Sulfur Fertility for Barley in the Mid-Atlantic.

Virginia farmers consistently produce approximately 72,000 acres of barley per year. As with any grain, sulfur (S) fertility recommendations need to be established to ensure adequate supply for producing high yields. Sulfur fertilizer applications are an important consideration for farmers in the Mid-Atlantic utilizing sandy loam soils as air quality improvement has reduced amounts of “free” fertility. We conducted a S source × S rate study to determine if S fertilizer applications were necessary. In this study, up to 21 bu./acre yield increases were observed when comparing treatments with and without S fertilizer additions. We consistently saw highest yields with S rates of 10 lbs./acre or more. In conclusion, farmers on sandy loam soils need to consider adding S fertilizer to their fertility programs for optimal yields.