(217) An Evaluation of Sulfur Status and the Effects of S on Uptake, Distribution, and Yield of Processing Carrots (Daucus carota L.)

Abstract

<jats:p>A reduction in the atmospheric deposition of sulfur (S) and S-containing fertilizers has greatly reduced S inputs to the soil in recent years. At the same time, S removal from the soil has increased as a result of increased crop production and higher yields. Sulfur deficiency has been found to reduce yields in several crops. A study was conducted to gain an understanding of the S status of Nova Scotia soils that support carrot production, as well as to examine the effects of rate of S application, method of S application, and type of S fertilizer on carrot uptake, distribution, yield, and recovery. Initial S concentrations in carrot-producing fields ranged from 52–440 kg·ha<jats:sup>-1</jats:sup> of S. In general, King's County soils were lower in S than Colchester County soils. In the S trial, banding and broadcasting S on the side of carrot rows improved yield, and recovery compared to placing the S in the seed row. Banding S also significantly increased undersize carrots, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight, and root fresh weight. Rate of S application did not affect yield, recovery, or growth of carrots. At this time, S supplies from the atmosphere and soil are sufficient to meet the demands of carrots produced for processing in Nova Scotia. Growers do not need to apply S as fertilizer at this time to improve carrot yields. Monitoring of the S status of soils should be periodically conducted to assess S concentration as SO<jats:sub>2</jats:sub> emissions and crop production continue to change.</jats:p>