Ammonium Sulphate: The 50% Nitrogen Fertilizer

Introduction

Ammonium sulphate is a common nitrogen-based fertilizer that has been used for over 100 years. It is a versatile fertilizer that can be used on a wide variety of crops, and it is especially effective on soils that are deficient in nitrogen.

Benefits of Ammonium Sulphate

Ammonium sulphate offers several benefits over other nitrogen fertilizers, including:

• High nitrogen content: Ammonium sulphate contains 21% nitrogen, which is one of the highest nitrogen contents of any common fertilizer.
• Quick release: Ammonium sulphate is quickly released into the soil, making it available to plants immediately.
• Acidifying effect: Ammonium sulphate has an acidifying effect on the soil, which can be beneficial for crops that prefer acidic soils, such as potatoes and blueberries.
• Low cost: Ammonium sulphate is a relatively inexpensive fertilizer, making it a good value for your money.

How to Use Ammonium Sulphate

Ammonium sulphate can be applied to the soil in a variety of ways, including:

• Broadcast: Ammonium sulphate can be broadcast over the soil surface and then incorporated into the soil with a tiller or cultivator.
• Banding: Ammonium sulphate can be banded along the row of plants, which helps to ensure that the plants have access to the nitrogen they need.
• Fertigation: Ammonium sulphate can be dissolved in water and applied to the soil through an irrigation system.

Application Rates

The recommended application rate of ammonium sulphate will vary depending on the crop being grown, the soil type, and the climate. However, a general rule of thumb is to apply 100 to 200 pounds of ammonium sulphate per acre.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes that can be made when using ammonium sulphate as a fertilizer. These mistakes include:

• Applying too much fertilizer: Applying too much ammonium sulphate can damage plants and can also lead to environmental problems.
• Applying fertilizer too close to the plant: Applying fertilizer too close to the plant can burn the roots.
• Not incorporating the fertilizer into the soil: If ammonium sulphate is not incorporated into the soil, it can be lost through leaching or runoff.

Conclusion

Ammonium sulphate is a versatile and effective nitrogen fertilizer that can be used on a wide variety of crops. By following the tips in this article, you can avoid the common mistakes that can be made when using ammonium sulphate and ensure that your plants get the nitrogen they need to grow and thrive.

Table 1: Benefits of Ammonium Sulphate

Table 2: Application Rates of Ammonium Sulphate

Table 3: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Ammonium Sulphate

Table 4: Pros and Cons of Ammonium Sulphate