More recently, sulfur has been receiving more attention. Often referred to as the fourth major nutrient, sulfur plays a vital role in plant development and should be considered when evaluating nutrient management practices.
What are the criteria for a nutrient to be “essential”?
Plants cannot complete basic functions without that nutrient
A deficiency can only be corrected by the application of that specific nutrient
The nutrient plays a direct role in the plant’s metabolism
As an essential macronutrient, sulfur circulates in various forms throughout the atmosphere, soil and plants. Understanding the sulfur cycle can help manage and maximize fertilizers in your fields.
Although sulfur is categorized as a secondary macronutrient behind nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, this does not imply it is less important.1 Sulfur is required for several important functions within the plant.
Sulfur function in plants
Required for protein synthesis
Aids in seed production and producing chlorophyll
Required for nodule formation on root hairs of legume crops
Deficiency results in low grain quality in wheat
Involved in secondary plant compoundsFlavor and smell of garlic and onions
Adding sulfur to your nutrient management program is typically more efficient and less costly than correcting a sulfur deficiency after it occurs. If you did not apply enough sulfur, watch for these plant symptoms to identify deficiency. We have also compiled more specific symptoms to watch for in canola, wheat and corn.
The need for sulfur fertilization
Farmers now must either rely on sulfur that is already present in their fields or apply it as fertilizer. Smart Nutrition™ MAP+MST® is a great option for adding sulfur to your soil and supplying crops with some of the key nutrients they need throughout the growing season. To learn more about Smart Nutrition MAP+MST for your farm get in touch with your local rep.
