SUL4R-PLUS Combines U.S. Sourcing with Agronomic Benefits to Help Growers Improve Nutrient Efficiency and Protect Input Investments
As growers gear up for another demanding season, priorities remain clear: maximizing nutrient efficiency, protecting input investments and ensuring reliable access to essential crop nutrition.
SUL4R-PLUS®, delivers on all three as a domestically produced calcium sulfate fertilizer with validated agronomic performance and a dependable U.S. supply chain. Backed by expanded production capacity and fully domestic sourcing, it is readily available to meet grower demand without the supply chain disruptions and challenges faced by other fertilizer products.
“We have a 100% U.S. production and supply chain for this crop nutrition tool,” said Ben Runge, Plant Advantage™ Marketing Manager, HELM Crop Solutions. “It’s one thing to manufacture a product in the U.S., but sourcing the raw materials here as well minimizes disruption risk and gives growers confidence that the product will be there when they need it.”
To further strengthen availability, production expanded with the 2025 addition of a new facility in Marissa, Illinois, which more than doubled capacity to help meet demand for the 2026 season. This investment reinforces the position of SUL4R-PLUS as a reliable, scalable solution for retailers and growers alike.
A reliable source of secondary nutrients
SUL4R-PLUS delivers two vital secondary nutrients, calcium and sulfur, in a uniform, low-dust pellet designed for both immediate availability and more than 75 days of controlled-release feeding that syncs with crop nutrient demand.
- These nutrients play a key role in plant development and nutrient efficiency, particularly as atmospheric sulfur deposition declines and input costs remain elevated.
- Sulfur is essential for chlorophyll formation, protein synthesis and nitrogen utilization. Calcium supports cell wall strength, nutrient transport and stress tolerance.
- Together, sulfur and calcium help growers get more from every fertilizer dollar spent as they enable crops to more efficiently use nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
“What better way to improve nutrient efficiency than ensuring sulfur is available in the soil,” Runge said. “Sulfur is a key driver of nitrogen assimilation, so when growers invest in nitrogen, it helps that investment work harder.”
Each pellet also includes fulvic acid that supports root development and nutrient uptake throughout the growing season.
Field trials show higher yields
Real-world grower experience demonstrates consistent agronomic benefits across multiple crops and conditions.
Illinois grower and retired retailer Gerald Forbeck reports measurable improvements in both yield and crop improvements when sulfur and calcium are included in the fertility program.
“In 2024, we saw about an 8% yield increase in both wheat and corn, and more than a 14% increase in soybeans compared to no sulfur,” Forbeck said. “The fertilizer is a high-quality material that provides necessary nutrients and a root stimulator, without affecting soil pH.”
Tissue testing in alfalfa showed elevated levels of crude protein, calcium and sulfur, along with improvements in other nutrients such as potassium and phosphorus, which indicate broader gains in nutrient uptake and plant health.
“2025 was a dry, hot year, so results were not as significant, but it was still worth the investment,” he said. “With the realization that if the crop has appropriate moisture, gets planted early, is kept pest-free, and has appropriate other nutrients, the product improves the possibility of a positive yield response.”
Forbeck emphasized that results are strongest when SUL4R-PLUS is used as part of a comprehensive management strategy.
“There’s a positive difference between crops that receive the product and non-treated crops,” he added. “It should be part of a top management cropping plan, and it may be the first thing you add to your fertility plan this year to maximize ROI, especially for soybeans.”
Built for efficiency and flexibility
Beyond nutrient content, this fertilizer is designed for operational efficiency. Its low-dust, uniform pellets support accurate application, cleaner handling and improved storage conditions.
The product remains stable in the soil to allow for flexible application timing, whether preplant or in-season. This ability helps growers and retailers manage tight labor windows and variable weather.
It is also pH-neutral with a low salt index, which reduces the risk of crop injury compared to many other fertilizers while supporting long-term soil health.
Consistent supply in a volatile market
Fertilizer markets continue to be influenced by global supply shifts and price volatility. With domestic production and abundant raw material sourcing, SUL4R-PLUS offers a dependable option for growers planning ahead.
“With everything going on globally, growers want to know their inputs will be available,” Runge said. “We’ve made the investments to ensure it is ready to meet demand this season and beyond.”
As nitrogen prices remain elevated, improving nutrient utilization is key to protecting input spend. By supporting stronger uptake and overall crop performance, SUL4R-PLUS provides a practical tool for growers focused on profitability and long-term sustainability.
Key takeaways
- Reliable, domestic supply: SUL4R-PLUS is backed by a 100% U.S.-based supply chain and expanded production capacity, that helps ensure consistent availability and reduced disruption risk for the 2026 season.
- Improved nutrient efficiency: Provides calcium and sulfur, key secondary nutrients that enhance nitrogen utilization and overall nutrient uptake, helping growers maximize return on fertilizer investments.
- Demonstrated field performance: Grower results show measurable yield increases and improved crop quality, particularly when used as part of a comprehensive fertility program.
For more information, contact your local HELM crop nutrition sales representative.
You can also take one or more of HELM's online learning modules, to learn more about SUL4R-PLUS, other products and agronomic insights.