Provided are microcapsules containing a solid core including at least one essential oil mixed with a porous solid material, where this solid core is coated by at least one layer of a polyurea film and/or a polyurethane film or an amphipathic shell composed of a multivalent salt form of at least one alkanoic acid. Further provided are compositions including these microcapsules, and uses thereof in a variety of agricultural and environmental applications.