bordeaux mixture
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - A fungicidal preparation: "Bordeaux mixture" is a specific antifungal agent used primarily in agriculture. It is a solution made by combining copper sulfate and slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) in water. It is used to control fungal and bacterial diseases on plants, such as downy mildew, blight, and leaf spots.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The vineyard manager sprayed the grapevines with Bordeaux mixture to prevent mildew.
- Bordeaux mixture is an old but effective organic fungicide for tomato plants.
Advanced Usage
- Historical Context: The mixture was accidentally discovered in the Bordeaux region of France in the late 19th century and became widely used to combat downy mildew in vineyards.
- Preparation Note: The efficacy of Bordeaux mixture depends on the correct ratio of its components (copper sulfate to lime) and proper application timing.
Variants and Related Words
- Copper fungicide (n): A broader category of fungicides that use copper compounds, which includes Bordeaux mixture.
- Slaked lime (n): Calcium hydroxide, a key component of the mixture.
- Copper sulfate (n): Also known as bluestone, the other primary component.
Synonyms
- Copper-lime spray: A direct descriptive synonym.
- Fungicidal spray: A general term for substances with a similar purpose.
Notes
- Caution: While considered an organic treatment, Bordeaux mixture must be used carefully as copper can accumulate in soil and be toxic to earthworms and some beneficial microbes if over-applied.
- Appearance: It is known for its distinctive light blue or turquoise color when properly mixed.
Noun
- antifungal agent consisting of a solution of copper sulphate and quicklime