How can sulphur deficiency in crops be controlled?

Sulphur is an essential nutrient required by all crops, just like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It plays an important role in protein formation, oil synthesis, root growth, and overall plant strength. Many farmers across India are now facing sulphur deficiency because soils have become low in organic matter and fertilizers used today contain less sulphur compared to earlier times. When crops do not get enough sulphur, they show symptoms like yellowing of young leaves, weak growth, poor flowering, and low yield. Managing sulphur deficiency properly helps improve crop health and productivity.
One of the simplest ways to control sulphur deficiency is by using sulphur-containing fertilizers. Fertilizers such as Single Super Phosphate (SSP), Ammonium Sulphate, Potassium Sulphate, and Gypsum are commonly used sources. SSP not only supplies phosphorus but also gives 12% sulphur, making it a very useful fertilizer for oilseeds, pulses, and cereals. Gypsum is widely used in soil application because it provides sulphur slowly and improves soil structure at the same time.
Applying sulphur at the right time is important. Most crops need sulphur during early growth stages, flowering, and grain or pod formation. Farmers should apply sulphur either at sowing or during early crop growth so that plants absorb it efficiently. For long-duration crops like sugarcane, groundnut, mustard, and cotton, split application of sulphur ensures steady availability throughout the season.
Organic manures are another excellent way to correct sulphur deficiency. Farmyard manure, compost, poultry manure, and vermicompost contain sulphur in natural form. Regular use of organic matter improves soil health and increases microbial activity, which helps release sulphur slowly into the soil. This is especially useful for sandy soils where sulphur gets washed away easily.
Foliar sprays are helpful when crops show severe deficiency symptoms. Spraying a sulphur-based liquid fertilizer on leaves ensures quick absorption and fast recovery. This method is common in vegetables, cotton, and chilli. However, foliar spray should not replace soil application; it is only a temporary solution to support the crop during critical growth stages.
Crop rotation also helps manage sulphur levels in soil. Growing crops like legumes and oilseeds in rotation improves nutrient balance and reduces the chances of deficiency. Avoiding continuous cultivation of cereals alone helps maintain sulphur naturally.
Proper irrigation plays a role too. Sulphur is absorbed better when soil has adequate moisture. Over-irrigation can wash out sulphur, especially in sandy soils, while very dry soil limits nutrient uptake. Keeping soil moisture balanced ensures better sulphur availability.
Farmers should also conduct soil testing once in two to three years. Soil tests help identify the exact sulphur level and guide farmers on how much sulphur fertilizer is needed. This prevents both deficiency and excess application.
In simple words, sulphur deficiency in crops can be controlled by using sulphur-rich fertilizers like SSP and gypsum, applying organic manures, using foliar sprays during emergencies, rotating crops, and managing irrigation properly. Regular soil testing and timely fertilizer application help keep crops healthy, improve yield, and maintain long-term soil fertility.