Management Practices During the Sugarcane Jointing Period
The sugarcane jointing period, also known as the elongation period, generally occurs from late June to early July each year. This is a crucial period for sugarcane growth and an important stage for yield formation. So, what are the key management practices for growers during this period? Let's find out.
1. Fertilization Management
The jointing period is the most important stage of the entire growth period, so fertilization should be emphasized to meet its nutritional growth needs. Nitrogen fertilizer should be the main focus, with appropriate supplementation of phosphorus and potassium. Recommended scheme: Apply 10-12 kg of urea, 2500-3000 kg of composted human feces and urine, and 25 kg of cake fertilizer per acre. If the sugarcane plants are growing vigorously, less fertilizer may be applied.
2. Irrigation and Drought Prevention
The jointing period of sugarcane is generally in a very hot period after the summer solstice, so irrigation and drought prevention work should be emphasized. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen field water replenishment and moisture retention work, and take measures to shade and protect the sugarcane plantation to maintain proper humidity. If conditions permit, an irrigation system can be installed in the plantation.
3. Scientific Soil Cultivation
During the early stage of jointing, when the sugarcane roots are not yet deep and relatively shallow, attention should be paid to shallow soil cultivation, with a shallow soil cultivation height of generally 3-4 cm; while in the later stage of jointing, when the sugarcane has entered a rapid elongation period and the growth is relatively vigorous, deep soil cultivation is appropriate, with the thickness of deep soil cultivation depending on the growth of the sugarcane, usually around 6-7 cm.
4. Removal of Old Leaves
Properly remove some leaves, including old and already yellowed leaves, to increase the light exposure and air circulation of the sugarcane, and reduce the incidence of disease and pests. However, do not remove too many at once, at least 7-10 leaves should be retained for photosynthesis.
5. Disease and Pest Control
In the hot and humid season, various diseases and pests are prone to occur, such as sugarcane borers, thrips, and smut. It is recommended to timely apply pesticides according to the pest situation. For sugarcane fields with smut, apply 1.5-3 kg of furadon per acre to kill ants and borers. For sugarcane smut, soak the sugarcane seeds in hot water with fungicides for good sterilization effects. Fungicides such as 500 times of 25% triadimefon wettable powder or 500 times of 50% carbendazim wettable powder can be used.
In summary, it is now June, and the sugarcane jointing period is approaching. Growers should make preparations in advance, strengthen field management, and lay a solid foundation for high-quality and high-yield sugarcane production.
Worker's Practices for Sugarcane Plant Life Control
Sugarcane plant life control is crucial for ensuring optimal growth and yield. Workers play a key role in implementing various practices to manage sugarcane plant life effectively. Here are some common practices:
1. Planting
Workers ensure proper planting of sugarcane, including selecting healthy and disease-free seedlings, planting them at the correct depth, and spacing them appropriately to allow for optimal growth.
2. Irrigation
Workers are responsible for ensuring that sugarcane plants receive adequate irrigation. They monitor soil moisture levels and adjust irrigation schedules accordingly to prevent under or over-watering.
3. Fertilization
Workers apply fertilizers to provide essential nutrients to sugarcane plants. They follow recommended fertilization schedules and techniques to promote healthy growth.
4. Weed Control
Workers control weeds in sugarcane fields to reduce competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight. They use manual or mechanical methods or apply herbicides following recommended guidelines.
5. Disease and Pest Management
Workers monitor sugarcane plants for signs of disease and pests. They implement preventive measures such as crop rotation, using disease-resistant varieties, and applying pesticides when necessary.
6. Harvesting
Workers harvest sugarcane at the right time to ensure maximum sugar content. They use specialized equipment and follow proper harvesting techniques to minimize damage to the plants.
Overall, workers play a crucial role in managing sugarcane plant life, implementing practices that promote healthy growth and optimal yield.
Managing Ratoon in Sugarcane
Ratoon sugarcane, also known as regrowth cane, refers to the new shoots that grow from the stubble of the original sugarcane after the first harvest. Proper management of ratoon is crucial for ensuring the success of the subsequent crop. Here are some key management practices:
1. Weed Control
Weed competition can significantly reduce the yield of ratoon sugarcane. Effective weed control methods include manual weeding, herbicide application, and mulching. It is important to control weeds early to prevent them from competing with the sugarcane for nutrients and sunlight.
2. Fertilization
Ratoon sugarcane requires adequate nutrients for optimal growth. Fertilizer application should be based on soil test results and the nutrient requirements of sugarcane. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are key nutrients for ratoon sugarcane. Application rates should be adjusted based on the age of the ratoon crop and the soil nutrient levels.
3. Irrigation
Proper irrigation is essential for the growth of ratoon sugarcane. Irrigation scheduling should be based on the soil moisture levels and the water requirements of the crop. Over-irrigation can lead to waterlogging and nutrient leaching, while under-irrigation can result in reduced growth and yield.
4. Pest and Disease Management
Ratoon sugarcane is susceptible to pests and diseases, which can reduce yields and quality. Integrated pest and disease management practices should be implemented, including the use of resistant varieties, cultural practices, and chemical control measures when necessary.
5. Ratoon Stubble Management
After the ratoon crop is harvested, it is important to manage the stubble properly to promote the growth of new shoots. Stubble should be cut to the ground level and any remaining debris should be removed from the field to reduce pest and disease pressure.
Proper management of ratoon sugarcane is essential for maintaining high yields and quality in successive crops. By implementing these management practices, growers can maximize the productivity of their sugarcane fields.
Most Common Method of Irrigation in Sugarcane
The most common method of irrigation in sugarcane cultivation is flood irrigation. Flood irrigation involves flooding the fields with water to ensure that the entire root zone of the sugarcane plants is adequately watered. This method is particularly effective in areas where water availability is not a constraint and where the soil has good water retention capacity.
Another common method of irrigation in sugarcane cultivation is drip irrigation. Drip irrigation involves delivering water directly to the roots of the sugarcane plants through a network of pipes and emitters. This method is more water-efficient than flood irrigation and can help reduce water wastage.
Overall, the choice of irrigation method in sugarcane cultivation depends on factors such as water availability, soil type, and crop requirements.
