Sure, I’d be happy to provide information about preparation of Bordeaux mixture. Here’s an article for you:
Bordeaux mixture is a popular fungicide and bactericide that is used on various crops such as grapes, apples, potatoes, tomatoes, and many others. It’s a mixture of copper sulfate (CuSO4) and slaked lime (Ca(OH)2) that was first made in Bordeaux, France in the 19th century to combat downy mildew in grapevines. In this article, we’ll discuss the steps involved in preparing Bordeaux mixture and some precautions you need to take while handling it.
Materials Required:
– Copper sulfate (CuSO4) – 100 grams
– Slaked lime (Ca(OH)2) – 100 grams
– Water – 10 liters
– Wooden or plastic stick for stirring
– Large plastic or glass container
– Gloves, mask, and protective eyewear
Steps to Prepare Bordeaux Mixture:
1. Fill the container with water up to 3/4th of its capacity.
2. Take a small quantity of slaked lime in a separate container and add water to it to make a slurry. Make sure there are no lumps in the slurry.
3. Slowly add the slaked lime slurry to the container filled with water while stirring continuously with a wooden or plastic stick.
4. Add copper sulfate to the container while stirring continuously. Make sure the copper sulfate dissolves completely in the water.
5. Fill the container with water up to the brim and stir the mixture again for a few minutes.
Precautions:
1. Always wear gloves, mask, and protective eyewear while preparing and handling Bordeaux mixture as copper sulfate and lime can be harmful if they come in contact with your skin, eyes, or mouth.
2. Keep the mixture away from children, pets, and food items.
3. Store the mixture in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
4. Do not apply the mixture in windy or rainy weather as it may spread the mixture to unintended areas and reduce its effectiveness.
Conclusion:
Bordeaux mixture is a cost-effective and safe way to protect your crops from various fungal and bacterial diseases. By following the above-mentioned steps and precautions, you can prepare the mixture at home without any hassle. However, it’s important to note that the dosage and frequency of application may vary depending on the type of crop, disease severity, and environmental conditions. Therefore, it’s always advisable to consult a professional agronomist before using any chemical on your crops.