COPPERGUARD COPPER FUNGICIDE
- APVMA no.
- 61660
- Registrant
- FOLIAR FERTILIZERS PTY. LTD.
- Formulation
- SOLUBLE CONCENTRATE
COPPERGUARD COPPER FUNGICIDE is a protectant fungicide formulation containing 93.0 g/L copper present as a cupric ammonium complex. Designed as a soluble concentrate, it provides broad-spectrum preventative coverage against key fungal and bacterial pathogens across a wide range of horticultural crops.
This product fits cleanly into early-season protectant spray programmes in Australian production regions, including pome fruit orchards in Batlow and the Goulburn Valley, citrus blocks in Sunraysia and the Riverland, macadamia and avocado orchards across the Northern Rivers and Atherton Tableland, and vineyards nationwide. It forms a baseline protective barrier on plant tissue to prevent spore germination prior to infection events.
As a liquid soluble concentrate, it offers convenient handling and dispersion in spray tanks compared to traditional dry copper formulations. Its broad registered use profile makes it a versatile tool for integrated orchard and vineyard disease management.
Active constituents
- COPPER PRESENT AS A CUPRIC AMMONIUM COMPLEX93 g/L
Registered uses
Withholding period
WITHOLDING PERIODS: Wine Grapes: Do Not harvest for 4 weeks after application. Almond Apples Apricots Avocadoes, Bananas Beans Brassicas Capsicum, Carrot Celery Cherries Citrus, Cucurbits Kiwifruit Lettuce Lychees, Macadamias Mangoes Nectarine Onions, Parsnips Passionfruit Peaches Pears, Peas Pecans Plums Potatoes Red Beet, Rhubarb Silver Beet Spinach, Strawberries Table Grapes Tobacco, Tomatoes Walnuts. Do Not Harvest for 1 Day After Application.
The withholding period text specifies a four-week harvest WHP for wine grapes to prevent residue interference during fermentation. For table grapes, citrus, tree nuts (macadamias, almonds, pecans, walnuts), pome fruit, stone fruit, subtropical fruit (avocadoes, mangoes, lychees, passionfruit, bananas), and listed vegetable crops, a one-day harvest withholding period applies. Always review the approved product label to confirm exact withholding requirements for your specific crop before harvesting.
Mode of action
Copper acts as a multi-site contact protectant (FRAC Group M1). Denaturing fungal and bacterial proteins and disrupt enzyme function upon contact, cupric ions (Cu2+) prevent spore germination and bacterial cell division. Because it functions strictly as a protective contact layer, coverage must be established prior to fungal spore release or bacterial infection.
Resistance management
Because Group M1 copper fungicides target multiple biochemical sites within pathogen cells, the risk of pathogens developing resistance is considered low. To maintain robust long-term disease control and protect non-copper options, alternate or tank-mix copper applications with targeted fungicides from different FRAC groups where allowed. Maintain detailed records in your spray diary to monitor crop exposure throughout the season.
Tank-mix compatibility
Care must be taken when tank mixing cupric ammonium complex formulations. Do not mix copper fungicides with acidifying agents, organosilicone surfactants, or horticultural oils unless specifically advised on the approved product label, as acidic water or oil combinations can increase soluble copper uptake and lead to crop phytotoxicity. Always perform a physical jar test before mixing full spray volumes and strictly follow label compatibility instructions.
Handling and environment
When handling, preparing, and applying this product, wear appropriate personal protective equipment as outlined on the registered label. Avoid spray drift onto non-target crops, sensitive native vegetation, aquatic environments, and waterways. Re-entry guidelines, environmental precautions, and specific handling safety measures are detailed on the approved label and must be observed at all times.
Common questions
- When is the optimal timing for copper applications in fruit and nut crops?
- Copper fungicides work strictly as protectants and must be applied prior to rainfall or high-humidity events that trigger spore germination. Check district agronomy guides and the registered label for growth-stage timing specific to your crop and district.
- Why do wine grapes have a longer withholding period than table grapes?
- Wine grapes require a four-week withholding period to ensure copper residues do not reach levels that could disrupt yeast activity during wine fermentation. Table grapes carry a shorter one-day withholding period as stated on the label.
- How does a liquid copper complex differ from dry copper powders?
- A cupric ammonium complex is a fully dissolved liquid formulation. It eliminates dust during tank loading, mixes readily, and generally leaves less visible surface residue on foliage and developing fruit compared to heavy dry copper wettable powders.
- What factors increase the risk of copper phytotoxicity on sensitive tissue?
- Copper injury can occur if sprays dry too slowly under humid, overcast conditions, if applied in extremely hot weather, or if mixed with acidic tank partners that solubilise excessive copper ions. Ensure good drying conditions and verify water pH prior to application.
- How do I check application rates and water volumes for my specific crop?
- Application rates, required water volumes, and specific crop safety warnings vary depending on the target disease and tree size. Always consult the approved container label attached to the product before calculating spray volumes.