Sulfur is one of the oldest pest-control substances used throughout history. It has long been applied as both an insecticide and a fungicide, and it was among the very first fungicides used to control leaf diseases.
Today, sulfur is sold in various pesticide formulations, including micronized sulfur.
If you want to learn about the uses of micronized sulfur in agriculture, continue reading this article.
What Are the Uses of Micronized Sulfur in Agriculture?
Micronized sulfur has multiple uses in farming. Here are some of the most common:
- Micronized sulfur powder or liquid is used to control fungal diseases in fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
- It is considered one of the best fast-acting organic solutions for scab and mildew.
- Micronized sulfur helps reduce plant runoff caused by heavy rainfall because it adheres well to plant surfaces.
- It is used to control powdery mildew and leaf spot diseases.
How to Use Micronized Sulfur
The application method depends on the concentration specified on the product label. It is always recommended to follow the instructions written on the container.
Below is an example of how micronized sulfur can be applied to plant leaves:
- Mix micronized sulfur with water at a rate of two tablespoons per 3.7 liters of water (this may vary depending on concentration).
- Do not spray vegetable oils or horticultural oils for 14 days before or after applying micronized sulfur.
- Spray the leaves at night.
- Use a sprayer with good pressure and ensure all leaf surfaces are fully covered.
What Is Micronized Sulfur?
Micronized sulfur consists of fine dry granules containing sulfur particles sized 9 microns or smaller. These particles mix easily with water without creating foam and are typically applied as a spray.
It can be used outdoors, on crops, orchards, vineyards, greenhouses, hydroponic systems, ponds, potted plants, and houseplants.
It is suitable for a wide range of crops, including:
- Apples
- Beans
- Most berries
- Cherries
- Citrus fruits
- Grapes
- Nectarines
- Peaches
- Peas
- Pears
- Roses, ornamentals, and perennials
- Strawberries
- Apricots
Features of Micronized Sulfur
Key advantages include:
- A large number of particles ensures better coverage and improved surface penetration.
- Can be applied as a foliar spray or mixed into the soil.
- Certified by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI).
- Can be used in both concentrated and diluted forms.
- Easy to handle and apply.
- Fast-acting on plant diseases.
- Fine granules dissolve and flow quickly and smoothly.
Pests and Diseases Controlled by Micronized Sulfur
Micronized sulfur can effectively control:
- Brown rot
- Blossom blight
- Cytospora canker on peaches
- Shot hole disease
- Plum rust
- General rust diseases
- Strawberry mites
- Pacific spider mites
