Sulfur powder [S] — Ingredient sheet

Sulfur powder [S]

Elemental sulfur, a yellow solid insoluble in water, sold as a fine powder.

Characteristics

• Plants cannot use it directly: soil microorganisms oxidize it to sulfate.
• Oxidation is faster in warm, moist soils rich in organic matter and with fine particles.
• Sulfur is an essential plant nutrient, absorbed as sulfate.
• Traditional ingredient of lime-sulfur broth in agroecological literature.

Role in the preparation: Supplies sulfur in mineral preparations; in lime-sulfur broth it is boiled with lime to form calcium polysulfides.

Caution: Fine dust can form explosive mixtures with air and burning releases toxic sulfur dioxide: avoid flames and static, wear a dust mask, gloves and goggles, and store away from oxidizers.

Sources: International Chemical Safety Cards – Sulfur (ICSC 1166) · CropNutrition – Oxidation of elemental sulfur in soils

Documentary information: this is neither a recommendation for use nor a plant-protection or veterinary claim. Check your country's regulations before any use.