11th Aug 2014 10:36
LONDON (Alliance News) - Sirius Minerals PLC Monday said that latest results from a crop study programme it is undertaking demonstrated the suitability and effectiveness of the polyhalite product it hopes to produce from the York Potash project as a crop input for tomatoes.
In trials undertaken at the University of Florida, the York Potash polyhalite product POLY4 was used in a NPK blend and delivered a 74% yield increase compared with a blend containing traditional muriate of potash. There was also a 57% increase in potassium uptake by the plants when POLY4 was used as a straight fertilizer, a sign of greater nutrient use efficiency.
The results also showed that the tomatoes had a higher pulp/juice ratio when POLY4 was used either in a blend or as a straight fertilizer. And despite high magnesium levels in the soil, there was a 158% increase in MgO nutrient content from using a POLY4 blend and a 211% increase in MgO nutrient content by using POLY4 over muriate of potash as a straight fertilizer.
"This outstanding set of results is yet another demonstration of both the value of polyhalite and the large high value market potential that exists for this unique, multi-nutrient form of potash. These results show the value of balanced fertilization and the validity of polyhalite as a bulk source of potassium, sulphur, magnesium and calcium in a form that is certified for organic use," Sirius Chief Executive Chris Fraser said in a statement.
The company is primarily focused on developing a potash mine near York, and is trying to get planning permission for the site.
Sirius Minerals shares were up 4.9% at 10.75 pence Monday morning.
By Steve McGrath; [email protected]; @stevemcgrath1
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