Introduction
Nitrogen fertilization remains one of the most decisive factors affecting crop yield, quality, and profitability. Among the wide range of nitrogen fertilizers available today, calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer (CAN) stands out for its balanced nutrient composition, high efficiency, and environmental safety. Proper application of calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer can significantly improve nitrogen uptake, stabilize soil pH, and enhance crop resilience.
This article provides a comprehensive, research-based guide on how to apply calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer correctly. It covers nutrient characteristics, application methods, recommended rates for different crops, timing strategies, and comparative performance data. Practical tables are included to support decision-making for farmers, agronomists, and fertilizer distributors.
What Is Calcium Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer?
Calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer is a granular nitrogen fertilizer composed primarily of ammonium nitrate blended with calcium carbonate or dolomite. Typically, it contains:
26–27% total nitrogen (N)
Nitrogen in both nitrate (NO₃⁻) and ammonium (NH₄⁺) forms
Calcium (Ca) as a secondary nutrient
Key Nutritional Characteristics
| Nutrient Component | Typical Content (%) | Agronomic Function |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrate Nitrogen (NO₃⁻) | 13–13.5 | Rapid plant uptake, immediate growth |
| Ammonium Nitrogen (NH₄⁺) | 13–13.5 | Sustained nitrogen release |
| Calcium (Ca) | 8–10 | Improves cell structure and soil condition |
Research Insight: Studies show that combining nitrate and ammonium nitrogen can increase nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) by 8–15% compared with single-form nitrogen fertilizers.
Advantages of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer
Calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer offers several agronomic and environmental advantages:
1. Balanced Nitrogen Supply
The dual nitrogen forms allow:
Immediate nitrogen availability (nitrate)
Longer-term nutrition (ammonium)
This reduces nitrogen loss and supports steady crop growth.
2. Reduced Soil Acidification
Unlike urea or ammonium sulfate, calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer contains calcium carbonate, which buffers soil acidity and helps maintain optimal soil pH.
3. Improved Crop Quality
Calcium contributes to:
Stronger cell walls
Reduced lodging in cereals
Better fruit firmness in horticultural crops
For more information on the characteristics and applications of calcium ammonium nitrate, please see this article: The Benefits and Applications of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer
Application Methods of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer
Correct application technique is essential to maximize fertilizer efficiency.
1. Broadcasting Application
Broadcasting is the most common method, suitable for large-scale farming.
Best Practices:
Apply evenly using mechanical spreaders
Incorporate lightly into soil when possible
Avoid application before heavy rainfall
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Soil Moisture | Slightly moist |
| Wind Speed | < 5 m/s |
| Incorporation Depth | 5–10 cm |
2. Side-Dressing Application
Side-dressing places calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer near the root zone during crop growth stages.
Advantages:
Higher nitrogen utilization
Reduced volatilization
Ideal for maize, vegetables, and sugar beet
Recommended Distance from Plants: 5–10 cm
Recommended Timing: Rapid vegetative growth stage
3. Fertigation (Limited Use)
Although calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer is mainly granular, it can be dissolved for fertigation in some systems.
Note: Ensure complete dissolution and filtration to avoid clogging irrigation lines.
Recommended Application Rates by Crop Type
Application rates depend on crop nitrogen demand, soil fertility, and yield targets.
Typical Application Rates of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer
| Crop Type | Total N Requirement (kg/ha) | CAN Rate (kg/ha) |
|---|---|---|
| Wheat | 120–180 | 450–650 |
| Maize | 150–220 | 550–800 |
| Rice | 100–150 | 380–550 |
| Potatoes | 130–200 | 500–750 |
| Vegetables | 150–250 | 550–900 |
| Fruit Trees | 80–150 | 300–550 |
Research Data: Field trials show yield increases of 10–18% when calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer is applied at recommended rates compared with urea under identical conditions.
Timing Strategies for Maximum Efficiency
1. Split Application
Splitting the total fertilizer amount improves nitrogen uptake efficiency.
| Crop | Application Schedule |
|---|---|
| Wheat | 50% basal + 50% tillering |
| Maize | 40% basal + 60% at 6–8 leaf stage |
| Vegetables | Multiple small doses every 2–3 weeks |
Benefit: Reduces nitrogen leaching losses by up to 30%.
2. Avoiding Losses
To minimize nitrogen loss:
Avoid application on frozen soil
Do not apply before heavy rain
Apply during cooler parts of the day
Soil and Climate Considerations
1. Soil Type Compatibility
Calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer performs well across different soil types.
| Soil Type | Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sandy Soil | High | Reduced leaching vs urea |
| Loam Soil | Very High | Optimal nutrient balance |
| Acidic Soil | Excellent | Calcium buffers pH |
| Alkaline Soil | Moderate | Monitor nitrate movement |
To understand the differences between calcium ammonium nitrate and urea, please refer to this article: Calcium Ammonium Nitrate vs Urea
2. Climate Adaptability
CAN is suitable for:
Temperate regions
High rainfall areas
Cool climates where urea volatilization is high
Comparison with Other Nitrogen Fertilizers
Performance Comparison
| Fertilizer Type | Nitrogen Efficiency | Soil Acidification | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urea | Medium | High | High |
| Ammonium Sulfate | Medium | Very High | High |
| Ammonium Nitrate | High | Medium | Regulated |
| Calcium Ammonium Nitrate | High | Low | High |
Conclusion: Calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer provides a superior balance of efficiency, safety, and soil health.
View related products:
Safety and Storage Guidelines
Although calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer is safer than pure ammonium nitrate, proper handling remains essential.
Storage Recommendations:
Store in dry, ventilated warehouses
Keep away from combustible materials
Use original packaging for transport
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Research indicates that CAN:
Reduces nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions by 5–12% compared with urea
Improves nitrogen use efficiency
Supports sustainable agricultural practices
Choosing a Reliable Supplier: Why San Corporation Is Recommended
The effectiveness of calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer depends not only on correct application but also on product quality and supply stability. This is where San Corporation stands out.
About San Corporation
Founded in 2002, San Corporation is:
The largest ammonium nitrate exporting enterprise in China
One of the few companies approved by the National Defense Department to export dangerous goods
Home to China’s largest ammonium nitrate production base
Core Strengths
Annual ammonium nitrate production capacity of 1.2 million tons
Advanced patented technologies from Germany, Japan, France, Norway, and other countries
Strict quality control and large-scale, modernized production facilities
A broad product range including Calcium Ammonium Nitrate, Urea, Calcium Nitrate, PPAN, and UAN solution
Why Choose San Corporation’s Calcium Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer?
Stable nutrient composition
Low caking tendency
High uniformity and spreading performance
Competitive pricing with secure global logistics
San Corporation serves global distributors, government agencies, military buyers, and large agricultural and mining enterprises, offering high-quality products at the lowest cost with secure and professional service.
Conclusion
Applying calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer correctly is a proven strategy to enhance crop yield, improve soil health, and achieve sustainable nitrogen management. By selecting appropriate application methods, rates, and timing—supported by research data—farmers can significantly improve nitrogen efficiency while reducing environmental risks.
For reliable, high-quality calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer backed by advanced technology and large-scale production strength, San Corporation is a trusted partner in global agricultural and industrial fertilizer supply. Contact us today!
