How to prepare Bordeaux mixture for grapes?

Bordeaux mixture is widely used in horticulture in order to heal plantings and to prevent the occurrence of fungus. And although at present there is a fairly wide selection of ready-made preparations of the same action, experienced gardeners prefer to prepare this composition on their own.

History of origin and scope of the Bordeaux mixture

As often happens, the origin of such an effective remedy was accidental. While preparing a solution for vine treatment, a French grower accidentally mixed blue vitriol and lime. The effectiveness of the new product turned out to be very high and it began to be used in other countries.

Most often, it is customary to use the prepared solution for gardeners in early spring before the buds open. Such preventive spraying protects plants from various misfortunes. For example, it prevents the appearance of spots on the leaves of various shrubs and strawberries, and also protects grapes from damage by black rot and mildew.

With the onset of summer, spraying with a mixture of vitriol and lime can be repeated. The substance in a small concentration will not harm the plants, and dangerous pathogens will be removed. Most often, Bordeaux mixture is used for the following crops:

• Onions gain protection from rot;
• Tomatoes and potatoes effectively resist late blight;
• On cucumber leaves, on the leaves of watermelons and melons, anthracnose does not occur;
• Bordeaux mixture for grapes is its defender against downy mildew (mildew).

How to make Bordeaux liquid

To prepare Bordeaux liquid, you need to strictly follow certain rules. Then you will prepare a really effective remedy for grapes and other plantings:

In order for this solution to have the desired effect on the plant, you need not only to know how to prepare, but also not to allow the mixing of undiluted components, add water to the solution that is already ready, and introduce dry vitriol into lime mortar. Otherwise, the efficiency of the liquid will be significantly reduced.

If you followed all the points clearly, then the Bordeaux liquid will turn out bright blue with a suspension consistency and will have a slightly alkaline reaction, which can be checked in two ways:

1. Dip a litmus test into a solution of vitriol and lime (the color should not change), and then phenolphthalein (the color should change to raspberry);
2. You can immerse a metal object (nail, wire) into the liquid. It should not form any plaque.

When using Bordeaux mixture, it is important to know about the precautions:

• Do not add any other ingredients to the solution, other than those specified in the recipe;
• Do not spray when the plant is in bloom;
• Bordeaux mixture is a medium toxic substance;
• Do not start the spraying procedure when the wind picks up, it begins to rain or there is heavy dew.

Bordeaux mixture for processing grapes

Bordeaux mixture solution is quite often used for spraying grapes. You need to apply it following this scheme:

Bordeaux liquid is a well-proven preparation for keeping many plants healthy, including grapes. In addition to fighting diseases, this composition provides the necessary supply of calcium, which is good for plant growth.