Maize (corn) is a high-yielding crop that requires balanced nutrition for optimal growth and productivity. Among essential nutrients, sulphur (S) deficiency in maize is increasingly common due to reduced atmospheric deposition and imbalanced fertilization. Early identification and management are crucial to prevent yield losses.
Symptoms of Sulphur Deficiency in Maize
Yellowing of Young Leaves: Unlike nitrogen deficiency, which affects older leaves first, sulphur deficiency causes chlorosis in newer leaves.
Stunted Growth: Plants exhibit poor development with thin, spindly stalks.
Delayed Maturity: Flowering and grain filling stages are prolonged, reducing overall yield.
Reduced Protein Content: Poor sulphur availability limits amino acid synthesis, impacting grain quality.
Causes of Sulphur Deficiency
Low Organic Matter: Soils with low organic content often lack sulphur.
Leaching: Sandy soils and excessive rainfall wash away sulphate forms of sulphur.
Imbalanced Fertilization: Overuse of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers without sulphur supplementation.
Declining Atmospheric Sulphur Deposition: Reduced industrial emissions have decreased natural sulphur availability in soils.
Management Strategies
Apply Sulphur-Rich Fertilizers: Use ammonium sulphate, gypsum, or elemental sulphur to correct deficiency.
Organic Matter Addition: Incorporate farmyard manure or compost to improve soil sulphur content.
Balanced Fertilization: Ensure adequate nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur application for optimal plant growth.
Soil Testing: Regularly test soil to determine sulphur levels and apply fertilizers accordingly.
Foliar Spray: Apply sulphate-based foliar sprays for quick recovery in standing crops.
