An aqueous composition is provided having a pH of from about 2.0 to about 12.8 and comprising boron or persulfate ion-crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol microcapsules. A method of delivering an agriculture active to a substrate is further provided comprising applying to the substrate an aqueous composition comprised of agriculture active containing, boron or persulfate ion-crosslinked, polyvinyl alcohol microcapsules, as well as a method of treating a substrate to protect from pests or promote crop growth comprising applying to the substrate an aqueous treating composition comprised of agriculture active containing, boron or persulfate ion-crosslinked, polyvinyl alcohol microcapsules.