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The Effects of Sulphur on Maize Yields in Western Kenya
(1976) Allan, A.Y.
After Sulphur (S) deficiencies were seen in maize crops in Trans Nzoia District, W. Kenya, in 1968, trials to study S fertilization were laid down in 17 farmers' fields in 1969-70. On average, the addition of 42 kg/ha of S to maize which had adequate N and P increased grain yields very significantly from 52.5 to 61.9 quintals/ha, a gain of 18 per cent. Typical symptoms of S deficiencies were observed and are described. Chemical analysis of index leaves at tasselling showed that treatments without S averaged 0.13 per cent S, compared with 0.19 per cent when 42 kg/ha S was applied. Ratios between per cent N and per cent S were useful in diagnosing S shortages, particularly when N and P were adequate. Deficiencies occurred mostly on fields newly broken from grass, and became more acute when fertilizers containing no S were used there. Deficiencies could easily be avoided, or remedied by using S-containing fertilizers. Shortages of S were apparently not confined to only 1 or 2 soil types, and could become more widespread and serious in future on Kenya maize.