Tomatoes need calcium to develop flawlessly.
Calcium deficiency in tomatoes often causes blossom end rot, a disease that destroys the fruit. Usually, increased water is the most effective correction because it allows the plant to absorb calcium that is already present in the soil.
What Is Calcium?
Stalactites contain calcium carbonate and other minerals.
Calcium is an alkaline metal and one of the most abundant minerals on earth. It is found in limestone, gypsum, sea shells, rock formations such as stalactites, and within the bodies of both animals and plants.
Why Do Tomatoes Need Calcium?
Tomatoes need calcium to support cell wall growth, which helps resist disease.
Plants use calcium for the growth of cell walls. Strong cell walls help protect the plant from attacks by pathogens that cause disease. Plants also use calcium for enzyme activity and metabolism.
Blossom End Rot
Blossom end rot is a condition that develops in tomatoes due to a calcium deficiency. It first appears as a watery spot near the blossom end when the fruit is about one-third developed. Eventually, the spot will darken and spread until it covers about half of the tomato.
Lack of Water Could Be the Real Culprit
Tomatoes cannot absorb calcium unless it is dissolved in water.
Most garden soil has sufficient calcium, but tomato plants can only absorb calcium if it is dissolved in water so they can drink it through their roots. Tomatoes need about 1 inch of water (3 to 5 gallons) per week. Mulch also is helpful because it reduces evaporation and can cut the plant's water needs in half.
Calcium Deficiency in Soil
Gysum contains calcium and can be spread on gardens to increase calcium levels.
If the soil is calcium deficient, limestone or gypsum can be added to raise calcium levels. Limestone should not be used, however, if the soil's pH is 6.0 or higher.
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