1、Role of calcium nutrition in plant Physiology: Advances in research and

Calcium fertilizers play a key role in improving acidic soils and facilitating sustainable crop production. Liming is a key mechanism by which calcium fertilizers mitigate soil acidity.

2、Calcium Regulates Growth and Nutrient Absorption in Poplar Seedlings

As a crucial element for plants, calcium (Ca) is involved in photosynthesis and nutrient absorption, and affects the growth of plants. Poplar is an important economic forest and shelter forest species in China. However, the optimum calcium concentration for its growth is still unclear.

3、Function and application of calcium in plant growth and development

Calcium in crops has dual functions. It not only participates in the formation of cell walls and membranes but also plays a role in responding to various environmental stimuli and internal growth and development signals as an intracellular second messenger.

Calcium Nutrition in Crops: Why It Matters and How to Apply It

Calcium nutrition in crops is essential for strong growth and fruit quality. Learn how Green Soil calcium fertilizers prevent deficiencies.

Calcium

Calcium plays a key role in cell wall structure and membrane integrity. In addition to plant stability, strong cell walls help prevent invasion by numerous fungi and bacteria.

Nutrient Requirements and Fertilizer Management Strategies in Plant

In cultivated systems, it is often necessary to supplement soil fertility through the judicious application of fertilizers in order to meet crop nutrient demands and maintain or increase yields [2, 3].

Calcium: Improved plant health and nutrition

In high-value tree and vegetable crops, there are specific growth stages that require calcium uptake; therefore, soluble calcium sources are applied. Generally, calcium nitrate is soil-applied as a dry fertilizer or fertigated as a fluid fertilizer.

(PDF) Calcium as a Plant Nutrient

Calcium (Ca) is an essential plant nutrient responsible for the integrity of cells and plant structure, yet it is generally neglected, because it is available in plenty in most cultivated soils....

Need Calcium Fertilizers for Stronger Crops?

Plant roots also require calcium, which is essential for the normal development of a healthy root system to ensure crops can take up the air, water, and nutrients they need from the soil. Calcium also increases resistance to outside attack and increases the feed value of forage crops to livestock.

Role of Calcium in Plant and Soil Fortification Strategies

Calcium is a vital macronutrient for plants, typically absorbed by roots from the soil solution as Ca²⁺ ions. It influences several physiological processes: One of calcium’s primary roles is maintaining the structural integrity of cell walls and membranes.

The seedling stage of crops is a critical phase in plant growth, during which nutritional status profoundly impacts development, yield, and quality. The role of calcium fertilizer during this period cannot be overlooked. As one of the essential macronutrients for plants, calcium serves as a cofactor for numerous enzymes and hormones, playing a vital role in healthy growth.

I. The Importance of Calcium Fertilizer

1. Cell Wall Construction: Calcium is a key component of plant cell walls, particularly in xylem and phloem tissues. Cell walls provide structural support and protect plants from external stresses, such as mechanical damage or pathogen invasion. During the seedling stage, intact cell walls are crucial for enhancing pest and disease resistance and improving stress tolerance.

2. Root Development: Calcium promotes root growth and extension, enabling efficient water and nutrient uptake. Healthy roots ensure the transport of soil nutrients into the plant, accelerating growth and biomass accumulation. Additionally, calcium enhances interactions between roots and soil microorganisms, fostering beneficial microbial communities and improving the plant’s microecological environment.

3. Hormone Regulation: Calcium participates in the synthesis and regulation of hormones like auxins and cytokinins, which govern growth, development, and reproduction. Adequate calcium supply directly affects hormone balance and overall plant performance.

4. Photosynthesis: Calcium is involved in chlorophyll synthesis, the pigment essential for photosynthesis. Sufficient calcium increases chlorophyll content and stability, boosting photosynthetic efficiency and energy reserves.

5. Enzyme Function: Calcium acts as an activator or cofactor for various enzymes involved in metabolic processes, such as protein synthesis, fat metabolism, and carbohydrate breakdown. Calcium availability directly influences enzyme activity, subsequently affecting growth and yield.

II. The Necessity of Supplementing Calcium Fertilizer

1. Yield Improvement: Proper calcium application significantly increases crop yields. Studies show that calcium enhances biomass, especially when phosphorus or potassium is deficient, effectively compensating for nutrient gaps.

2. Quality Enhancement: Calcium fertilization improves crop quality by increasing the content of nutrients like proteins and vitamin C, thereby elevating market value.

3. Stress Resistance: Calcium strengthens abiotic and biotic stress tolerance. Under drought, salinity, or pest attacks, calcium helps maintain physiological functions, reducing damage.

4. Healthy Growth: Appropriate calcium use prevents calcium-deficiency disorders (e.g., root rot, yellowing) and enhances disease resistance, promoting overall plant health.

III. Recommendations for Calcium Fertilizer Application

1. Optimal Timing: Apply calcium fertilizer during the seedling stage, when demand is high and absorption efficiency is peak.

2. Application Methods: Tailor methods (e.g., furrow, hole, or foliar spraying) and dosages to crop needs and soil conditions. Avoid overapplication to prevent soil salinization.

3. Integrated Fertilization: Combine calcium with nitrogen, potassium, and other nutrients to enhance synergistic effects. Customize plans based on soil type and crop variety.

4. Monitoring and Adjustment: Regularly assess crop growth (e.g., leaf color, height) and soil parameters (pH, EC). Adjust strategies based on observed effects.

Calcium is indispensable during the seedling stage due to its roles in cell wall formation, root development, hormone regulation, photosynthesis, and enzyme function. Proper calcium application improves yield, quality, stress resistance, and growth. To maximize benefits, develop science-based fertilization plans and dynamically adjust practices through monitoring.