Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer: 5 Unbelievable Facts

What is Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer?

Ammonium sulfate fertilizer, a water-soluble nitrogen fertilizer, contains 21% nitrogen and 24% sulfur. It is widely used for various crops, including corn, soybeans, wheat, and vegetables. Ammonium sulfate is also an excellent source of sulfur, an essential nutrient for plant growth.

5 Surprising Facts About Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer

1. Boosts Crop Yields by Up to 20%: Research conducted by the University of California, Davis, showed that applying ammonium sulfate fertilizer to corn crops increased yields by an average of 15-20%.

2. Corrects Soil pH Levels: Ammonium sulfate has an acidifying effect on the soil, which can help neutralize alkaline soils and make them more suitable for crop growth.

3. Improves Nutrient Uptake: The sulfur in ammonium sulfate improves the uptake of other nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, by plants.

   

4. Reduces Plant Stress: The nitrogen in ammonium sulfate helps plants withstand environmental stresses, such as drought and extreme temperatures.

   

5. Provides Essential Sulfur: Sulfur is a vital nutrient for plant growth, and it is often deficient in soils. Ammonium sulfate provides a readily available source of sulfur for plants.

   

Benefits of Using Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer

1. Increased Crop Yields: Ammonium sulfate fertilizer increases crop yields by providing essential nutrients for plant growth.

2. Improved Nutrient Uptake: The sulfur in ammonium sulfate improves the uptake of other nutrients by plants.

3. Reduced Plant Stress: The nitrogen in ammonium sulfate helps plants withstand environmental stresses.

4. Corrects Soil pH Levels: Ammonium sulfate acidifies soils, making them more suitable for crop growth.

5. Provides Essential Sulfur: Ammonium sulfate is an excellent source of sulfur, a vital nutrient for plant growth.

   

How to Use Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer

1. Determine the Soil's pH Level: Ammonium sulfate is most effective in soils with a pH of 7 or above. Test your soil before applying the fertilizer to determine its pH level.

2. Broadcast or Band Apply: Ammonium sulfate can be broadcast over the soil surface or banded along the crop rows.

3. Follow Application Rates: Application rates vary depending on the crop and soil conditions. Consult the fertilizer label for specific recommendations.

4. Water Thoroughly: Water the soil thoroughly after applying the fertilizer to dissolve the granules and make the nutrients available to plants.

Alternative Applications of Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer

Beyond agricultural uses, ammonium sulfate fertilizer has several innovative applications:

1. Fire Retardant: Ammonium sulfate is used as a fire retardant in wood and paper products, reducing their flammability.

2. Electroplating: Ammonium sulfate is used in electroplating baths to improve the adhesion of metal coatings.

3. Denitrification Inhibitor: Ammonium sulfate can inhibit the process of denitrification, reducing nitrogen loss from soils and protecting groundwater quality.

4. Pharmaceutical Production: Ammonium sulfate is used in the production of antibiotics and other pharmaceutical products.

Conclusion

Ammonium sulfate fertilizer is a versatile and effective tool for improving crop yields, correcting soil pH levels, and providing essential nutrients for plant growth. Its unique combination of nitrogen and sulfur makes it a valuable addition to any fertilizer program.