# How to Add Copper to Soil
Copper is among the many micro-nutrients that plants and animals require. Generally found in the soil, problems arise when copper availability is low. Copper is vital to seed production, chlorophyll formation and ensures proper enzyme activity in plants -- a true copper deficiency is a serious matter. Soils high in organic material or peat are more likely to have copper deficiencies since organic matter can make copper unavailable to plants. Soils with high pH are also prime suspects for copper deficiencies.
Things You'll Need
- Copper-containing fertilizer
- Broadcast spreader
Instructions
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1
Apply copper fertilizer only when plant tissue analysis shows your soil to be low in available copper. Use one of the following sources for copper: copper chelate, copper sulfate, cupric oxide, cuprous oxide or a mixed nutrient fertilizer that contains copper.
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2
Broadcast copper into fields and gardens that have a demonstrated deficiency. Apply no more than 30 lbs. per acre of elemental copper (check with your extension agent for local recommendations), whether you use a pure copper product or a fertilizer that contains additional nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus or potassium.
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3
Reapply copper every five to eight years.
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1
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