Not all sulfur soil tests ….

Not all sulfur soil tests produce the same results, so individuals are invited to contact Jones with any questions on sulfur tests.

Minimal phosphorus and potassium fertilization is necessary if a soil test shows that soil phosphorus is above 16 parts per million or that potassium is above 250 parts per million. If phosphorus or potassium levels are below these thresholds, it is recommended that additions of these nutrients be made to the soil.

Jones noted that fertilizer applied in the seed row can impact seedling emergence more when soils are dry, especially in coarse soils. He recommends contacting a crop adviser, MSU Extension agent or Jones himself to determine seed-safe fertilizer rates.

Jones said producers or crop advisers should scout crops early for signs of nutrient deficiencies, as rescue nutrient applications can be made if deficiencies are spotted early enough.

“Nitrogen deficiency is likely if the older leaves are uniformly light green or yellow. Sulfur deficiency symptoms are similar but show up on the newer leaves first,” Jones added.