Calcium plays a critical role in the development of all plants. Calcium promotes a strong stand and is pivotal in the determination of crop yield. In combination with other essential nutrients, the presence of calcium can help maintain a chemical balance in the soil, reduce soil salinity, and improve water penetration. It can also play a critical metabolic role in the removal of carbohydrates as well as the neutralization of cell acids. It is often applied as an amendment to the soil to promote the health of microbial life and the decomposition of crop residues. Calcium is an important constituent in all cell membranes.