Copper Deficiency in Plants

Copper is very much important in the growth and development of plants. However, due to several factors the soil losses valuable copper content and the plant is left to suffer from this kind of deficiency. It is the role of a responsible gardener to guarantee none of his plants ever suffers from this condition. Thus it is important to know how to handle this kind of situation.

How to Identify Plants with Copper Deficiency

Degrees of deficiency in plants will reveal various signs of copper deficiency. Some of which are as follow:

limpness and mid tillering due to extreme copper deficiency

appearances of pale yellow and curled young leaves

increased susceptibility of the plant to disease

appearances of pigtail

retarded stem elongation

aborted head and spikelets

presence of ergots in the heads of grains like barley and wheat

stem and head bending that may break from 15 to 20 centimeter

appearances of dark brown batches particularly in wheat fields

delayed maturity for several weeks

How to Remedy Copper Deficiency in Plants
Once you see similar symptoms exhibited by your plant, it is best to perform use either or both soil and foliar applications. Nevertheless, it is better to apply soil copper fertilizers because the latter is recommended only if it is to be applied during late tillering stage of the plant. You are free to use any of the following solutions:

copper sulphate

copper chelates

granular copper fertilizers

You may also wish to have the soil tested before you begin the planting stage. This will give you an idea on the condition of your soil and feed it with the best nutrients to guarantee better yield on your crops.