1、Physiological and Molecular Mechanisms of Plant Responses to Copper

This review summarizes the biological functions of Cu, the toxicity of excess Cu to plant growth and development, the roles of Cu transport proteins and chaperone proteins, and the transport process of Cu in plants, as well as the mechanisms of detoxification and tolerance of Cu in plants.

2、Copper bioavailability, uptake, toxicity and tolerance in plants: A

Most of the studies revealed that Cu 2+ and Cu + are the most abundant forms of Cu for plant uptake, and their mobility is reliant on pH, organic matter etc. (Amery et al., 2008).

3、Copper: uptake, toxicity and tolerance in plants and management of Cu

Copper (Cu) is an essential mineral nutrient for the proper growth and development of plants; it is involved in myriad morphological, physiological, and biochemical processes.

4、(PDF) Copper in plants

Since copper is both an essential cofactor and a toxic element, different strategies with a complex network of metal trafficking pathways have been evolved in plants to appropriately regulate...

Copper (Cu): A Multifunctional Micronutrient for Plant Metabolism

Copper (Cu) is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development. It is involved in various physiological processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, and enzyme activation. Cu is also a component of several enzymes that are crucial for plant metabolism.

What does Copper Do for Plants?

Copper increases plants’ efficiency at using energy from sunlight, forming chlorophyll and resisting some plant diseases. In the US, copper-deficient soils cause stunted growth in many crops. You might see leaf curling and chlorosis (yellowing) in crops such as wheat and citrus.

Copper in plants: acquisition, transport and interactions

Copper is an essential metal for plants. It plays key roles in photosynthetic and respiratory electron transport chains, in ethylene sensing, cell wall metabolism, oxidative stress protection and biogenesis of molybdenum cofactor.

Molecular Mechanisms of Plant Responses to Copper: From

As a micronutrient, Cu has low cellular requirements in plants. However, its bioavailability may be significantly reduced in alkaline or organic matter-rich soils. Cu deficiency is a severe and widespread nutritional disorder that affects plants.

Effects of copper stress on plant growth and advances in the mechanisms

This work reviewed the studies related to copper stress in plants domestically and overseas, and systematically summarized the physiological process of Cu absorption, transportation and accumulation, and the tolerance mechanism of plants in response to copper stress.

Copper uptake, essentiality, toxicity, detoxification and risk

Copper (Cu) is an essential metal for human, animals and plants, although it is also potentially toxic above supra-optimal levels. In plants, Cu is an essential cofactor of numerous metalloproteins and is involved in several biochemical and physiological processes.

Copper plant, scientifically known as Hydrocotyle vulgaris, is a popular aquatic plant cherished for its unique shape and elegant appearance. Widely cultivated in home gardening due to its low-maintenance nature and ornamental value, copper plant’s fertilization preferences—particularly its affinity for potassium-rich fertilizers—depend on its growth habits, nutritional needs, and the role of potassium in its development.

I. Growth Habits and Nutrient Requirements

1. Growth Characteristics: As a perennial aquatic herb, copper plant features round or kidney-shaped, serrated leaves that float gracefully on water, optimizing photosynthesis. It thrives in warm, humid environments (15–30°C) and requires adequate sunlight for healthy growth.

2. Nutritional Needs: While not light-intensive, copper plant relies on essential nutrients:

   • Nitrogen (N): Crucial for chlorophyll synthesis and leaf growth.
   • Phosphorus (P): Supports root development and flower/fruit formation.
   • Potassium (K): Enhances stress resistance, stem strength, and promotes flowering.

II. The Role of Potassium-Rich Fertilizers

1. Accelerating Growth: Potassium stimulates cell division and elongation, boosting growth rates. It also strengthens disease resistance, reducing the risk of infections.

2. Regulating Physiological Functions: Potassium improves water metabolism, enhancing drought tolerance, and increases cold resistance, ensuring resilience in adverse conditions.

3. Promoting Flowering: Potassium directly influences flower bud differentiation, increasing bloom rates and extending flowering periods.

III. Copper Plant’s Relationship with Potassium Fertilizers

1. Optimal Fertilizer Types: Balanced fertilizers containing N-P-K are ideal. Organic options like compost or bone meal improve soil structure while providing nutrients.

2. Timing:

   • Spring/Summer: Higher nitrogen demand for leaf growth.
   • Fall: Reduce nitrogen to prevent overgrowth during dormancy.

3. Application Rates: Biweekly applications of diluted, balanced fertilizers suffice. Over-fertilization leads to excessive growth, compromising aesthetics.

IV. Recommendations and Cautions

1. Monitor Plant Responses: Observe for signs of nutrient imbalance (e.g., yellowing leaves, wilting) and adjust fertilization or soil conditions accordingly.

2. Avoid Over-Fertilization:

   • Excess nitrogen causes spindly growth.
   • Lack of phosphorus hinders root/flower development.
   • Excess potassium may lead to "fertilizer burn" (root damage).

3. Blend Fertilizers Smartly: Combine N-P-K fertilizers in appropriate ratios to ensure comprehensive nutrition while mitigating risks from single-nutrient overload.

Copper plant indeed benefits from potassium-rich fertilizers due to their growth-promoting, stress-alleviating, and flowering-enhancing effects. balanced fertilization practices—tailored to growth stages and soil conditions—are critical to avoid harm. With proper care, copper plants thrive as vibrant, low-maintenance ornamentals.