Proper plant nutrition is essential for healthy plant growth and flower development. Amino acids and calcium are two of the most vital elements in plant growth and development. Amino acids play an essential role in protein synthesis and the production of enzymes, hormones, and chlorophyll, while calcium aids in proper cell growth and division. In this blog, we will explain the crucial relationship between amino acids and calcium in plant nutrition.
The balance of plant nutrients is critical to healthy plant growth. Amino acids and calcium are key to plant nutrition, and they work together extremely synergistically. Amino acids help in protein synthesis and the formation of enzymes, hormones, and chlorophyll. While calcium plays a critical role in cell wall development, cell division, and the movement of nutrients throughout the plant (known as nutrient translocation).
The Role of Amino Acids in Plant Nutrition
Amino acids are essential in plant growth and flower development. All 20 types of amino acids are needed for plant growth, and each plays a specific role in the plant’s biosynthesis chain. Amino acids assist in protein synthesis and help produce catalyst enzymes, hormones, and chlorophyll. Plants can obtain amino acids from different sources, such as fish amino acids, soybean meal, or more refined sources such as whey/plant protein powders (not generally suggested due to the many additives). Maintaining the balance of amino acids is critical in proper plant nutrition & applying it in highly available forms such as Ocean Grown Fish Hydrolysate, is very beneficial at all stages of plant growth.
The Role of Calcium in Plant Nutrition
Calcium is an essential plant nutrient necessary for vigorous plant growth and flower development. Calcium plays a vital role in cell wall development, cell division, and the movement of nutrients throughout the plant. Calcium is also essential in regulating plant hormones, critical for proper plant growth and development. Calcium is up taken by plants in the form of calcium ions.
The Synergistic Relationship Between Amino Acids and Calcium in Plant Nutrition
Amino acids and calcium work together to enhance plant growth and flower development. Amino acids help in the absorption of calcium by plant roots (via chelation), and calcium aids in the formation of protein and enzymes responsible for strong growth and flower displays. Calcium also aids in the movement of amino acids throughout the plant (nutrient translocation). This relationship is critical to proper plant nutrition, and amino acid and calcium chelation can further enhance this synergistic effect.
The Importance of Amino Acid and Calcium in Different Stages of Plant Growth
Amino acids and calcium are crucial in all stages of plant growth. In the early stages of plant growth, amino acids and calcium are essential for seed germination and early root development, only at much reduced levels compared to mature plants. During the flowering stage, amino acids and calcium play a crucial role in the formation of flowers and fruits. Maintaining the proper balance of amino acids and calcium throughout the various stages of plant growth is crucial.
What Dr Greenthumbs Products Can I Use?
We have various choices for products which are high in both these essential plant nutrients. For gardeners looking for a dry amendment source, combining Onyx (high in amino acids) with a source of calcium like Fish meal or Black Basalt Rock Dust is best.
For gardeners wanting a liquid option, our ISC Bloom Maintenance solution, combined with Ocean Grown Fish Hydrolysate, creates a very powerful source!
How to Ensure Your Plants Get Enough Amino Acids and Calcium
The soil's amino acid and calcium content is crucial in ensuring plants get the nutrients they need. Various methods can be used to add amino acids and calcium to the soil as mentioned above. Also by adding organic matter like compost or manure growers can ensure their plants have access to these vital nutrients.
