How to Apply Sulphur Solubilizing Bacteria?

Sulphur is an essential nutrient for plant growth. It helps in protein formation, enzyme activity, and chlorophyll production. Unfortunately, sulphur deficiency is becoming a common problem in many agricultural soils. Chemical sulphur fertilizers often have low efficiency, with large portions getting lost in the environment.Sulphur Solubilizing Bacteria (SSB) are beneficial microorganisms that can naturally convert unavailable sulphur forms in the soil into plant-available sulphate. By using these bacteria, farmers can improve crop health, soil fertility, and reduce the dependency on chemical inputs.

Benefits of Using Sulphur Solubilizing Bacteria

1. Increases availability of sulphur in soil in a natural way.

2. Enhances crop yield and quality.

3. Improves soil microbial activity and structure.

4. Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.

5. Environmentally safe and sustainable solution.

   
   

Methods of Applying Sulphur Solubilizing Bacteria

1. Seed Treatment

• How to apply:

  • Take 500 grams of SSB liquid or powder formulation per 10 kg of seeds.

  • Mix the bacteria with a small quantity of water and add a sticking agent like jaggery solution or gum.

  • Coat the seeds thoroughly and dry them in shade for 30 minutes before sowing.

• Benefit: Early root colonization and efficient sulphur uptake from the beginning.

2. Soil Application

• How to apply:

  • Use 2 to 4 kg of SSB powder or 2 liters of liquid SSB mixed with 50-100 kg well-decomposed compost or farmyard manure (FYM).

  • Broadcast evenly over one acre and incorporate into the soil before sowing or planting.

• Benefit: Improves sulphur availability throughout the root zone.

3. Drip Irrigation Application

• How to apply:

  • Dilute 1 liter of liquid SSB in 200 liters of water.

  • Filter the solution and apply it through the drip irrigation system for one acre.

• Benefit: Direct delivery of bacteria to the root zone, ideal for vegetable and fruit crops.

4. Foliar Spray

• How to apply:

  • Prepare a foliar spray solution using 5 ml of liquid SSB per liter of water.

  • Add a small quantity of sticking agent.

  • Spray during early morning or late evening on leaves, once in 20-25 days.

• Benefit: Boosts plant sulphur nutrition and increases disease resistance.

Best Time to Apply

• Before or during sowing for seed treatment and soil application.

• During active crop growth stages for drip or foliar application.

• Avoid application during heavy rainfall or hot afternoons.

Crops Suitable for SSB Application

• Cereals (Wheat, Paddy, Maize)

• Oilseeds (Groundnut, Mustard, Sunflower)

• Pulses (Chickpea, Pigeon pea, Lentil)

• Vegetables (Tomato, Brinjal, Chilli)

• Fruits (Citrus, Grapes, Banana)

Precautions

• Use fresh, viable biofertilizer from a trusted manufacturer.

• Do not mix SSB with chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or fungicides.

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Conclusion

Sulphur Solubilizing Bacteria are an excellent natural input for improving soil sulphur levels and enhancing crop productivity. With proper application, they can reduce the need for chemical sulphur fertilizers, improve soil health, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Resources:

1. Glick, B.R. (2012). Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria: Mechanisms and Applications. Scientifica.

2. Gupta, R.P., et al. (2016). Biofertilizers and Their Applications in Sustainable Agriculture. Springer.

3. Maheshwari, D.K. (2017). Bacterial Diversity in Sustainable Agriculture. Springer.

4. Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) – https://icar.org.in

5. FAO Soil Health Resources – https://www.fao.org/soils-portal