Nitrogen and sulfur are closely linked nutrients that work together in many essential plant processes, particularly protein synthesis. An adequate supply of both nutrients is therefore key to achieving efficient crop growth, high yields and quality production.

Like nitrogen, sulfur becomes available to plants through the microbial mineralisation of organic matter when soil temperatures rise. For this reason, applying sulfur together with nitrogen in spring is particularly effective, ensuring that both nutrients are available when crop demand begins to increase rapidly.

The interaction between nitrogen and sulfur is often explained by Liebig's Law of the Minimum: an insufficient supply of sulfur can limit the efficient use of nitrogen, while high nitrogen applications can increase the risk of sulfur deficiency. Balanced nutrition is therefore essential to maximise nutrient use efficiency and achieve optimum crop performance.

Numerous field trials have demonstrated that combining nitrogen and sulfur fertilisation can improve nutrient efficiency compared with nitrogen-only applications. By supplying both nutrients in the right ratio, crops can make better use of available nitrogen, supporting stronger growth, improved protein formation and enhanced yield potential.

The LAT Nitrogen Product Finder and, in particular, NutriGuide® help identify the most suitable fertiliser solution based on crop-specific nutrient requirements. NutriGuide® also considers factors such as soil fertility, crop rotation and previous crops to recommend the optimal nitrogen-to-sulfur (N:S) ratio for each crop and growing situation.