Why do plants need calcium?


Quick Answer

Plants require calcium for proper growth because calcium is essential for the development of strong cell walls. The element is also used in cellular signaling, a biological process critical to a plant's healthy development.

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Full Answer

Generally, plants absorb calcium from soil, and it is rare for a plant to have calcium deficiency. When too little calcium is available to a growing plant, disorders can develop, such as those that result in damaged lettuce tips or burned tomatoes. Too much calcium in the soil can be harmful to a developing plant, leading to issues such as deposits of calcium carbonate crystals in plant parts.

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