Bordeaux Mixture Preparation and Use

Bordeaux mixture is a fungicide made from lime (calcium hydroxide) and copper sulfate. It is widely used to control fungal diseases such as root rot, pumpkin blight, and tomato potato blight. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare and use Bordeaux mixture:

Materials Needed:

1. Copper sulfate (Tute) – 100 grams
2. Lime – 100 grams
3. Water – 10 liters
4. Three containers (preferably clay pots)
5. Two bamboo sticks or wooden stirrers
6. Sprayer
7. Steel knife

Preparation Method:

1. Grind Ingredients:

• Grind the copper sulfate and lime separately into fine powders.

1. Dissolve in Water:

• Take 5 liters of water in each of the two small clay pots.
• Dissolve 100 grams of copper sulfate in one pot and 100 grams of lime in the other.

1. Mix Thoroughly:

• Stir each solution thoroughly with a bamboo stick.
• Let the mixtures soak for 8-10 hours.

1. Combine Solutions:

• After soaking, pour the copper sulfate solution and the lime solution into a larger clay pot.
• Mix well with a bamboo stick until a uniform solution is obtained.

1. Check the Color:

• The correct Bordeaux mixture should turn dark blue.
• If the mixture turns green, add more lime. If it turns white, add more copper sulfate.
• Adjust the levels by adding water if necessary.

1. Test the Mixture:

• Dip a steel knife into the mixture. If it develops a reddish spot, the mixture is not properly balanced.
• If no reddish spot appears, the mixture is correct.

1. Ready to Use:

• Pour the prepared mixture into a sprayer and apply it to the plants.

Important Points to Remember:

• Ensure the copper sulfate and lime are finely ground for better solubility.
• Use the mixture within 2-3 hours of preparation.
• Avoid storing the mixture for more than 12 hours as it loses effectiveness.
• Bordeaux mixture can be toxic and may cause poisoning in some crops, especially tomatoes.
• It can delay fruit ripening.
• Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling the mixture.

Advantages of Bordeaux Mixture:

• Remains on the plant surface for several days, providing prolonged protection.
• Materials are inexpensive and readily available.
• Very effective against a wide range of fungal diseases.

By following these steps and precautions, you can effectively use Bordeaux mixture to protect your plants from fungal diseases while ensuring safe handling and application.