Calcium nitrate against weather-related uncertainty – domestic development in the service of plants

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An increasingly common problem is that the applied nutrients – due to a lack of precipitation – are unable to dissolve properly, so although they are physically present in the area, they are not accessible to the plants. Recognizing this challenge, a Hungarian company has started producing liquid fertilizers with its own developed production technology, specifically adapted to domestic growing conditions. The current product range contains four different formulas, the common basis of which is calcium nitrate, which is also produced in-house, in its own development. The goal was to develop a nutrient that contains nitrogen in an easily absorbable form that provides immediate effect. Based on research in recent years, the role of calcium in the physiological processes of plants is much more significant than previously thought. In the case of calcium deficiency, the absorption of other micro and macro elements can also be hindered. The use of calcium nitrate promotes better utilization of nutrients, especially potassium, phosphorus and other micronutrients, and contributes to the strengthening of the root system, so that the plant is able to absorb nutrients more efficiently.

Calcium (Ca²⁺) – as a cell wall component – ​​is essential for ensuring the strength, quality and shelf life of the crop

It stabilizes the cell walls, thereby increasing the resistance of the crop to transportation and storage, slows down the aging and deterioration of the fruit, and increases the skin strength, thereby reducing the risk of cracking. The consequences of calcium deficiency include tip rot (e.g. in tomatoes or peppers), poor root development and increased vulnerability of cell membranes. The use of calcium nitrate can prevent these problems and increase the overall resistance of plants. Nitrate nitrogen (NO₃⁻) is an easily absorbed form of nitrogen that quickly stimulates growth and does not acidify the soil, unlike ammonium forms. It plays an important role in protein synthesis and mobilises calcium, facilitating its uptake by the roots. Since it does not bind easily in the soil, its effectiveness is excellent on both acidic and calcareous soils. With the spread of irrigated farming, the advantage of liquid fertilisers is further increased, as they can be applied together with the irrigation water, eliminating the need for separate spreading.

The use of calcium nitrate is beneficial not only for plants, but also for the soil

It improves soil structure and drainage, especially on sandy soils. It contributes to increasing soil porosity, which improves water and air flow in the root zone. Calcium also strengthens the cellulose and lignin structure of plants, making them more resistant to various environmental stresses, such as drought or frost. The product range also includes formulas containing zinc, magnesium and potassium, which allow farmers to ensure optimal nutrient supply, adapting to the needs of the crop and the phenological state of the plants. The utilization of liquid fertilizers is satisfactory even in unpredictable weather conditions, unlike solid formulas, which require precipitation to dissolve. In the absence of precipitation, solid fertilizers often suffer from a loss of active ingredients. That is why it is especially appropriate to use fast-absorbing, reliable forms of nutrients in the spring period – when the nitrogen and water needs of autumn-sown crops are greatest.

ProgressKémia