High copper in soil

Question

My father had a soil test on his garden done. He was told everything is fine, except the copper levels are very high. He has 30, supposed to be around 2(?).

Is there a plant that he can overwinter in the garden that will “use up” some of the copper amounts? Do you have a suggestion to help bring the copper level down?

Thanks,
Jen

Answer 1

Excess Copper is usually not naturally occurring, it is likely due to excessive copper application.
In my research it can be extremely difficult to remove the copper from the soil.
Heavy concentrations of Phosphorous fertilizers may reduce the available excess copper to the plants. Adding Lime can also help as copper becomes less available to the plants when the ph is high.

You may want to repeat the soil test to verify the results.
You local County Extension Office can help you with a test.

Here is a link to help you locate your closest office.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search/

Here is some more information.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/copper-for-the-garden.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm