Calcium deficiency in plants: Plant leaves turning brown and curling up

How do you recognise a calcium deficiency?

• You will see brown spots, starting at the new leaves.

• The tips of older leaves will curl up.

• The yield will be less and of poorer quality.

• The leaves will go dark green.

• The stem will be weaker.

• Your plants will start flowering early.

What is the (possible) cause?

• The pH value of the soil or substrate is too low.

• The EC value of the soil or substrate is too high.

• The levels of potassium or magnesium in the soil are too high.

• Too little or incorrect fertilisation.

• Salt stress.

• Drought stress.

How can you prevent it?

Prevention is better than cure. Therefore, choose a calcium rich potting soil to allow your plant to grow. Use one of our base nutrients (like Hydro A&B) to reduce the likelihood of a deficiency. Also keep abiotic factors in mind. These include temperature, light intensity, acidity, amount of moisture and wind strength.

How can you cure it?

Is your EC value too high? Then we recommend rinsing the soil or substrate with clean water. The same applies to the pH value. You can also increase the pH value of your soil to the ideal range with Calcium Kick. Calcium and other nutrients are then absorbed optimally. However, make sure you do not add too much. When there is an excess of calcium, your plants may experience a potassium, magnesium, iron or manganese deficiency. 

What does calcium do for the plant?

Calcium plays a role in cell division, making it essential for plant building. Together with pectin, it also helps construct and strengthen cell walls. Calcium also plays a part in the development and functioning or the root system and in the metabolic process.

Not sure if you have a calcium deficiency?

Contact our Grow Experts via Servicedesk and ask for advice.