Sclerotinia and calcium

Calcium plays a significant role in managing and preventing Sclerotinia, a fungal pathogen that causes various diseases, including Sclerotinia stem rot. While calcium itself does not directly act as a fungicide, it plays a vital role in strengthening plant cell walls, improving plant health, and reducing susceptibility to Sclerotinia infections. Here’s how calcium is related to managing Sclerotinia:

1. Cell Wall Strength and Integrity:

• Calcium is essential for the formation and strengthening of cell walls in plants. Stronger cell walls can act as physical barriers, making it harder for the Sclerotinia pathogen to penetrate and infect plant tissues.

2. Improved Plant Health and Vigor:

• Adequate calcium levels in plants contribute to overall plant health and vigor, making them better able to withstand stress and diseases, including Sclerotinia.

3. Reduced Disease Severity:

• Plants with sufficient calcium levels may experience reduced severity of Sclerotinia infections due to the fortification of cell walls, hindering the progress of the disease.

4. Enhanced Disease Resistance:

• Calcium is linked to activating the plant’s defense mechanisms, boosting its ability to resist various pathogens, potentially including Sclerotinia.

5. Calcium Nutrition and Uptake:

• Proper calcium nutrition and uptake by plants are crucial. Foliar application of calcium can be effective in ensuring that plants receive adequate calcium, especially in soils with low calcium availability.

Guidelines for Calcium Application:

1. Soil Testing and Analysis:
   • Conduct soil tests to determine calcium levels in the soil. Adjust calcium application based on the test results to ensure optimal levels.
2. Calcium-Rich Fertilizers or Amendments:
   • Use calcium-rich fertilizers or soil amendments, such as gypsum (calcium sulfate), lime (calcium carbonate), or calcium nitrate, to supply calcium to the soil.
3. Foliar Sprays:
   • Apply calcium-based foliar sprays during critical growth stages, especially when the plant is most vulnerable to Sclerotinia infection.
4. Balanced Nutrition:
   • Ensure a well-balanced nutrient program, including calcium, to promote healthy plant growth and disease resistance.
5. Proper Timing and Frequency:
   • Apply calcium at the right timing and frequency, as excess or deficient calcium can both have detrimental effects on plant health.

While calcium is important in managing plant health and potentially reducing the severity of Sclerotinia infections, it should be part of an integrated approach that includes other management practices, such as proper sanitation, crop rotation, and disease monitoring. Consulting with agricultural experts or extension services for specific recommendations based on your region and crops is always advisable.

Talk to your OMEX representative today to learn more about our range of calcium products and their use to promote crop health and help control Sclerotinia in your crops.