Calcium deficiency and cannabis plant growth: causes and possible solutions

17. 11. 2023

Calcium is essential for the healthy growth of cannabis plants. Its deficiency can lead to serious problems that affect yield and plant hardiness. In this article, we will look at the effect of calcium deficiency on cannabis plant growth, identify the main causes of this nutritional deficiency and propose possible solutions. Calcium deficiency can be caused by various factors, including soil conditions and irrigation. Understanding these aspects is the key to successful cannabis cultivation ensuring optimal yields.

Why is calcium important for cannabis?

Calcium is one of the essential nutrients that are necessary for optimal growth and development of cannabis plants. It plays a key role in several plant life cycles.

Probably the most important function of calcium is its effect on the regulation of cellular metabolism. Calcium acts as a so-called secondary messenger for many of the signaling channels that are necessary for the transmission of information between cells. It is thus involved in enzyme activation, growth regulation and protection of plants from stress situations.

How does calcium affect plant structure and resistance?

Cell walls: calcium is involved in the formation of cell walls, reinforcing the structure of cells and contributing to their strength.

Root suckers: calcium contributes to the development of root suckers, which are better able to take up water and nutrients from the soil.

Mechanical resistance: the right level of calcium increases the mechanical resistance of plants, which is particularly important in adverse weather conditions.

Protection against pests: calcium serves as a defence mechanism against certain types of pests and pathogens.

Symptoms of calcium deficiency in cannabis

Visual signs on leaves and stems

Chlorosis: cannabis leaves may turn yellow between each veining, which is a sign of insufficient chlorophyll production.

Brown or black spots: brown or black spots may appear on the leaves, indicating cell death.

Fragility: plants may have brittle stems and leaves that break easily.

Slow growth and development of plants

Small leaves and stamens: plant growth may be stunted, resulting in smaller than normal leaves and stamens .

Restricted height growth: plants may be shorter than normal, with stems underdeveloped.

Limited photosynthesis and negative impacts on quality

Reduced energy production: calcium deficiency can limit photosynthesis, leading to reduced energy production for growth and development.

Reduced yield: less energy can lead to lower production of buds and seeds, which negatively affects the overall yield of the hemp plant.

Causes of calcium deficiency in hemp

Unfavourable soil conditions: soil with insufficient calcium content does not provide the plants with enough of this nutrient.

Incorrect soil pH: acidic soil pH (low pH) can cause the roots of the plants to have limited access to calcium.

Insufficient liming: insufficient liming can lead to long-term calcium deficiency .

High phosphorus content: excess phosphorus in the soil can prevent plants from taking up calcium.

High potassium: excessive potassium can interfere with calcium uptake as the two nutrients compete with each other for absorption by the roots.

Irregular watering: insufficient irrigation or irregular water supply can affect the ability of plants to absorb calcium.

Low calcium binding capacity of the soil: some soil types may have a low capacity to bind calcium and make it available to plants.

Possible solutions to calcium deficiency

Soil testing: perform a soil analysis to determine the current calcium content of the soil and any deficiency.

Application of lime preparations: add calcium to the soil with lime or calcium fertilisers.

Soil pH adjustment: monitor and adjust the soil pH to an optimum value that will increase the availability of calcium to plants.

Control irrigation: ensure that plants are not irrigated with excessive amounts of water, which can affect calcium uptake.

Irrigate according to actual need: water according to the actual need of the plants and the soil to avoid waterlogging.

Prevent calcium deficiency

Plant rotation: rotate the cannabis planting site regularly to avoid calcium depletion in the soil.

Add organic fertiliser: adding compost, manure or other organic fertiliser to the soil will improve its structure and maintain nutrient availability.

Mulching: apply mulch to the soil surface to conserve moisture and improve soil structure.

Correct planting depth: planting cannabis at the appropriate depth will allow the roots to access sufficient calcium in the soil.

Regular checking: monitor the health and development of the cannabis plants and look out for signs of calcium deficiency.

A few words in conclusion

Calcium deficiency has a major impact on the resistance and yield of cannabis plants. The main causes of this deficiency are unfavourable soil conditions, incorrect pH and incorrect watering. This deficiency manifests itself visually and physically and compromises plant growth, structure and reproduction . Soil analysis, regular liming, maintaining optimum pH and correct irrigation are effective preventive measures. In this way, the risk of calcium deficiency can be minimised and the healthy and healthy growth of cannabis plants, which is essential for optimal results, can be ensured.

Now you know how calcium deficiency affects the growth of cannabis plants and how it can affect their quality and yield. To ensure optimal conditions for growing cannabis with a THC content of up to 1%, it is important to start with quality seeds. Visit our e-shop and get the seeds with up to 1% THC that will give you the results you want.