Plants only require small amounts of copper, but it plays an important role in pollination, seed formation, protein production and the development of strong plant structure particularly in cereal crops, canola and pulse crops. Copper is also involved in the formation of lignin, which helps strengthen plant cell walls and keep crops standing.
The hidden hunger problem
Copper deficiency can be difficult to identify because obvious visual symptoms may not appear until crop performance has already been affected. Low copper can contribute to weaker stems, increased lodging risk and reduced grain development.
The problem can become more significant in high-yielding crops receiving substantial nitrogen. When nitrogen demand is high but copper availability is marginal, the crop may struggle to maximise yield potential.
This is where the concept of “hidden hunger” comes in – a crop may look healthy but still be short of a nutrient required to achieve maximum yield and quality.
A small application with a potential impact
For growers looking to ensure copper levels are sufficient, Sonic Essentials’ IcON Copper provides a concentrated copper option. IcON Copper applied at 50–100 mL/Ha delivers 50 to 100g/Ha of copper, sufficient to support the plants copper demand.
IcON Copper can be applied with many fungicides*. With extra fungicide applications being considered there is still an opportunity to get apply IcON copper before flowering to maximise yield potential. IcON copper can be applied from early tiller with critical applications from 1st node to just prior to flowering.
Used as part of a broader nutrition program, a targeted copper application can help ensure crops have access to this important micronutrient during critical stages of development.
Copper is a nutrient where balance is important. Soil and plant tissue testing can help identify limiting nutrients, rather than simply applying nutrients unnecessarily. Sonic Essentials also highlights the interaction between copper and other nutrients, including nitrogen.
Small nutrient, big opportunity
As growers look for ways to improve fertiliser efficiency, grain quality and yield, micronutrients deserve more attention.
Copper may only be required in tiny quantities but getting it right could make a significant difference – particularly where high nitrogen rates and marginal copper levels are part of the cropping system.
In broadacre farming, sometimes the smallest nutrient can have one of the biggest effects.
Product rates should always be checked against the current product label and local agronomic recommendations before application.
* Confirm product compatibility before mixing and application.
