How do I know if I need Cal-Mag?
The most obvious signs of a Cal-Mag deficiency are slow and stunted growth. Localized rot on buds, new leaves, fruits, and blooms are also a sure sign of a Cal-Mag deficiency.
- lower calcium levels in the blood, known as hypocalcemia.
- lower potassium levels in the blood called hypokalemia.
- numbness and tingling in the extremities.
- cramps and muscle contractions.
- seizures.
- personality changes.
- abnormal heart rhythms.
- coronary spasms.
Cal-Mag deficiencies can be catastrophic to gardens as well as hydroponic systems. But in most instances, Cal-Mag supplements are not essential as both nutrients are very easily available in water and soil. But in exceptional circ*mstances, supplements are essential.
Use with every watering as needed. Mix well and adjust pH accordingly. Shake well before each use. Add 1 tsp (5ml) per gallon of water, Mix well and adjust pH to 6.2-7.0 before application.
Cal-Mag Deficiency Symptoms
The first signs of Cal-Mag deficiency tend to take the form of small spots that show up in the middle of older leaves. The spots are normally brown and yellow. If the number of spots increases and turn rusty in a color, that means the deficiency is getting worse.
Just make sure you don't overdo it when adding to the nutrient solution. Just 0.5ml per Litre is fine in most cases. CalMag contains 3.2% calcium, 1.2% magnesium , 0.1% iron and 2.6% nitrogen.
Once your base nutrients are mixed in well, you can add cal-mag if you are using it. This is an especially important supplement for those using RO water, as the filter will strip out these minerals.
Some growers will add 1 tsp of Epsom salt/gallon of water and water plants with this mixture in response to a magnesium deficiency (since Epsom salt is primarily made of magnesium). As I mentioned, often a magnesium deficiency is actually caused by a mix of factors, such as pH being off.
Botanicare Cal-Mag Plus (2-0-0) is a custom plant supplement designed to correct the inherent problem of calcium, magnesium and iron mineral deficiencies found in most soil fertilizers and some hydroponic nutrient formulas.
Why Is There Cal Mag Deficiency in the Plant? Cal-mag deficiency occurs when the garden soil is sandy or coarse and is subject to RO treated water or heavy phosphorus-based fertilizers. Aside from these, there are a few other reasons such as pH imbalance and low transpiration that can cause the problem.
When should I feed Cal-Mag?
Best Time To Give Cal Mag - YouTube
The most obvious problem that you'll see if you overdo it with a calcium additive is leaf burn. The cannabis plant is reacting to the excessive levels of calcium and is trying to push it out from the leaf tips. This causes necrosis (death) of the leaf tips, and they will be a yellow/brown color.
Calcium, magnesium and iron deficiencies often appear together. The best way to restore is to flush your plants with clean pH neutral water, and then resupply the water nutrient solution. You can also supplement your nutrient-water solution with Cal-Mag to avoid calcium and magnesium deficiencies in the future.
