Ammonium sulfate [(NH₄)₂SO₄] is an important nitrogen fertilizer used in agriculture.
🌾 Importance of Ammonium Sulfate on Crops
✅ 1. Source of Nitrogen (N)
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Contains about 21% nitrogen.
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Nitrogen is essential for vegetative growth, leaf development, and chlorophyll formation.
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Boosts photosynthesis, leading to higher yields and greener, healthier plants.
✅ 2. Source of Sulfur (S)
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Contains about 24% sulfur.
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Sulfur is vital for:
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Protein synthesis
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Enzyme function
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Development of amino acids (like cysteine and methionine)
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Especially important for oilseed crops, legumes, and onions which are sulfur-hungry.
✅ 3. Improves Crop Quality
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Enhances protein content in cereals.
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Improves flavor and aroma in crops like garlic and onions.
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Aids in oil formation in oilseeds like mustard and canola.
✅ 4. Soil Acidification (Useful in Alkaline Soils)
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Has an acidifying effect, which is helpful in high pH (alkaline) soils.
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Helps improve nutrient availability in such soils (especially phosphorus and micronutrients).
✅ 5. Quickly Available Nutrients
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Highly soluble, meaning plants can absorb it quickly.
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Good for early season growth spurts when fast nitrogen is needed.
🌍 Suitable Crops for Ammonium Sulfate
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Cereals (wheat, maize, rice)
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Legumes (soybean, groundnut)
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Vegetables (onion, garlic, cabbage)
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Oilseeds (canola, mustard)
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Fruit trees in alkaline soils
⚠️ Important Considerations
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Not suitable for acidic soils – can worsen soil acidity over time.
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Avoid overuse – can lead to nitrate leaching and soil acidification.
