Calcium Ammonium Nitrate

Calcium Ammonium Nitrate – A Fertilizer Full of Nutrients
Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) is a nitrogenous fertilizer that is produced by mixing ammonium nitrate and calcium carbonate. It is widely used in the agricultural industry as it provides three essential nutrients to the plants, namely nitrogen, calcium, and magnesium. CAN comes in granular form and can be easily dissolved in water, which makes it an ideal choice for foliar application as well as for fertigation. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of CAN as a fertilizer.
Nitrogen – A Key Element for Plant Growth
Nitrogen is one of the most important nutrients that plants require for their growth and development. It is an essential component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Nitrogen is also required for the synthesis of chlorophyll, which is responsible for the green color of the leaves. CAN contains around 25-28% of nitrogen, which is readily available to the plants. Therefore, it is considered an important source of nitrogen for crops.
Calcium – For Stronger Cell Walls
Calcium is another essential nutrient that plants require for their growth and development. It is responsible for the formation and maintenance of cell walls, which provide structural support to the plant. Calcium deficiency can lead to stunted growth, poor root development, and fruit rot. CAN contains around 8-11% of calcium, which is easily absorbed by the plants.
Magnesium – For Chlorophyll Synthesis
Magnesium is a micronutrient that is required for chlorophyll synthesis. It is responsible for capturing light energy and converting it into chemical energy. Magnesium deficiency can lead to yellowing of leaves, known as chlorosis. CAN contains around 1-2% of magnesium, which is easily absorbed by the plants.
Advantages of Using CAN
One of the main advantages of using CAN is that it provides a balanced supply of nitrogen, calcium, and magnesium. This helps in improving the overall plant health and productivity. CAN is also highly soluble in water, which makes it easy to apply through fertigation or foliar application. It is fast acting and the nutrients are readily available to the plants. Another advantage of using CAN is that it is less hygroscopic than ammonium nitrate, which reduces the risk of caking and moisture-related problems.
Conclusion
Calcium Ammonium Nitrate is a highly effective fertilizer that provides three essential nutrients to the plants, namely nitrogen, calcium, and magnesium. It is readily available and easy to apply, which makes it an attractive choice for farmers. However, it is important to use CAN in the recommended dosage and follow the guidelines for application. Overuse of CAN can lead to nutrient imbalance and environmental pollution. Therefore, it is important to use it judiciously and in a sustainable manner.