Potassium and sulfur are essential nutrients that significantly impact plant health and growth. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to various symptoms, affecting crop productivity, especially in corn. Potassium plays a crucial role in water regulation, stress resistance, and grain quality, while sulfur supports protein synthesis, chlorophyll formation, and nitrogen efficiency. Bio-Cal® effectively boosts the availability of these critical nutrients, supporting optimal soil fertility and plant health.
Bio-Cal boosted both potassium and sulfur availability in 2023-2024 trials. In 90% of the samples collected, potassium availability improved substantially, with a 9% increase in soil potassium (lbs/ac) and a 10% increase in base saturation K%. This resulted in a 52 pounds per acre increase in K20, highlighting Bio-Cal’s positive impact on nutrient cycling and overall soil fertility.
How can potassium and sulfur deficiencies be identified?
Potassium is vital nutrient for photosynthesis, water regulation, and stress resistance. Deficiency signs include chlorosis (yellowing) of older leaves, burnt leaf edges, stunted growth, weak stems, and reduced root development.
Sulfur is essential for protein synthesis and chlorophyll formation. Deficiency signs include chlorosis (yellowing) of younger leaves, stunted growth, pale or yellowish appearance, delayed maturity, and weakness in plant tissues.
How do Potassium and Sulfur affect corn?
Potassium is essential for:
- Water regulation—enhancing tolerance to heat and drought
- Photosynthesis, energy transfer, and sugar movement for growth and grain development
- Strengthening roots and improving nutrient absorption—crucial in sandy or drought-prone soils
- Ensuring higher starch content and better grain formation—positively affecting kernel quality and even yield
Sulfur is essential for:
- Amino acid and protein formation, supporting plant structure and growth
- Chlorophyll production, energy generation, and nitrogen use efficiency, enhancing fertilizer effectiveness for higher yields
- Aids enzyme and vitamin formation, promoting cell division and metabolism
What makes Bio-Cal so effective?
Data shows that Bio-Cal effectively increases potassium and sulfur availability, enhancing soil health and plant growth. Trials confirm its role in optimizing key nutrients, particularly in imbalanced soils, making it a valuable addition to soil fertility programs. Monitoring potassium and sulfur levels is essential for optimal results. To learn more, visit our Bio-Cal product page: https://midwesternbioag.com/products/soil-amendments/conventional-soil-amendments/bio-cal/.
