Apply elemental sulphur now for next year’s canola crop

October 20, 2008: "If growers are interested in applying elemental sulphur for next year’s canola crop, look at broadcasting it this fall," says Canola Council senior agronomy specialist John Mayko.

Growers choose elemental sulphur fertilizer for two reasons: Not only does it tend to be less expensive per unit of nutrient, but a lower volume of product is also needed because of its high analysis. However, remember that elemental sulphur granules need time to be exposed to environmental elements. Exposure breaks down the fertilizer particles and helps accelerate the oxidization process that converts elemental sulphur to sulphate, which is plant available.

In terms of correcting sulphur deficiencies, research conducted by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada on sulphur deficient soils showed that in-season applications of elemental sulphur fertilizers were inferior to applications of sulphate forms of fertilizer. However, fall broadcast of elemental sulphur without incorporation improved the performance of elemental sulphur products. Fall broadcast of elemental sulphur is also a good fit for reduced or zero-tillage operations.

Using elemental sulphur fertilizers is becoming more widespread due to the pricing and handling advantages. "If your are thinking about using elemental sulphur, consider application through broadcast without incorporation this fall to properly prepare for next year’s canola crop," Mayko says.

For more information on the proper use of elemental sulphur products, refer to the following Canol@Fact: Elemental Sulphur for Canola Production: http://www.canolacouncil.org/canola_resources/product25.aspx
or visit: http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/agdex3526 and
http://www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Default.aspx?DN=9e42b26f-2ced-4783-9b73-77cad626665d

For more information, contact:
John Mayko, West-Central Alberta, 780-764-2593

For more information in your local area, contact:
Derwyn Hammond, Agronomy Specialist, Manitoba Region, 204-729-9011
Jim Bessel, North Central and North Eastern Saskatchewan, 306-373-6771
Doug Moisey, East-Central Alberta and Northwestern Saskatchewan, 780-645-3624
Matthew Stanford, Southern Alberta and Southwestern Saskatchewan, 403-327-4832
Erin Brock, Peace Region, 780-568-3326

This media release is supported regionally by:
Alberta Canola Producers Commission; Saskatchewan Canola Development Commission; Manitoba Canola Growers Association; Canola Council of Canada; Peace River Agriculture Development Fund; B.C. Ministry of Agriculture & Lands.