Sulphur: A Key Nitrient for Higher Pulse Production

摘要

Sulphur an essential plant nutrient plays a key role in sustaining higher production of pulse crops .For several years it was referred as a neglected element , but now it is gaining increasing importance especially for pulse crops. Present review examined the importance of sulphur in pulse production , causes of S deficiency in pulse crops , responses in yield and quality, evaluation of various sources of S and its residual effect in pulse based cropping systems. Data indicate that sulphur deficiency in Indian soils is extensive(up to 64% of the samples tested).Most of the pulse crops were responsive to S application although the extent of response varied among crops depending upon soil test S, considerable residue of added S is left out benefiting succeeding crops in the system. The future research needs on sulphur nutrition of pulse crops are also highlighted.