals occurs commonly in pests such as fungi and on rare occasions in bacterial plant disease pests. A new pesticide often becomes noticeably less effective against a particular disease after several growing seasons. As pesticides become more specific for diseases, the pests become resistant. This can be attributed to the singular mode of action of a particular pesticide, which disrupts only one genetically controlled process in the metabolism of the pest organism. The result is that resistant populations appear suddenly, either by selection of resistant individuals in a population or by a single gene mutation. Generally, the more specific the site and mode of a pesticidal action, the greater the likelihood for a pest organism to develop a tolerance to that chemical. A new composition will solve the disease resistance problem. To avoid developing future disease resistance in pests, different chemicals should be alternated for treatment with the methods of the invention.

The subject methods offer several advantages over existing methods of pest control. The formulations of the subject invention provide for effective control of both microorganisms such as fungi and insects, eliminating the need for application of multiple agents. In particular situations, such as where an insect damages a plant part or tissue and a secondary fungal disease develops, this aspect of the invention is particularly advantageous. The long term control of pests results in a healthier plant and an improved quality and yield of produce by the host plant as compared with untreated plants. The low concentration and single dose of anti-pest agents decreases the likelihood of damage to the plant and/or its crop, and decreases the likelihood of adverse side effects to workers applying the pesticide, or to animals, fish or fowl which ingest the tissues or parts of treated plants.

The composition may be solid (i. e., in a powdered form) or liquid depending on the carrier and the needs of the user. If the composition is solid, suitable carriers include various known, agriculturally-useful powders that are generally used for this purpose. If the composition is liquid, it may be aqueous or non-aqueous and may be a solution, suspension, or emulsion, depending on the needs of the user applying the pesticidal composition.

Generally, a composition of this invention will be prepared as a concentrate for industrial application and further dilution or as a fully diluted ready-to-apply composition. Preferably, the composition is applied as a liquid, whether aqueous or non-aqueous, but preferably the former.

The concentrate, if solid, will be formulated to be mixed to form an appropriate non-aqueous or aqueous composition. Thus, the composition will generally contain the active compound along with a surfactant carrier to effect miscibility or suspendability of the composition in a liquid.

The composition of the invention is either non-phytotoxic or non-dermal sensitive if the intended application is to the tissue of a plant or animal host, respectively. The preferred compositions comprise a pesticidally active compound of the invention, present in a pesticidally effective amount. In general, the percentage by weight of the active compound, i. e., the active ingredient will be about 0.1% to 50wt%. The preferred amount is determined using bioassays on a pest-by-pest basis. The higher concentrations are usually preferred for purposes of manufacture, shipment, and storage. For example, as a concentrate for use by professional agronomists the percentage will be at least about 10wt%, preferably about 25 to 50% by weight.

Prior to use, the high concentration composition is diluted in a solvent to an appropriate concentration for the intended use of the composition. When fully diluted for consumer use as a "ready for use"product, the composition will be typically be about 0.5% to 10wt%, more preferably 1 to 5wt%.

The subject composition can include an antioxidant at a level sufficient to increase the product shelf life, inhibit decomposition of the active compound in the herbicidal composition, or improve the stability of the controlling effect when the composition is applied to hosts infested with the targeted pests. Suitable antioxidants, include, but are not limited to, ascorbyl palmitate, anoxomer, benzoic acid, benzlkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, benzyl alcohol, butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, chlorobutanol, dehydroacetic acid, ethylenediamine, ferulic acid, potassium benzoate, potassium metabisulfite, potassium sorbate, n-propyl gallate BP, propylparaben, sassafras oil, sodium benzoate, sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, sorbic acid, vitamin E, eugenol, a-tocopherol, and the like. Particularly suitable antioxidants include sodium benzoate, vitamin E and a-tocopherol. Antioxidants can be included in the composition so long as the formulation remains biologically compatible if applied to a host. The amount of antioxidant used is in general about 0.01-10% by weight, but generally no more than about lwt%. A preferred amount can be determined by a shelf-life stability trial in accordance with an EPA standard protocol. A minimal amount of antioxidant which increases shelf life and/or maintains product stability is selected to reduce manufacturing costs.

The subject composition can be an aqueous composition using water solvent or an organic composition using an organic solvent, such as ether, ketone, kerosene, or alcohol where the application is not directly to a host tissue, or in a concentration of organic solvent that will not harm a host tissue if applied to a host tissue. A water solvent is preferred because it mimics nature (biorational), is environmentally safe, is non-phytotoxic or non-dermal sensitive, and also costs little. The compositions of this invention, particularly liquids and soluble powders, preferably contain, as a conditioning agent, one or more surface-active agents in amounts sufficient to render a given composition readily dispersible in water or in an organic solvent.

The incorporation of a surfactant into the compositions greatly enhances their efficiency. The water, organic solvent, or surfactant (alone or in combination with a solvent) functions as the agriculturally-acceptable carrier.

By the term"surfactant"it is understood that wetting agents, dispersing agents, suspending agents, and emulsifying agents are included therein. Anionic, cationic and non-ionic agents can be used, although non-ionic agents are preferred. The non-ionic surface-active agents include allinol, nonoxynol, octoxynol, oxycastrol, oxysorbic (for example, polyoxyethylated sorbitol fatty-acid esters (TWEEN')); thalestol, and polyethylene glycol octylphenol ether (TRITON@). The anionic type of agents include fatty-acid salts, higher alcohol sulfuric esters

and alkylallylsulfonates; the cationic type of agents include aliphatic amino salts, quaternary ammonium salts and alkylpyridinium salts, individually or in combination. Particularly suitable surfactants include, by way of illustration and not limitation, TWEEN@20 (polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate), TWEEN040, TWEEN@80, along with TRITON@SP150, TRITON@SP180 and TRITONOSPI90; the most preferred being TWEEN@80 and TRITONQ3SP190. Of these, the nonionic surfactants are preferred. Usually, the amount of surfactant used is the minimum amount required to get the compound into solution/emulsion, and will generally be 0.5 to 10% by weight, more typically 0.5 to 1%.

The common and chemical names of other generally available adjuvants include, but are not limited to, the following list, in which the first name is the common name used in the industry, the second name is the general chemical name, the third name is the class of the compound, the fourth name is the type of surfactant, and the trade name is last.

Albenate: Alkyl (Ci8C24) benzene sulfonic acid and its salts; Alkylaryl sulfonate; Anionic surfactant; Nacconol 88SA, Calsoft F-90, DDBSA, Santomerse No. 3.

Alfos: a-Alkyl (Cso-C16)-o-hydroxypoly (oxyethylene) mixture of dihydrogen phosphates esters; polyoxyethylene alkyl phosphate ester; Anionic; Emcol PS-131.

Allinate: a-Lauryl-c3-hydroxypoly (oxyethylene) sulfate; lauryl polyoxyethylene sulfate salts; Anionic; Sipon ES.

Allinol: a-Alkyl (CIl-Cls)-co-hydroxypoly (oxyethylene); CnCis linear primary alcohol ethoxylate; Nonionic; Neodol 25-3, Alfonic 1014-40 and other alfonic materials.

Diocusate: Sodium dioctyl-sulfosuccinate; Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate; Anionic; TRITON GR-5, Aerosol OT.

Dooxynol: a- (p-Dodecyl-phenyl)-co-hydroxypoly (oxyethylene); dodecylphenol condensation with ethylene oxide; Nonionic; Igepal RC-630, Tergitol 12-P-9, Sterox D Series.

Ligsolate: Lignosulfonate, NH4, Ca, Mg, K, Na, and Zn salts; Salts of lignosulfonic acids; Anionic; Marasperse N-22, Polyfon O.

Nofenate: a- (p-Nonylphenyl)-co-hydroxypoly (oxyethelene) sulfate, NH4, Ca, Mg, K, Na, Zn salts, Nonyl group is a propylene trimer isomer; Salts of sulfate ester of nonylphynoxypoly (ethyleneoxy) ethanol; Anionic; Alipal CO Series Nonfoster: a- (p-Nonylphenyl)-co-hydroxypoly (oxyethylene); mixture of dihydrogen phosphate and nonophosphate esters; Polyoxyethylene nonylphenol phosphate esters; Anionic; Gafac RM 510.

Nonoxynol: a- (p-Nonylphenyl)-co-hydroxypoly (oxyethylene); polyoxyalkylene nonylphenol ; Nonionic; Sterox N Series, Makon 6, Igepal CO Series TRITON N Series, T-DET N.

Octoxynol: a- [p-1, 1, 3,3-Tetramethyl butyl phenyl]-co-hydroxypoly (oxyethylene); polyoxyethylene octyl phenol; Nonionic; Igepal CA-630, TRITON X-100.

Oxycastol: Castor oil polyoxyethylated; Ethoxylated castor oil; Nonionic; Emulphor EL- 719, Emulphor EL-620, Trylox CO-40, T-DET C-40 Oxysorbic: Polyoxyethylated sorbitol fatty acid esters (nonosterate, monoleate etc); Polyoxyethylated sorbitol fatty acid esters; Nonionic; Atlox 1045, Drewmulse POE-STS, TWEEN Series G-1045.

Tall oil: Tall oil, fatty acids not less than 58%, rosin acids not greater than 44%, unsapolifiables not greater than 8%; Tall oil; Anionic; Ariz. S. A. Agent 305.

Thalestol: Polyglyceryl phthalate ester of coconut oil fatty acid; Modified phthalic glycerol alkyl resin; Nonionic; TRITON B-1956.

The composition can include other active or inactive substances. In some instances, the efficacy of the formulation can be increased by adding one or more other components to the formulation. It is preferable that the additional component (s) minimize toxicity to hosts such as plants or mammals while increasing the anti-pest effect of the formulation. Especially preferred is the use of a synergist, which is a component that, by virtue of its presence, increases the desired effect by more than an additive amount. Of particular interest is the addition of components to a formulation to allow for a reduction in the concentration of one or more active compounds, i. e., the active compound (s) in a given formulation while substantially maintaining efficacy of the formulation.

The subject composition may be prepared by simply mixing together the requisite amount of at least one compound of the invention and at least one agriculturally acceptable carrier, i. e., surfactant, alone or with a solvent. Other additives, such as saponins and antioxidants, may be included prior to mixing.

The composition can be encapsulated or microencapsulated; it can also be produced as dust, powder, etc. A preferred pH of the composition is between 6.0 and 8.0 with an optimal range of 6.5-7.5. A neutralized composition is preferred to lower the risk of harm caused by alkalinity. Water-dispersible powder, capsule, or pellet compositions can be made containing one or more compounds of the invention, an inert solid extender, and one or more wetting and dispersing agents. The inert solid extenders are usually of mineral origin, such as natural clays,

diatomaceous earth and synthetic minerals derived from silica and the like. Examples of such extenders include kaolinites, attapulgite clay and synthetic magnesium silicate. The water- dispersible powders can also include fatty-acid esters and antioxidants.

For controlling the growth of pests on a plant or a plant part (such as foliage/leaves, trunk, stems, branches or roots and so forth), the method of the invention can be carried out by applying a pesticidally effective amount of the subject composition to a plant host or to the substrate in which it is growing or is to be grown. For controlling pests on other than a plant or a plant part, a method is provided to obtain and/or maintain an area substantially free of pests, using the subject compositions. The pests are controlled via either direct pesticidal activity on a target pest or via indirect pesticidal activity by anti-bacterial action on symbiotant bacteria resident in the target pest. The composition is provided to pests to eliminate them, to deter their growth, and/or to prevent infestation of a host for the pests. The method of introduction of the subject pesticide into the target pest can be by contacting the pest, by direct ingestion by the target pest from a trap, or by feeding a target pest on nutrient-providing, organic matter treated with the pesticide. In some instances, the pesticide is absorbed by the pest, particularly where the formulation, for example, a detergent formulation, provides for uptake by the outer tissues of the pest, particularly a larval or other pre-adult form of the pest. In some instances, the exoskeleton of the target pest is substantially dissolved by contact with the formulation. For some applications, it may be necessary to deliver the formulation to the location of the pest colony.

The method of use of the compounds and compositions of the invention will depend at least in part upon the pest to be treated and its feeding habits, as well as breeding and nesting habits. While very minor dosage rates of the novel compositions will have an adverse effect on pests, adequate control usually involves the application of a sufficient amount to either eliminate pests entirely or significantly deter their growth and/or rate of proliferation. Dosage rates required to accomplish these effects, of course, vary depending on the target pest, size, and maturity, i. e., stage of growth. More mature pests are generally more resistant to pesticides and require higher dosage rates for a comparable level of control. Dose response experiments using different dilutions (for example, 1: 1000,1: 100,1: 10 and 1: 3) of the pesticidally active compound on target organisms and on plants are performed to determine the optimal concentration of the active compound that shows a biopesticidal activity without phytotoxicity or dermal sensitivity.

Infestation of target pests can be treated with a solid support associated with the composition such as a bait or a trap, or treated with powder or detergent formulations. The composition also can be sprayed on as a wet or dry composition on the surface of material infested with a target pest, or material susceptible to infestation with a target pest. Alternately, the composition can be applied wet or dry to an area of infestation where it can contact the target pest.

The composition can be used as a fumigant to mix with pre-plant soil for crops such as tomatoes, strawberries, cucumbers, watermelons and pumpkins, to kill nematodes, insects, weed seeds, fungi and soil-born pathogen. The composition also can be used as insect/rodent fumigant for storage and transportation of agricultural produce. The amount of anti-pathogenic agent that is applied either to the plant itself or to the rhizosphere will depend upon the degree of infestation and to some extent, upon the formulation of the composition used, and therefore is empirically determined for best results.

When the area of infestation is a plant or a plant part, a composition containing the pesticidally active compound of the invention is provided to a plant tissue or a plant part either pre-or post-harvest of the plant or plant part. Methods of application include spraying, pouring, dipping, injecting, fogging, fumigation or the like, along with applying the composition by means of power dusters, boom and hand sprayers and spray dusters. The compositions can also be applied from airplanes as a dust or a spray because of their effectiveness at low dosages. The active compound can be in the form of a concentrated liquid, solution, suspension, powder or the like. For example, the composition can be sprayed on as a wet or dry composition to the surface and/or underside of the leaves or other plant tissue or part of a plant infected with a plant pathogen, or of a plant susceptible to infestation with a plant pathogen, preferably to-the point of run off when a wet formulation is used. The plants can be sprayed prior to or after infestation, preferably prior to infestation. However, in order to minimize damage to the host plant, where feasible, it is preferable to treat older plants, as young green leaves tend to be more sensitive to phytotoxicity. The formulation also can be applied wet or dry, either as part of an irrigation schedule or as a separate application, to the rhizosphere where it can contact the roots of the plant and associated pathogenic organisms which colonize the roots. In some instances, time- release formulations may find use, particularly for applications to the rhizosphere, or to post harvest materials.

For controlling the growth of pathogenic organisms on a plant or a plant part, a composition comprising a pesticidally effective amount of the compounds described herein is

applied to the plant or plant part. The composition is provided in a non-phytotoxic solvent to minimize damaging the plant. The phytotoxicity of the formulation can be evaluated by applying the composition on living plants and determining the toxicity of the composition to the plants. As stated above, a non-organic aqueous solvent or emulsion is in general preferable for its non-phytotoxicity, and a fatty-acid ester is sometimes included in the formulation to increase the pesticidal activity of the formulation, thus reducing the necessary amount of the active compounds. The efficacy of treatment is monitored by determining the mortality of pathogens and phytotoxicity; absence of phytotoxicity and 70 % or greater mortality against insects, athropods, bacteria and fungi are desirable.

Plants suitable for treatment are those of agricultural and/or horticultural importance, such as food crops, fruit trees and ornamental plants and flowers. These include by way of illustration and not limitation, fruit bearing plants and trees including grape vines, strawberry plants, apple, pear, citrus and other fruit trees, tomato plants, cucumbers, lettuce varietals; ornamental plants and trees such as roses and miniroses, carnations, tulips, herbs, rhododendron, magnolia, primroses, orchids, chrysanthemums and poinsettias; and other agricultural crops such as cotton.

It is also expected that the methods described herein can employ the compositions of this invention, along with sequential treatments with herbicides, phytotoxicants, fertilizers, and the like for maximum effect. For example, a field could be sprayed with a composition of this invention either before or after being treated with fertilizers, herbicides, phytotoxicants, and the like. The compositions of this invention can also be admixed with other materials, e. g., fertilizers, herbicides, phytotoxicants, etc., and can be applied in a single application.

For controlling pathogenic organisms on areas other than a plant or a plant part, a formulation comprising a pesticidally effective amount of a compound of the invention is applied to the area infested or subject to infestation by pathogenic organisms. As appropriate, for example, when the composition is to be applied to the skin of a mammal or to objects or materials which can come into contact with the skin of a mammal, the composition is evaluated for dermatological effects. It is important where appropriate that at least one evaluation of the toxicity of the composition be tested on animal hosts for the target pest or on animals which may come in contact with a treated surface so that the dermatological effects can be evaluated for the dosage of pesticide used. Such dermatological sensitivity tests can be conducted using methods known to those skilled in the art (see Kligman (1966) J. Invest. Dermatol., 47: 393). In some instances it may be necessary to adjust the treatment composition so as to reduce any

dermatological effects associated with the formulation of the composition. When applied to animals, including humans, the subject composition is provided in a carrier which is non-toxic- and non-irritating to the skin. Animals to be treated include humans, companion animals (e. g., feline and canine), and agriculturally bred animals, including those raised for human consumption, such as bovine and poultry (e. g. avian).

One application of the composition of the invention is generally enough, but more than one application may be made to obtain the desired results. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the method involves a single treatment of the composition described herein, which provides not only long lasting protection against pests, but also often is effective at a site on the plant remote from the point at which the subject formulations are applied. For example, foliar application of the subject composition is effective against pathogens that colonize relatively remote and inaccessible regions of the plant, such as the roots and the meristems. It is a theory of this invention that this remote effect occurs because the subject composition is transported in the plant vascular system, which allows for long distance transportation of the compounds within living plants, and/or because application of the subject formulations induces systemic-acquired resistance.

These methods are best illustrated by the preferred embodiments set forth below. One aspect of this invention is a method of controlling pests, for example by eliminating or deterring the growth of the pest population, which involves applying a composition of this invention to a pest or a site of pest infestation (such as a plant, plant part, or animal) at a pesticidally effective level. As noted above, application methods include ground, aerial, chemigation, surface, soil incorporation, preplant, preemergent, postemergent, spraying, brushing, dipping, and the like, depending on the conditions of the weather, the type of pest, the type of plant or animal being treated, the time of year, and other factors known to those of skill in the art.

An exemplary method for controlling pests comprises applying (such as by spraying) to a pest or site of pest infestation, a pesticidally effective amount of a composition comprising an agriculturally-acceptable carrier in combination with a compound of Formula (I) or (II).

Preferably, the composition is applied in an amount sufficient to prevent infestation of the host and the composition does not damage the host's tissue. Of particular interest is use of the pesticide compositions of the invention in treating fungal infestations of fruit bearing plants such as strawberry plants. By treatment of a diseased plant with the composition of the invention in an amount sufficient to treat such a fungal infestation, pests such as powdery mildew can be controlled or eliminated, thus restoring the plant to a healthy state. Also of particular interest is

use of the pesticide compositions of the invention in controlling arthropod infestations of ornamental plants such as roses. By treatment of a diseased plant with the composition of the invention in an amount sufficient to treat such a arthropod infestation, pests such as aphids and spider mites can be controlled or eliminated, thus restoring the plant to a healthy state.

Use of pesticides is regulated in the United States by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under authority of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Tolerance for residues of pesticides in agricultural commodities are established by the (EPA) and enforced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under authority of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act).

This regulatory environment leads to another aspect of this invention, which is an article of manufacture. In this aspect a pesticidally active compound represented by Formula (I) or (II), as defined above, is combined with an agriculturally-acceptable carrier in a container that will be suitable for storing the composition for its shelf life. Associated with the container is printed instructions and/or a printed label indicating that the subject composition can be used to control pests, i. e., used as a pesticide and providing instructions for using the composition for pesticidal purposes in accordance with the treatment method set forth herein. The container may have associated with it a delivery device that allows the composition to be applied to the pest population or to the area to be treated. For liquid compositions this is generally a hand-operated, motorized or pressurized pressure-driven sprayer. The container may be made of any suitable material such as a polymer, glass, metal, or the like. Usually, the labeling is associated with the container by being adhered to the container, or accompanying the container in a package sold to the user. Such label may indicate that the composition is approved for use as a pesticide. The instructions will spell out the type of pests for which the pesticidal composition is to be used, the application method, the rate of application, dilution requirements, use precautions, and the like.

The following examples are presented as illustrations, not limitations.

EXAMPLES Abbreviations AC Active Compound BC Benzyl Cinnamate HBC a-Hexyl Benzyl Cinnamate T20 TWEEN@20 T-SP180 TRITON@SP180 (Union Carbide, Santa Ana, CA) T-SP 190 TRITON'SP 190 (Union Carbide)

Example 1 Phytotoxicity Protocol This example provides a protocol for laboratory bioassays evaluating the compatibility of candidate materials for effects on agricultural and ornamental plants.

Log scale treatment dosages of candidate materials are compared to an adjuvant only and water only control treatments. Degree of plant injury resulting from all treatment applications is assessed using a 0-5 injury rating with"0"indicating no injury and"5"indicating severe injury.

At least 3 replicates of each plant type are compared for each treatment tested. Each replicate consists of one plant. Plants are matched for similar growth stage and health. Applications are made using a hand held atomizer"to drip" (applied until material drips from the leaves). Plants are allowed to dry and placed in the greenhouse. Plants are observed for a 7 day period at which time injury from necrotic damage and/or growth distortion will be assigned to each plant in the trial.

Candidate materials are assessed at dosages ranging between 100 and 200,000 ppm (0.01 to 20% concentration v/v). Each candidate material is evaluated against the following representative agricultural plants: tomato, cucumber and lettuce; and the following ornamental plants: fresh cut rose, chrysanthemum and poinsettias.

Example 2 Phvtotoxicitv and Dose-mortality trials using a-Hexyl Benzyl Cinnamate for Commercial Cut Flowers This experiment is designed to evaluate the relationship between HBC and two adjuvants with plant phytotoxicity on three floriculture crops. The results will establish a tolerance level database to establish a"safe"range of concentrations of adjuvants and active compound that can be used for label guidelines and for any product liability issues that may arise with respect to phytotoxicity.

These trials examine the relationship of T20 and HBC and phytotoxicity in major flower crops. They examine the effect on a fresh cut rose variety (Royalty), a minirose variety (sunburst) and poinsettia (lilo red). These are chosen because they have been shown to be the most sensitive in previous trials. A check is also performed on chrysanthemum (showoff).

Three concentrations of T20 at four concentrations of HBC on each plant type are compared as follows: T20: 0.1,0.2 and 0.4 % concentration by volume HBC: 0.1,0.3,2.5, and 5.0 % concentration by volume Controls: water only

Each comparison is replicated 4 times with each plant type (15 treatments by 4 replicates by 3 plant types = 180 observations). A check test is also performed using T-SP 180 at the 0.5 concentrations with HBC for comparative purposes: The test is conducted over a 5 week period of time with four applications occurring at 7 day intervals. Responses are measured using a standardized score procedure that ranks degree of phytotoxic symptoms. Symptoms are also be documented photographically for each treatment over the course of the trials.

Example 3 Protocols for glasshouse testing The following protocol is a procedure for evaluating new products for the control of Sphaerotheca macularis f sp. fragariae, the strawberry powdery mildew pest.

(1) Test provided product at highest concentration for potential phytotoxicity as evidenced by leaf necrosis, flower blasting, killing, etc, usually apparent by 48 hours.

(2) If phytotoxic, run dilution series (by factors of ten) and retest to determine threshold.

Focus in by repeat test in range of phenotype change from toxic to not, by arithmetic dilution series (lOx, 9x,..., lx concentration).

(3) Determine minimum inhibitory concentration ("MIC") to pest by running dilution series of product from phytotoxic threshold on down, focusing as for determining phytotoxic threshold.

(4) After determination of MIC, run eradicant/protectant residual testing at MIC. This is a lengthy process, requiring application of the product, usually at a range of times from 2 weeks prior to 2 weeks following an inoculation event. After results are analyzed, closer focus is sometimes required with repeat testing.

Example 4 Field testing of Fungicidal Efficacv Against Strawberrv Powderv Mildew A randomized complete block design is placed in fruit production fields to compare different fungicidal treatments, with from 30 to 100 plants used for each treatment; i. e., a minimum of 3 replications of 10 plants up to a manageable size of 5 replications of 20 plants are used to evaluate treatments. Actual number used at each field trial is dependent upon space availability. Bed design is either 2 or 4 rows per bed; bed spacing ranges from about 1.3 to 1.7 m on center; plant spacing ranges from about 30 to 45 cm between plants depending upon variety. Standard farming practices are used, which include methyl bromide fumigation of the field, pre-plant slow release fertilizer, irrigation by drip tape under plastic tarp, and mite and

lygus bug control, but no foliar fungicidal treatment for control of Botrytis rot due to interference with the evaluation of treatment efficacy.

Application of foliar fungicidal treatments is made with a composition of the invention at an optimal concentration which produces >70% pest mortality and minimal phytotoxicity to plants. Compositions comprising 1 % by weight and 5% by weight of the AC are evaluated.

Formulation 1 comprises 1% AC and 0.5% T-SP190. Formulation 2 comprises 5% AC and 0.6% T-SP 190. The two concentrations of the AC are mixed in a similar manner. The 1 % composition is prepared by placing 9. Og of the AC and 1.80g of T-SP190 in a 1 liter bottle and filled with 889 ml of water and shaken vigorously. The 5% is prepared by placing 45. Og of the AC and 5.40g of T-SP 190 in a 1 liter bottle and filled with 850 ml of water and shaken vigorously.

Two formula blank controls are also used and are mixed as follows. One solution is prepared by placing 5.40g of T-SP 190 in a 1 liter bottle filling with 895 ml of water and shaking vigorously (surfactant only control). The second solution is prepared by placing 5.40g T-SP190 in a 1 liter bottle and filling with 895 ml of water and shaken vigorously (formula blank control).

The composition is applied with a backpack sprayer or by securing a standard wide spray nozzle to the formulae bottles, and spraying the designated areas with assigned bottles at intervals between 3-14 days. Treatments are sprayed separately, one trial plot at a time in order to minimize spraying errors due to drift. Diseases severity evaluation is done at least once during any field trial, but usually more often.

Example 5 Testing of Insecticidal and Miticidal Properties of Benzyl Cinnamate This example provides a protocol to evaluate the insecticidal and miticidal properties of BC. The target insects were the melon aphid and two-spotted spider mite on miniroses, magnolias, chrysanthemums and primroses. The experimental design was based upon applying three replicates of Formula A (0.2% T20, control) and Formula B (1.0% BC, 0.2% T20). All were applied via direct contact spray. The results are shown below: Table III Rep. 1 Rep. 2 Rep. 3 Total Melon Aphid (dead: live dead: live dead: live Mortality Formula A 27: 2 36: 7 12: 0 7.7% Formula B 12: 60 9: 27 1: 32 85.1%

Rep. l Rep. 2 Rep. 3 Total 2-Spotted Spider Mite (dead: live dead: live dead: live Mortality Formula A 47: 3 20: 1 92: 20 9.6%- Formula B 9: 19 17: 66 31: 30 65.5% This example confirms the efficacy of benzyl cinnamate against melon aphid and two- spotted spider mite. Phytotoxicity observations were as follows: Minirose: no damage, no stress, all treatments-observed at 7 days Magnolia: no damage, no stress, all treatments-observed at 7 days Primrose: no damage, no stress, all treatments-observed at 7 days Chrysanthemum: severe damage from leaf tips moving inwards; leaf damage begins from bottom leaves and moves upwards. Newest leaves remained unaffected. Repeated three times with the same result-observed at 7 days Example 6 Treatment of Aphid and Spider Mite on Rose Foliage The purpose of this experiment is to evaluate the efficacy of the composition of the invention for controlling the black bean aphid and the two-spotted spider mite. The experiment is conducted in small containers of approximately 8 cm diameter and 6 cm height, with aphids or spider mites on mini rose (Sunburst) foliage. Twenty (20) to thirty (30) arthropods are placed in each container. The trial consists of 12 replicates (4 replicates for each of the treatments). The composition of the invention is applied in a single application at a controlled volume (2 ml) directly on to arthropods with a standard calibrated spray unit (spray dot). The containers are then examined under a dissection microscope and the number of live and dead arthropods is recorded at 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours post treatment. The results are then evaluated as to the mortality rate of the aphid or two-spotted spider mites.

Example 7 Dose Response Experiment Against Target Insects The compositions of the inventions at different dose ranges are assessed for insecticidal activity by insect mortality. Log scale treatment dosages of test material ranging between 100 and 200,000 ppm (0.01 to 20% v/v concentration) are compared with formula blank and water only control treatments. Percentage insect mortality at each concentration is calculated.

For each target insect, at least 3 dosages of the composition in triplicate are tested against the appropriate control. The target insect pests include two spotted spider mite, melon aphid,

western flower thrips, grape or potato leafhopper, cabbage looper, and stink or lygus bug. The experiment is conducted in an assay chamber which is supplied with adequate nutrition to support a test insect population during the course of the experiment.

20 to 50 insects are placed in each container. The AC is applied at a controlled volume sufficient to insure good contact with target insects using a calibrated spray tower. Filter paper placed at the bottom assay chambers is used to absorb excess material. After treatment application, insects are left undisturbed for at least 24 hours. The container is then be examined under dissection microscopes and the number of dead and living insects are recorded. A minimum of four replicates (each container constitutes a replicate) is treated for each dosage inducting a water plus adjuvant control. Results will establish the dose-mortality relationships and analyzed using probit analysis to determine the optimal concentrations for controlling 90% or more of the pest populations.

Each experiment is repeated twice for each of the insects tested. Each trial consists of 20 replicates (4 replicates for each treatment, 5 treatments total). The analysis estimates the optimal dosage that results in 50 and 90% kill of the insects. These are standard parameters that can be used to provide the best dosage for conducting efficacy trials and suggest the label use rates for the label recommendations for commercial use.

Three concentrations of T20 are compared at two concentrations of cinnamic acid on each plant type as follows: T20: determined by the results from the phytotoxicity trial.

AC: 0.1,0.2,0.4 and 0.6 percent concentration by volume Controls: water plus T20 only Example 8 Experimental Field Trials Compositions comprising 1% to 5% by weight of the active compound are applied to a plot and compared to other compositions. The five treatments to be evaluated against target insects for pesticidal activity are listed below: Formula A: 0.6% T-SP190 Formula B: 1.0% AC and 0.10% T-SP190 Formula C: 3.0% AC and 0.30% T-SP190 Formula D: 5.0% AC and 0.50% T-SP190 Formula E: Negative control-no treatment

Test and formula control formulations are prepared as follows: Formula control (Formula A) is prepared by placing 3. Og of T-SP 190 into a 1 liter bottle, then 497 ml of water is added and shaken vigorously.

Exemplary AC treatments are prepared as follows: Formula B is prepared by placing 1. Og of AC and 0.10g of TRITON@SP 190 into a 1 liter bottle, then 499 ml of water added and shaken vigorously. Formula C is prepared by placing 3. Og of AC and 0.30g of T-SP190 into a 1 liter bottle, then 497 ml of water added and shaken vigorously. Formula D is prepared by placing 5. Og of AC and 0.50g of T-SP190 into a 1 liter bottle and adding 494 ml of water and shaken vigorously.

The various formulations are applied by securing a standard wide spray nozzle to the formula treatment bottles and then spraying dedicated plots with randomly assigned treatments.

Treatments are sprayed separately, one trial plot at a time in order to minimize spraying errors due to drift.

The above examples demonstrate how to assess the efficacy of the compositions of the invention in controlling plant pests.

Example 9 Summary Results Table IV-Pesticidal Efficacy Active benzyl cinnamyl Compound: cinnamate acetate Pest: melon aphid 90/0.5 100/5.0 silverleaf 58/1. 0--- whiteflies leafminer 35/2.0 western 27/0.25 flower thrips honey bee 35/1.0 two-spotted---100/5.0 spider mite pharaoh ant 13/0.1 German 14/1.0 cockroach I cat flea 5/0.1 housefly 60/1. 0

The first number indicates the highest observed mortality (%) and the second number indicates the concentration of the AC (by weight) in the formulation tested. For example, "90/0.5" indicates that 90% mortality was observed using a 0.5% by weight AC formulation.

Blanks ("---") in Table IV indicate that the Active Compound was not tested against the pest listed.

The compounds were generally tested at active compound concentrations of l wt% and below for agricultural and horticultural pests and at 5wt% for structural pests (or to show activity). The carrier used in all formulations was T20, at one-fifth the concentration of the AC.

In addition, evaluation of a 1 wt% cinnamyl acetate formulation against the fungus, cladosporium, showed that cinnamyl acetate was effective at both inhibiting fungal growth and at killing the fungus.

The protocols used were as follows: Pharaoh ants, honey bees. German cockroaches, cat fleas and houseflies All experiments were conducted with a hand held sprayer at an application rate equivalent to 100 gallons/acre. All reported mortality occurred at 24 hours post application ("HPA"). Specific treatment conditions were as follows: pharaoh ants were contained in paper cups with a cloth mesh enclosure at the top and sprayed from a distance of 12 inches; honey bees were contained in wire mesh cages with Petri dishes as end enclosures and sprayed from a distance of 24 inches; German cockroaches and houseflies were contained in Peet-Grady chambers and sprayed from a distance of 24 inches; and cat fleas were delivered onto carpet disks and sprayed from an un-reported distance.

Melon aphids, leafminers, western flower thrips and silverleaf whiteflies For the melon aphids, western flower thrips and silverleaf whiteflies, the following protocol was used. Melon aphids, western flower thrips and silverleaf whiteflies were contained within a small arena with filter paper bottoms, and sprayed with 1 ml of formulation from a distance of 12-14 inches. Mortality of melon aphids was scored at 24 HPA and 48 HPA.

Mortality of silverleaf whiteflies was assessed at 120 HPA and mortality of western flower thrips was scored at 72 HPA.

For the leafminers, the following protocol was used. Leafminers were allowed to infest chrysanthemum leaves. Infested leaves were then sprayed at the first sign of infestation with 100 ml of the formulation to drip. Leafminer mortality was scored at 20 days past infestation.

Melon aphid and two-spotted spider mite Plants (chrysanthemum and minirose) were infested with melon aphid and two-spotted spider mites and sprayed to run-off using a standard 250 ml hand-held sprayer. Mortality was recorded at 24 HPA and 48 HPA.

Dose response testing was conducted using benzyl cinnamate on melon aphid, silverleaf whiteflies, leafminer and western flower thrips. Benzyl cinnamate appeared to perform in best in the middle of the range tested, i. e., at 0.5%.

The mode of action appears to be in the form of a contact insecticide, such as by disrupting membranes.

All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are indicative of the level of skill of those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

The invention now having been fully described, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many changes and modifications can be made thereto without departing from the spirit or scope of the appended claims.