Why was Cheshunt compound banned?

A: The Chemicals Regulation Directorate has withdrawn Cheshunt Compound (copper sulphate) from sale as a fungicide for use against diseases such as damping off. One possibility for small prop houses is Bayer Garden’s Fruit & Vegetable Disease Control.

What is Cheshunt compound?

Cheshunt Compound is copper sulphate powder mixed with ammonium carbonate. All compounds are available to buy on ebay to mix yourself. I think both compound work by coating the soil/plant with copper as the active ingredient.

Is Bordeaux mixture banned in the UK?

It was invented in the Bordeaux region of France in the late 19th century. If it is applied in large quantities annually for many years, the copper in the mixture eventually becomes a pollutant. As such its sale and use is illegal in Great Britain and most of the European Union.

How do you use Cheshunt compound?

Mix ammonium carbonate powder with powdered copper sulphate and store in an airtight jar for at least 24hrs before using. Prepare a solution by dissolving 1oz of the dry mixture in a little hot water and then adding 2 galls of water. Use iron or tin containers and only prepare as much as you need for immediate use.

Is the sale of Cheshunt compound banned in the EU?

I’m pink, therefore I’m Spam. The EU, bless ’em, have banned the sale of Cheshunt compound; that useful fungicide that keeps “damping off” to a minimum. However, if you have access to a builders’ merchant you can buy the main ingredient easily and the other stuff is available online.

Is the anti damping off fungicide Cheshunt has a shelf life?

I was browsing the archives on the techniques for using the anti damping off fungicide , Cheshunt Compound , to my horror I read that it has a shelf life ! The tin I have is now 4 years old , should I chuck it before next season ? Can a chemical compound of copper sulphate go off ? I never excelled at chemistry : (

What happens to copper sulphate in Cheshunt compound?

But even old Cheshunt compound (perhaps at a higher strength) will be better than nothing. Anything I fancy and can afford! When copper sulphate absorbs water as it may well do in storage, it undergoes a chemical change. Copper sulphate + water –>Copper oxide + dihydrogen sulphate (sulphuric acid!).

Do you need to Spray your compost with Cheshunt?

I was recommended to spray my seed trays compost with Cheshunt Compound prior to sowing the seed to prevent damping off. After a fruitless search it seems that Cheshunt is no longer available so I’d like to ask is there an alternative or should I buy the ingredients online and make my own.