Gel capsules including silica gel, and related methods

Abstract

The disclosure relates to gel capsules for delivery of one or more dsRNA plant protection materials to internal tree tissue of, for example, fruit trees. The gel capsules generally include a powdered matrix comprising silica gel, dsRNA (double-stranded RNA) bound to the powdered matrix, and, a capsule shell containing the powdered matrix with the bound dsRNA therein. The disclosure also relates to methods of preparing the gel capsules, and methods for delivering a dsRNA plant protection material to trees. After injection into the tree trunk, the gel capsules can provide a uniform, relatively consistent dose of dsRNA to all parts of the tree throughout the growing season, thus reducing waste of material and cost.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.