Why Magnesium Sulfate Is Crucial for Plant Growth and Industrial Uses
Technical Introduction
Magnesium Sulfate (MgSO₄) is a white crystalline salt that provides both magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S)—two essential nutrients for plants.
It is highly water-soluble, making it ideal for soil application, foliar feeding, and fertigation.
Magnesium is a core component of chlorophyll, while sulfur is important for protein synthesis and enzyme activity.
Applications
1. Agriculture & Horticulture
Micronutrient Fertilizer: Corrects magnesium and sulfur deficiencies in crops such as cereals, vegetables, and fruits.
Foliar Spray: Rapidly alleviates magnesium deficiency, improving chlorophyll content and photosynthesis.
Soil Amendment: Enhances soil nutrient balance in magnesium-deficient soils.
2. Industrial Uses
Chemical Production: Precursor in manufacturing magnesium-based chemicals.
Textiles & Paper: Used as a sizing and bleaching agent.
Food & Pharmaceuticals: As E518, used in mineral supplements and laxatives.
3. Other Uses
Aquaculture & Water Treatment: Provides essential magnesium for aquatic organisms.
Advantages
High Solubility: Quickly available for plant uptake.
Dual Nutrient Source: Supplies both magnesium and sulfur efficiently.
Versatile Application: Suitable for soil, foliar, fertigation, and industrial use.
Safe and Stable: Non-toxic at recommended doses and has long shelf life.
Typical Parameters
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | MgSO₄·7H₂O (Heptahydrate) |
| Magnesium (Mg) Content | ~9–10% |
| Sulfur (S) Content | ~13% |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Solubility in Water | 710 g/L at 20°C |
| pH (5% solution) | 5–6 |
| Purity | ≥ 98% |
| Shelf Life | 2 years in dry storage |
FAQs
Q1: What is the difference between heptahydrate and anhydrous magnesium sulfate?
A1: Heptahydrate (MgSO₄·7H₂O) contains water molecules and is easier to handle in agriculture, while anhydrous is more concentrated but less common for soil use.
Q2: Can it be used as a foliar spray?
A2: Yes, 1–2% solution is commonly used to correct magnesium deficiency quickly.
Q3: Is magnesium sulfate safe for crops and livestock?
A3: Yes, when applied at recommended doses; it is non-toxic and widely used.
Q4: How quickly does it correct magnesium deficiency?
A4: Foliar applications show visible improvement within a few days; soil applications may take a week or more.
Q5: How should it be stored?
A5: Keep in a dry, sealed, ventilated area to prevent caking and moisture absorption.
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