Nitrogen and sulfur are two of the most essential nutrients for crop production, and their balanced supply is critical for achieving optimal yields and quality. Ammonium thiosulfate has emerged as the premier nitrogen-sulfur fertilizer, providing both nutrients in a single, highly available form that addresses the growing challenge of sulfur deficiency in modern agriculture.

The Growing Importance of Sulfur Fertilization

Sulfur deficiency has become increasingly common in agricultural soils due to:

• Reduced atmospheric sulfur deposition from cleaner air regulations

• Intensified cropping systems with higher sulfur removal

• Use of high-analysis fertilizers with minimal sulfur content

• Increased crop yields requiring greater sulfur uptake

ATS as a Nitrogen-Sulfur Solution

Ammonium thiosulfate provides a unique solution to the nitrogen-sulfur challenge:

Superior Sulfur Source

One of the most satisfactory sources of sulfur for plant nutrition is ammonium thiosulfate, which simultaneously serves as a source of nitrogen. Compared to traditional sulfate fertilizers, ATS offers several advantages:

Liquid Formulation Advantages

• Low water solubility issues that hamper mainstream sulfate fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate and potassium sulfate are overcome

• ATS is conveniently handled as a concentrated aqueous solution

Superior Performance

• Plots fertilized with ATS gave grain yields 0.5 and 1.2 t ha⁻¹ greater than plots fertilized with equal rates of sulfur from SSP

Nitrogen Efficiency Enhancement

ATS not only supplies nitrogen but also helps retain it in the root zone:

Nitrification Inhibition

• ATS slows the conversion of ammonium to nitrate in the soil

• Functions as a nitrification inhibitor, prolonging ammonium retention in calcareous soils and reducing nitrogen loss

• This helps reduce nitrogen loss and improve fertilizer efficiency

Synergy with UAN

One of the most effective ways to use ATS is in combination with UAN (urea ammonium nitrate) solutions:

Thio-Sul®

• Adding Thio-Sul to a UAN solution is the economical, effective, and convenient way to stabilize and maximize nitrogen efficiency—by slowing the rate of nitrification

• Field trials show farmers can maintain yields with up to 20% less nitrogen input

Agronomic Recommendations

Application Rates

• Typical rates range from 1 to 3 gallons per acre for starter applications

• Canola responds strongly to 30–60 lb S/acre

• New liquid formulations include (26-0-0-3.1S) for early season use

Application Methods

• Fertigation, foliar feed, starter banding, and soil drench

• Apply ATS in the flat water (pre-irrigation water) to help manage salinity and break down residues

Future Outlook

As sulfur deficiencies become more widespread and nitrogen efficiency becomes increasingly important, the role of ammonium thiosulfate as a nitrogen-sulfur fertilizer is expected to grow. The rising awareness of soil health and regulatory support for eco-friendly fertilizers are shaping industry dynamics.

Access Nitrogen Sulfur Fertilizer Information

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