Contents
What is fertilizer made of?
Typically, fertilizers are composed of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium compounds. They also contain trace elements that improve the growth of plants. The primary components in fertilizers are nutrients which are vital for plant growth. Plants use nitrogen in the synthesis of proteins, nucleic acids, and hormones.
Why do farmers use nitrate fertilizers?
They can make crops grow faster and bigger so that yields are increased. The compounds used must be water-soluble so plants can absorb them through their roots.
What is difference between nitrate and nitrite?
Nitrates and nitrites are two different types of compound. Nitrates (NO3) consist of one nitrogen atom and three oxygen atoms. Nitrites (NO2) consist of one nitrogen atom and two oxygen atoms. Nitrates are relatively inert, which means they’re stable and unlikely to change and cause harm.
What kind of nitrogen is used in fertilizer?
Easier forms of nitrogen that occur in processed fertilizers include ammonium nitrate. What is ammonium nitrate? This type of fertilizer has been widely used since the 1940’s. It is a fairly simple compound to make and is inexpensive, making it a top choice for agricultural professionals. What is Ammonium Nitrate? Nitrogen comes in many forms.
Why is it important to use calcium nitrate fertilizer?
Providing the correct amount of nutrients to your plants is crucial to their health and development. When plants don’t have enough of a certain nutrient, pests, disease and low bearing are often the result. Calcium nitrate fertilizer is the only water soluble source of calcium available for plants.
When was ammonium nitrate used as a fertilizer?
This type of fertilizer has been widely used since the 1940’s. It is a fairly simple compound to make and is inexpensive, making it a top choice for agricultural professionals. What is Ammonium Nitrate? Nitrogen comes in many forms. This major plant nutrient can be taken in by plants through the roots or from the stoma in the leaves and stems.
Where does sodium nitrate in fertilizer come from?
Sodium nitrate (16% N, 26% Na). This fertiliser is obtained from natural deposits in Chile and is usually marketed as moisture-resistant granules. The nitrogen is readily available and the sodium is of value to some market garden crops. It is expensive and is not widely used.