Maximize fall fertilizer applications (see related article) by applying Gypsum with the phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). “Gypsum is a slow-release sulfur source for corn, but it is also great for legumes like soybeans and alfalfa, which both respond well to sulfur (S) and calcium (Ca),” said John Swanson, Federated agronomist at the Ogilvie location.

Swanson said there’s “a common misconception that Gypsum is a liming agent, but it is actually pH neutral.” It is a great source of season-long sulfur because it provides 17% S, as well as 21% Ca. (Swanson noted that the sulfur in Gypsum is not as slow release as elemental S, but not as fast or leachable as AMS.)

Gypsum provides many other benefits as well. Gypsum:

• - helps improve soil structure, which leads to better seed-to-soil contact;
• - can reduce crusting and improve germination;
• - is net neutral for pH – in contrast to AMS which is acidic and reduces pH;
• - helps improve water use efficiency;
• - helps prevent water logging of soils;
• - helps plants absorb plant nutrients;
• - decreases the density of the soil (compaction);
• - helps increase crop rooting depth;
• - decreases N losses to the air.

Because Gypsum benefits the soil in so many ways, it can also help decrease the incidence of white mold, which “is becoming more of an issue, so this will be of even greater importance as we move forward,” said Swanson.

Federated recommends Gypsoil Blendable (see fact sheet), a consistent durable pellet that can be blended with other fertilizers for simple, consistent application.

Talk to your Federated Agronomist for crop-specific use rates, as well as use rates for soil amendment based on specific soil needs.