What does Calcium (Ca) do?

Calcium (Ca) is an essential part of plant cell wall structure that gives the plant its strength and plays a key role in root system and leaf development. For example, tomatoes with calcium deficiency develop blossom end rot since they are not able to produce healthy fruit.

In soil, calcium is found in calcitic limestone. Agricultural lime is used as a soil amendment to correct acidity (low pH).

While plants do require calcium from the soil, this element is over abundant in many soils and is associated with high pH (alkalinity). Click here to learn more about managing soils with high calcium.