According to the **China Pesticide Network**, copper sulfate can supply crops with sufficient copper for 2-3 years, making it a long-term solution for nutrient management. It is particularly effective in soils with a pH below 7 and high organic matter content, especially in old vegetable fields where soil-borne diseases are common. Using copper sulfate helps control these diseases effectively.
Soil-borne diseases such as eggplant verticillium wilt, tomato bacterial wilt, and cucumber wilt are major threats to vegetable crops. These diseases often lead to early vine death, significantly impacting yield and quality. In greenhouse production, where continuous cropping is common, copper sulfate has proven highly effective in preventing and treating root diseases caused by pathogens in the soil.
Here are some recommended application methods:
1. When planting vegetables, apply 1.5–2 kg of copper sulfate per acre. Mix it with 8–10 kg of ammonium bicarbonate, let the mixture sit for 12–20 hours to create a copper ammonium compound. Spread this evenly before planting. You can also place the seedlings directly into the planting furrow or mix the preparation into the soil before transplanting.
2. After the seedlings have established, dissolve the prepared copper ammonium compound in water and flush it into the field. Alternatively, you can directly apply 2–3 kg of copper sulfate per acre or use a 500-fold dilution of copper sulfate solution to water the roots of each plant, using about 250 ml per plant. This helps prevent seedling death due to soil-borne diseases.
3. If disease symptoms appear, treat the roots of affected plants with a solution of 1 kg of copper sulfate in 500 kg of water. For more severe cases, apply a 100-fold diluted copper sulfate solution directly to the infected areas.
When using copper sulfate, avoid mixing it with metal ion-containing pesticides like mancozeb or foliar fertilizers, as this may cause precipitation, reduce efficacy, or lead to phytotoxicity. Also, avoid combining it with benzoxazole fungicides such as thiophanate-methyl, as this could interfere with its effectiveness.
Some vegetables are sensitive to copper ions, so it’s best to avoid copper-based products if possible. If used, ensure the concentration is strictly controlled, and follow recommended application rates and timing. In case of phytotoxicity, immediately flood the area to dilute the concentration and alleviate symptoms.
Pesticide manufacturers recommend applying an 800-fold dilution of a 0.06% Brassinolide stock solution or a 5,000–6,000-fold sodium sulfate solution in severe cases to help relieve phytotoxic effects. Always read and follow label instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective use.
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