S -Role & Deficiency Symptoms

Sulphur-Role in Plant Growth:

Sulphur is essential for the growth and development of all crops, without exception. Most of the plant's requirement of S is absorbed through the roots in the sulphate (SO₄^-2) form.
Like any essential nutrient, sulphur also has certain specific roles to play in the plants. Such roles cannot be replaced by any other nutrient. That is why S deficiencies can only be corrected by augmenting S supply.

Some key functions of S are:

Protein production, primarily because it is a constituent of the three main amino acids (cysteine, cystine and methionine), which are the building blocks of protein. About 90% of plant sulphur is present in these amino acids.
			Formation of chlorophyll, the green substance in leaves and other above-ground plant parts that permit photosynthesis. Plants produce starch, sugar, oils, fats, vitamins and other vital compounds through photosynthesis.
			Synthesis of oils. This is why adequate sulphur is so crucial for oilseeds.

Activation of enzymes, which act as catalysts in biochemical reactions within the plant.	Groundnut with S (R), without S (L)
Sulphur increases crop yields and improves produce quality, both of which are important for determining the market price a farmer would get for his produce.
Specifically with reference to quality, S improves oil percentage in seeds, plant protein content, cereal quality for milling and baking, marketability of copra, quality of tobacco, forages etc.