Calcium Ammonium Nitrate or simply known as nitrogen fertilizer, is a commonly used inorganic fertilizer, making up for about 4% of all agricultural nitrogen fertilizer utilized worldwide in 2007 alone. Agricultural experts believe that this amount is the highest amount of any element added to modern-day fertilizers. Although the fertilizer is said to be harmless and non-toxic, it still has to undergo rigorous testing before it is made available to the public.
There are two ways that commercial fertilizers like calcium nitrate can be introduced into the soil: through the use of commercial aerators or through the use of field fertilizers containing potassium nitrate. The first method, aeration, involves releasing the fertilizer through specially designed pipes into the soil. The second method, which is by means of field fertilizers containing potassium nitrate, involves pumping large quantities of fertilizer directly into the field using irrigation lines.
Potassium nitrate is the ingredient for which Calcium Ammonium Nitrate reacts when exposed to moisture. This reaction causes the nitrogen to split, creating bubbles that increase the air saturation of the soil. When the water evaporates, the high levels of nitrogen in the soil begin to decay. Eventually, these forms of nitrogen are taken up by plant roots, which in turn make use of the nitrogen for growth and development.
Another type of fertilizer that is commonly included in plant nutrient mixes is potassium nitrate. Potassium nitrate reacts with amino acids in the plant’s root system and helps them obtain higher concentrations of nitrogen. Nitrogen is the most readily available resource for plant growth, and when plants are able to obtain ample amounts of this nutrient, they become stronger. Potassium nitrate is available in two forms, as a powder or as a liquid.
When using potassium nitrate, be sure to use a low-phosphorus fertilizer. High-phosphorus fertilizers can cause an imbalance between nitrogen content and Phosphorus, causing a too-rich plant residue and too-poor soil. These can affect both the nitrogen content and Phosphorus in the plant’s root system. To ensure the best results, make sure to only use potassium nitrate as a complement to regular plant nutrients.
Nitrates are commonly included in fertilizers due to their extreme affordability. Potassium nitrate and ammonium nitrate are also available in different blends, allowing you to choose which one would work best for your specific needs. These two fertilizers are the most effective when it comes to increasing the Nitrogen level in the soil, as well as helping to maintain a healthy root structure. Using them as fertilizers is just as important as making sure you don’t run out of nutrients when you water your garden.