Ammonium nitrate has a chemical formula of NH4NO3, and is sold as a 33-0-0 fertilizer, typically in quick-release formulations. There are a number of different production processes, all of which result in a whitish, granular, water-soluble product. Ammonium nitrate production utilizes ammonia to produce nitric acid, which is then reacted with more ammonia to produce ammonium nitrate. This process proceeds according to the following reaction: NH3 (g) + HNO3 9 (aq)→ NH4NO3 .
It is applied to landscapes in both liquid and granular forms, although the sale and use of ammonium nitrate has become increasingly restricted in recent years because of its high explosive potential.
Ammonium nitrate is an artificially synthesized fertilizer for various turf grasses and other landscape and agricultural uses, commonly available in a variety of forms at feed stores and agricultural suppliers. It provides lawns with nitrogen, one of the most important elements for healthy growth. There are, however, some drawbacks to its use, and its future availability is uncertain.
Effect on Lawns
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Applying ammonium nitrate fertilizers to turf grasses supplies them with readily available nitrogen, which spurs vegetative growth. Applying nitrogen fertilizers results in increased greening, faster shoot growth, increased vegetative density and more vigorous root growth. Nitrogen fertilizers also help grasses increase their stored reserves of carbohydrates, as well as lowering their susceptibility to various turf grass diseases and disorders. Lawns with sufficient nitrogen exhibit increased heat, cold and drought tolerance as well, and they also recover more quickly from damage to roots or leaves.
