Harnessing the Power of Ammonium Sulphate Fertilizer for Thriving Plants

Fertilizers are essential for growth in horticulture and gardening. They promote plant growth by improving the soil's structural integrity. The three components that make up most synthetic fertilizers on the market are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). The N-type fertilizers consist of urea, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate.

Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer increases soil quality, allowing farmers to grow better crops and promoting sustainable agriculture and food security. Due to its high nitrogen concentration and water solubility, it is the most commonly used fertilizer, making it an effective fertilizer that promotes plant growth and productivity. It is also used as a flocculant in different industries.

Nitrogen is a key element for plants because it is part of amino acids, proteins, and chlorophyll. It helps with essential processes like photosynthesis and energy production, which plants need to grow well. 

Sulfur also plays an important role by helping create certain amino acids and vitamins, which support the plant's overall health. Both nitrogen and sulfur are especially important during critical growth stages, making ammonium sulfate a valuable tool in farming.

Growcycle is a leader in delivering high-quality fertilizers for plant growth, including organic and inorganic fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate. These fertilizers have the ideal balance of nitrogen and sulfur, promoting strong plant development and large harvests. Gardeners and growers can get high-quality ammonium sulfate fertilizers from their platforms to outshine their fields.

What is Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer?

Ammonium sulfate fertilizer is a popular soil additive that provides plants with essential nutrients, especially nitrogen and sulfur. Its chemical formula is (NH₄)₂SO₄, which contains about 21% nitrogen and 24% sulfur. This makes it a great choice for helping plants grow. 

Ammonium sulfate dissolves easily in water, allowing plants to absorb the nutrients quickly—important for their health. The combination of these two nutrients not only helps plants grow strong but also improves the quality and amount of the crops produced.

Farmers call it "sugar fertilizer" due to its resemblance with sugar particles. The sulfur present in ammonium sulfate fertilizers can completely meet the plant's nutritional requirements, while ammonium helps in the phosphorous uptake of plants. So, farmers or growers can use it efficiently for seed sowing and irrigation, especially for plants requiring sulfur, including: 

• onion
• garlic
• broccoli
• cabbage
• canola
• radish
• carrot
• soybeans
• sunflower
• peanut

Characteristics of Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer

Ammonium sulfate is a widely used fertilizer known for its distinctive characteristics and benefits in agriculture. Here are some key characteristics of ammonium sulfate fertilizer:

• Chemical Properties

Ammonium sulfate is a key inorganic substance and is transforming the field of agriculture with a chemical formula (NH₄)₂SO₄. Since this chemical dissolves in water, farmers will find it extremely useful. It is produced by processing ammonia with sulfuric acid at 140 °F. 

2 NH3 + H2SO4 → (NH4)2SO4

Ammonium sulfate consists of 21% nitrogen in the form of ammonium (NH4) and 24% sulfur as sulfate. The sulfur in ammonium sulfate helps in protein synthesis, while its nitrogen-containing part helps lower the pH of plants due to its acidic nature.

• Physical Properties

Ammonium sulfate is a white crystalline granular or crystalline substance. Because of impurities, the color of crystals might change from white to yellow to blue-green to brown. Its granular product usually has a particle size distribution between 2.0 and 5.5 mm. It is highly soluble in water, and its solubility increases with temperature, such as 70.6 g per 100 g water (32 °F), 74.4 g per 100 g water (68 °F), and 103.8 g per 100 g water (212 °F).

Ammonium sulfate's density is 1.77 g/cm3, and its 1% solution has a pH of 5.5. It decomposes when heated over 250 °C (482 °F), initially generating ammonium bisulfate. Heating at high temperatures causes breakdown into ammonia, nitrogen, sulfur dioxide, and water.

• Environmental Impact

Ammonium sulfate releases hydrogen ions during the nitrification process to acidify the soil. Although it is beneficial for neutralizing alkaline soil, excessive use can potentially harm soil microbial activity. Moreover, nitrogen released during the nitrification process can easily leach into groundwater, leading to water contamination.

When nitrogen and sulfur seep into water bodies, they can stimulate excessive algae growth, causing eutrophication. Furthermore, extreme application of ammonium sulfate can result in nutrient imbalances, causing fertilizer burn in plants.

Types of Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizers

Ammonium sulfate fertilizers come in several types, each designed to meet specific agricultural needs. Here are the main types:

1. Granular Ammonium Sulfate

It is the most commonly used ammonium sulfate fertilizer. Its primary feature is its gradual solubility, which makes it useful for pre-seeding or tree crops. When water cannot be assimilated through fertigation (because of rainfall or puddling), gardeners can use granular ammonium sulfate.

It is just as rich as any other formula, and it is frequently used to support crops like fruit, olive, and almond trees, particularly during the budding and leaf growth stages.

2. Liquid Ammonium Sulfate

It is a highly soluble form of ammonium sulfate fertilizer but is less frequently used. In certain situations, farmers would rather deal with ammonium sulfate liquid solutions that are already soluble. Liquid ammonium sulfate is best for fertigation, hydroponics, turf grass, and crops growing in a controlled environment.

3. Ammonium Sulfate Nitrate

Ammonium sulfate nitrate is the most useful form of ammonium sulfate fertilizer because it is a combination of ammonium sulfate and ammonium nitrate. It provides an equal amount of sulfur and nitrogen to plants. It is suitable for high sulfur demand crops like soybeans and leafy vegetables. Additionally, its dual nitrogen form increases nitrogen absorption by plants, making it a better choice for long-term use.

4. Ammonium Sulfate with Micronutrients

Ammonium sulfate with micronutrients is a special type of fertilizer that includes extra nutrients. These micronutrients often include important elements like zinc, iron, and manganese, which are essential for plant growth but are needed in smaller amounts compared to primary nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Benefits of Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizer

Ammonium sulfate fertilizers offer several benefits, making them popular for farmers and gardeners. Here are some of the key advantages:

• Rich Source of Nutrients

A significant benefit of ammonium sulfate fertilizer is the dual nutrient source. Similar to slow-releasing fertilizers, ammonium sulfate dissolves quickly in water to supply nitrogen and sulfur. The nitrogen supplied by ammonium nitrate fertilizers is less prone to leaching than nitrate and other nitrogen sources. Thus, it helps in the immediate growth of plants.

The nitrogen content of ammonium sulfate is essential for photosynthesis, chlorophyll production, and overall plant growth and development. On the other hand, its sulfur content boosts the formation of protein, enzyme activities, and the production of amino acids.

• Improve Crop Yield and Quality

Ammonium sulfate stimulates better crop yield because of its high concentration of sulfur and nitrogen. As the fourth important nutrient, sulfur improves protein content in grains and oilseeds and increases sugar content in fruits and vegetables, thus improving the overall quality of plants.

Moreover, ammonium sulfate fertilizer promotes robust vegetative development and effective uptake of nutrients, giving rise to lush foliage and sturdy stems. As a result, plants treated with ammonium sulfate frequently show increased yields, better flowering, and increased biomass, demonstrating the fertilizer's critical role in raising total agricultural output.

• Maintain Soil pH

Ammonium sulfate contains nitrogen in ammonium form (NH₄⁺). Gardeners can apply it directly to the soil, where ammonium undergoes a natural nitrification process. Through nitrification, soil bacteria convert NH₄⁺ into nitrate (NO₃⁻). Ammonia gives out hydrogen ions (H⁺), increasing the soil's acidity and consequently lowering the pH level.

Alkaline soils normally have a limited amount of nutrients. Ammonium sulfate lowers the soil pH, thereby increasing the dissolution of the nutrients and making them more available to plants, thus improving the general fertility of the soil. Due to these properties, ammonium sulfate is ideal for acid-loving crops like potatoes, blueberries, and azaleas. Therefore, when gardeners apply ammonium sulfate to plants, it can significantly improve soil health.

• Suitable for Use with Other Fertilizers

Ammonium sulfate is also very compatible with a range of fertilizers, including urea, potassium chloride, mono ammonium phosphate (MAP), and diammonium phosphate (DAP). Due to these compatibility properties, growers can blend it in many different NPK formulations and create balanced nutrient profiles for specific crop requirements.

The combination of ammonium sulfate and other fertilizers increases plant nutrient uptake efficiency. Some fertilizers, when applied in their pure form, can lead to a lot of imbalance in the usage of nutrients. However, due to their balanced nutrient content, ammonium sulfate blends can restrict such risks. For example, applying ammonium sulfate with potassium chloride rectifies both nitrogen and potassium needs while providing adequate sulfur, thus improving overall plant growth.

• Root Development

Ammonium sulfate contains a rich amount of sulfur, which helps in protein synthesis and improves plant anchorage. Its slightly acidic nature enables lowering pH around the soil between the roots, especially in alkaline soils, creating favorable environments for root growth.

• Resistance to Diseases

Sulfur kills bacteria and fungi, which keeps plants healthy and free of diseases like powdery mildew and rust. The synthesis of proteins and enzymes depends upon sulfur, and this leads to the development of cell walls more strongly so that diseases and attacks from pests cannot affect the plant. 

These fertilizers help maintain a consistent supply of nitrogen and sulfur, ensuring that plants have the energy and resources to adapt to environmental changes and reduce stress-induced damage.

How to Use it Effectively for Thriving Plants?

Using ammonium sulfate effectively can help the plants to thrive and maximize their growth potential. Here is a guide on how to use it effectively for thriving plants:

1. Recognize the Needs of Crop and Soil

The initial step of fertilizer application is understanding crop and soil requirements. For this, a grower should conduct a soil test before application. As ammonium sulfate is beneficial for acidic crops, conduct a soil test to recognize the soil pH and nutrient demands. Ammonium sulfate is best employed when nitrogen and sulfur are required, particularly during the early vegetative development stages.

2. Determine the Application Rate

The optimum application rate of ammonium sulfate depends on the crop variety, soil condition, and individual nutrient requirements. Depending on the crop and soil test results, ammonium sulfate is typically administered at a rate ranging from 50 to 200 pounds per acre (55 to 225 kilograms per hectare).

Overapplication of ammonium sulfate can result in health hazards for plants and soil. So, ammonium sulfate should be used cautiously on crops grown in acidic soils since it can even drop soil pH. In such circumstances, apply at lower rates and test soil pH regularly.

3. Appropriate Application Methods

Choosing the right application method is the key to better plant growth and development. Gardeners can use any of these application methods for ammonium sulfate fertilizers.

• Broadcasting

One of the most prevalent methods of applying ammonium sulfate fertilizer is distributing it uniformly across the soil's surface. This method is especially beneficial for crops that cover wide areas, and it is commonly done with a fertilizer spreader or even by hand for smaller plots.

• Side-dressing

It is the practice of spreading ammonium sulfate directly to the soil surface near the root zone of established plants. This strategy is beneficial for crops with longer growing seasons that may require additional nutrients at some point throughout their growth cycle. Focusing fertilizer application close to the root ensures effective nitrogen uptake.

• Fertigation

Fertigation is the process of supplying ammonium sulfate through irrigation systems. This technology gives precise control over the amount and timing of fertilizer administration, ensuring that nutrients reach the roots. Fertigation is very successful in modern agricultural operations using drip or sprinkler systems.

• Foliar Feeding

It involves sprinkling plant leaves with a diluted ammonium sulfate solution. This method immediately improves the plant's health as the leaf rapidly absorbs nutrients. It is highly beneficial when used in conjunction with root-based fertilization, especially in times of acute nutrient deficiency.

4. Appropriate Application Timing

The best time to apply ammonium sulfate fertilizer to the soil is prior to planting. Gardeners can use these fertilizers during the early growth stage to promote the growth of vegetables and fruits. They can also use ammonium sulfate during the growing season to avoid a sulfur deficit in crops with high sulfur requirements or long growth seasons (alfalfa, canola, etc.).

5. Regularly Monitor Soil pH

Ammonium sulfate is an acid-forming soil amendment. It can lower the soil pH on repeated application. This could be especially significant in sandy soils or in areas receiving adequate rainfall. To counter this phenomenon, it is essential to check soil pH regularly. If necessary, lime can be applied to alter the soil pH and keep the crops at an optimal range.

Additional Tips for Using Ammonium Sulfate Fertilizers

To ensure thriving crop and plant growth, growers must remember the following tips when applying ammonium sulfate fertilizers.

• Avoid Over Application and Use at High Temperatures

High ammonium sulfate levels will cause nutrient imbalance and disbalance, damage the environment, and increase soil acidity. Additionally, applying ammonium sulfate during very hot and dry weather increases the possibility of losing ammonia and sulfur. Therefore, it should be applied early in the morning or late in the evening when the temperature has decreased, and the recommended dose should always be used.

• Employ Safety Measures

Always wear gloves, masks, and protective clothes to avoid skin irritation or respiratory problems when working with ammonium sulfate. Ammonium sulfate should always be stored in a dry and cool environment to maintain its efficiency. Above all, to prevent fertilizer runoff, avoid spreading ammonium sulfate near water bodies or during heavy rains.

• Look for Sulfur Deficiency Symptoms

Many symptoms of sulfur deficiency, such as leaf yellowing and stunted growth, resemble those of nitrogen deficiency. Gardeners should monitor crops for sulfur deficiency, especially when they are growing in sandy soils or areas with heavy rainfall. They can treat such deficiencies with a targeted application of ammonium sulfate.

• Use in Conjunction with Other Fertilizers

Ammonium sulfate is more effective when used in conjunction with supplemental fertilizers that offer other vital micronutrients. For example, combining it with fertilizers high in phosphorus can promote root development, while combining it with fertilizers high in potassium can increase stress tolerance. Always abide by suggested guidelines to maintain nutritional balance and prevent overapplication, which can negatively impact plant health.

• Use Split Application Method for High Demand Crops

The split application method involves the application of a specific amount of fertilizer at different times and growing stages. Crops that require high amounts of nitrogen and sulfur, such as corn and wheat, benefit from split applications. For example, half of the ammonium sulfate should be applied at planting time, and the remaining should be applied during the growing season so the nutrients can be supplied to the crops constantly without losing nutrients.

Ammonium Sulfate vs. Other Nitrogen Fertilizers

Ammonium sulfate differs from other nitrogen-containing fertilizers, like urea and ammonium nitrate. Here are the key differences between them.

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of ammonium sulfate fertilizer?

Since ammonium sulfate has a relatively low N content (21% N), its principal drawback is that it is typically too costly to utilize as an N source. However, if transportation costs are low, it can be a cost-effective source of N.

How fast does ammonium sulfate work?

Ammonium sulfate works quite fast, delivering a consistent nitrogen and sulfur supply within 7 to 10 days of application. Three to four applications of ammonium sulfate are advised per year. It dissolves well in water, making nutrients available to plants quickly, particularly in warm and moist soils. 

Which plants like ammonium sulfate?

Ammonium sulfate is good for acid-loving plants, such as potatoes, blueberries, artichokes, leafy greens, legumes, and beans. Reducing the soil pH can significantly boost the yield and plant health of gardeners who desire to grow these plants.

The Bottom Line

Ammonium sulfate fertilizer is a highly effective and flexible option for improving soil quality and helping plants thrive. Nitrogen and sulfur are important nutrients for farming and gardening, leading to better crop yields and healthier plants. With the increased importance of innovative nutrients for agriculture, ammonium sulfate encourages effective nutrient management.

If cultivators understand the proper application of this fertilizer, they will achieve optimal crop health and yield. 

Working with suppliers like Growcycle assures access to high-quality ammonium sulfate fertilizers, enabling growers to enjoy extraordinary yields in their fields.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, where he covers the latest news, trends, and innovations in sustainable agriculture. He has a deep passion for storytelling that emphasizes ecological balance and responsible farming practices.

Before joining Growcycle, Victor worked for several agricultural and environmental publications, reporting on significant environmental issues and interviewing key figures in the sustainability sector. His work has been featured in various industry journals and online platforms.