Oasis Agri Prescription Blended Trace Elements Nutrients and Functions – Part 3: Copper

COPPER (Cu)

Functions in Plants and Soil:

  • Photosynthesis and Respiration:

Copper is necessary for electron transport within a plant, this is necessary for photosynthesis and respiration, helping to generate energy.

  • Enzyme Activation (Coenzyme):

It is required for enzyme activation of several enzymes necessary for photosynthesis and respiration. Copper is also a cofactor for enzymes required in chlorophyll production as well as enzymes required to produce energy during flowering.

  • Cell Wall Metabolism:

Copper assists in the formation of lignin, which provides structural integrity to cell walls. Again, it is necessary for various enzymatic processes.

  • Stress Response:

Copper assists in protecting plants from oxidative stress.

Deficiency Symptoms in Plants:

Note: Deficiency symptoms can present differently depending on the crop species

Copper is an immobile plant nutrient. Symptoms therefore can typically occur in the youngest leaves and growing points.

  • Plant Growth:

Stunted growth with shorter stems and smaller leaves.

  • Leaf Symptoms:
    • Youngest leaves / new leaves are deformed, twisted or curled.
    • Chlorosis starting from the leaf tips and margins. Severe deficiency results in necrosis on leaf edges and between veins.
    • Young leaves may wilt while older mature leaves remain dark green.
  • Flowers and Fruit:
    • Delayed flowering, reduced fruits and seed production.
    • Flower termination before opening.
  • Roots:
    • Poorly developed root system.
    • Discoloured brown roots. Roots may turn black after cutting.
  • Crop Specific:
    • Maize:
      • New leaves may have a bluish-green tint.
      • Leaf tips and edges may show necrosis.
    • Grains:
      • Young leaves may develop dry, white, twisted tips.
      • Grain ears can be trapped in leaf sheath.
      • Unfilled spikelets.

Oasis Agri provides prescription blends of necessary trace elements, based on soil and leaf analysis results. These trace element blends are available in both granular form and as water-soluble powders, providing a unique solution to addressing trace element deficiency in soils.

Contact info@oasis-agri.com for more information.

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