Summit-Quinphos creates sulphur granule

Summit-Quinphos creates breakthrough sulphur granule

Fertiliser and animal nutrients specialist Summit-Quinphos is preparing to go nationwide with a new mixed granule formula that delivers key plant nutrients for farmers who haven’t been able to afford superphosphate.

In response to clear evidence that a growing number of farmers have skipped their usual superphosphate applications this year because of budgeting constraints, Summit-Quinphos has released a new product that it has been quietly trialling to positive reviews for the past two months.

“Our regular contact with farmers throughout New Zealand identified the need for a product that could provide vital plant nutrients for those farmers who couldn’t afford their usual fertiliser spend,” says Willie Thomson, Summit-Quinphos General Manager.

“The result is PhaSed N – a breakthrough combination of nitrogen, sulphur and lime blended in a single compound granule.”

Mr Thomson says superphosphate usually contains adequate amounts of sulphur for maximum production when applied at traditional levels, so the value of S was overlooked.

“Sulphur has been seen as a by-product of super until recent times, but it is a critical element for improved clover growth and nitrogen fixation and, unlike phosphate, it can’t be stored in most soils, so regular application is crucial to maintain optimum growing conditions.

“If Olsen P levels look good, farmers know they can risk a missed phosphate application for a season, but the same is not true for sulphur. If you haven’t been applying super, chances are your S levels will be right down.”

Summit-Quinphos had been working on PhaSed N since 2007, but decided to accelerate the programme as it became increasingly evident that many farmers would continue to struggle to afford superphosphate.

“Our field consultants tell us that PhaSed N will fill a gap in the marketplace and help farmers maximise their returns in this constrained financial climate.

“We’ve found a way for farmers to put on sulphur to maximise production to the top of the response curve without adding to spreading costs.”

The company has been perfecting the product at a pilot manufacturing plant at Te Poi in the Waikato, opting for the compound granule to make spreading easier and more cost effective.

It has been available in the top half of North Island for two months and uptake has been strong, with demand exceeding supply at present.

“So far we have had excellent feedback from customers, with reports that they have achieved a good response in what have typically been poor growing conditions. Elemental sulphur is finely ground and cannot be leached, so it is suitable for winter application.”

Summit-Quinphos plans to expand production of the unique product to include a plant in the South Island, with PhaSed N becoming available nationwide within 12 months.

“PhaSed N is a great alternative solution for cash-strapped farmers, enabling them to get a super return without superphosphate,” says Mr Thomson.

“Until our product is available everywhere, we recommend farmers use our finely ground elemental sulphur or sulphate of ammonia as alternatives to superphosphate to maintain sulphur levels.”

ENDS

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