Types of nitrogen fertilizers for indoor plants

Regular fertilization is an essential part of growing indoor houseplants. Proper use of high-quality nitrogen fertilizers increases the chances of growing healthy plants. Nitrogen fertilizers provide the necessary nutrition, which is essential for healthy growth.

Production of nitrogen fertilizers

The production process is based on the use of dry raw material—ammonia, obtained from coke. Mineral production facilities are always located near metallurgical plants.

Today, the ammonia production process has changed, with natural gas used as the raw material instead of coke. Fertilizer production uses waste generated during petroleum refining, so nitrogen fertilizer plants are located near gas pipelines.

The production process technology is complex, but the basic nuances are clear to the average person:

• a generator with burning coke passes a stream of air;
• in the process, nitrogen is formed, which mixes with hydrogen;
• The starting product of the production process is ammonia.

The production of nitrate from ammonia is based on the neutralization of nitrous acid. Urea production requires the interaction of carbon dioxide and ammonia under the required temperature and pressure. Ammonium nitrate can be obtained by passing ammonia gas through an acid solution.

What fertilizers are used for indoor gardening?

Among the list of nitrogen-based fertilizers used in indoor floriculture, the following names stand out:

• Ammonium nitrate – has a high nitrogen content, is used as a primary fertilizer, works well in conditions of low moisture, and has a long shelf life;
• urea – contains about 48% nitrogen, is unsuitable for root nutrition and works in combination with organic fertilizers;
• calcium nitrate is not suitable for fertilizing black soil;
• Ammonium sulfate is an optimal solution for regular fertilizing of houseplants; it remains in the soil for a long time.

Experienced gardeners do not recommend using a compound such as ammonium chloride – this substance is dangerous for plants.

A complete fertilizer is selected depending on the plant’s requirements.

Home use

For indoor gardening, it's best to choose liquid forms of nitrogen fertilizer. This format allows for combining fertilizing with watering and ensures precise calculation of the required amount of fertilizer per liter of water used.

The high nitrogen content ensures rapid growth of indoor and garden crops. It has a positive effect on the condition of plant leaves and stems. Excessive mineral content is dangerous and often causes stunted growth, failure to bloom, delayed harvest, and plant death. Nitrogen fertilizers are recommended for use in the spring, during the period of rapid growth. In winter, application should be limited.

Nitrogen fertilizers can be used in vegetable growing. These compounds are used for pre-sowing treatment of planting material and to provide nutrition during periods of rapid growth. Fruit and berry trees and shrubs are fed 5-6 days after flowering.

Important points

Fertilizers containing nitrogen should be used with caution, following the instructions described by the manufacturer.

Basic rules to ensure safe work:

• Fertilizer is applied in small doses, but regularly;
• only healthy plants are fed;
• The flower is watered along the edge of the pot, it is important not to flood the base of the plant.

When working with nitrogen-containing compounds, safety precautions must be observed, as the product emits substances harmful to humans and may cause allergic reactions with prolonged exposure. Gloves and a respirator are sufficient for reliable protection.