As we move into Spring, turfgrass managers across the country will be focusing on turfgrass green-up for golf courses, sports fields, and residential lawns. Breaking winter dormancy quickly to accelerate spring growth is key to achieving vibrant, healthy turf. Brinkley Roberson, Market Development & Innovation Manager at Omya Inc says the strategic use of sulfur (S) can make all the difference. “Sulfur is an essential secondary nutrient that plays a significant role in promoting early spring green-up. It enhances chlorophyll production, improves nutrient availability, and supports overall plant metabolism. Early applications of readily available sulfur can help turfgrass break dormancy faster and develop a lush, green appearance.”
How does sulfur support turfgrass green-up?
Sulfur is essential for chlorophyll formation and function, the pigment responsible for the green color in plants. It is also a vital element in the synthesis of amino acids like cysteine and methionine, which are building blocks for proteins and enzymes involved in photosynthesis and growth. Roberson elaborates, “Without sufficient sulfur, leaves become pale yellow or light green, rather than the rich vibrant green customers expect to see in their spring turfgrass. Sulfur deficiency symptoms appear on the youngest leaves, so new shoots coming through will lack the intensity of green you want.” Sulfur has an impact on the availability of other nutrients, especially nitrogen (N). As Roberson explains, “During early spring, before the soil warms up, microbial activity is sluggish, causing low mineralization of nutrients. This means turfgrass can struggle to find the nutrients it needs, at the time when it most needs them. Sulfur applications can help overcome this by improving the availability of other essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, which is crucial for chlorophyll synthesis and overall plant vigor.”
It is widely recognized that a suitable balance between sulfur and nitrogen is essential for plant growth. Research shows that the agronomic efficiency of applied nitrogen fertilizer sources could be enhanced significantly by increasing sulfur availability in soils (Agyin-Birikorang et al., 2023). This synergy between sulfur and nitrogen is particularly important in early spring, as it accelerates the breakdown of dormancy and promotes rapid greening. Roberson also points out that if the sulfur source is derived from gypsum then there is an additional benefit from the calcium ions which help soil structure and can also improve sodicity and dislodge toxic aluminum ions.
When and how should sulfur be applied for turfgrass green-up?
First and most importantly, turfgrass managers should consider which form of sulfur to apply. Plants can only take up sulfur in its sulfate form, so any other form must be converted in the soil before it becomes available to the plant. Roberson recommends Omya’s gypsum-derived GreenLight S, made from micronized calcium sulfate, which enables rapid uptake of sulfur when the turf needs it. “We recommend applying GreenLight S in early spring, just before the turfgrass breaks dormancy so that the turf has access to it when it begins active growth. It can be applied at up to 50lbs per 1,000 square feet, although turfgrass managers should consider soil test results and turfgrass conditions before applying. The Greenlight S granules dissolve quickly in moisture, so they leave no residue that might affect the playing surface.” To maximize the benefits of sulfur for early spring green-up, it should be integrated with other practices such as core aeration, scarification, and a balanced fertilizer program. Proper irrigation also plays a role in supporting the turfgrass's response to sulfur applications.
Beyond early spring green-up, sulfur offers long-term benefits for turfgrass health. It supports root development, improves stress tolerance, and enhances overall plant resilience. By addressing nutrient deficiencies and optimizing soil conditions, including reducing compaction, sulfur helps create a strong foundation for sustained turfgrass performance throughout the growing season. Roberson concludes, “For turfgrass managers who want healthy-looking grass quickly, applying sulfur can make a big difference. Not only does it help chlorophyll production, it also improves nitrogen uptake and supports the plant’s general metabolism. As part of a strategic nutrient management plan, Greenlight S will help you start your season with great looking turf.”
Want to learn more about our approach and solutions? Visit: omya-greenlight.com.