Powdered SSP
SSP is the most popular phosphate fertilizer after DAP as it contains 3 major plant nutrients namely phosphorus, sulphur and calcium along with traces of several micronutrients.
SSP is locally available and can be supplied within short notice. It is particularly preferred by oilseed farmers.
SSP can be used efficiently if applied in recommended dosage after soil testing. SSP should be properly applied under the seeds along with combined application of manure and bio-fertilizers. Soil pH should be brought close to neutral with soil amendments to improve phosphorus use efficiency. All these precautions, if taken at the right time, can double the utilization efficiency of SSP and lead to better utilization of SSP.
SSP is a grey to brown coloured material containing monocalcium phosphate and calcium sulphate in almost equal proportions. The material is slightly moist and needs moisture resistant packing to avoid lump formation during storage.
SSP is preferred for oilseed crops as sulphur is an integral part of many edible oils and since acidic soils are poor in calcium, SSP is useful in acidic soils as calcium helps in increasing the yield. The increasing sulphur deficiency in most soils makes SSP more popular.
SSP is the only fertilizer that provides sulphur for most soils as it contains water soluble phosphorus which is easily absorbed by the plant. However, sulphur and calcium take a little longer time to dissolve and be absorbed by the plant.
For effective use of SSP, the following are recommended:-
1. Soil Test: For effective use of this fertilizer, the soil should be tested for phosphorus content. This will help in applying only the required amount of SSP. This will also help in reducing the cost of cultivation.
2. Basal Dosage: SSP is the most suitable fertilizer for basal dosing as we can apply the full dose of phosphorus through it. So SSP provides the best combination with urea fertilizer. SSP is also the best fertilizer for pulses where higher phosphorus is required as a basal dosing.
