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San Diego, CA

Fining tuning my soil for growing giant tomatoes. Based on the WL soil analysis, I'm a bit low in copper. From what I've read, increasing copper can done by adding copper sulphate. So, did some research & ordered a bag of Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate. Was reading the label & it says one of the uses is to... "KILL ROOTS in drain pipes"!!! What the heck, kill roots?!?! Did i order the wrong stuff? Seems counterproductive.

2/26/2022 9:56:29 PM

Arizona

It is my understanding copper doesn't go away in your soil and can be toxic in higher doses. I would think a copper fungal spray would work for a plant deficiency. If you spray on days over 80 it tends to burn your plant. I don't add copper.

2/26/2022 10:28:07 PM

Grittyville, WA

There is an herbicide based on boron. Its all in the dose I think. Ive used copper sulfate. I think the pentahydrate just means its got water molecules in it. I still have a dead spot in my lawn where I spilled some Boron...

2/26/2022 11:45:25 PM

Colorado

You want to keep your copper levels at 1.2 to 2.5 ppm. Cusulfate is a good source.Thats a very small amount for the square footage of a tomato patch.Make sure you get your math right before you add it.At those levels its a benefit and harmless to your roots.

2/27/2022 11:06:12 AM

Lodi, California

Dihydrogen monoxide will also kill your plants.

Quantity is very important. Copper is only required at a couple parts per million by plants

2/27/2022 12:47:54 PM

San Diego, CA

Got it. It can be beneficial, but I need to be VERY careful with the dosage. Thanks for the feedback!

2/28/2022 10:15:32 PM

Bethlehem CT

Right, copper is an essential micronutrient that is used by the plant in very small amounts. When the term micronutrient is used people often assume that it is a less important nutrient for plant growth. That is not it at all, the plant just requires it in smaller quantities. They should not be overlooked. In fact it is quite amazing to me that for the most part across the world our soils contain the basic elements required for growth.

4/6/2022 11:25:04 AM