Field Studies Evaluating Sulfur Availability Using Ion Exchange Resin Capsules.

Commonly used soil analysis and resin capsule procedures successfully assess nutrient status of most nutrients in the soil. Sulfur, however, has been a difficult nutrient to assess with commonly used soil tests. Ion exchange resin capsules provide a viable alternative in evaluating the sulfur status of fertilized soils. Field studies were established in Rush and Skull Valley, UT on clay loam and sandy loam soils, respectively. Plots were measured, resin capsules placed and fertilizer applied with six sulfur treatments (0, 6.7, 13.4, 26.9, 53.8 and 107.5 kg/ha). Resin capsules were removed and replaced approximately every 90 days and soil samples taken and extracted with monocalcium phosphate containing 500 ppm phosphorus. Data collected indicates resins capsules and conventional soil tests were effective in distinguishing between fertilizer rates.