Alkyl ethers of 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran where the alkyl chain may contain branched chains, unsaturated bonds, epoxy bridges, and may be substituted with halo, alkoxy, lower alkenyloxy, or lower alkynyloxy substituents useful in killing and preventing the proliferation of insects and other pests by upsetting their hormone balance.
Methods for protecting plants from insects are provided. Such methods comprise: applying a formulation comprising partially-desiccated nematodes and a carrier to plant surfaces growing above the surface of the ground (i.e., foliage). Such formulations have a water activity (Aw) of which is less then 0.998 and greater than 0.935. The carrier comprises water and a substance which maintains the water activity of the formulation at levels of from about 0.980 Aw to about 0.940 Aw for a period of 24 hours when the formulation is exposed to air at 70% relative humidity and 25.degree. C. In one embodiment, the carrier is a solution or gel comprising water and a water-retentive polymer. In another embodiment, the carrier is a solution which comprises water and a humectant. In a further embodiment, the formulation comprises both a water-retentive polymer and a humectant. Preferably, the formulation further comprises an ultraviolet (UV) light protectant. In another aspect, the present invention relates to the formulations that are used in such methods.
