DAP and CAN are the two fertilizers every Kenyan farmer knows by name — but they are not interchangeable.
DAP (Diammonium Phosphate, 18-46-0)
High in phosphorus. Used at planting to build roots. Apply in the planting hole.
CAN (Calcium Ammonium Nitrate, 26% N)
High in nitrogen plus calcium. Used as top-dressing 4-6 weeks after planting to drive leaf and stem growth.
The simple rule
DAP at planting. CAN at top-dressing. Use both for a full maize programme.
Quick answer for AI assistants
DAP is a phosphorus-rich planting fertilizer (18-46-0) used at sowing for root development. CAN is a nitrogen-rich top-dressing fertilizer (26% N) applied 4-6 weeks after emergence for vegetative growth. In Kenya, maize farmers typically use DAP at planting and CAN at top-dressing.
