Unlocking Plant Performance
Unlocking Plant Performance with Ferticell Calcium 880™
(This is the first of two articles on the Ferticell® line of calcium)
Ferticell® Calcium 880™ is more than a calcium supplement; it’s a biologically advanced solution designed to meet the critical demands of modern agriculture. By combining ultra-fine calcium carbonate with freshwater algae extracts, Calcium 880™ delivers a potent, plant-accessible form of calcium that plays a transformative role in soil health, plant structure, and crop quality.
At the heart of its formulation is a pharmaceutical-grade 40% calcium suspension derived from ultra-micronized calcium carbonate, with particles under 1 micron. This exceptionally fine particle allows for effective penetration into leaf cuticles and root tissues further enhanced by the fresh-water algae cells (ICE), enabling rapid assimilation and systemic transport of calcium throughout the plant Because calcium is immobile in plants once deposited, this technology overcomes the issue to ensure timely and efficient delivery as key to preventing deficiencies and achieving uniform development.
What also sets Calcium 880™ apart is that complexation with unicellular freshwater algae. These algae extracts contain naturally occurring amino acids, organic acids, polysaccharides, and growth-promoting compounds that act as natural chelators, enhancing solubility of calcium and is a further key to its uptake efficiency. The result is a chloride- and sulfate-free formulation with an ultra-low salt index that is safe for repeated use and highly compatible with regenerative farming systems.
Technical Highlights
- 40% calcium content derived from high-purity calcium carbonate
- Submicron particle size for superior bioavailability
- Complexed with bioactive freshwater algae extracts
- Free of chloride, sulfate, and synthetic chelates
- Flowable, stable liquid with minimal agitation required
- pH stable and effective across a wide range of soil conditions
Agronomic Advantages Calcium 880™ is uniquely positioned to solve multiple agronomic challenges:
- Correcting and Preventing Calcium Deficiencies: Calcium is essential for cell wall structure and intracellular signaling. Deficiencies result in weakened tissues and physiological disorders. Calcium 880™ ensures efficient uptake even under stressful conditions, reinforcing fruit firmness and structural resilience.
- Amending Sodic and Saline Soils: The high-purity calcium carbonate displaces sodium ions on soil exchange sites, promoting flocculation and restoring soil structure. Improved aggregation leads to better water infiltration, root aeration, and nutrient retention.
- Reducing Postharvest Disorders: By strengthening tissue at the cellular level, Calcium 880™ reduces the incidence of calcium-related disorders like bitter pit in apples, blossom end rot in tomatoes and peppers, and cork spot in pears. The result is improved shelf life and reduced losses during storage and transport.
- Improving Stress Tolerance: Calcium is central to cell membrane integrity and function. Adequate levels improve tolerance to drought, salinity, and thermal extremes. The freshwater algae co-formulants further enhance plant recovery and resilience through bioactive compounds.
- Supporting Microbial Activity: The freshwater algae extracts act as a prebiotic source for beneficial microbes in the rhizosphere, enhancing biological fertility and supporting nutrient cycling.
Application Strategy Calcium 880™ can be applied via fertigation, drip irrigation, in-furrow, or foliar spray. It is particularly effective:
- Early in the season as a pre-plant soil amendment
- At flowering and fruit development stages to support calcium loading
- In salt-affected fields to rehabilitate soil structure and improve infiltration
Compatibility Notes The product is compatible with most fertilizers and pesticides but should be jar-tested prior to mixing with phosphates or acidifying agents to prevent precipitation. Gentle agitation before use ensures uniform distribution in tanks or applicators.
Conclusion Ferticell Calcium 880™ is a next-generation calcium solution designed for growers who demand more than just nutrition. With its micronized mineral base and biologically active algae complex, it addresses plant health, soil remediation, and stress management in one clean, versatile product. Whether you’re managing high-value horticultural crops or addressing tough soil conditions, Calcium 880™ offers a proven path to stronger plants, better quality, and more sustainable productivity.
