Formulations containing anthraquinone derivatives with increased effectiveness as pesticides are provided. These formulations may comprise (a) a preparation comprising one or more anthraquinone derivatives having activity against plant pests; (b) one or more C2-C7 alcohols, or glycols or lactones; and (c) one or more surfactants selected from the group consisting of a sulfate, ethoxylated fatty acid esters wherein said alcohols and surfactants are present in amounts effective to stability said preparation. Also provided are methods of using these formulations as pesticides.