Find a Rep Find a Retailer

Using copper to prevent Ergot in cereals

  1. Home
  2. Blog
  3. Latest News
  4. Using copper to prevent Ergot in cereals

Copper is an essential micronutrient for plants and plays a role in various physiological processes. However, using copper specifically to prevent ergot in cereals is not a common or recommended practice. Ergot is a fungal disease caused by Claviceps purpurea, and copper is typically used to manage bacterial and fungal diseases, not specifically ergot.

Here are some common uses of copper in plant disease management:

1. Fungicide:

  • Copper-based fungicides are used to control a variety of fungal diseases in crops, such as downy mildew, powdery mildew, and certain blights.
  • While these fungicides can help manage fungal diseases, their efficacy against ergot may be limited.

2. Bacterial Disease Control:

  • Copper compounds are used to control bacterial diseases like bacterial blight in some crops.

3. Seed Treatment:

  • Copper-based seed treatments can be used to protect seeds from certain fungal and bacterial pathogens, ensuring healthy seedlings.

However, ergot control typically involves a combination of cultural, agronomic, and chemical measures:

Tips to Prevent Ergot in Cereals:

  • Crop Rotation: Rotate crops to break the disease cycle and reduce inoculum buildup in the soil.
  • Timely Harvest: Harvest cereals at the appropriate time to minimize the risk of ergot infection.
  • Use Disease-Free Seed: Source high-quality, disease-free seed to start with a clean crop.
  • Weed Management: Control grassy weeds, as they can be alternative hosts for the ergot fungus.
  • Proper Storage and Handling: Ensure proper storage conditions to prevent contamination of stored grain with ergot sclerotia.

For specific management of ergot, it’s important to follow region-specific recommendations and consult with agricultural experts or extension services. If you suspect ergot infection in your crop, it’s crucial to properly identify the disease and follow appropriate management strategies tailored to the situation.

Talk to your OMEX representative today to learn more about the ways Ergot can be prevented in cereal crops on your farm.