The symbol of copper is Cu and its atomic number is 29. Although it may be rather unknown, it is part of the group of microelements, which are essential elements for the proper growth and development of plants, such as iron, manganese, zinc, boron, molybdenum, nickel and chlorine.
In plants, copper is very important for different enzyme systems and activates certain enzymes involved in the biochemistry of photosynthesis and lignin synthesis. It also enhances flavour and colour in vegetables and flowers, and is actively involved in the formation of viable pollen and seeds, and resistance to stress. It can therefore be said that the main function of copper is to participate as a coenzyme in several enzyme systems necessary for the growth and development of different crops.
Copper as a fertiliser
Under normal soil conditions, copper is absorbed in the ionic form of Cu2+ . This divalent form easily forms chelates and can be found in chelated form. It is absorbed via the roots and leaves. It is a nutrient with low mobility in the plant, and its average content in the plant can range from 1 to 25 ppm (it must be remembered that not all plants have the same level of demand for copper).
Copper is antagonistic to iron, molybdenum, zinc and phosphorous, and high contents of these elements in the soil can cause deficiencies in the absorption of this element. On the other hand, the presence of sulphur induces or favours the uptake of copper in the soil.
Copper in the ground
Copper can be found in the earth’s crust at an average of 55 to 70 ppm. However, its presence can vary depending on the type of rock. For example, it can be found between 10 to 100 ppm in igneous rocks, while in sedimentary rocks its content is usually considerably lower, ranging from 4 to 45 ppm. Depending on the circumstances of each soil, the necessary amount must be provided through fertilisers that include this type of element.
Copper deficiencies
The symptoms of copper deficiency in a plant or crop vary substantially depending on the agricultural species in question. Generally, the most characteristic signs are wilting and drying out of the youngest and most tender leaves (decrease in photosynthetic activity with lower chlorophyll content), which gradually acquire a pale blue shine as they bend downwards (decrease in cellular consistency, less lignin formation). In addition, necrosis often occurs in the branches at younger ages.
It should be noted that, as a trace element, copper is not subject to high levels of extraction by the plant. Even so, deficiencies of this element can occur in the soil for various reasons, such as washing in very sandy soils, excess lime that prevents its assimilation or antagonism with other nutrients.
As these symptoms can be caused by the absence of other elements, it must be made sure that copper is the micronutrient the crop needs. To do so, analyses must be conducted by professionals to confirm its deficiency.
Toxicity
Both too much and too little copper are detrimental to harvest optimisation. Too much copper can affect root growth, as it can burn the root tips and cause lateral growth that is larger than normal. Too much copper can affect the uptake of other elements such as iron and molybdenum. In more recent crops, an excessive amount of copper has the effect of reducing branching, thus causing deterioration of the plant.
When the pH of the substrate is low, the availability of copper is higher. Therefore, when symptoms of copper toxicity are observed, our recommendation is to analyse the pH of the substrate of your crop.
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We have just read that the use of fertilizers with micronutrients such as copper, are essential to get the most out of our crops and harvests. As you know, DFGRUPO is here to help you, so if you have any doubts on how to apply the fertilizer with copper, the risks of using fertilizers with copper, when they should be used or any other information, please contact us,we will be delighted to talk to you!
