Copper deficiency in coconut palms
As copper is an essential micronutrient for plant health, its deficiency in coconut palms can lead to several growth and development issues. Copper is crucial in enzyme activity, photosynthesis, and lignin synthesis. Lignin is vital for plant structural integrity and disease resistance.
Copper (Cu) deficiency usually occurs in highly acidic sandy soils, heavy organic soils, and highly calcareous and alkaline soils. Liming reduces the availability of copper in deficient soils.
Symptoms of Copper deficiency in Coconut Trees
- Severe bending of the rachis of the youngest leaves.
- Interveinal chlorosis in young leaves may exhibit ie, yellowing between the veins while the veins remain green.
- Yellowing and desiccation of the leaf tip which is typically rimmed with yellow and brown while the central portion remains green.
- In severe conditions, dried out part spreads and gives the palm a saggy appearance
- The petioles will be in arc - shape, and lose their turgidity.
- The leaflets show premature dry-up and necrosis of the tips and change in colour from dark green to yellow from the tips towards the leaf petiole.
- Stunted growth of the palm and its fronds may occur.
- New leaves may appear smaller and distorted.
- Fails to produce inflorescence.
Causes of Copper Deficiency
- Sandy soils or soils with high organic matter may have lower copper availability.
- In heavy alkaline soils, reduced copper solubility occurs and availability of Cu to plant is limited.
- The application of phosphorus can interfere with copper uptake.
- Copper may washout from the soil due to heavy rainfall or irrigation.
How to manage copper deficiency in coconut?
- Confirm copper deficiency by analyzing soil and leaf tissue.
- Application of Copper sulfate (CuSO₄) or Chelated copper at recommended rates based on soil test results.
- Foliar sprays with 0.1–0.2% copper sulfate solution can provide a quick remedy.
- If soil pH is too high, sulfur or organic matter may be applied to improve the availability of copper.
- As excessive use of phosphorus and other nutrients can antagonize copper uptake, a balanced and judicious application of NPK fertilizers may be practiced.
- Addition of organic compost or mulch to maintain soil health and micro-nutrient balance on a regular basis.
- Apply micronutrient-enriched fertilizers for coconuts in areas prone to deficiencies.
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Adopt Crop rotation or intercropping practices to enhance nutrient recycling.
Proper management of copper levels ensures healthy coconut growth, optimal yield, and resistance to stress and diseases
