Borders mixture A fungicide which is used for fruit trees and other plants, which is composed of equal quantity of copper sulphate and calcium oxide in water. It is used to control diseases like powdery mildew, downy mildew etc.
In a separate container, dissolve copper sulfate (CuSO4) in water. Use approximately 450 grams of copper sulfate per 19 liters of water. In another container, slake hydrated lime (Ca(OH)2) by mixing it with water. Use approximately 450 grams of hydrated lime per about 19 liters of water. Combine the copper sulfate solution with the slaked lime solution. Stir thoroughly. Dilute the mixture with enough water to make a total volume of about 190 liters . Stir the mixture well before use. Method of preparation
Mode of action Antifungal Properties : Copper ions disrupt fungal cell membranes and interfere with various cellular processes essential for fungal growth and reproduction. This disruption weakens the fungal cells, leading to their eventual death.
Preventative Action: Bordeaux mixture forms a protective coating on plant surfaces, which acts as a barrier against fungal spores. This coating inhibits the germination of fungal spores and prevents them from infecting the plant tissue. Bactericidal Properties: Bordeaux mixture also exhibits bactericidal properties, although its effectiveness against bacteria is not as pronounced as its antifungal properties. It can help control bacterial diseases to some extent by inhibiting bacterial growth and reducing disease spread.
Tests to determine pH Field Test : Dip a well polished knife or a sickle in the mixture for few minutes. If reddish deposit appears on the knife/sickle, it indicates the acidic nature of the mixture. Litmus paper test : The colour of blue litmus paper must not change when dipped in the mixture. pH paper test : If the paper is dipped in the mixture, it should show neutral pH. Chemical test : Add a few drops of the mixture into a test tube containing 5 ml of 10% potassium ferrocyanide . If red precipitate appears, it indicates the acidic nature of the mixture.
Advantages Broad-Spectrum Control Longevity Ease of Application Compatibility Environmental Safety Disadvantages Phytotoxicity Copper Accumulation Staining Environmental Persistence Handling Precautions
COPPER OXYCHLORIDE
Cooper oxychloride Is a fungicide used in agriculture to control various fungal diseases.
Copper sulfate (CuSO4) Source of chloride ions Such as HCl or NaCl Water Ingredients 1 2 3
Method of preperation Dissolve copper sulfate in water to form a solution. Then, add the chloride source slowly to this solution while stirring. This will cause a chemical reaction between the copper sulfate and chloride ions, forming copper oxychloride as a precipitate. The copper oxychloride will appear as a greenish precipitate in the solution. Filter the solution to separate the solid copper oxychloride from the liquid. Wash the precipitate with water to remove any impurities or excess reagents. Dry the copper oxychloride either by air drying or using gentle heating.
Mode of action Disruption of Enzymatic Activity : Copper ions released from copper oxychloride interfere with enzyme function in fungal cells. This disruption inhibits crucial metabolic processes, ultimately leading to cell death. 02 Damage to Cell Membranes : Copper ions can damage the cell membranes of fungi by disrupting their structure and integrity. This disrupts essential cellular functions and contributes to the overall decline in fungal viability. 03 Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS): Copper ions can induce the generation of reactive oxygen species within fungal cells. ROS are highly reactive molecules that cause oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA, leading to cellular dysfunction and death. 01
04 05 Interference Interference with Spore Germination : Copper oxychloride can inhibit the germination of fungal spores, preventing the establishment of new infections. By interfering with the early stages of fungal growth, it helps to control fungal diseases on plants. Induction of Programmed Cell Death (Apoptosis): Copper ions can trigger programmed cell death pathways in fungal cells, leading to controlled cellular destruction. This process helps limit the spread of fungal infections within plant tissues.
Broad-Spectrum Activity Residual Activity Low Risk of Resistance Development Compatibility Ease of Application Environmenta Safety Cost-Effectiveness Phytotoxicity Cumulative Effect Environmental Persistence Staining Limited Systemic Activity Advantages Disadvantage