The Effects of Copper (II) sulfate on Weeds
 



Purpose:  Since the creation of the garden, mankind has long searched for an effective method of removing unwanted plants from the wanted ones.  This week Scientific AmeriKen will attempt to kill a weed using a solution created with Copper (II) sulfate (CuSO4).

Hypothesis:  Judging from the lable which reads,  "May cause burns, may cause irritation to skin, eyes, respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract ... " Scientific Ameriken hypothesizes that Copper (II) sulfate must in someway be harmful to plants.

Equipment:  Used in this experiment was a dixie cup, Copper (II) sulfate,  water,  and a weed growing in an lightly travelled obscure area.

Procedure:  The first step is to mix a good amount of the Copper (II) sulfate in with a full cup of water.  Pour at the base of the weed and observe changes over time.

Results:
*  After 15 days, weeds were extracted by a shovel

Conclusion:  The results demonstrate that weeds are truly a pain. Although this experiment demonstrates that Copper (II) sulfate is not effective as a herbicide, it perhaps may be for the good as some believe Copper (II) sulfate to be a lethal contaminant.  However, for those of use who fear not the little things, the scientific search for other herbicides continues.


Return to Scientific AmeriKen

To examine a printable version of this experiment click here
Right Click here to adjust the sound--->