They maintained significant levels of control for up to 90 days, whereas Copper Fungicides showed a notable

decline in control after just 7-14 days.

The difference in their mode of action explains this contrast; Copper Nutritional products are systemic and

designed to increase the plant's copper levels, whereas Copper Fungicides are contact-based and remain mostly

on the leaf surface, making them susceptible to weather-induced degradation and physical removal.

Copper nutrition products work by providing plants with a source of copper, which is an essential micronutrient required for plant growth and development. Copper helps to activate enzymes involved in several physiological processes in plants, including photosynthesis and respiration. Additionally, copper has been shown to have anti-fungal properties, which makes it effective in controlling plant diseases.

Studies have shown that copper can enhance plant immune responses by regulating gene expression and enzyme activity involved in defense mechanisms. For example, a study by R. Mehari et al. (2015) in the journal Plant Physiology and Biochemistry found that copper enhanced the activity of enzymes involved in the synthesis of lignin, which is a component of plant cell walls that plays a crucial role in plant defense against pathogens.