Source and mode of sulphur application on groundnut productivity

Abstract

The effectiveness of 20 kg/ha sulphur (S) of the S-containing compounds iron sulphate (FeSO 4 ), gypsum, phosphogypsum, elemental S, and pyrite on groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) productivity was determined for plants grown on calcareous soil in the field. Plants grown with S compared to those without S had increased plant height, number of flowers, nodule numbers and weight, higher dry matter, seed, haulm (leaves and stems), and oil yields; higher tissue concentrations of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), S, iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn); and higher total uptake of mineral nutrients. Elemental S, pyrite, and FeSO 4 were more effective than gypsum and phosphogypsum, with FeSO 4 being the most effective source of S for improving plant growth traits, yield, and nutrient uptake. The most effective method of FeSO 4 application was half to the soil at planting time (basal) followed by the remainder in three equal foliar sprays at 30,50, and 70 days after plant emergence (DAE). Pyrite and elemental S were most effective when applied to the soil only, half as a basal soil dressing, and the remainder in two equal doses at 25 and 50 DAE. Plant concentrations of S, P, and potassium (K) were similar for each source of S, but elemental S, pyrite, and FeSO 4 enhanced N, Fe, manganese (Mn), and Zn uptake. Gypsum and phosphogypsum enhanced calcium (Ca) uptake. Elemental S and FeSCM provided similar results when half was applied to the soil followed by three equal foliar sprays. The best results from pyrite, gypsum, and phosphogypsum were obtained when soil applied.

Major nutrient contents and their uptake by brinjal as influenced by phosphorus and sulphur

“…The maximum Ca content (0.53%) was found from the treatment of 30 kg S ha -1 and the minimum (0.48%) content was observed from control (Table 2). It was similar to the result of Singh et al (2007) who concluded that application of 30 kg S ha -1 as gypsum recorded significantly higher Ca content in potato. The interaction effects of P and S on Ca content was significant.…”

“…This might be due to synergistic effect of S on Ca. Singh et al (2007) found that in potato, there was a gradual increase in Ca uptake with increasing levels of S upto 30 kg ha -1 . The highest (551 mg pot -1 ) and lowest (107 mg pot -1 ) uptakes of Ca were recorded in P 60 S 30 and P 0 S 0 levels, respectively.…”

Using Thiopaq Sulfur for Reducing Nh3 Volatilization From Calcareous Soils and Increasing N Use

“…Chaubey et al (1993) found increases in N uptake by linseed grains and straw as a result of S application to the sandy loam soils. Singh and Chaudhari (1995) recorded higher concentrations of N in tissues of peanut plants grown on calcareous soils with applied S compared to those without S.…”