Degree Type
Creative Component
Semester of Graduation
Fall 2020
Department
Agronomy
First Major Professor
Dr. Renuka Mathur
Second Major Professor
Dr. Allen Knapp
Degree(s)
Master of Science (MS)
Major(s)
Agronomy
Abstract
Over the years sulfur deposition from the air has been on a continuous decline. This is significantly due to the Clean air act of 1970.The decrease in sulfur deposition has led to a decrease of sulfur in the soil and consequently has lowered sulfur intake for plants. Sulfur is a key nutrient in plants, including soybeans, and low sulfur content can lead to a decrease in overall yield. Studies have been performed by adding sulfur to soybeans, but the results vary across the board on if additional sulfur increases soybean yield. The question this research will try to prove is, soybean yield response to sulfur fertilizer depends on soil type. To test this hypothesis randomized block field trials were set up to test one hundred pounds of ammonium sulfate (AMS) compared to the control of zero pounds across two soil types of Brookston and Crosby. Brookston and Crosby types were chosen for their difference in organic matter. The results showed there was no significant difference in yield by soil type comparing the AMS to the control. The results did show there was an economic advantage to applying AMS to the Crosby soil type. This field trial showed research needs to include statistical analysis and an economic analysis to show the true findings.
Copyright Owner
Clark, Abigail
Copyright Year
2020
File Format
Embargo Period (admin only)
12-1-2020
Recommended Citation
Clark, Abigail, "Use of Sulfur in Soybean Fields and its Association with Soil Types" (2020). Creative Components. 695.
https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/creativecomponents/695
1