Can ammonium sulfate be sprayed

Ammonium sulfate (chemical formula: (NH ₄) ₂ SO ₄) is a common nitrogen fertilizer widely used in agricultural production, especially in the cultivation of field crops, vegetables, and fruit trees. Ammonium sulfate not only provides nitrogen for plants, but also a certain amount of sulfur, which plays an important role in promoting crop growth and increasing yield. So, can ammonium sulfate be directly applied? This article will explore the application methods of ammonium sulfate and their advantages and disadvantages.
 

一、 Basic characteristics of ammonium sulfate
Ammonium sulfate is a white crystalline particle containing 21% nitrogen and 24% sulfur. It is obtained by reacting ammonia with sulfuric acid. As a nitrogen fertilizer, ammonium sulfate mainly exists in the form of ammonium nitrogen, which enables it to be quickly absorbed by crops after application. At the same time, the sulfur element in ammonium sulfate is also essential for plant growth, helping to synthesize important substances such as amino acids and proteins. Therefore, the use of ammonium sulfate in some sulfur deficient soils can play a role in supplementing sulfur.
 

二、 Application method of ammonium sulfate
Ammonium sulfate can be applied to soil by spraying, but the following points should be noted when spraying:
1. Application timing: Ammonium sulfate is suitable for application during the early stages of crop growth or when nitrogen fertilizer supplementation is needed. Usually, applying base fertilizer before sowing or during the early stages of crop growth can provide sufficient nitrogen sources for crops. During the growth process, if the crop lacks nitrogen, ammonium sulfate can also be applied topically.
2. Application amount: The amount of ammonium sulfate applied should be determined based on soil fertility, crop demand, and crop growth stage. Excessive application may lead to soil acidification, root burn, or rapid crop growth, affecting yield and quality. Generally speaking, the single application rate should not exceed 20-25 kilograms per mu, and the specific application rate should be adjusted according to the local soil nitrogen supply and crop demand.
3. Application method: When applying ammonium sulfate, the fertilizer can be evenly spread on the soil surface, especially in the absence of irrigation conditions. After application, it should be promptly plowed or watered to ensure that the fertilizer is mixed with the soil as soon as possible and prevent waste due to water evaporation. In addition, two methods can be used: mechanical spraying or manual spraying. Mechanical spraying is suitable for large areas of land, while manual spraying is suitable for small areas or special needs of land.
 

三、 Advantages of ammonium sulfate application
1. Strong quick acting ability: The nitrogen in ammonium sulfate mainly exists in the form of ammonium nitrogen, which is easily absorbed by plants and therefore has a fast fertilizer efficiency. After application, it can quickly provide the nitrogen elements needed by plants and promote their rapid growth.
2. Supplementing sulfur elements: Ammonium sulfate not only provides nitrogen fertilizer, but also supplements the sulfur elements needed for plant growth, which helps with protein synthesis in crops and promotes overall plant growth.
3. Wide applicability: Ammonium sulfate is suitable for most crops, especially in crops such as rice, corn, and wheat, with good application effects.
 

四、 Precautions for ammonium sulfate application
1. Avoid spreading in high temperature weather: High temperature weather can easily lead to the volatilization and loss of fertilizers, affecting their effectiveness. Therefore, it is recommended to apply in the morning or evening when the temperature is lower.
2. Combined use with organic fertilizer: To avoid soil acidification and fertilizer waste, ammonium sulfate can be used together with organic fertilizer to supplement nitrogen sources, improve soil structure, and enhance soil fertility.
3. Regularly check soil pH: In areas where ammonium sulfate is used for a long time, the pH value of the soil should be checked regularly, and the fertilization plan should be adjusted in a timely manner to avoid excessive soil acidification.

Overall, ammonium sulfate is a fertilizer that can be applied, especially when it comes to meeting the demand for nitrogen and sulfur elements. When using, it should be applied reasonably according to the growth needs of crops and soil conditions, avoiding excessive and single use. Scientific and rational fertilization can not only increase crop yield, but also improve soil quality and promote sustainable agricultural development.