Calcium Nitrate: A Powerful Tool for Farmers' Crop Care
Farmers, take note: calcium nitrate, a synthetic water-soluble fertilizer, is proving to be a versatile tool in your crop care arsenal. This compound, produced by reacting calcium carbonate with nitric acid or combining ammonium nitrate with calcium hydroxide, offers both calcium and nitrogen to plants. Let's delve into its uses and application methods.
Calcium nitrate plays a crucial role in cell formation, neutralising acids, and fueling protein production and leafy growth. It's particularly effective when applied early in fruit development, stabilising cells and preventing blossom end rot. For tomatoes, apples, and peppers, this makes it an invaluable tool against calcium deficiencies, especially under heat and moisture stress.
To apply, a soil test is recommended first to avoid excess calcium leading to problems. For side dressing, use 3.5 pounds of calcium nitrate per 100 feet of row (1.59 kg per 30.48 m). Alternatively, for a foliar spray, mix 1 cup of calcium nitrate with 25 gallons of water (128 grams to 94.64 liters) to treat and prevent issues like blossom end rot, cork spot, and bitter pit in apples.
Calcium nitrate, with its dual role of providing calcium and nitrogen, is a powerful tool for farmers. Its applications range from preventing blossom end rot to addressing calcium deficiencies in heat-stressed crops. With careful application, following soil tests and recommended rates, calcium nitrate can significantly enhance crop health and productivity.
