Calcium deficiency made worse by

  • Acidic soils
  • Sandy or light soils (leaching)
  • Acid peat soils
  • Soils rich in sodium
  • Soils rich in aluminium
  • Drought conditions
  • Fruit high in nitrogen or potassium
  • Large fruit

Calcium is important for

  • Structure, stability and permeability of cell membranes
  • Regulation of enzyme systems
  • Alongside potassium responsible for regulation of stomata
  • Gives plants more resistance to biotic and abiotic stress
  • Improves leaf quality
  • Required in large quantities