Sulfur is an essential nutrient for corn crops, and it plays several important roles in the plant’s growth and development. Here are some of the functions that sulfur performs in a corn crop:

1. Chlorophyll Formation: Sulfur is a component of chlorophyll, the molecule that captures light energy for photosynthesis. Without adequate sulfur, corn plants cannot produce enough chlorophyll, which can lead to reduced photosynthesis and lower crop yields.
2. Amino Acid Production: Sulfur is also necessary for the formation of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Corn plants that receive enough sulfur can produce more proteins, which can lead to higher protein content in the corn kernels. This is important for corn that is grown for animal feed or for human consumption.
3. Nitrogen Use Efficiency: Sulfur helps to activate enzymes that convert nitrogen into usable forms for the plant. Corn plants that receive enough sulfur can make better use of nitrogen, which is another essential nutrient for growth. This means that sulfur can increase nitrogen use efficiency, leading to higher yields.
4. Stress Tolerance: Sulfur plays a role in the production of antioxidants, which can help corn plants tolerate environmental stresses such as drought, heat, and cold. Plants that receive adequate sulfur are better equipped to deal with these stresses, leading to more robust and resilient crops.
5. Soil Health: Sulfur can also improve soil health. It can lower soil pH, making certain micronutrients more available to the plants. Additionally, sulfur can improve soil structure and increase water-holding capacity, which can help to mitigate the effects of drought. It is a key component to helping get the correct Base Saturation ratings.