Sulfur in Canola

Sulfur–like N–is an essential element for plant growth and frequently a limiting factor in agricultural systems. Sulfur is taken up by plants as the anion sulfate (SO₄^–). In wet years, SO₄^– may leach deep into the soil profile. When developing a canola nutrient management plan, soil samples for SO₄^– should be taken to a depth of 3-5’. In the canola plant S is an immobile nutrient which means deficiency symptoms will most likely show up on new leaves. Frequently, S deficiency symptoms do not show up until the plant has initiated bolting. S deficiency is characterized by cupped and purple leaves on the stem.