Search

Sulfur (S) is an essential nutrient for plant growth, influencing not only crop yields but also the composition and function of soil microbial communities. However, the differential effects of S fertilization on abundant and rare taxa in agricultural soils remain poorly understood. This study investigates the impact of different S fertilizer types on maize yield and the structure and stability of soil microbial communities, with a particular focus on abundant and rare taxa. S fertilization led to significant increases maize yield on two typical soils (black soil and sandy soil) (5.3–24.3%) and altered soil properties, including reducing pH (0.04–0.20) and increasing the available sulfur (AS) content (3.8–8.0 mg kg−1), with ammonium sulfate having a more pronounced effect than elemental sulfur. Microbial analysis revealed distinct impacts on the diversity and community structure of both abundant and rare taxa. Elemental sulfur reduced the alpha diversity of abundant taxa more than ammonium sulfate, while NMDS indicated significant shifts in community structures, particularly among abundant taxa. Network analysis showed that S fertilization decreased the complexity of microbial interactions among rare taxa, with ammonium sulfate leading to simpler networks and elemental sulfur resulting in higher modularity. SEM highlighted that the diversity of rare taxa played a crucial role in influencing maize yield, alongside direct effects from soil properties such as AS and SAR (aryl sulfatase). Functional predictions demonstrated that amino acid metabolism and xenobiotic biodegradation and metabolism pathways were enriched in rare taxa, suggesting significant implications for soil health and crop productivity. This study provides new insights into the roles of abundant and rare bacterial taxa under S fertilization, emphasizing their importance in optimizing fertilization strategies for enhanced crop yield in specific soil types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mung bean is one of the most important edible legumes in the world and although its consumption is increasing day by day, its production is still low. Important cultural practices in mung bean cultivation are inoculation of seeds with symbiotic bacteria and optimum fertilization with nutrients. Therefore, the effects of sulphur (0, 10, 20 and 30 kg ha-1) molybdenum (0 and 5 g kg-1) and bacteria application on agronomic and quality characteristics of mung bean and nodule formation were determined in this study. The study was conducted in Isparta University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Field Crops in 2021. In the study, the differences between plant height, number of grains and pods per plant, plant grain yield, grain yield, harvest index, hundred grain weight, ash content, protein content, number and weight of nodules according to bacteria treatment; all traits except harvest index and hundred grain weight according to molybdenum treatment and all traits according to sulphur doses were found statistically significant. According to the results obtained, it was determined that molybdenum and sulphur treatments together with bacterial inoculation increased the yield, yield components and nodule formation of mung bean. It was determined that the increase in sulphur doses increased agronomic parameters such as yield, hundred grain weight, ash content, protein ratio and nodulation activities. In the study, it was concluded that 30 kg S ha-1 should be used together with bacteria and molybdenum to obtain higher yield and quality product in mung bean cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean is a crucial crop utilized for both food and oil production, with balanced crop nutrition being a key determinant of soybean yield throughout its growth cycle. Sulfur, an essential nutrient for crop growth, substantially impacts soybean yield. In this study, two soybean cultivars, Laidou 2 and Hefeng 55, were used to study the changes in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur contents in soybean plants at different growth stages. Additionally, the effects of dry matter accumulation under five different sulfur levels were examined. The results showed that the sulfur levels had varying effects on the nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur contents and accumulation in different parts of the soybean plants. There were marked differences in the accumulation and distribution of dry matter in different parts of the soybean plant. Soybean dry matter weight shows the best overall performance under the S80 treatment. With increasing sulfur nutrition, the nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur contents in various plant parts exhibited an unimodal trend, reaching maximum values when the sulfur content was 80 mg/L. This study elucidates the dynamic changes in nutrient elements in soybeans under different sulfur levels and is important in guiding the rational application of sulfur fertilizers in agricultural production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment on ginger (Zingiber officinale L.) commenced in 2020 using the plant growth incubator of the Laboratories, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Sciences, University of Wasit, Iraq. The study aimed to investigate the effects of mineral sulfur fertilizer at concentrations of 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 ml/l, and nano-sulfur with concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 ml/l on the plant height, the number of leaves, leaf content of total chlorophyll, leaf area, the tannin of plant, phytic acid, and essential oil of the ginger rhizome. It was evident that a single use of the previously mentioned variables significantly impacted ginger’s vegetative characteristics and chemical composition, particularly at high concentrations. Using the two-way interactions obtained distinct results. The treatment design was a factorial experiment (5 m × 5 m × 3 m) in a completely randomized design with three replicates. The study revealed significant enhancement in all attributes, whether the morphological and biochemical content achieved the highest mineral sulfur and nano-sulfur fertilizer concentrations alone, or in combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) fertilization significantly affect seed yield and quality in Brassica oilseed crops. The effect of N and S management on the crop parameters (plant height, stem-base diameter, and number of branches), yield (seed yield components, seed and straw yields, harvest index—HI), and the quality of the seeds and oil (crude fat—CF, total protein—TP, crude fiber—CFR, fatty acids profile—FA, acid detergent fiber; and neutral detergent fiber) of oilseed radish (Raphanus sativus L. var. oleiformis Pers.) was analyzed in the study. The effect of N and S fertilization was evaluated in a field experiment in Bałcyny (north-eastern Poland) in 2020–2022. The experiment had a split-plot design with two factors and three replications. The first factor was the N rate (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 kg ha−1) and the second factor was the S rate (0, 15, 30 kg ha−1). Nitrogen fertilization stimulated stem elongation and branching. The average oilseed radish (OSR) seed yield ranged from 0.59 to 1.15–1.25 Mg ha−1. Seed yields increased significantly, up to 90 kg N ha−1 and 15 kg S ha−1. The N fertilizer use efficiency (NFUE) of OSR decreased with a rise in the N rate (from 4.22 to 2.19 kg of seeds per 1 kg N). The application of S did not increase NFUE. The HI ranged from 10% (0–30 kg N ha−1) to 12% (60 kg N ha−1). The contents of CF, TP, and CFR in OSR seeds (kg−1 dry matter—DM) were 383–384 g, 244–249 g, and 97–103 g, respectively. Nitrogen fertilization decreased the CF content (by 5%) and increased the contents of TP (by 5%) and CFR (by 16%) in OSR seeds. Sulfur fertilizer applied at 30 kg ha−1 decreased the CF content (by 2%), but it did not alter the content of TP or CFR. Oilseed radish oil contained 68–70% of monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs) (erucic acid accounted for 2/3 of the total MUFAs), 24–25% of polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs), and 6–8% of saturated FAs (SFAs). Nitrogen fertilization increased the proportions of SFAs and PUFAs in OSR oil. Nitrogen rates of 60–90 kg ha−1 increased the contents of alpha-tocopherol (α-T), beta-tocopherol (β-T), and gamma-tocopherol (γ-T) in OSR seeds by 32%, 40%, and 27%, respectively. Sulfur fertilization increased the content of PUFAs and decreased the content of MUFAs in OSR oil, while it increased the contents of α-T (by 15%) and γ-T (by 19%) in OSR seeds. Proper N and S management in OSR cultivation can improve crop productivity and the processing suitability of seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An attempt was made to study the response of nano-sulfur in groundnut using four levels of nano-sulfur (NS) and conventional sulfur (CS) fertilizers in a completely randomized block design and replicated thrice. The results indicated that application of nano-sulfur @ 30 kg S ha−1 recorded 0.76 mg root sulfur uptake plant−1, 40.5 mg shoot sulfur uptake plant−1, 14.9 mg kernel sulfur uptake plant−1, and 3.09 mg shell sulfur uptake plant−1 higher in comparison to conventional sulfur @ 40 kg S ha−1 recorded root, shoot, kernel and shell sulfur uptake of 0.53, 35.8, 11.4 and 2.46 mg plant−1, respectively. The highest pod yield was recorded at 12.4 g plant−1 with nano-sulfur application @ 30 kg S ha−1 when compared to conventional sulfur @ 40 kg S ha−1 registered at 10.7 g plant−1. Quality parameters such as oil, crude protein, methionine, cysteine, and total free amino acid content were recorded highest under nano-sulfur application @ 30 kg S ha−1 i.e. 48.3%, 27.2%, 3.44 mg g −1, 1.89 mg g−1 and 46.3 mg g−1 respectively whereas conventional sulfur @ same set of sulfur treatment observed (46.7% oil, 25.1% crude protein, 3.16 mg methionine g−1, 1.75 mg cysteine g−1, and 39.6 mg total free amino acids g−1. Finally, the results concluded that the application of nano-S @ 30 kg S ha−1 is sufficient to attain higher sulfur use efficiency with a reduction of sulfur fertilizer to the tune of 25% besides augmenting the soil sulfur reserve without harming the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur (S) fertilization and rhizobium inoculation are important agronomic practices for improving soybean growth and yield. However, their combined effects on yield components and the resultant impacts on yield need further investigation. Our study aimed to verify the combined effects of S fertilizer and rhizobium inoculant on the yield components and seed yield of soybeans, as well as photosynthesis dynamics during the V5–R6 growth stages. A randomized block design incorporating two factors was employed for field experiments on soybean, involving the application of five rates of sulfur (0, 5.0, 9.8, 14.8, and 19.6 kg S ha−1) with rhizobium inoculation or without. A reduction of 50% in mineral fertilizer according to farmer practice (FP) was applied alongside different rates of sulfur for field experiments on soybeans. The findings indicated that the application of sulfur fertilization significantly enhanced soybean yield by increasing the number of grains per plant (NG) and the number of pods per plant (NP). Maximum grain yield was reached under treatment with an S rate of 19.6 kg S ha−1, which increased NG by 39% more than an S rate of 0 kg S ha−1. Correlation analysis indicated that higher photosynthesis was closely associated with increased yield components. This study demonstrated that applying S fertilizers could improve soybean production by combining the appropriate sulfur concentration and rhizobia inoculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Ethiopia, Fusarium ear rot (FER) reduces yield, quality, and safety of maize and negatively impacts the economics of maize growers. However, there is almost no published information on geographic distribution, severity, or causal agents of FER in Ethiopia or levels of preharvest fumonisin contamination, biophysical factors, and agronomic practices associated with FER. Therefore, we surveyed 480 agricultural fields located in 10 Ethiopian zones to assess the incidence and severity of FER as well as agricultural practices and biophysical factors associated with each field. We also determined the concentration of fumonisin in samples taken from the fields. Results revealed that FER was prevalent with varied disease intensity and yield loss levels among the assessed zones. The highest percent severity index (PSI) was recorded in Mirab Wellega (33.2%), with a correspondingly maximum estimated mean grain yield loss of 13.6%, while the minimum disease severity 11.3% and yield loss 5.4% were recorded from the Ilubabor zone. Fumonisins (FB1, FB2, FB3, and FB4) were detected in 98% of the samples, and the levels ranged from 5 to 7517 μg kg−1 (mean, 540 μg kg−1 and median 82.4 μg kg−1). The mean fumonisin contamination of 1524.4, 1316.8, 744.5, and 742.6 μg kg−1 was recorded for Mirab Welega, Misraq Wellega, Assosa, and Hawassa zones, respectively. In total, about 11.3% of the maize samples exceeded the maximum tolerable total fumonisin limit set by the European Union in maize flour (>1000 μg kg−1) and are not suitable for human consumption. Disease severity highly significantly (p < 0.0001) correlated with biophysical factors such as insect infestation (r = 0.60, p < 0.0001) and weed infestation (r = 0.64, p < 0.0001) and agronomic practices such as nitrogen phosphorus sulfur fertilizer application rate (r = −0.39, p < 0.0001) and insecticide spray frequency (r = −0.55, p < 0.0001). Other agronomic practices such as earlier or later sowing date and inter‐cropping systems significantly reduced (p < 0.001) FER incidence, PSI, and the associated grain yield loss. There was significant (p < 0.0001) variation among maize cultivars currently under production in reaction against FER disease intensity. Moreover, the result of the present study attests a strong positive association (p < 0.001) between disease intensity and maize fumonisin concentrations. Generally, the study revealed a wider distribution of FER and fumonisin contamination of maize in the southwest major maize‐growing belts of Ethiopia. Thus, appropriate integrated pre‐harvest ear rot management strategies including the use of resistant cultivars and suitable agronomic practices are recommended for the management of FER and the associated mycotoxins in Ethiopia. Core Ideas: Fusarium ear rot (FER) is among the major maize production constraints in major maize‐growing belts of Ethiopia.Fumonisins—FB1, FB2, FB3, and FB4 toxins—are prevalent on farmers' maize production fields in Ethiopia.The amount of fumonisins produced in maize grains is highly significantly and positively associated with FER severity.FER severity could be observed as a linear function of biophysical factors like weed density and insect population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignite and sulphur are instrumental in enhancing the growth and yield-related traits of Brassica napus, commonly known as rapeseed. This study aimed to explore the effects of lignite-based sulphur fertilizers on Brassica napus production. Spanning two consecutive seasons, the experiment included treatments with a control group, three levels of elemental sulphur (30, 40, and 50 kg ha-1), and three levels of lignite-based sulphur fertilizer (30, 40, and 50 kg ha-1). Employing a randomized complete block design with four replications, the study revealed that applying lignite-based sulphur fertilizer at a rate of 50 kg ha-1 led to significant improvements in various growth parameters, such as plant height, primary and secondary branches per plant, pods per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, biological yield, seed yield, thousand seed weight, and oil yield. Notably, substantially higher seed and oil yields were achieved with the application of 50 kg ha-1 of lignite-based sulphur fertilizer. In semi-arid climates, to maximize rapeseed yield, yield components, and quality, it is advisable to utilize lignite-based sulphur fertilizer at a rate of 50 kg ha-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulphur fertilizer can be used as a soil amendment in semi-arid region. The current field trial aimed to study the effect of different levels of various sulphur fertilizers (control: no sulphur application, utilization of 25 or 50 kg S from single superphosphate: P+S25 or P+S50, 25 or 50 kg S from the elemental form: S25 or S50, 25 or 50 kg S from zinc sulfate: Zn+S25 or Zn+S50) on growth and qualitative proprieties of safflower in west of Iran. The application of sulphur increased vegetative growth components such as plant height, first capitulum height, stem diameter, and the number of lateral branches. The highest rate of vegetative growth was obtained with the application of zinc sulfate. Chlorophyll content increased by 21-24% with zinc sulfate compared to the control. The widest canopy was recorded under the conditions of the use of Zn+S50 and P+S50 (a 53% increase). Regardless of the amount of consumption, the highest plant dry weight was obtained with the use of Zn+S and S. Utilization of the high level of zinc sulfate and elemental sulphur by increasing the number of capitula, number of achenes in capitulum and diameter of capitulum improved achene yield (by 17%). The highest amount of achene oil was achieved by S50 and the application of P+S50 was in the second rank. However, consumption of all levels of S or Zn+S and P+S50 caused a significant increase in achene protein content. The highest amount of oleic acid, stearic acid, and palmitic acid was obtained with the use of Zn+S. Altogether, under farmyard applied conditions, elemental sulphure and zinc sulphate significantly improved safflower performance due to its high S content, slow S releasing property and low leaching. Application of elemental sulphure and zinc sulphate in semi-arid areas should be seriously considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) requires a large amount of potassium (K) for maintaining forage yield and stand persistence. Therefore, soil inherently low in K levels must be supplemented with K fertilizers. Although several commercial K fertilizers are available on the market, choosing an appropriate K-supplementing source for a particular soil can be crucial in boosting alfalfa yield and nutritive value. A two-year study was conducted in an arid southern New Mexico location near Tularosa to evaluate the efficacy of three K commercial fertilizer sources in improving alfalfa yield and nutritive value in a moderately low potassium (84 ppm) soil. Nine K treatments or combinations and a no-K control were tested in a randomized complete-block design with four replications. Overall, supplementation of 160 kg ha−1 of K2O in all treatments resulted in a significant increase in alfalfa seasonal forage yield and nutritive value compared to the control. Sulfate of potash combined with ammonium sulfate (AS) produced greater seasonal yield compared to other fertilizers (muriate of potash and potassium nitrate) or combinations with gypsum (p < 0.05). This treatment combination also showed greater crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, tissue Fe and S, and soil residual sulfate-S and nitrate-N. A positive correlation between sulfur abundance and nitrogen availability in alfalfa production was evident in the study. Addition of AS to all three K fertilizers yielded better seasonal forage yield than K fertilizers alone or K fertilizers in combination with gypsum. Adding gypsum to the K-fertilizers appeared to have negative effect on the seasonal forage yield. Future research should evaluate various combinations of the levels of K and S to determine the most reasonable balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiphasic studies were conducted to quantify how sulfur fertilization influences nitrate levels in hops, and how nitrogen and sulfur fertilizer dose jointly affect hop yield, brewing chemistry, and aroma of hops and beer. In an observational study of commercial lots of Simcoe® hops, a weak positive correlation was found between sulfur and nitrate concentrations. In field studies with Simcoe® in Washington, factorial combinations of representative low and high rates of nitrogen and sulfur fertilizer revealed that nitrate content of cones increased 13 to 22% with increasing nitrogen dose yet declined 8 to 8.7% with an increasing sulfur dose. Yield was unaffected by the lower dose of nitrogen when sulfur dose was high; effects on α-acids, total oil, and hop and beer aroma were not detected. Cysteine-3SH and cysteinylglycine-3SH were reduced 19% and 23%, in cones that received the higher sulfur dose in one year; other thiols and precursors were unaffected. In cultivar Willamette in Oregon, increasing sulfur dose over an 11-fold range by varying nitrogen fertilizer form from urea to ammonium sulfate had small to non-detectable effects on yield, α-acids, or nitrate concentrations. Hop aroma and brewing characteristics appear largely invariant to sulfur fertilization; increased sulfur fertilization may reduce hop nitrate levels modestly in certain situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to study the effect of sulphur and silicon foliar fertilisation treatment in different Hungarian-bred winter oat cultivars on the yield and the yield components, e.g. panicle ear-1 numbers per square meters, number of panicle nodes, number of spikelets per panicle, and thousand kernel weight (TKW) in the 2022-2023 growing season. The obtained results show that the applied fertilisers influenced the measured parameters, and we get the highest yield at the combined treatment - where silicon and sulphur was both applied -, and unexpectedly the lowest when only silicon was applied during the growing period. We measured the highest number of panicles m-2 at the sulphur treated experimental plots, and the lowest at the silicon treatment. We measured the average number of nodes of the panicle, and we can say that the sulphur fertilisation caused significantly higher values than any other treatment. Talking about the spikelet numbers, we get the highest value at the sulphur fertilisation, and the lowest at the control plots. However, our result wasn't that prominent in the case of TKW, we get the highest weight at the silicon treatment, and the lowest at the sulphur fertilisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur and phosphorus are important plant nutrients required for potato growth, influencing the synthesis of primary metabolites that serve as the material foundation of potato flavor quality. However, little is known about the effects of sulfur and phosphorus application on potato tuber flavor. This study experimentally compared the effects of the individual and combined application of phosphorus and sulfur fertilizers on the flavor of potato tubers. The research examined the sensory characteristics of flavor under various fertilization methods, investigated changes in the types and contents of volatile flavor compounds, and conducted analyses on flavor precursor compounds. The experimental results showed that the application of phosphorus and sulfur fertilizers, either individually or in combination significantly increased the content of linoleic acid and linolenic acid. After the combined application of phosphorus and sulfur fertilizers, the starch and the reducing sugar content also significantly increased. (E,E)-2,4-Nonadienal and Decanal are closely correlated with fatty acid content. Dimethyl sulfide and Trimethyl sulfide contents are significantly related to methionine content. This also significantly enhances the fatty taste characteristics of the tubers but weakens the potato flavor characteristics. Hence, the application of phosphorus and sulfur can affect the accumulation of primary metabolic products in tubers, thereby affecting flavor quality. Compared with the individual application of phosphorus or sulfur fertilizers, when phosphorus fertilizer is applied at 180 kg·ha−1 and sulfur fertilizer at 90 kg·ha−1 in combination, it can further enrich the roasted flavor characteristics of potatoes and maximize the enhancement of potato flavor quality. This provides valuable theoretical support for achieving high-quality agricultural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of sulfur is an important factor in potato production. At the beginning of this study, a hypothesis was put forward according to which sulfur carrier affects yield (TY) and nitrogen efficiency (EN). The three-year study was conducted in a two-factor system: (1) sulfur fertilization, SF (control—without S, elemental sulfur—S0, calcium sulfate—CS), and (2) nitrogen fertilization level, NF (0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 kg N·ha−1). In addition to TY, the following EN indicators were analyzed: agronomical efficiency (EA), physiological efficiency (EPh), partial factor productivity (PFP), and recovery (R). For both sources of sulfur, an increase in TY was confirmed. After applying CS, the optimum for the maximum yield was 106 kg N·ha−1, while the application of S0 resulted in 134 kg N·ha−1. The impact of SF on the nitrogen economy decreased in the direction of EA = PFP > EF > R and depended on the sulfur carrier. A positive trend was found, associated with the increase in R under the influence of S0 and the clearly higher EPh after the application of CS. A particularly strong effect of CS on EA was evident in the range of lower nitrogen doses. The EN values depended on the meteorological conditions during the research years. The strongest variability was subject to EPh, which, as a result of SF, was significantly higher in relation to the control (without S) during the growing season, with an unfavorable distribution of precipitation. The application of CS reduced the unit nitrogen uptake (UU-N). Using path analysis, a direct relationship of Ca accumulation (controlled by N and S) with TY was demonstrated. The conducted research indicates a significant impact of sulfur fertilizers, related to TY and EN, especially visible under conditions of limited nitrogen supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The study aimed to analyze the effect of fertilizer with different ammonia-nitrate ratio on rice seedling quality aud soil nutrient insufficient fertilizer supply in the late period of traditional seedling fertilizer. [Method] In the study, a 2-year rice seedling experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different ammonia-nitrate ratio on rice seedling quality and soil nutrient chauge, through replacing ammonium sulfate of rice seedling fertilizer by nitrate sulfur fertilizer. Four treatments were carried out in the study, including CK ( 100% conventional rice seedling fertilizer), NSl ( 70% rice seedling fertilizer + 30% nitrate sulfur fertilizer), NS2 ( 50% rice seedling fertilizer + 50% nitrate sulfur fertilizer) aud NS3 ( 100% nitrate sulfur fertilizer). [Result] Compared with CK treatment, there was no significant difference for rice seedling growth ratio from treatments of nitrate sulfur fertilizer replaced ammonium sulfate, which illustrated that it was a suitable fertilizer for rice seedling. Compared with CK, NSl and NS2 treatments significantly improved seedling quality ( leaf age, stem base width, plaut height, leaf length aud biomass) through chauge of ammonia-nitrate ratio from rice seedling fertilizer. Compared with CK treatment, NS3 treatment had no significant difference in rice seedling quality( leaf age, stem base width, plant height, leaf length and biomass) . At the late stage of rice seedling ( 28 - 35 days), NS3 treatment significantly reduced the chlorophyll ( SP AD) content of rice seedlings. Compared with CK treatments, the nitrate sulfur fertilizer replaced ammonium sulfate ( NSl, NS2 and NS3) could significantly decrease the content of NH4+ -N and increase the content of NO3- -N. With the increase of nitrate sulfur fertilizer replaced ammonium sulfate ratio, soil total nitrogen content also decreased gradually. [ Conclusion] Nitrate sulfur fertilizer partly replaced anuuonium sulfate can promote seedling growth by optimizing ratio of anuuonia and nitrate, but total replacement of nitrate sulfur fertilizer will increase the risk of nitrogen loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To determine the yield potential and grain quality of varieties of oat (Avena sativa L.) as a function of the nutritional and climatic conditions. Methods. Field, laboratory (grain quality determination) and statistical methods were used in the research. Results. Using different fertilization systems, seven oat varieties were studied, of which the most productive were 'Ayvori', 'Lehin Nosivskyi' and 'Zakat'. The greatest increase in yield due to the use of fertilizers in 2022-2023 (1.24-2.73 t/ha with average increases of 0.32-2.83 t/ha) was observed for the cultivation of the 'Ayvori' variety. Additional increases due to the introduction of sulphur, compared to the options where only nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were used, were observed for the va varieties 'Neptun' - 0. 26-0.39 t/ha; 'Lehin Nosivskyi' - 0.47-0.49; 'Svitanok' - 0.23-0.66; 'Zakat' - 0.39-0.64; 'Zubr' - 0.41-0.54; 'Albatros' - 0.58-0.78; 'Ayvori' - 0.34-0.66 t/ha. The average yield of the control varieties in 2021-2023 was as follows 2.28 t/ha - 'Neptun'; 2.64 - 'Lehin Nosivskyi'; 2.50 - 'Svitanok'; 2.70 - 'Zakat'; 2.71 - 'Zubr'; 2.60 - 'Albatros'; 2.81 t/ha - 'Ayvori'. Increasing the rate of nutrient application to the soil helped to improve grain quality. Thus, with the addition of N30P30K30 + N30 BBCH32, the protein content in the grain was within 10.2-10.8%; N60P60K60 + N30 ВВСН32 - 10.4-11.2; N90P90K90 + N30 ВВСН32 - 11.0-11.8; N120P120K120 + N30 BBCH32 - 11.4-12.4%. The addition of sulphur to the fertilization system resulted in a more efficient use of nitro gen and therefore an increase in the protein content of the grain of 1.3-1.8% compared to the options where the rate of macronutrients was the same for all varieties. The content of albumins and globulins was higher in the grain of the control variant (17.0-19.3 and 20.1-21.6% respectively) and did not vary significantly between varieties. The amount of reserve proteins - prolamins and glutelins - increased (from 28.4-30.2 to 34.8-36.2%) with an increase in fertilizer rate, especially with the introduction of N120P120K120S45 + N30. Conclusions. All investigated oat varieties are highly productive and give yields in the range of 3.33-5.54 t/ha, depending on the fertilizer rate. The variety 'Neptun' is slightly lower in yield than the others, but has grain with a significant content of biologically valuable protein fractions. The application of sulphur-containing fertilizers increases yield, improves grain quality and allows a more efficient use of nitrogen, which makes it possible to reduce the basic rate of addition of macronutrients to the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

THE POSSIBILITY of canola achieving self-sufficiency in oil production in Egypt is feasible due to its adaptability to different climates and potential for cultivation in the country. With proper investment in research, infrastructure, and agricultural practices, Egypt can increase canola production and reduce its dependence on imported oils. So, two field trials were carried out during sequential winter seasons of 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 aiming to study the influence of four rates of elemental sulfur (ES) soil applications as main plots [control (ES0), 100, 150 and 200 kg S fed-1] and five micronutrient treatments as foliar application [control (without spraying), boron (B), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe) and mixture of them] as sub-plots on growth, yield and its components of canola plants. The values of available N, P, K, S and pH were measured in the experimental soil after harvest. The results of the study demonstrated that increasing the level of elemental sulfur fertilizer to 200 kg S fed-1 resulted in the highest vegetative growth values, effective yield, and its constituent parts compared to the control (ES0). Applying foliar treatment with a mixture of B, Zn, and Fe also had a significant positive effect on all growth parameters, yield, oil yield and protein yield. Moreover, the interaction between applying 200 kg S fed-1 of elemental sulfur and foliar treatment with the mixture of B, Zn, and Fe caused the highest values for canola plant development, yield, and its components. Additionally, the control treatment (ES0 x without spraying) led to the highest remaining N and K concentrations in the soil, while the applying 200 kg S fed-1 of elemental sulfur without foliar treatment resulted in the highest remaining P and S concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the yield of oilseeds is considered an important plan and strategy in different countries such as Iran. With limited available arable land, boosting the cultivation of oilseeds should involve increasing per unit area. Therefore, narrowing the yield gap (YG) and optimizing agricultural practices/inputs can be the efficient strategies for improving food security and mitigating the environmental impacts of agriculture. For this purpose, the boundary line analysis (BLA) was integrated with the life cycle assessment (LCA) in this study to survey 301 soybean farms. BLA analysis calculated attainable yield and YG as 4437 and 1972 kg ha−1, respectively. According to the results, the BLA improved the efficient use of resources and attenuated environmental hazards by exploring the causes of YG and optimizing farm practices, something which was confirmed by the LCA and the ReCiPe2016 model. For instance, optimization of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur fertilizers resulted in reduction rates of 44%, 45%, 87%, and 56% the in global warming potential, respectively. As a result of the BLA-optimized tillage operations, the impacts of mineral resource scarcity and freshwater eutrophication were reduced by 15% and 16%, respectively. In addition, a reduction rate of 52% was also observed in the water use impact category due to the optimal irrigation frequencies, i.e., 1–3 times. Moreover, diesel fuel and fertilizers are the primary sources of environmental damage. Eventually, tillage optimization and fertilization should be first taken into account in order to produce larger amounts of healthier food by bridging the YG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulphur is rapidly being recognized as the fourth key nutrient for plants after nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It functions in several critical metabolic and physiological processes, such as Chlorophyll synthesis, Protein synthesis, Activation of enzymes, Stress tolerance and Seed production. In this background, an attempt was made to synthesize nano sulphur fertilizers for slow release using the reverse microemulsion (water-in-oil microemulsion) technique. Cyclohexane was used as oil phase. Tween-80 and ethanol were used as surfactant and co-surfactant, respectively. Hydrochloric acid and sodium polysulfide solution acted as an aqueous phase. This technique resulted in the successful synthesis of nano sulphur fertilizer. The sulphur nano fertilizer was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The XRD pattern revealed the orthorhombic nature of nano sulphur and the lattice face-centred. The FTIR spectra at 1406 cm-1 confirmed the sulphur vibrations. The microemulsion method yielded stable, uniform, spherical nano sulphur particles with dimensions ranging from 25 to 47 nm. The thermal disintegration between 117°C to 122°C in TGA graph was attributed to the sublimation of sulphur in orthorhombic crystalline form, indicating the successful synthesis of nano sulphur. A laboratory study on nano sulphur fertilizer and conventional sulphur fertilizer was studied with a Percolator reaction system to evaluate the slow release of sulphur from both fertilizers at ambient temperature. Percolation reactor experiment indicated that sulphate release from nano sulphur was longer for 42 days than gypsum amended soil which exhausted within 35 days. Hence, synthesized nano sulphur fertilizer maximizes nutrient retention, eliminates environmental nutrient loses and decreases fertilizer requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulphur uptake, sulphur derived from fertilizer (Sdff), S utilization, dry matter production and bunch yield of 'Robusta' banana (Musa x paradisiaca) under high density planting were studied on a sandy clay loam (Udic Paleustalf) soil at ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore using 35S labelled superphosphate applied in different split at early vegetative (I split), late vegetative (II split) and bud differentiation (III split)) stages and placement (15-35, 35-55 and 55-75 cm band width) from pseudostem of the plant. From the results, it is noteworthy that it was the first split application from which Sdff of 8.22% was observed compared to 3.31 and 0.94% from II and III split applications, respectively as observed from the isotope found in leaves from 20 to 80 days after application. However, in respect of total fertilizer utilized by plant, both I and II split applications contributed 39-40% while the III split application supplied 20% of the fertilizer sulphur to the plant. Higher dry matter production, fruit weight and bunch yield of 'Robusta' banana was recorded with I and II split application. Among the placements 15-35 and 35-55 cm placements showed an edge with the highest fruit weight, bunch weight and dry matter production over the farthest placement (55-75 cm). The experiments revealed that inter-plant competition of roots for nutrients was practically negligible. Leaf and fruit were the largest sinks (35.2 and 31.9%, respectively) for fertilizer sulphur while pseudo stem appropriated 15.8%. Application of recommended sulphur in 2 splits as circular bands at 5cm depth, between 15 and 35cm in the first and between 35 and 55cm distance from the base of the plant in the second split was optimal to attain high fruit and bunch yield in Robusta banana under high density planting. Application of fertilizer at the farthest distance between 55 and 75 cm distances was distinctly inferior showing that there is little scope of application of fertilizers between the rows under the high-density planting of banana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to compare sulfate fertilizers and mixtures of elemental sulfur (S0) and sulfate in terms of yield and nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) status in perennial ryegrass. Mixtures of sulfate and S0 can reduce the consumption of sulfate alone. The plants were grown in soil cultures. The plants were supplemented with S0, K2SO4, MgSO4, and (NH4)SO4 or a mixture of these salts with So. Two sulfur doses were applied and the ryegrass was harvested three times. Fresh and dry weights of each swath, the N and S content, and their uptake were determined. The total fresh yield of sulfur-fertilized plants was 25 to 94% higher compared to unfertilized plants. The increases in dry matter were even more significant. Fertilizers, being a mixture of S0 and sulfate, showed the same efficiency as those containing sulfate alone. Sulfur fertilization resulted in a higher S content and its uptake, lowered N concentration in second and third swatch, and a decrease in total N uptake. In conclusion, to achieve high crop yields, soil sulfur deficiency should be corrected and fertilizers that are the mixture of elemental sulfur and sulfate are a beneficial and effective approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Cadmium (Cd) accumulation in rice can be regulated by applying sulfur (S) fertilizers and water management, but the mechanism and the effect on soil microorganisms are unclear. This study aims to clarify the effect of sulfur forms on rice Cd accumulation and soil microbial community structure under different irrigation regimes. Methods: The present study investigated the effects of sulfur fertilizers (S0 and Na2SO4) and water management by continuous flooding (flooded) and intermittent flooding and draining (Int-F3D5) on soil Cd bioavailability and the microbial community structure using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM–EDS), and 16S rRNA gene sequencing technology. Results: When flooded, S0 and Na2SO4 increased the dry weight of rice grain 2.3- and 0.9-fold, respectively, and reduced the Cd concentration by 152% and 61%, respectively. The ascorbic citrate acetic (ACA) extractable Fe content from flooded rice surface treated with S0 and Na2SO4 increased by 98% and 64%, respectively, indicating that the S fertilizer promoted iron plaque formation on the surfaces of rice roots. Gammaproteobacteria were the most predominant under all management conditions. Syntrophobacteraceae and Geobacter were particularly abundant in the rice rhizosphere treated with Int-F3D5 and exogenous Na2SO4, and it might play a crucial role in alleviating Cd stress caused by S fertilizer. Conclusion: Under flooded conditions, S0 had a more significant effect on the reduction of cadmium uptake by rice. Sulfur fertilizers promoted iron plaque formation partially to hinder Cd accumulation. Under Int-F3D5 conditions, Na2SO4 recruited more beneficial rhizosphere bacteria, which may be a potential mechanism of reducing Cd transfer from soil to rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article focuses on the agronomic evaluation of the supplementation of mineral NPKMg fertilizers with elemental sulfur, magnesium, potassium, or ammonium sulfates in pot experiments with ryegrass growing in a sandy Arenosol with very low sulfur content. A benefit evaluation was carried out on the basis of biomass production, crop nutritional status, and changes in the content of soil organic matter fractions. Furthermore, the total number of bacteria, nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and fungi was estimated using the qPCR technique in soil samples after 60 days of ryegrass growth. The combined application of NPKMg and sulfur or sulfate fertilizers significantly increased the summary yield of three cuttings of fresh ryegrass biomass in the range of 32.3% to 82.7%. The application, especially in the form of sulfates, significantly decreased the content of free phenolic acids. Furthermore, compared to the control, i.e., soil with NPKMg applied alone, an increase in the content of glomalin-related proteins and a decrease in the amount of water-soluble organic carbon compounds were observed. Neither the number of DNA marker copy numbers of the total bacterial community nor the nitrogen-fixing bacteria were noticeably different. In turn, the total number of genetic markers for fungi was significantly higher in soils with potassium or ammonium sulfates compared to the control soil. The general results suggest that the application of sulfur fertilizers with NPKMg mineral fertilizer can benefit crops and support soil fertility due to the stabilization of aggregates and the decrease in water-soluble organic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As United States farmers adapt soybean (Glycine max) production methods from oilseed to vegetable (edamame), key management practices will need to be considered. The key objective of this study was to determine the optimal nitrogen (N) rate and N application timing for edamame in the mid-Atlantic coastal plain system. The study was conducted for three years in Painter, VA, USA on sandy loam soils. A factorial arrangement of four N rates was applied with two application timing strategies: at-planting, and split application. Leaf tissue samples were collected and analyzed at R1. At harvest, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was measured, whole pods were mechanically collected, and yield was recorded. Additionally, pod and bean physical and chemical quality were assessed. Nitrogen fertilization significantly increased pod yield in two out of three years. R1 leaf N and sulfur (S) concentrations correlated to the yield, and R1 leaf and R6 whole-plant N concentrations correlated to the total N uptake. None of the tested parameters indicated that N fertilizer decreased yield or quality. In conclusion, we found that N fertilizer applied at planting may aid edamame yield and profit for sandy loam soils in the mid-Atlantic, USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detoxification of crops grown in Cadmium (Cd)-contaminated acid soil has been widely studied, but for contaminated alkaline soil, there is still inadequate research or information. In order to investigate the effects of calcium and sulfur fertilizers, accompanied by different side elements, on the growth and Cd uptake of Spinacia oleracea grown in Cd-contaminated alkaline soil, the plants were subjected to five treatments, including calcium silicate (Ca-Si), calcium biphosphate (Ca-P), magnesium sulfate (S-Mg), ferric sulfate (S-Fe), and zinc sulfate (S-Zn), and a control group. The results showed that the S-Fe achieved the highest shoot fresh mass and dry mass and the highest shoot Cd concentration and accumulation, which were 30%, 68%, 4.6%, and 73% higher than the control group, respectively. The Ca-Si, Ca-P, S-Mg, and S-Zn reduced the root Cd concentration by 18%, 42%, 7%, and 49%, respectively, and reduced the shoot Cd concentration by 25%, 36%, 15%, and 27%, respectively, as compared to the control. S-Fe increases plant N uptake and photosynthesis, which is beneficial to biomass accumulation. Ca-P improves soil and plant P nutrition status, as well as plant K and Ca status, and helps alleviate plant Cd stress. Overall, calcium fertilizers accompanied by phosphorus have the potential to reduce plant Cd contamination risk, while sulfur fertilizers accompanied by iron show potential for enhancing Cd extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oilseed rape is an important crop for the 21st century, its oil being widely used for producing biodiesel, due to its effect on reducing exhaust emissions, as well as in human alimentation. Sulphur is a secondary macronutrient which is important in oilseed rape production as it is interacting strongly with nitrogen having a great impact on seed yield. Row spacing in oilseed rape cultivation is a key element due to its impact on plant architecture, as oilseed rape is a plant with high branching ability, especially in the case of newly created hybrids. Branching can help surpass plant population losses due to environmental factors, it having an important contribution to the seed yield establishment. A study on the interaction between sulphur fertilization rate and row spacing is important to finding the optimum of these elements of oilseed rape production technology, and our research aimed to identify them in the agro-climatic conditions of NE Romania over 3 years, in 2021-2023. Variant with 37.5 cm row spacing and sulphur fertilizer rate of 72 kg SO3 per hectare generated the highest statistically significant yield of 3,689 kg per hectare compared to the control variant yield of 2,832 kg per hectare. The medium row spacing and high sulphur rate have resulted in higher yields associated with better development of yielding components such as number of branches per plant, number of siliques per plant, and number of seeds per plant, compared to variants with closer row spacing and low sulphur fertilizer rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was conducted at the Research Institute of Mountain Stockbreeding and Agriculture, Troyan (Bulgaria) with the aim of establishing the impact of the fertilizers Nano Sulfur and Panamin Agro on the height, productivity and composition of sown grass stand from perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.). The perennial ryegrass plants have proven to form the highest grass stand with the application of Panamin Agro biofertilizer (250 g/da). The harvested biomass registered 4.05 cm (at P <0.05) higher values of the trait compared to the control (67.18 cm). The highest average yield of fresh matter was registered in the grass stand of Lolium perenne L. treated with Panamin Agro - 250 g/da. The values of the trait significantly exceeded the unfertilized control by 16.87% (P <0.05). No significant difference was proven in the amount of dry matter was found between the fertilized variants and the untreated control of perennial ryegrass. Lolium perenne L. occupied the highest relative share in the variants treated with Nano Sulfur (200 ml/da) and Panamin Agro (250 g/da). The percentage share of the grass crop was respectively 89.94% and 88.71% (in the control variant - 79.95%). The specified variants had the lowest degree of weed infestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) is naturally present in all soils and can accumulate to toxic levels in rice (Oryza sativa L.) grains under some production conditions. It can also reduce grain yields, posing a double threat to global food security. Plant genetics can affect the amount of As accumulated in grains. A growing body of evidence suggests that one mechanism plants use to detoxify As and limit As concentrations in grains (grain‐As) is to sequester As in vegetative tissues. We evaluated 17 rice cultivars previously shown to have contrastingly high or low grain‐As. Cultivars high in grain‐As commonly transferred As out of their flag leaves during grain fill, while all eight cultivars having low grain‐As retained As in flag leaves, effectively excluding it from transfer to developing grains. Sequestration of As in cell vacuoles involves several sulfur (S)‐containing compounds. We hypothesized that enhanced leaf concentration of S via foliar fertilization could further reduce grain‐As. Effect of foliar‐S on grain‐As was studied in field‐scale and plot experiments. The plot study included cultivars known to contrastingly retain As in flag leaves during grain fill grown in both As‐enriched and Native (non‐enriched) soils, and included severity ratings for rice straighthead, an As‐induced disorder. Contrary to the hypothesis, while foliar‐S did increase grain‐S concentrations, it did not prove useful for reducing grain‐As, nor did it reduce straighthead severity, possibly because soil was not deficient in S or plants used a biochemical mechanism other than S‐related As chelation and sequestration to retain As in leaves. Core Ideas: Some rice cultivars accumulate less arsenic in their grains than other rice cultivars.Cultivars with lower grain arsenic continue accumulating arsenic in flag leaves during grain fill.Cultivars with higher grain arsenic remobilize arsenic out of flag leaves during grain fill.Results suggest grain arsenic is reduced by increasing leaf sequestration, involving sulfur‐containing compounds.Foliar‐applied sulfur fertilizer did not reduce grain arsenic concentrations under study conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The animal feed nutritional value is dependent on the feed chemical composition and which could be affected by sulfur fertilization and irrigation regimes. Therefore, the present study was formulated to evaluate the effect of sulfur fertilization and irrigation regimes on fodder sorghum in semi-arid region. A two-year field experiment (2016/2017) was conducted on multi-cut hybrid sorghum with three moisture regimes (60 and 120 Cumulative Pan Evaporation (CPE), and no irrigation) and three sulfur (S) levels (0, 15 and 30 kg/ha S) as sub-plot treatment in split-plot design replicated thrice. Statistical analysis of the data revealed that individually irrigation scheduling at 60 CPE and sulfur application at 30 kg/ha resulted maximum plant height, leaf area index and number of tillers. The application of 30 kg/ha S observed with higher total green fodder yield which was 20.1% in 2016 and 16.8% more than control in 2017 and nearly, similar results were also obtained in relation to dry matter yield. Sulfur fertilization and irrigation at 60 CPE showed 39.5% mean reduction in hydrocyanic acid and the average crude protein of 10.5% and in vitro dry matter digestibility of 55.5% at 1st cut was recorded. Application of S and irrigation regimes improved the nitrogen and sulfur concentration in fodder. In conclusion, the application of sulfur @ 30 kg/ha through any sulfur source could be considered as the potential sulfur fertilizer in improving the injurious effects of water deficit condition of hybrid multi-cut fodder sorghum through alterations in nutrient uptake, yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted in one of the agricultural lands of Al-Muthanna Governorate for the agricultural season 2018_2019, to find out the effect of adding one of the soil conditioners represented by foamed sulfure by three levels (0, 1000 and 2000) kg S ha-1, addition of nitrogen fertilizer (Urea) CO(NH2)2 at three levels (200, 400 and 600) kg N ha-1 to the soil in the degree of soil reaction (pH) and the yield of wheat cultivar (IPAA 99). The treatments within the experimental units were arranged according to the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replicates, so the total experimental units were 36 experimental units, where the level of addition of 2000 kg N ha-1 of foamed sulfur and the level of 600 kg N ha-1 of nitrogen fertilizer (Urea) were significantly higher, to give them the lowest averages for the soil reaction (pH) of 7.13 and 7.38 at germination and 7.19 and 7.29 at the flowering stage for each of the sulfur and nitrogen fertilizers, respectively, compared to the comparison treatment. Both levels were significantly superior in giving them the highest averages for some growth characteristics, and the yield amounted to(343 and 304 spikes m-2, 65 and 62 grains of spike-2, 43.58 and 42.20 gm, and 4.88 and 478 tons ha-1 and 25.60 and 24.32%, for the characteristics spikes numbers, the grains spike number, 1000 grain weights, grains yield and the protein content percentage in grains, respectively, for both levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron is one of the essential micro-nutrients for plants and trees because they cannot complete their life cycle without it; it cannot compensate by other nutrients and is directly involved in plant metabolism. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in electron and oxygen transport. Iron deficiency is a global problem in fruit production in calcareous or alkaline soils, and approximately one-third of the total land area contains calcium carbonate. Despite the widespread presence of iron in the Earth's crust, the low solubility of iron compounds in many soils, especially at high pH, aerobic conditions limit the bioavailability of iron and cause symptoms of iron deficiency in plants, primarily in young leaves. Facial chlorosis has been observed between veins, reduced branch growth, leaf deformation during the growing season, and finally, tree death. In this regards, current study reviews various methods that have been mentioned for prevention and treatment of iron deficiency, including the use of iron efficiency cultivars, soil application of elemental sulfur with iron sulfate or iron chelate, the use of organic fertilizers and preservation of plant residues, foliar application with ferrous iron or chelated iron sulfate, and injection of iron ammonium citrate or ferrous sulfate into the tree trunk. Accordingly, at the first onset, the use of iron efficiency cultivars and suitable hybrids are the most appropriate methods to prevent the formation of iron chlorosis in fruit trees, especially in fruit stones. Secondly, other treatment methods such as consumption of sulfur fertilizer or iron chelate and trunk injection are important approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Northwest A & F University - Natural Science Edition is the property of Editorial Department of Journal of Northwest A&F University (Natural Science Edition) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Buckwheat starch has attracted worldwide attention in the food industry as a valuable raw material or food additive. Nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) are two nutrients essential to ensure grain quality. This study investigated the combined application of N fertilizer (0, 45 and 90 kg N ha−1) and S fertilizer (0 and 45 kg SO 3 ha−1) on the chemical composition, structure and physicochemical properties of buckwheat starch. The results showed that increasing the fertilizer application decreased amylose content and starch granule size but increased light transmittance, water solubility and swelling power. The stability of the absorption peak positions and the decrease in short-range order degree suggested that fertilization influenced the molecular structure of buckwheat starch. In addition, increases in viscosity and gelatinization enthalpy as well as decreases in gelatinization temperatures and dynamic rheological properties indicated changes in the processing characteristics and product quality of buckwheat-based foods. [Display omitted] • Co-application of N and S fertilizers reduced amylose content in buckwheat starch. • Co-application of N and S fertilizers increased water solubility of buckwheat starch. • Starch granule size reduced after applying N and S fertilizers. • Co-application of N and S fertilizers increased buckwheat starch viscosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biogeochemical processes of sulfur and heavy metals in the environment are closely related to each other. We investigated the influence of sulfur addition on hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii Hance growth, cadmium (Cd) accumulation, soil Cd bioavailability, soil bacterial communities and plant transcriptome responses. The results showed that an appropriate rate of sulfur addition (1.0 or 2.5 g/kg) enhanced the growth of Sedum alfredii Hance plants as well as their accumulation of Cd. A high rate of sulfur addition (5.0 or 10.0 g/kg) causes toxicity to Sedum alfredii Hance plants. The application of an appropriate amount of sulfur to the soil increased the abundance of sulfur-oxidizing bacteria such as Sulfuriferula and Thiobacillus ; acid-fast bacillus such as Alicyclobacillus ; and cadmium-tolerant bacteria such as Bacillus and Rhodanobacter. This led to a decrease in pH and an increase in bioavailable Cd in the soil. RNA sequencing revealed that the addition of sulfur to soils led to the up regulation of most of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in "photosynthesis" and "photosynthesis, light reaction" in Sedum alfredii Hance leaves. Moreover, the "plant hormone signal transduction" pathway was significantly enriched with sulfur addition. Sulfur assimilation in Sedum alfredii Hance plants may promote photosynthesis and hormone synthesis, leading to Cd tolerance in these plants. Our study revealed that sulfur fertilization enhanced the efficiency of Cd phytoremediation in Sedum alfredii Hance plants. [Display omitted] • Appropriate rate of sulfur increased the phytoremediation efficiency of Sedum alfredii Hance for Cd. • High rate of sulfur (5.0 g/kg) addition decreased the growth of Sedum alfredii Hance. • Sulfur addition increased the abundance of sulfur oxidative bacteria and Cd-tolerant bacterium in soil. • Sulfur assimilation in plant promoted the process of photosynthesis and hormone synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A laboratory study was undertaken to determine the response of sunflower to nano-sulfur application in comparison to conventional sulfatic fertilizer. Nano-sulfur particles were characterized using a particle size analyzer, zeta potential, UV-Spectroscopy, XRD, FT-IR, SEM, and TEM. After the complete characterization, the sulfur release pattern was studied in a percolation reactor system. Thereafter, response studies were carried out using sunflower (var. KBSH 42) crop. The stable and uniform nano-sulfur particles with a medium diameter of 35–45 nm are yielded by the aqueous precipitation method. The results showed that sulfur release from the nano-sulfur has prolonged for 42 days, while the sulfur release from the ordinary sulfur fertilizer (gypsum) ceased to exist within 35 days. Nano-sulfur fertilized plants had registered significantly higher dry matter production (11–12%), seed yield (15%), and oil content (14.7%) than gypsum fertilized plants. The data revealed that nano-sulfur assists in improving the available sulfur in soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur (S) fertilization is necessary to overcome the low availability of this essential nutrient in agricultural soils. Although elemental sulfur (S8) pellets are often used, they tend to be poorly effective due to their low oxidation rate to sulfate, the form assimilated by plants. Here we designed highly porous polysulfide pellets (PolyS-porous) as S fertilizers with higher surface area for oxidation, aiming to improve sulfate delivery. A porosity of nearly 50% was achieved via inverse vulcanization of soybean oil and S8 in the presence of a salt porogen. A culture medium test with S-oxidizing bacterium Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans revealed PolyS-porous had a faster initial oxidation than S8-pellet, reaching respectively 57% and 20% at the end of 10 days. Sulfate released from PolyS-porous in soil was 3 times higher than from S8-pellet in 30 days, and PolyS-porous co-application with A. thiooxidans achieved twice as much. Overall, the results from this study demonstrated the potential of porous polysulfide pellets as sulfur fertilizers with improved efficiency, especially when combined with A. thiooxidans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to test the significant effects of inorganic sulfur and cysteine on grain protein and flour quality in wheat and to provide a theoretical basis of wheat cultivation techniques with high yield and quality. In the field experiment, a winter wheat cultivar, Yangmai 16, was used, and five treatments were established, i.e., S0 (no sulfur fertilizer application during the whole wheat growth period), S(B)60 (60 kg ha−1 inorganic sulfur fertilizer was applied as the basal fertilizer), Cys(B)60 (60 kg ha−1 cysteine sulfur fertilizer was applied as the basal fertilizer), S(J)60 (60 kg ha−1 inorganic sulfur fertilizer was applied as the jointing fertilizer), and Cys(J)60 (60 kg ha−1 cysteine sulfur fertilizer was applied as the jointing fertilizer). The fertilizer application at jointing stage showed a better influence than basal fertilizer application on protein quality; for the content of albumin, gliadin, and high molecular weight glutenin (HMW-GS), Cys(J)60 was the best among these treatments. An increase of 7.9%, 24.4%, 43.5%, 22.7% and 36.4% was found in grain yield, glutenin content, glutenin macro-polymer (GMP), low molecular weight glutenin (LMW-GS), and S content under Cys(J)60, in relation to the control, respectively. A similar trend was found in the end-use quality, as exemplified by an increase of 38.6%, 10.9%, 60.5%, and 109.8% in wet gluten content, dry gluten content, sedimentation volume, and bread-specific volume, respectively; a decrease of 69.3% and 69.1% in bread hardness and bread chewiness was found under Cys(J)60. In terms of application period, topdressing at jointing stage is compared with base fertilizer, the sulfur fertilizer application at jointing stage showed larger effects on grain protein and flour quality, from the different types of sulfur fertilizer, the application of cysteine performed better than the use of inorganic sulfur. The Cys(J)60 exhibited the best effects on protein and flour quality. It was suggested that sufficient sulfur application at jointing stage has the potential to enhance the grain protein and flour quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although several studies have established the importance of sulfur (S) in increasing maize productivity in the savanna agroecological zones (AEZs) of northern Ghana, the economically optimum S application rate is still unknown. In a two-year study at eight locations across the AEZs, we determined the economically optimum S application rate for S-deficient soils. We compared eight S application rates, ranging from 0 to 70 kg ha−1 at 10 kg intervals, for optimal maize productivity and profitability. The study identified 30 kg S ha−1 as the minimum rate that resulted in a plant tissue S concentration above the critical level of 0.15%. Although increasing the S application rate resulted in increases in maize grain yield, application of S beyond a rate of 30 kg ha−1 resulted in increases in maize grain yield that were not statistically significant and leveled off at 50 kg S ha−1. Application rates ≥50 kg ha−1 resulted in a high proportion of the applied S not taken up by the plant and, thus, subject to losses from the soil. Based on agro-input prices at the local level and the farm-gate prices of maize, the greatest potential profit resulting from S application was observed at 30 kg S ha−1, with a projected average maize yield of between ∼4.2 and 5.3 Mg ha−1, representing >90% of the observed yield with the highest S application rate of 70 kg ha−1. Thus, we conclude that, for sustainable and profitable maize production in S-deficient soils of the savanna AEZs of northern Ghana, an S applications rate of 30 kg ha−1 is economically justified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur (S) has an important place in meeting the nutritional needs of radish and obtaining high quality products. Biochar applications affect soil quality and plant growth positively. The study was carried out to determine the sulfur fertilizer demand of the radish plant grown in the calcareous soils at Konya that located in Central Anatolia, which has an important agricultural potential. In the study, it was aimed to determine the effect of biochar application on the plant's use of sulfur and plant growth, and the appropriate sulfur(S) fertilizer dose for radish. In the study, elemental-S (0-200-400 mgkg-1), SO4-2-S (0-25-50 mgkg-1) and biochar (0-1% - 2%) were applied to the cultivation soil. Plant material is 8TR-17 hazelnut radish (Raphanus sativus var.) variety. According to the results obtained, leaf chlorophyll SPAD values, plant height, tuber weight, the remaining S (mgkg-1) concentration in the soil at the end of the experiment were significantly different with increasing S doses compared to the control (p<0.01). Leaf chlorophyll SPAD values, plant height, tuber weight and the remaining S (mgkg-1) concentration in the soil(p<0.01) and stem diameter (p< 0.05) showed significant differences compared to the control at the interaction between biochar doses and S application forms. The chlorophyll SPAD value varied between 23.3and 34.8, leaf length varied between 5.59 and 6.49 cm, the number of leaves varied between 2.98 to 4.06 piecesplant-1 and leaf weight varied between 6.01 to 10.45 gpot-1. Stem length varied between 0.75 to 2.23 cmplant-1 and stem diameter varied between 1.5 to 15.24 cmplant-1. Tuber weight averages ranged from 0.136 to 4.566 gpot-1 and with the biochar applications increased compared to control. These increases are especially important in the SO4-2-S application. The remaining S (mgkg-1) concentrations in the soil are between 13.40 to 94.43 mgkg-1. These values showed significant differences with S fertilizers, S doses and biochar applications (p<0.05). At the soil pH value at the end of the experiment considering the mean values of sulfur doses, showed a decrease of 0.07 units compared to the control and this value was statistically significant (p<0.01). As a result, it is thought that good plant growth and tuber formation will be achieved with the application of 2% biochar in the cultivation of hazelnut radish, when the sand content is low and partially clayey loam soil will be used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the sandy soil of Vietnam's South-Central Coast, peanut is a significant crop. The application of K and S needs to crops has recently attracted a lot of interest, especially for peanut. However, a comparison on the effects of different types of K and S fertilizers viz., ammonium sulphate (AS), superphosphate (SP), NPKS, potassium sulphate (SOP), and potassium chloride (MOP) is to be evaluated on the yield, quality, and K and S content in peanut seed. This study was conducted during winter spring and summer seasons 2019 - 2020 at Binh Dinh province (SCCVN). Equal rate of 75 kg K/ha and 30 kg S/ha was applied as SOP, NPKS and a mixture of AS, SP, MOP and these were compared against a control which applied nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizers. SOP application resulted in the highest yield (2.93 - 4.92 t/ha), protein (24 %), lipid (53 %) and seed K (0.19-0.53 %) and seed S (0.57-0.69 %). The study concluded that application of 75 kg K/ha and 30 kg S/ha in SOP fertilizer based on @ 8 tons of cattle manure + 40 kg N + 40 kg P + 500 kg lime/ha is suitable for peanut crop in SCCVN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic activities lead to the increase of atmospheric nitrogen and sulfur deposition and many adverse ecological effects. Quantitative input of atmospheric nitrogen and sulfur deposition can provide reference for nutrient management of nitrogen and sulfur in farmland. In recent years, the national air cleaning action has had a great impact on the emission of atmospheric active nitrogen and sulfur, but there are few studies on the comprehensive deposition of nitrogen and sulfur in the agricultural area of North China. In this study, the concentrations of atmospheric NH3, NO2 and SO2 were collected in the agricultural area of northern Henan Province, and the seasonal variation of concentrations of PNO3-, PNH4+ and PSO42- in atmospheric PM2.5 was studied, and the dry deposition of atmospheric nitrogen and sulfur was quantified. Atmospheric rainfall was collected to obtain atmospheric wet deposition of nitrogen and sulfur. The results showed that the average concentrations of NH3, NO2 and SO2 are 13.9 µg/m³, 10.38 μg/m³ and 4.1 μg/m³, respectively. The concentration of PM2.5 in the atmosphere is 61.3~110.8 µg /m³, which is higher in autumn and winter, and lower in summer. The proportion of total inorganic ions of PNO3-, PNH4+ and PSO42- to PM2.5 in four seasons were 15.0%, 37.0%, 29.8% and 37.0%, respectively. PNO3- has the largest proportion in PM2.5 in autumn and winter. The annual wet deposition of nitrate nitrogen, ammonium nitrogen and sulfur were 11.5, 8.07 and 14.36 kg/hm², respectively. The annual dry deposition of nitrogen and sulfur was 21.39 kg/hm² and 6.15 kg / hm², respectively. The annual atmospheric sulfur deposition was lower than the nutrient absorption of wheat and maize, which indicated that applying sulfur fertilizer might increase crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulphur is one of the emerging plant nutrients, required for pulse crops. After nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium, it is forth key nutrient for plant nutrition. It is taken up by the plants in the form of sulphates form from the soil. The factors that are responsible for the wide spread deficiency of sulphur are excess use of high analysis fertilizers, inadequate use of crop residue, high yielding varieties of crops and its removal of sulphur by the crops. Sulphur plays a pivotal role in overall pulse production, by synthesis of sulphur containing amino acids, enhancing protein content, nodule formation and plant biomass. However, the requirement of sulphur for effective crop production is not showing promising trend. Comparing the sources of sulphur fertilizers, gypsum showed its superiority by producing high grain and straw yield in pulses. In some of the field experiments on pulses, addition of sulphur @30kg and 40kgof S/ha along with the recommended dose, increased the growth (plant height and number of branches) and yield and quality parameters (grain yield and protein content). This review highlights the different response of crops to Sulphur application, sources, uptake and its interactions with other nutrients for profitable crop production. Moreover, it provides new insights to revisit the significance of sulphur in higher pulse production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertilization is an effective agronomic strategy to improve the efficiency of phytoextraction by Salix integra Thunb. However, the specific effects of the simultaneous application of nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) fertilizers in the rhizosphere remain unclear. We investigated the bioavailability of lead (Pb) and Cadmium (Cd) along with the microbial metabolic functions and community structure in the rhizosphere soil of S. integra after the application of N (0, 100, and 200 kg·ha-1·year-1) and S (0, 100, and 200 kg·ha-1·year-1) fertilizers for 180 days. The simultaneous application of N and S fertilizers significantly enhanced the absorption of Pb and Cd by S. integra, whereas this effect was not observed for the single application of N or S fertilizer. The contents of acid-soluble Pb and Cd in the rhizosphere soil significantly increased after either single or combined fertilize applications. The microbial metabolic activity was enhanced by the N and S fertilizers, whereas the microbial diversity markedly decreased. The metabolic patterns were mainly affected by the concentration of N fertilizer. The dominant fungi and bacteria were similar under each treatment, although the relative abundances of the dominant and special species differed. Compared to the N200S100 and N200S200 treatments, the N100S100 and N100S200 treatments resulted in fewer pathogenic fungi and more rhizosphere growth-promoting bacteria, which promoted phytoremediation by S. integra. Redundancy analysis indicated that the pH and nitrate content were the key factors affecting the structure of the microbial community. Collectively, the results suggest interactive effects between N and S fertilizers on the rhizosphere soil, providing a potential strategy for plant-microbial remediation by S. integra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Iraqi Journal of Desert Studies is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the major nutrients solicited in the fertilization process, and their supply is highly useful to improve agricultural productivity. The conventional fertilizers suffer from low efficacy due to the fast release of nutrients. For that, the coating of granular fertilizer is considered as the best way to enhance their efficiency. Nowadays, biodegradable polymers are replacing synthetic polymers and avoiding the accumulation of nondegradable plastic residues in arable land. Since the coating of fertilizers by sulfur was criticized, many research studies investigated the use of polysaccharide such as cellulose, chitosan, carrageenan, lignin, and starch or aliphatic polyesters such as polylactide and polycaprolactone as coating matrix for granular fertilizer coating to delay or control the dissolution rate of nutrients. This review starts by apprising the readers about the environmental impact of conventional fertilizers (uncoated) and then an overview on the use of all those biopolymers and their combination for the coating agent mineral fertilizer. Furthermore, the present contribution provides an outline on different coating processes solicited in the field and the slow-release fertilizers criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The research was carried out on a farm located in Malice (Werbkowice municipality), in the years 2014-2016. The aim of the study was to evaluate the profitability and marginal economic efficiency of sulfur fertilization of spring wheat at various levels of nitrogen fertilization. Production value, direct costs and production profitability were assessed, as well as the marginal economic efficiency. On average, the highest grain yield was achieved on the object fertilized with nitrogen at a dose of 150 kg. ha-1 and sulfur in the amount of 40 kg S ha-1. The highest value of direct surplus and, at the same time, the highest profitability of production was obtained after nitrogen application in the dose of 100 kg N ha-1. Increasing the nitrogen dose from 50 to 100 kg ha-1 resulted in a significant increase in the grain yield and the achievement of the most favourable marginal economic efficiency index. Among the objects fertilized with nitrogen, the most advantageous in terms of production profitability and marginal economic efficiency was the use of this element in the dose of 100 kg N ha-1. The use of sulfur in the fertilization of spring wheat in the dose of 40 kg S ha-1 slightly improved the fertilization efficiency in the objects with 50 and 150 kg ha-1. Among the objects fertilized with nitrogen, the most advantageous in terms of production profitability and marginal economic efficiency was the use of this element in the dose of 100 kg N ha-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]