Dextrose Based Sulphur Solubilizing Bacteria Powder Formulation (100 % Water Soluble)

Sulphur Solubilizing Bacteria (SSB) are specialized microbes that oxidize elemental sulphur and insoluble sulphides into plant-available sulphate (SO₄²⁻) through enzymatic action. Formulated at 5 × 10⁷ CFU/g, they correct sulphur deficiencies, enhance oil/protein synthesis, and improve soil pH in alkaline conditions.

Product Specifications

• CFU: 5 × 10⁷ per gram (50 million viable cells/g)

• Active Content: Strains like Thiobacillus thiooxidans, T. thioparus, or Arthrobacter sulfonivorans

• Carrier: Dextrose powder (pH 6.0–8.0 for stability)

Usage Instructions

1. Dosage: 1–2 kg/acre mixed with elemental sulphur (S⁰) or compost.

2. Timing: Apply pre-sowing; reapply at flowering for oilseed crops.

3. Primary Action: Oxidizes S⁰ to H₂SO₄ via sox gene system, lowering soil pH.

4. Method:

   • Soil: Blend with 20–40 kg S⁰/acre + FYM; broadcast and irrigate.

   • Seeds: Treat with 20 g/kg slurry (use 5% starch binder).

5. Frequency: Single dose for cereals; 2 doses for oilseeds/legumes.

6. Compatibility: Synergistic with PSB; avoid lime/alkaline amendments for 30 days.

7. Activation: Requires aeration; irrigate post-application to activate oxidation.

8. Safety: Non-toxic; safe for plants and soil biota.

Suitable Crops

• Oilseeds: Mustard (↑ oil content), Groundnut (↓ hollow heart), Sunflower

• Legumes: Soybean (↑ protein), Chickpea (↑ nodulation)

• Cereals: Wheat (↑ gluten strength), Rice (reduces "akiochi" disease)

• Vegetables: Onion (↑ pungency), Garlic, Cabbage

• Others: Tea, Tobacco, Sugarcane

Storage Instructions

• Temperature: 10–25°C (critical; Thiobacillus is heat-sensitive).

• Packaging: Airtight, moisture-proof bags with oxygen scavenger.

• Shelf Life: 8 months (bentonite carrier extends viability).

• Precautions: Store away from metals, strong oxidizers, and direct light.

Key Advantage

Acidification-Solubilization Synergy:

• Converts 20–30 kg S⁰/ha to plant-available SO₄²⁻ in 4–6 weeks

• Lowers soil pH by 0.5–1.0 units in alkaline soils (ICAR-IISSR data)

• Reduces sulphur deficiency by 60% in oilseeds and alliums