HPM Hicopper Copper Oxychloride 50% WP Fungicide & Bactericide - 500g

HPM Hicopper is a trusted contact fungicide and bactericide containing Copper Oxychloride 50% WP (Wettable Powder). It is designed to protect crops from a wide range of fungal and bacterial diseases. Copper-based products have been proven effective against many fungal pathogens in field trials. Hicopper works by forming a protective layer on the plant surface, preventing disease-causing organisms from infecting the crop.

This product is suitable for use on a variety of crops including grapes, citrus, tomato, potato, chilli, tea, coffee, cardamom, and mango. It is especially useful for farmers looking for a broad-spectrum, multi-site disease control solution that also helps manage resistance in their crop protection program. Hicopper acts as both a fungicide and bactericide, making it a versatile option for managing multiple disease types with a single product.

HPM Hicopper comes in a 500g pack and is formulated as a wettable powder that mixes easily with water for foliar spray application. It is classified under the Inorganic Copper Compound chemical group with IRAC MoA Code M01 (Multi-Site Contact), and carries a Blue Triangle toxicity label (moderately toxic). Always follow label instructions and use appropriate safety measures during application.

Key Benefits

• Dual action control: Effectively manages both fungal diseases (like downy mildew, blights, anthracnose) and bacterial diseases (like citrus canker, leaf spot) in a single spray.
• Resistance management: Multi-site mode of action attacks pathogens from multiple angles, making it extremely difficult for fungi or bacteria to develop resistance.
• Long-lasting protection: Low solubility formulation keeps copper on the leaf surface for extended periods, providing prolonged residual protection between sprays.
• Good rain fastness: Formulated with quality stickers and wetting agents that help the product adhere to plant surfaces and resist wash-off from light rains.
• Provides copper nutrition: Supplies copper, an essential micronutrient to plants, helping correct potential deficiencies while protecting against diseases.
• Cost-effective solution: Controls both fungal and bacterial diseases in one product, reducing the need for separate sprays and saving on input costs.

How It Works

HPM Hicopper works through a contact killing mechanism. It does not enter the plant but stays on the leaf surface, creating a protective barrier against disease-causing organisms.

When moisture from dew or rain comes in contact with the sprayed deposit, the product slowly releases copper ions (Cu2+). These ions are then absorbed by germinating fungal spores or bacteria as they try to penetrate the plant. Once inside the pathogen, the copper ions bind to essential proteins and enzymes, deactivating them instantly. This disrupts the pathogen's cell membrane and stops its respiration and energy production, leading to rapid cell death.

Because copper attacks the pathogen at multiple sites simultaneously, it is classified as a multi-site inhibitor. This makes it nearly impossible for fungi or bacteria to develop resistance against it. The product works best when applied preventively, before disease symptoms appear, as it protects the plant surface rather than curing internal infections.

Technical Specifications

Recommended Dosage & Application

Note: Dosage is in grams as the product is a Wettable Powder. PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval (minimum days between last spray and harvest). Dosages are approximate; always refer to local agricultural guidelines.

When to Use

HPM Hicopper is most effective when used as a preventive (prophylactic) spray before disease symptoms appear. Apply it at the first sign of disease or when weather conditions are favorable for disease development, such as during periods of high humidity, rainfall, or dew formation.

For grapes, apply before or at the early stages of downy mildew and anthracnose infection. For citrus, use preventively against citrus canker, scab, and leaf fall, especially after pruning or during the monsoon season. For vegetables like tomato and potato, apply at the onset of early or late blight conditions, typically during cool and wet weather. For plantation crops like tea, coffee, and cardamom, apply during the monsoon season when fungal and bacterial diseases are most active.

Repeat applications at 7-14 day intervals depending on disease pressure and weather conditions. In heavy rainfall areas, more frequent applications may be needed as the protective layer can be washed off over time.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

• Step 1 - Prepare the spray solution: Fill the spray tank with half the required amount of clean water.
• Step 2 - Make a slurry: In a separate container, mix the required amount of Hicopper powder with a small amount of water to form a smooth paste (slurry). This prevents lumps from forming.
• Step 3 - Add to tank: Pour the slurry into the spray tank while stirring continuously. Add the remaining water and mix well.
• Step 4 - Spray application: Apply the mixture as a foliar spray, ensuring thorough coverage of both upper and lower leaf surfaces. Copper works by contact, so complete coverage is essential for effective disease control.
• Step 5 - Clean up: After spraying, clean all equipment thoroughly with water. Wash hands and exposed skin with soap and water.

Compatibility

HPM Hicopper is compatible with most common insecticides and fungicides, including Metalaxyl and Mancozeb. It is an ideal tank mix partner with systemic fungicides to enhance efficacy and prevent resistance build-up. However, do NOT mix with highly acidic or alkaline compounds such as lime sulphur. Always perform a jar test before mixing with new products to check for compatibility.

Precautions & Safety

• Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, mask, and goggles during handling and application.
• Avoid spraying during peak heat hours to prevent leaf scorching or russeting on sensitive crops.
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling or spraying the product.
• Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after use.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from food, feed, and drinking water. Keep out of reach of children.
• Avoid spray drift to water bodies, non-target crops, and grazing areas.

Side Effects & Phytotoxicity

Generally, HPM Hicopper is safe for plants when used at the recommended dose of 2.5-3g per litre of water. However, avoid spraying on very sensitive crop varieties during full flowering stage or on extremely hot days, as copper can sometimes cause russeting (spotting) on sensitive flowers or young fruit. Use with caution during flowering stages.

PHI / REI & Storage