Role of Copper in Pome Fruit Production

Copper is required for chlorophyll synthesis and is a constituent of enzymes responsible for the reduction of molecular oxygen.

General Guidelines for Copper Application

Deficiency is rare in apples as soil supplies are normally sufficient. However, if seen, foliar applications quickly correct the supply problem.

Generally, the best approach is to spray up to 1/4 green leaf, or after harvest. Copper sprays can russet apples if applied post-bloom, or cause injury if applied under freezing conditions.

Copper Deficiencies in Apples

Terminal leaves develop brown necrotic areas, curl upwards and become distorted. This disorder is known as ‘wither tip’ or ‘summer die-back.’
Severe deficiency results in cracking of the bark and profuse sucker development from the tree base.