Polysulphate for Cotton: Not Just a Sulfur Source

The Multifaceted Benefits of Polysulphate

Although it contains 19% of sulfur, Polysulphate should be seen as more than just a sulfur source for cotton. Unlike blended fertilizers, Polysulphate is a single crystal containing all four nutrients so besides sulfur, with every application the plant gets also potassium (14%), magnesium (3.6%), calcium (12%), all in sulfate form. This unique composition makes Polysulphate a versatile and efficient fertilizer with a gradual release pattern ensuring a consistent and balanced nutrient supply that matches the crop uptake. Polysulphate can provide a season-long source of plant-available nutrients and minimize leaching losses. This prolonged release characteristic ensures that as the nutrients are released, they provide a continuous source to the growing crop.

Efficient Application and Yield Improvement

Polysulphate can be applied based on the specific nutrient needs of the crop. For instance, in the cotton-growing areas of the southeastern United States, sulfur is often the most deficient nutrient. Polysulphate, with its high sulfur content, addresses this deficiency very effectively.

However, it can also be applied based on potassium needs. In that case Polysulphate can be applied at lower rates compared to traditional potassium chloride (KCl) fertilizers while still achieving significant yield improvements. Research has shown that Polysulphate increases the availability of potassium in the soil, enhancing plant uptake and reducing the need for higher application rates.

Studies have also demonstrated that Polysulphate can reduce the need for MOP (potassium chloride) by up to 50% with soil test potassium levels still maintained above 100 ppm. This efficiency is due to the calcium and magnesium in Polysulphate, which improve cation exchange and potassium availability.

Using Polysulphate in combination with MOP (potassium chloride) helps diversify potassium sources and reduce the salt impact of MOP. This combination improves emergence and overall plant health, making Polysulphate a cost-effective alternative to SOP (sulfate of potash).

This flexibility allows growers to tailor their fertilization strategy to the specific needs of their soil and crop.

Polysulphate in a Systems Approach

Polysulphate fits seamlessly into a systems approach for crop nutrition. It can be used as a base fertilizer for potassium or sulfur needs and is compatible with foliar fertilizers like Nova PULSE and Nova FLOW. Nova FLOW, containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, and boron, works synergistically with Polysulphate to enhance nutrient uptake and plant health.

Nova PULSE, with its unique formulation of phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients including cobalt, molybdenum, and zinc, plays a crucial role in cotton production. Cobalt in Nova PULSE helps reduce ethylene production, which is beneficial during flowering as it helps the plant hold more flowers and bolls, leading to higher yields.

Combining soil and foliar applications optimizes nutrient uptake by addressing both immediate and long-term nutrient needs. Soil applications provide a steady supply of nutrients, while foliar applications can quickly correct deficiencies and enhance nutrient absorption during critical growth stages. Additionally, while calcium and magnesium are antagonistic in the soil, they work synergistically within the plant and therefore foliar applications enhance overall nutrient absorption and utilization. This dual approach ensures that plants receive balanced nutrition, leading to improved growth and yield.

Improving Soil Health and Sustainability

Soil health and sustainability have increasing importance, and Polysulphate can bring improvements in this area as well. Its high solubility compared to gypsum allows for lower application rates while providing similar benefits, such as improved soil structure and aggregation. The calcium and magnesium in Polysulphate enhance air and water movement in the soil, promoting better soil health

Conclusion

In summary, Polysulphate offers a versatile and efficient solution for cotton production, addressing specific nutrient needs and improving overall soil health. Its unique composition and compatibility with various fertilization strategies make it an invaluable tool for achieving higher yields and sustainable farming practices.