Copper sulphate (CuSO₄) is widely used in agriculture due to its fungicidal, bactericidal, and micronutrient properties. Here are its primary uses in agriculture:
1. Fungicide
Control of Fungal Diseases: Copper sulphate is commonly used to control fungal diseases like powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight, and black spots in crops, fruits, and vegetables.
It is a key component in the preparation of the Bordeaux mixture (a combination of copper sulphate, lime, and water), which is sprayed on grapevines, citrus trees, and other crops to prevent fungal infections.
2. Micronutrient Fertilizer
Correcting Copper Deficiency: Copper is an essential micronutrient for plants, aiding in enzyme function and chlorophyll formation. Copper sulphate is applied to soil or used in foliar sprays to correct copper deficiency, which can cause wilting, reduced seed production, and pale leaves.
3. Algaecide and Herbicide
It is used in ponds, water bodies, and irrigation systems to control the growth of algae and aquatic weeds, helping prevent water stagnation that could harm crop irrigation.
4. Seed Treatment
Copper sulphate is used to treat seeds before sowing, protecting them from fungal infections that may affect germination and early seedling growth.
5. Animal Feed Supplement (Indirect Agricultural Use)
Although primarily for animals, copper sulphate is sometimes added to animal feed in trace amounts to improve digestion and prevent copper deficiency in livestock, contributing indirectly to better agricultural output.
In all these uses, proper dosage and application methods are essential, as excessive copper can be toxic to both plants and the environment.
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