Addressing sulphur deficiency on UK farms this spring
As UK farmers prepare fields for the coming growing season, one critical soil nutrient is increasingly under the spotlight: sulphur. Often overlooked in routine soil management, sulphur plays a vital role in crop nutrition – particularly for cereals, oilseeds and forage crops. Yet many soils across the UK now show signs of sulphur deficiency, a result of lower atmospheric deposition, higher yields and greater nutrient demand.
Addressing this “sulphur gap” early in the season can significantly improve crop health, yield potential and nutrient use efficiency. For farmers seeking practical, reliable solutions, Calcifert LS11 offers a versatile option that delivers both sulphur and calcium – two nutrients essential for spring growth.
Understanding the sulphur gap
Sulphur is essential for plant protein synthesis, chlorophyll production and root development. Unlike nitrogen or potassium, sulphur is not always included in standard fertiliser regimes, yet its deficiency can limit crop performance just the same.
In recent years, the gradual reduction in industrial sulphur emissions has diminished the natural sulphur “fall-in” that once supplemented soil reserves. At the same time, modern high-yielding varieties extract more nutrients from soil, increasing demand. The result is a growing number of soil tests showing low to deficient sulphur levels – especially in lighter textured soils.
Closing this nutrient gap early in the season helps crops access the sulphur they need during critical stages of early growth and tillering.
Calcifert LS11: A dual-purpose soil amendment
Calcifert LS11 is a tailored mineral fertiliser designed to address both sulphur and calcium requirements in arable and grassland soils. Its composition supports balanced soil nutrition, delivering nutrients in forms that are both plant-available and beneficial for soil physical properties.
For spring applications, Calcifert LS11 can be used to:
- Correct sulphur deficiency before the onset of rapid crop growth.
- Supply calcium to support soil structure, root development and nutrient uptake.
- Improve soil pH buffering , creating conditions that enhance nutrient availability.
This dual-action profile makes Calcifert LS11 particularly valuable in early spring when crops are transitioning from dormancy to active growth.
Building a practical spring plan
A successful sulphur strategy begins with soil testing. Determining baseline sulphur levels – alongside pH, phosphorus and potassium – enables informed decisions about application timing and rates. For many farms, early March to mid-April provides an ideal window to apply Calcifert LS11 ahead of seeding or soon after.
When planning application:
- Base rates on soil test results and crop nutrient requirements.
- Apply evenly across the field to ensure uniform nutrient availability.
- Combine with other fertilisers where appropriate, maintaining compatibility and spreader calibration.
Timely application helps roots access sulphur and calcium when they are most needed, reducing the risk of early season nutrient stress.
Benefits beyond nutrition
In addition to supplying essential nutrients, Calcifert LS11 can contribute to overall soil health. Calcium plays a role in soil structure and aggregation, which can improve drainage and root penetration – important factors in wetter spring conditions.
By addressing sulphur and calcium together, farmers can also enhance nitrogen use efficiency, supporting better early vigour and more resilient crops as the season progresses.
Supporting farmers with practical advice
At LKAB Minerals, we recognise that effective nutrient management combines quality products with clear guidance. Our technical team is available to help interpret soil tests, recommend application strategies and advise on integrating Calcifert LS11 into broader crop nutrition plans.
Closing the sulphur gap early in the season can make a meaningful difference to crop performance and farm profitability. With targeted planning and the right mineral input, farmers can set their crops up for strong, sustained growth. To learn more about our Calcifert products and how they can enhance your applications, visit our Calcifert product page or contact our team of experts. You can also follow LKAB Minerals on LinkedIn for the latest product updates, case studies, and industry insights.
