Sirius Minerals delivers strong results from latest stage in crop study

11th Aug 2014 12:57

Potash development group Sirius Minerals pleased with the latest set of results from its ongoing global crop study programme, which it said has demonstrated the suitability and effectiveness of the York Potash polyhalite product, POLY4, as a crop input for tomatoes. POLY4 was found to deliver a 74% yield increase over the traditional MOP form of potash and the results were also indicative of greater nutrient use efficiency. Additionally, the results indicated an increase in the pulp-to-juice ratio when utilising POLY4 in a blend or as a straight fertilizer, which aids longer shelf life due to better resistance to physical damage.Chris Fraser, the managing director and chief executive of Sirius, said: "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."Tomatoes account for 8% of the overall world food production by value, with the market worth almost $60bn. Shares in Sirius rose 4.34% to 10.69p by 13:08.NR