Orchid Calcium Deficiency ?

[Katherine]

What are the symptoms of calcium deficiency in orchids?

[raybark]

With insufficient calcium, plants may display stunted or stopped growth, or become susceptible to diseases. Other possible symptoms include distorted new growth, black spots, yellow leaf margins, and premature flower drop.

Calcium is one of those "immobile" minerals that cannot be relocated from one part of the plant to another, so it's important to maintain a steady supply. Also keep in mind that calcium is often used simultaneously with magnesium, so it's a good idea to make both available.

Most folks' water supplies have enough to keep the plants in good shape though...

[Katherine]

Thanks!