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How to Convert Ammonium Ions Into Nitrate Ions

The nitrogen is an important organic compound for plants to produce proteins and nucleic acids for DNA. Plants can use two forms of nitrogen compounds ammonium ions and nitrate ions. Ammonium does not transport well as it attaches to soil particles and is inaccessible to plants unless the plant is in the correct place. Nitrates can flow with water making then easier for plants to obtain through their roots. Converting ammonium to nitrate is called the nitrification process and is completed by nitrifying bacteria in the soil. These bacteria occur naturally but can be given a boost if necessary.

Things You'll Need

Nitrifying bacteria

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase nitrifying bacteria from a garden supply shop. Common bacteria that can be purchased include rhizobia, azobacter and clostridium pasteurianum. Discuss with the garden shop the plants and soil type to determine which bacterial type will best suit your needs. The bacteria come in both powder and liquid forms.
- 2
  Follow the manufacturers instructions to apply the bacteria to the seeds or existing plants. Bacteria will only function in certain temperature ranges and will not work when the temperatures are below 39 degrees or above 120 degrees.
- 3
  Wait two to three weeks for the ammonium ions present in the soil to be converted to nitrates. The rate at which the ammonium is converted depends on the amount of bacteria present, the soil composition and temperature.

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