Chinese Money Plant with Calcium Deficiency? Rare but Treatable
Pilea peperomioides
Calcium deficiency is a common plant disorder caused by insufficient bioavailable calcium in the growing medium or, more frequently, by low transpiration rates that prevent proper calcium transport to new growth. It manifests as necrotic leaf margins, curling of young leaves, stunted growth, and in severe cases, conditions like blossom end rot in fruits. The disorder primarily affects rapidly growing tissues where calcium demand is highest.
ð Symptoms
- âĒ Necrotic margins on young leaves
- âĒ Curling or twisted new growth
- âĒ Tip burn with brown edges on leaves
- âĒ Stunted plant growth and reduced height
- âĒ Death of terminal buds and growing tips
- âĒ Blossom end rot on tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants
- âĒ Bitter pit on apples with brown spots
- âĒ Cavity spot on carrots and root vegetables
- âĒ Pale or withered appearance of new leaves
- âĒ Fewer nodes and reduced leaf area
â Possible Causes
- â Insufficient bioavailable calcium in soil or growing medium
- â Low transpiration in affected tissues preventing calcium transport
- â Water shortages impeding nutrient uptake
- â Acidic, sandy, or coarse soils with low calcium content
- â Uneven soil moisture and inconsistent watering
- â Excessive nitrogen fertilization
- â High phosphorus levels making calcium insoluble
- â Magnesium imbalance interfering with calcium uptake
- â Poor root health limiting nutrient absorption
- â High humidity reducing transpiration rates
ð Treatment
Quick Fixes
Step 1
Mix calcium nitrate solution: 1 teaspoon per gallon of water
Step 2
Apply as foliar spray on affected leaves in early morning or evening
Step 3
Alternatively, use as soil drench around plant base
Step 4
Flush soil with pH-adjusted water (6.5-7.0) to remove salt buildup
Step 5
Apply commercial Cal-Mag supplement following package directions
Step 6
Ensure consistent watering daily to maintain moisture
Step 7
Check for improvement in new growth within 5-7 days
Organic Treatment
Step 1
Test soil pH using a home test kit or digital meter
Step 2
If pH is below 6.5, add dolomitic limestone or crushed eggshells to raise it
Step 3
Mix 2-3 tablespoons of bone meal into the top 2-3 inches of soil around affected plants
Step 4
Water deeply to help nutrients reach root zone
Step 5
Add 1-2 inches of organic compost as mulch to maintain moisture
Step 6
Monitor plants weekly for new healthy growth
Step 7
Repeat bone meal application every 4-6 weeks during growing season
ðĄïļ Prevention
- â Maintain consistent watering schedule to ensure steady calcium transport
- â Test and adjust soil pH to 6.5-7.0 for optimal calcium availability
- â Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization during early growth stages
- â Add organic matter like compost or manure to improve soil structure
- â Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging
- â Monitor and maintain proper calcium-magnesium balance
- â Irrigate before high temperature periods to prevent stress
- â Improve air circulation in greenhouses to boost transpiration
- â Mulch plants to maintain even soil moisture
- â Avoid root damage when working near plants
ðą Care Guide: Chinese Money Plant
ð§ How to Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Allow excess water to drain completely - never let the plant sit in water. Drooping leaves indicate the plant needs water. Use filtered or dechlorinated water if possible, as this plant is sensitive to chemicals in tap water.
âïļ Lighting
Prefers bright, indirect light from an east or west-facing window. Avoid direct sunlight which can cause yellow spots or leaf burn. The plant will lean toward the light source, so rotate it weekly for balanced growth. Can tolerate medium light but will grow more slowly.
ðŠī Ideal Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix. A combination of regular potting soil and cactus soil in equal parts works well. Adding perlite or pumice improves drainage. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.