Tel: +649 415 2449

Copper ionizers for growers

Copper ion fertilization is a relatively new entrant to the horticultural scene and it is earning a reputation as a remarkably effective, economical and environmentally friendly technique for the control of root diseases.

While a recent discovery in horticulture, copper has been employed as a disinfectant for drinking water since the beginning of civilization.

The copper ions are generated eletrolytically. This process releases free Cu ions in the water, something which is not possible by adding normal Cu chemicals.

The grower adjusts the copper dosage rate according to the infection risk and sensitivity to the crop. The electronic control unit maintains this rate automatically and compensates for fluctuating water flows. The amount of copper released is within ‘normal’ fertilizer standards.

An enormous advantage is that the zoospores from Pythium and Phytopthera are instantly killed by free Cu ions due to their thin cell walls. This prevents problems with water borne diseases in the crop. These two fungi form zoospores which are spread in watery environments.

Extensive laboratory tests show that the bacteria from Xanthomonas, Agrobacterium, Ralstonia and Clavibacter are also killed when exposed for 2-4 minutes to copper ions.

Furthermore the plants can get their copper which is essential for good development, get whiter and stronger roots thus yielding a better plant. The plants become more resistant to diseases thus providing a greater economic yield for the grower.

The copper ionizers are available for a broad spectrum of users: from the smaller garden centre to the larger grower needing 240 m3/hr as in Dutch floor watering systems.

       A recent study showed that copper ionisation is very cost effective: