Ammonium Bicarbonate (NH₄HCO₃) is a highly effective, fast-acting nitrogen fertilizer containing 17% nitrogen in the ammonium form. Its unique chemical properties provide immediate nitrogen availability while offering mild soil acidification benefits. For growers seeking quick crop response, economical nitrogen options, and a fertilizer that leaves no harmful residues, ammonium bicarbonate delivers reliable performance across diverse agricultural systems.

I. Core Agronomic Advantages

Rapid Nitrogen Availability
Ammonium bicarbonate dissolves quickly in soil moisture, releasing ammonium nitrogen that is immediately available for plant uptake. Unlike slow-release or coated fertilizers, it provides an instant nitrogen supply during critical growth stages when crops have high nutrient demands.

Volatilization Characteristics for Surface Application
The product releases ammonia gas when applied to soil surfaces, but this characteristic can be managed through immediate incorporation or application before rainfall/irrigation. When properly incorporated, the ammonium form is held by soil colloids, reducing leaching potential compared to nitrate-based fertilizers.

Mild Soil Acidification
As an ammonium-based fertilizer, ammonium bicarbonate contributes mild physiological acidity to soils, helping to lower pH in alkaline conditions. This improves the availability of phosphorus and essential micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and manganese.

Residue-Free Decomposition
Ammonium bicarbonate decomposes into ammonia, carbon dioxide, and water, leaving no chloride, sodium, or other harmful residues in the soil. This makes it particularly suitable for chloride-sensitive crops and long-term soil health management.

Cost-Effective Nitrogen Source
With 17% nitrogen content, ammonium bicarbonate offers an economical nitrogen option for growers, especially when used as a top-dressing or side-dressing for field crops. Its simple manufacturing process keeps production costs low.

II. Application Guidelines

Soil Application for Field Crops
For cereals including wheat, rice, and corn, apply 300 to 500 kg per hectare as a basal dressing or top-dressing. Incorporate into the soil immediately after application to minimize ammonia loss. For best results, apply before rainfall or irrigation to wash the fertilizer into the root zone.

Top-Dressing for Growing Crops
For rice, apply 200 to 400 kg per hectare during the tillering stage. For wheat and barley, apply 200 to 300 kg per hectare during jointing to booting stages. For vegetables, apply 100 to 200 kg per hectare as a side-dressing during active growth. Always incorporate or water in immediately.

Avoiding Volatilization Losses
To maximize nitrogen efficiency, incorporate ammonium bicarbonate into the soil within 4 to 6 hours of application. Do not apply on hot, dry, windy days when volatilization potential is highest. Apply before expected rainfall or irrigation. In rice paddies, apply to standing water and allow the fertilizer to dissolve and move into the soil.

Storage and Handling Precautions
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from acids and moisture. Keep containers tightly sealed when not in use. Ammonium bicarbonate decomposes at temperatures above 36°C (97°F), releasing ammonia gas. Use within 6 months of manufacture for optimal quality.

III. Technical Specifications

Chemical Properties

• Chemical Formula: NH₄HCO₃
• Nitrogen Content: 17.0% minimum
• Moisture: ≤3.5%
• Decomposition Temperature: Begins at 36°C (97°F)
• Solubility: 220 g/L at 20°C (moderate solubility)

Physical Properties

• Form: White crystalline powder or small granules
• Bulk Density: 700-800 kg/m³
• pH (1% solution): Approximately 8.0 (mildly alkaline)
• Odor: Slight ammonia smell (normal)
• Stability: Stable below 30°C; decomposes when heated or exposed to moisture

Quality Standards

• Heavy Metals: Within international fertilizer standards
• Chloride: Negligible content (safe for chloride-sensitive crops)
• Insoluble Matter: ≤0.1%

IV. Performance Benefits Across Crops

Rice Production
Ammonium bicarbonate is particularly well-suited for rice paddies. Apply 300 to 500 kg per hectare as a basal dressing before transplanting, or as a top-dressing at tillering and panicle initiation stages. The ammonium form is stable under flooded conditions, providing continuous nitrogen supply. Field trials demonstrate 10-15% yield increases compared to no nitrogen application, with improved grain filling and milling quality.

Wheat and Barley
Apply 200 to 300 kg per hectare at jointing to booting stages as a top-dressing. Incorporate with light irrigation or rainfall. Expect 15-20% yield response in nitrogen-deficient soils with improved protein content and test weight.

Corn
Apply 150 to 250 kg per hectare as a side-dressing at the V6 to V8 growth stages. Place 5-10 cm from the plant row and incorporate into soil. Response includes enhanced stalk strength, kernel development, and overall yield.

Vegetable Crops
For leafy vegetables, apply 100 to 200 kg per hectare as a side-dressing during active growth. For root vegetables, apply before planting or as a side-dressing at early bulking stages. Water in immediately after application. Benefits include deeper green color, improved leaf development, and higher marketable yield.

Fruit Trees and Vineyards
Apply 0.5 to 1.0 kg per mature tree or 100 to 200 kg per hectare in vineyards. Apply in early spring before bud break or after fruit set. Incorporate into the root zone and water in thoroughly. Response includes improved shoot growth, fruit set, and fruit quality.

V. Advantages Compared to Other Nitrogen Sources

Versus Urea
Ammonium bicarbonate has lower nitrogen concentration (17% vs 46%) but provides immediate availability without requiring urease activity for conversion. It has lower volatilization potential when incorporated and leaves no biuret residue, making it safer for sensitive crops.

Versus Ammonium Sulfate
Ammonium bicarbonate contains no sulfur but offers faster nitrogen release and lower salt index, reducing the risk of seedling injury. It is also less acidifying to soils compared to ammonium sulfate.

Versus Ammonium Nitrate
Ammonium bicarbonate is non-explosive and safer to store and handle. It provides comparable nitrogen availability with lower regulatory restrictions and simpler storage requirements.

VI. Environmental and Safety Profile

Soil Health
When used at recommended rates, ammonium bicarbonate does not contribute to long-term soil acidification beyond what is typical for ammonium-based fertilizers. Its residue-free decomposition prevents salt accumulation and maintains soil microbial activity.

Water Quality
The ammonium form is held by soil colloids, significantly reducing leaching potential compared to nitrate fertilizers. Proper timing and incorporation further minimize environmental impact.

Worker Safety
Ammonium bicarbonate is non-toxic but can release ammonia gas if heated or exposed to moisture. Use in well-ventilated areas. Avoid inhaling dust. In case of eye contact, flush with water. Wash hands after handling.

Storage Recommendations
Store in original sealed bags in a cool, dry area below 30°C (86°F). Avoid stacking bags in high-temperature environments. Use within 6 months of manufacture for best quality.

VII. Quality Assurance

Our ammonium bicarbonate is manufactured under strict quality control standards. Consistent crystal size ensures uniform application. Low moisture content minimizes caking and decomposition during storage. Third-party testing confirms nitrogen content and purity specifications.

VIII. Why Choose Our Ammonium Bicarbonate

Rapid Crop Response
The immediate availability of ammonium nitrogen ensures quick greening and growth response, typically visible within 5-7 days of application.

Crop Safety
The product contains no chloride, biuret, or other harmful residues, making it safe for all crops including tobacco, potatoes, citrus, and other chloride-sensitive species.

Soil Compatibility
The mild alkalinity of the solution is quickly neutralized in most soils, with the ammonium form contributing to long-term soil fertility.

Economic Value
As one of the most economical nitrogen sources available, ammonium bicarbonate provides excellent value per unit of nitrogen, particularly for top-dressing applications.

IX. Ordering and Support

Product Availability
Ammonium bicarbonate is available in 25 kg and 50 kg moisture-resistant bags. Custom packaging options are available upon request. Bulk quantities can be arranged for large-scale operations.