Polyhalite nutrients driving balanced crop nutrition and sustainable agricultural productivity

Polyhalite, a naturally occurring evaporite mineral, has emerged as an alternative multi-nutrient fertilizer due to its composition of potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S). Unlike conventional potassium fertilizers, polyhalite offers a slow-release nutrient supply, improving nutrient use efficiency and reducing environmental impact. This review explores the role of polyhalite in crop nutrition, comparing its effectiveness with traditional fertilizers like muriate of potash (MOP) and sulfate of potash (SOP). Studies indicate that polyhalite enhances crop growth, yield and quality across various agricultural systems, including cereals, legumes, tuber crops and oilseeds. Its application also improves soil fertility by positively influencing cation exchange capacity, microbial activity and soil structure. Additionally, polyhalite’s chloride-free nature makes it suitable for chloride-sensitive crops, minimizing soil salinity risks. Moreover, polyhalite presents a promising solution for enhancing agricultural productivity while maintaining environmental sustainability. Despite its benefits, a few challenges such as limited availability and higher initial costs hinder its widespread adoption. Future research should focus on optimizing application methods, assessing its long-term residual effects and integrating it into precision agriculture for sustainable nutrient management.