Trace element copper. Functions. Signs of Deficiency and Excess – Hydroponics

Copper (symbol Cu) is one of the trace elements that plants need in very small quantities. The normal range in the growth medium is 0.05-0.5 ppm, while in most plant tissues, the normal range is 3 to 10 ppm. In comparison, the ideal tissue iron range is 20 times that of copper. Although copper deficiency or toxicity is rare, it is best to avoid extreme situations as they can negatively affect crop growth and quality.

Trace element copper. Functions. Signs of Deficiency and Excess - HydroponicsFunctions of copper

Copper is an important component of proteins found in enzymes that regulate the rate of many biochemical reactions in plants. Plants will not grow without the presence of these specific enzymes. Copper is also essential in the process of photosynthesis, essential for plant respiration, and aids in plant metabolism. Copper also enhances flavor and color in vegetables and flowers. Research projects show that copper:

  • promotes seed production and formation;
  • stimulates the formation of proteins;
  • enhances the use of nitrogen;
  • activates several enzymes that are critical in the role of photosynthesis, protein and carbohydrate metabolism.

Copper deficiency

Copper is a fixed element, which means that symptoms of copper deficiency appear in new leaves. Symptoms vary by culture. Symptoms usually begin as mild chlorosis, either of the entire leaf or between the veins of new leaves. Small necrotic spots may form within the chlorotic regions of the leaf, especially at the edges of the leaves. As symptoms develop, the newest leaves become smaller, lose their luster, and in some cases, the leaves may wilt. Plants are usually compact as the length of the stem between the leaves is shortened. The flower color is often lighter than usual.

An excess of potassium, phosphorus, and other trace elements can indirectly cause a copper deficiency. Also, if the pH of the growing medium is high, it can cause copper deficiency as it becomes less available for absorption by the plant.

Factors to consider are as follows:

  • Zinc and Copper Balance: high levels of Zn will reduce the availability of Cu.
  • Balance of nitrogen and copper: N uptake increases in the presence of copper
  • Phosphorus and copper balance: High P levels can reduce Cu uptake.

Examples of Copper Deficiency Symptoms

From left to right: copper deficiency in barley, corn, wheat, oil palm.

barley Trace element copper. Functions. Signs of Deficiency and Excess - Hydroponics wheat Trace element copper. Functions. Signs of Deficiency and Excess - Hydroponics

Excess copper

Excess copper in the nutrient medium can restrict root growth by burning the root tips and thereby cause excessive lateral root growth. High copper levels can compete with the absorption of iron and sometimes molybdenum or zinc. New leaves may turn greener than normal at first and then show symptoms of iron or possibly other micronutrient deficiency. If left untreated, the toxic effects of copper can reduce branching. Copper, like most micronutrients, is more readily available when the pH of the environment is low, so if copper toxicity occurs, the pH of the solution or soil should be checked.

Trace element copper. Functions. Signs of Deficiency and Excess - HydroponicsSources of copper

Copper is found in most water-soluble fertilizers. Several fungicides have copper as an active ingredient. Irrigation water often contains some copper, and in rare cases, the amount is too high, which will lead to toxic effects. If additional copper is required, a complete micronutrient fertilizer is recommended to avoid too much copper and cause another micronutrient deficiency.

The use of copper sulfate (copper sulfate) or a chelated form of copper can be used, but with extreme caution, as there is a fine line between too little or too much copper.

Copper and brass

Copper and brass fittings should not be used in hydroponic or irrigation systems. Fertilizer salts are corrosive to metals such as copper, which is also the main component of brass. Therefore, pipes and fittings will gradually erode until they are useless. However, this is not the main reason for not using them. Copper and brass fittings can easily cause the concentration of copper in a hydroponic solution to rise to toxic levels, especially if the solution is recirculated. Pipes and fittings in hydroponic systems must be inert to corrosion.

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Anna Evans

Author ✓ Farmer

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