Over the last few weeks, we have focussed on the major macronutrients N, P and K. Now, we will look at the remaining three macronutrients, which are Calcium, Magnesium, and Sulphur.
Calcium
Most of you who have grown tomatoes would have faced the issue of tomato fruit turning brown (and then black) at the base. This phenomenon, known as ‘Blossom End Rot’, is a classic symptom of deficiency of calcium. Calcium is a vital macronutrient which forms a part of the plants’ cell wall. An adequate amount of calcium in early days is important to ensure healthy root development. A lack of calcium can also lead to reduced growth or stunting in plants.
Magnesium
Hardly any plant can survive without photosynthesis. The molecule that helps plants carry out the process of photosynthesis is ‘Chlorophyll.’ Magnesium is a major constituent of chlorophyll. Thus, for any plant to convert light energy into food, they need Magnesium. Lack of Magnesium will mean that a plant will not be able to meet its energy requirements and growth will be sub-optimal.