Calcium is an important micronutrient for plant growth.

Calcium has a major role in the formation, structure and stability of cell membranes as well as being an important signalling molecule. Through its function as a signalling molecule, calcium is involved in nutrient uptake, the heat stress response and disease mitigation. Calcium deficiency can lead to the deterioration of cell membranes and consequently cell and tissue death. Although calcium is an essential micronutrient, deficiencies are rarely observed in cereals since in most cases the calcium concentration in the soil is sufficient for the demand of the crop. 

Calcium has an important role in meristematic growth, and so symptoms of calcium deficiency appear in new growth. Unlike many other micronutrient deficiencies, calcium deficiencies do not lead to chlorosis, and instead the dark green colour is maintained. Necrotic spotting around the middle of the leaf of newest growth occurs, and this spotting expands and the lead then collapses before unrolling. In oilseed rape, deficiency causes stunting of new growth in stems, flowers and roots. Symptoms range from distorted new growth to black spots on leaves. Yellow leaf margins may also appear. 

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Crop Nutrition

Plants need around 12 essential mineral nutrients to grow: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Sulphur (S), Calcium (Ca), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Boron (B) and Molybdenum (Mo).

Grain nutrient analysis

Analysing grain for all 12 nutrients can be an effective tool to improve nutrient management, providing information on crop nutrient status and nutrient offtakes.  It can indicate whether your crops are getting hold of the nutrients they need, or whether you can save on future fertiliser use.

Managing Nutrients Better

Share your ideas and experience of how to improve nutrient efficiency and reduce dependence on artificial fertilisers

Fertiliser

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Nutrient Management

Managing nutrients effectively is crucial for our soils, crops, livestock and environment. There are many resources and initiatives available to help. 

Envirolizer

We help farmers grow naturally stronger plants, increase crop yields & immunity, and eliminate over-reliance on the use of harmful chemicals.   envirolizer® is a natural mineral plant growth enhancer and adaptogen.  It contains finely micronized and augmented natural calcite. Fully certified as organic input and fulfils the requirements of Demeter International as well as listed in the EU Input Lists. The farmers' ultimate solution for plant growth, made from 100% Natural Minerals.

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