The role of sulfur in plant production and quality

Tomáš Martínek

Bachelor's thesis

Abstract:

The thesis shows the importance of sulfur in nature and in agriculture production. Sulfur is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development, playing a key role in root development, the absorption of nitrogen, chlorophyll production, and the functioning of enzyme systems. Together with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, sulfur is one of the most important nutrients for plant life. In the past, industrial emissions were a significant source of sulfur for plants but as they increased the acidity of the atmosphere and thus caused damage to human health as well as damaging plants, measures were taken to decrease sulfur emissions. This effort led to a decline in emissions and closely related to that, to decline in sulfur in soil. The deposits of sulfur from previous years declined by 50% between 1981-2007. The amount of sulfur needed for agricultural soils varies based on factors such as type of plant, soil texture, and underground water levels. Additionally, soil analysis is recommended to determine the appropriate amount of sulfur fertilizer to use, as well as the appropriate time to apply it. Although sulfur fertilizers have positive effects on plant growth and protection, they also often increase soil acidity, which can lower the amount of soil bacteria and increase the solubility of, e.g., aluminum and manganese, which are toxic to plants. Cost-benefit analysis is also an important factor to consider, when determining the amount of sulfur fertilizer to use. The overall benefits of using sulfur fertilizers, such as increased yield and higher quality of product, should be weighed against the costs of application of the fertilizers. It is necessary to pay proper attention to sulfur usage and application as it is essential for optimal plant growth and yields. The role of sulfur in agriculture is vital, and it is important to continue research and development in this area to ensure sustainable and healthy crop production for the future.

Keywords

sulfur, organic sulfur, soil, sulfate

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 24. 4. 2023

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 22. 5. 2023
• Supervisor: doc. Ing. Martin Kulhánek, Ph.D.
• Reader: Ondřej Sedlář, Ph.D.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources

Bachelor programme / field:
Sustainable Use of Natural Resources / Sustainable Use of Natural Resources