Description
In the middle of the last century, agricultural commercial orchards, where leaves would change color from green to yellow, or to red or even purple. They would then die and drop from the tree prematurely. Of course, this meant that fruit production was reduced, because there were fewer leaves to feed the developing fruits. Wallace (1939) and other researchers identified the problem as magnesium deficiency in the leaves, and for several decades magnesium sulfate was applied to the soil, leaves, and even injected into the branches to solve the problem.
Epsom salt, chemically known as Magnesium Sulfate (MgSO₄·7H₂O), is widely used in agriculture for its essential magnesium and sulfur content—two crucial nutrients for plant health. Here are its key uses and benefits in farming:
Uses of Epsom Salt in Agriculture
1. Magnesium Source
– Magnesium is a core component of chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants vital for photosynthesis
– Epsom salt corrects magnesium deficiencies, especially in crops like tomatoes, peppers, citrus, and leafy greens.
2. Sulfur Supplement
– Sulfur plays a key role in protein synthesis and enzyme function.
– It enhances flavor, oil content, and disease resistance in many crops.
3. Boosting Nutrient Absorption
– Helps plants absorb nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus more efficiently.
4. Seed Germination
– Magnesium improves seed energy metabolism, aiding in stronger and faster germination.
5. Fruit and Flower Production
– Enhances flowering and fruit setting, especially in flowering trees, ornamental plants, and vegetables.
6. Soil Amendment
– Can be used to balance soil magnesium levels without affecting pH significantly.
