Abstract: Improved methods and compositions for protecting plants or seeds from plant diseases are provided. Broadly, the compositions comprise (and preferably consist essentially of) saponin, such as triterpene type saponins extracted from Quinoa or Quillaja. The methods comprise contacting the portion of the plant (e.g., foliage, shoot, etc.) to be treated with a disease-inhibiting or protective amount of the composition. The compositions can also be used to treat plant seeds or tubers prior to planting thereof, as well as soil adjacent a growing plant. The inventive compositions are particularly useful for the treatment, control and/or prevention of fungal diseases. The saponins of the invention can be applied as liquids or dry particulates, and are especially suited for the treatment of potato seed, tubers and plants.

Abstract: Improved methods and compositions for protecting plants or seeds from plant diseases are provided. Broadly, the compositions comprise (and preferably consist essentially of) saponin, such as triterpene type saponins extracted from Quinoa or Quillaja. The methods comprise contacting the portion of the plant (e.g., foliage, shoot, etc.) to be treated with a disease-inhibiting or protective amount of the composition. The compositions can also be used to treat plant seeds or tubers prior to planting thereof, as well as soil adjacent a growing plant. The inventive compositions are particularly useful for the treatment, control and/or prevention of fungal diseases. The saponins of the invention can be applied as liquids or dry particulates, and are especially suited for the treatment of potato seed, tubers and plants.