Generally, copper deficiency is not common due to the presence of copper in many medicines. However, deficiencies can be seen in lands newly opened to agriculture, especially if the organic matter content is high. This is because organic matter binds copper very strongly. Sometimes high levels of other microelements also cause copper deficiency.

Copper is necessary for chlorophyll formation. It is a catalyst for respiration and regulates carbon dioxide uptake, so it is a very effective element in photosynthesis. When the content of copper in the plant falls below normal, generative development in plants is more affected. Deformation, discoloration, lack of flowers, failure to form or flower abscission may be observed in the flowers. There is a decrease in the formation of amino acids and enzymes.

Copper deficiency, like other microelements, first appears in young leaves. Because copper is not mobile within the plant.

• It is necessary for the formation of chlorophyll. It regulates carbon dioxide uptake and is effective in photosynthesis.
• It is found in the structure of many enzymes. It is important for protein production.
• It is a catalyst for respiration.
• It ensures balancing of water movement in the plant.
• It takes part in the formation of the cell wall.
• It is necessary for normal flower formation and seed production.

• Yellowing, sometimes whitening or gray-green appearance in young leaves, drying in advanced cases.
• Yellowing at the shoot tips, drying out in advanced cases or backward death.
• Bushiness, dwarfing, and decrease in spike formation in plants.
• Deterioration of flowers, discoloration, lack of flowers, abscission or absence of flowers.
• Fruit cracking, premature ripening and shedding of fruits.
• Root formation decreases. Root development is prevented.

• Alkaline, calcareous, high pH soils.
• Soils with high organic matter content that are newly opened for agriculture.
• Low amount of copper in the soil.
• Proportional excess of other trace elements. Especially iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo).
• Cold and rainy weather conditions.
• High application of nitrogen or phosphorus.