Match calcium application to active root growth

Calcium uptake by plants is dependent on new root growth and effective transpiration. Uptake of calcium only occurs through young root tips as the cell membranes of the epidermis are still permeable – no casparian band (Figure 1). In older roots once the casparian band has formed, it blocks calcium transport through apoplast cells in the root. This is highlighted in Figure 2 as calcium uptake reduces with increased distance from the root tip.

Permanent planted crops such as grape vines are about to have their two distinct phases of active growth or root flush. This generally occurs after harvest but may occur when there is still fruit on the vine in some long season varieties. Applying calcium during this period allows calcium to be effectively taken up by the plant to build and strengthen root systems after a long hot summer.

Balanced grape crop nutrition programs should be targeting 20-25% of the total calcium to be applied during the second root flush. For more information on Post harvest nutrition of Grapevine click on here, visit www.yara.com.au or talk to your local Yara Sales Agronomist.