Certainly, here is an article on the application of sulphur in wheat crops:
Application of Sulphur in Wheat Crop: Benefits and Considerations
Sulphur (S) is an essential mineral nutrient for plant growth and development. In most agricultural soils, sulphur is naturally present in organic matter or in inorganic forms such as sulphate and elemental sulphur. However, due to intensive cropping, increased use of high-yielding seed varieties, and limited inputs of organic matter, many soils have become deficient in sulphur.
Wheat crops are particularly prone to sulphur deficiency because they have high sulphur demand for protein synthesis, enzyme activation, and stress tolerance. Sulphur plays a crucial role in the formation of amino acids such as cysteine and methionine, which are the building blocks of proteins. Without sufficient sulphur, wheat plants may suffer from stunted growth, yellowing leaves, reduced grain quality and quantity, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
To address sulphur deficiency in wheat crops, farmers can use various soil amendments and fertilizers containing sulphur. Here are some considerations and benefits of applying sulphur to wheat crops:
Forms of sulphur:
Before applying sulphur to wheat crops, farmers should consider the form of sulphur and its availability to plants. The most common forms of sulphur fertilizers are sulphate (e.g., ammonium sulphate, potassium sulphate) and elemental sulphur. Sulphate fertilizers are more readily available to crops and can be used as a quick fix for sulphur deficiency. Elemental sulphur, on the other hand, needs to be oxidized by soil bacteria to sulphate form before plants can use it. Elemental sulphur is a preferred option for long-term soil improvement because it can lower soil pH (acidify) and reduce soil compaction.
Timing of sulphur application:
The timing of sulphur application depends on the stage of wheat growth and the form of sulphur fertilizer. Sulphate fertilizers are usually applied in the early growth stage of wheat (i.e., tillering) because that is when the demand for sulphur is highest. Elemental sulphur can be applied before or after wheat planting to allow sufficient time for oxidation and availability to plants.
Amount of sulphur application:
The amount of sulphur fertilizer needed depends on several factors such as soil type, organic matter content, crop yield target, and previous fertilization practices. Generally, wheat crops need about 20-30 kg of sulphur per hectare to achieve optimal growth and yield. However, farmers should also be careful not to over-apply sulphur, as it can cause soil acidification and reduce the availability of other nutrients such as phosphorus and potassium.
Benefits of sulphur application:
Applying sulphur to wheat crops can provide several benefits, such as:
– Improving grain quality by increasing protein content and gluten strength. This can lead to better flour quality and higher baking performance.
– Enhancing nutrient uptake and utilization by improving root growth, enzyme activity, and stress tolerance. Sulphur can also enhance the availability and uptake of other nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus.
– Reducing disease incidence and severity by boosting plant immunity and resistance. Sulphur can also inhibit the growth of fungal and bacterial pathogens in soil and on plant surfaces.
In conclusion, sulphur is a vital nutrient for wheat crops that can improve growth, yield, and quality. Farmers should consider the form of sulphur, timing of application, and amount of fertilizer needed to achieve optimal results. By addressing sulphur deficiency in wheat crops, farmers can enhance their profitability, sustainability, and contribution to food security.