Calcium deficiency
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Calcium deficiency Many cole crops are subject to calcium deficiency. Calcium and boron are the only two elements that primarily move through the plant via the transpirational stream. Calcium is immobile in the plant as well. Although soils may be calcium deficient, any conditions which disrupt the transpiration-al stream may result in calcium deficiency. Periods of drought or irregular watering can result in calcium deficiency in cole crops. In cabbage, calcium deficiency will appear as a burn on the leaf edges.
Calcium deficiency of cabbage.
(Photo: David Langston, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org)
Management:
- Foliar applications have been largely unsuccessful to correct calcium deficiencies in crops.
- To prevent calcium deficiencies ensure that adequate calcium is available.
- Ensure that plants are irrigated on a regular basis and avoid large fluctuations in soil water content.
