Copper Gluconate: An Eco-Friendly Solution for Protecting Apple and Orange Trees from Common Pathogens
The need for sustainable and reduced-residue crop protection is growing. This study investigates Copper Gluconate as an effective, eco-friendly alternative to traditional treatments that rely on high quantities of inorganic copper. Copper Gluconate offers high efficacy with the added benefit of lowering copper levels in the environment.
About BIMCO Copper Gluconate (Fungicide/Bactericide)
BIMCO offers a specialized liquid Copper Gluconate formula designed for modern, sustainable agriculture. This product acts as both an effective fungicide and bactericide and an organic copper fertilizer. As a systemic copper product, it offers:
- Strong absorption via roots and leaves.
- Increased Systemic Acquired Resistance (SAR) in plants.
- Improved stress resistance.
- Enhanced color and flavor in certain crops.
Efficacy Against Key Fruit Tree Pathogens
The study aimed to verify the efficacy of Copper Gluconate against some of the most common and damaging pathogens in two major fruit crops:
| Crop | Target Pathogen | Disease Type | Severity |
| Apple (Malus domestica) | Erwinia amylovora | Bacterial | Highly destructive (Fire Blight) |
| Venturia inaequalis | Fungal | Scab | |
| Monilinia fructicola | Fungal | Brown Rot | |
| Orange (Citrus sinensis) | Alternaria alternata | Fungal | Alternaria Leaf Spot |
| Phytophthora citrophthora | Fungal | Foot Rot / Brown Rot |
Study Findings and Key Results
Copper Gluconate was applied via foliar spray at the first appearance of symptoms, using doses of 3 ml/L, 4 ml/L, and 5 ml/L, compared against an inorganic reference product (Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate).
- High Efficacy: All tested treatments were effective in controlling the fungal and bacterial pathogens on both apple and orange trees.
- Dose-Dependent Control: The highest dose of Copper Gluconate (5 ml/L) delivered the best efficacy in controlling the infections.
- Equal Performance: Crucially, there was no difference in effectiveness between the reference commercial product (inorganic copper) and Copper Gluconate at their respective optimal doses.
- Systemic Benefits: Copper Gluconate also achieved remarkable bacterial control in other laboratory and field studies (e.g., against Xanthomonas campestris), showing similar results to Copper Hydroxide and Mancozeb treatments.
Conclusion: A Sustainable and Effective Alternative
The study confirms that Copper Gluconate is an effective alternative for controlling bacterial and fungal diseases in apple and orange trees. By matching the efficacy of traditional inorganic copper treatments while using lower levels of copper, this compound offers a significant advantage for environmentally conscious farming, promoting higher systemic resistance and better overall plant health.
Q&A Section (FAQs)
Q: What is the main advantage of Copper Gluconate over traditional copper products?
A: The main advantage is environmental compatibility. Copper Gluconate is organically complexed, allowing for lower application rates of elemental copper while maintaining the same high level of efficacy. This reduces the accumulation of heavy metals in the soil.
Q: How does Copper Gluconate protect the plants?
A: It acts as both a direct fungicide/bactericide and an indirect protective agent by increasing the plant’s Systemic Acquired Resistance (SAR). This means the plant’s own immune system is boosted, helping it fight off a wide range of pathogens.
Q: Can this product be used on both apples and oranges?
A: Yes. The study confirmed its similar effectiveness against the most common bacterial and fungal diseases affecting both apple trees (Erwinia amylovora, Venturia inaequalis) and orange trees (Alternaria alternata, Phytophthora citrophthora).
Q: What are the benefits of the product beyond disease control?
A: As an organic copper fertilizer, the BIMCO product also provides copper micronutrient support, which improves the plant’s resistance to general stress and can enhance desired quality traits like color and flavor in the fruit.
Contact BIMCO International
Interested in adopting an effective, eco-friendly copper treatment program for your fruit orchards? Contact the BIMCO International team now:
