Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) is a commonly used compound fertilizer containing nitrogen and calcium, both of which offer multiple benefits for rose cultivation.
Composition of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate
Nitrogen (N): Typically, CAN contains 15-27% nitrogen, with both nitrate nitrogen and ammonium nitrogen. Nitrogen is a crucial element for plant growth.
Calcium (Ca): Usually contains around 20% calcium, which is vital for the structure and regulation of plant growth.
Uses of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate in Rose Cultivation
1. Promoting Plant Growth
Role of Nitrogen: Nitrogen is a key component of chlorophyll, participating in photosynthesis and protein synthesis. Adequate nitrogen supply promotes the growth of rose stems and leaves, making the plant more lush and healthy.
2. Improving Flower Quality
Role of Calcium: Calcium helps strengthen cell walls, improving flower quality and longevity, preventing issues like premature wilting and petal edge burn.
3. Enhancing Plant Resistance
Disease Prevention: Calcium increases the plant’s resistance to diseases, reducing physiological disorders like leaf edge scorching and bud wilting caused by calcium deficiency. It also helps plants better cope with drought and other environmental stresses.
4. Soil Improvement
pH Regulation: CAN can help regulate soil pH, especially in acidic soils, facilitating the uptake of other nutrients by plants.
Reducing Salt Stress: Calcium helps reduce sodium ion concentration in the soil, mitigating salt stress, especially in saline soils.
5. Increasing Nutrient Uptake Efficiency
Synergistic Effects of Nitrogen and Calcium: The combination of nitrogen and calcium in CAN enhances the uptake of other nutrients, such as magnesium and phosphorus. This synergistic effect ensures a balanced and comprehensive nutrient supply for plants.
Application Recommendations
- Application Method: Soil or foliar feeding. It is typically used as a top dressing to quickly supplement nitrogen and calcium needs.
- Dosage: The specific amount should be determined based on soil and plant nutrient status. Generally, moderate application is recommended to avoid the risk of over-fertilization.
- Application Timing: Usually applied during the growing season or before flowering, it helps promote rapid plant growth and flower development.
In summary, Calcium Ammonium Nitrate is an effective fertilizer in rose cultivation, providing essential nitrogen and calcium, promoting healthy growth, and improving flower quality.
