Sugarcane, a common economic crop, is known for its good taste and high nutritional value, with a wide planting area. When cultivating sugarcane, it is essential to fertilize properly at different stages to enhance sweetness. So, what fertilizer makes sugarcane sweetest? Let's find out together.
1. Apply Sufficient Base Fertilizer
For base fertilizer, organic fertilizer is the main component, supplemented by nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply 1500 to 2000 kilograms of well-rotted farmyard manure per acre, along with 30 kilograms of compound fertilizer and 10 kilograms of potassium fertilizer. After plowing, incorporate the fertilizer into the soil and level the field.
2. Apply Nitrogen Fertilizer during Seedling Stage
When sugarcane sprouts and reaches the stage of 1 leaf and 1 heart, the stored nitrogen in the mother plant is depleted. At this point, nitrogen fertilizer is needed to promote rapid seedling growth and lay a foundation for the cane's height. Apply 5 kilograms of urea per acre by watering it.
3. Apply Nitrogen-Phosphorus Fertilizer during Tillering Stage
When sugarcane seedlings grow to 7 to 8 leaves, apply fertilizer to promote root expansion and tillering. Apply nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers at this stage, with 5 kilograms of urea and 20 kilograms of calcium superphosphate per acre.
4. Apply High-Nitrogen Compound Fertilizer during Elongation Stage
At this stage, when sugarcane seedlings reach about 80 centimeters in height and elongation is crucial, the demand for fertilizer is the highest. Apply high-nitrogen compound fertilizer to promote stem elongation and thickening. Incorporate 20 kilograms of high-nitrogen compound fertilizer per acre into the soil during inter-row cultivation.
5. Apply Plant Growth Regulators to Assist Elongation
Additionally, at this stage, plant growth regulators such as gibberellin (920) can be sprayed. Mix one packet (1 gram) of gibberellin with 50 kilograms of water per acre for spraying. Apply once every 15 days for 3 to 4 consecutive times.
6. Apply High-Potassium Fertilizer during Maturation Stage
Apply potassium fertilizer during the maturation stage to increase the sweetness of sugarcane and promote stem thickening. Apply 20 kilograms of potassium chloride per acre by furrow application two months before harvesting.
These are the methods for achieving the sweetest sugarcane through fertilizer application. When fertilizing sugarcane, remember to apply fertilizers in small amounts multiple times. Drip irrigation or foliar feeding can be used for supplemental fertilization, which facilitates nutrient absorption by sugarcane.
Q: How long does it take for sugarcane seeds to germinate?
A: Sugarcane seeds take a relatively long time to germinate. It typically takes about 12 months from sowing to seedling emergence, and another 12 months for the seedlings to grow into robust plants. However, the germination rate is usually around 60%.
Q: What are the key factors affecting sugarcane seed germination?
A: The key factors influencing sugarcane seed germination include the quality of the seeds, environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, and the presence of growth regulators or dormancy-breaking treatments.
Q: Can sugarcane seeds be stored for a long time?
A: Sugarcane seeds can be stored for a certain period under proper conditions. It is essential to store them in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or decay. However, the viability of sugarcane seeds decreases over time, so it's best to use fresh seeds for planting.
Q: How can I improve the germination rate of sugarcane seeds?
A: To enhance the germination rate of sugarcane seeds, you can follow these steps:
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Ensure proper selection of healthy and mature seeds.
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Use post-harvest ripening treatments to break dormancy.
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Implement sand burial treatment to promote germination.
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Apply mechanical scarification to break seed coat dormancy.
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Utilize temperature-controlled germination methods.
Q: Can sugarcane seeds be directly sown in the field?
A: Yes, sugarcane seeds can be directly sown in the field. However, for optimal results, it is recommended to germinate the seeds in a controlled environment before transplanting them into the field.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases affecting sugarcane?
A: Common pests and diseases that affect sugarcane include aphids, borers, leaf scorch, smut, and red rot. It is essential to monitor sugarcane crops regularly and take appropriate pest and disease management measures to prevent damage.
Q: How often should sugarcane be fertilized?
A: Sugarcane should be fertilized at different stages of growth to meet its nutritional requirements. Generally, sugarcane is fertilized with base fertilizer before planting, followed by additional fertilizer applications during the growing season based on crop needs and soil nutrient levels.
Q: What is the recommended method for applying fertilizer to sugarcane?
A: The recommended method for applying fertilizer to sugarcane depends on various factors such as soil type, climate, and cropping system. Common methods include broadcasting, band placement, and fertigation (fertilizer application through irrigation).
Q: How can I determine if my sugarcane crop needs additional fertilizer?
A: Soil testing is a useful tool for determining the nutrient status of the soil and identifying any deficiencies. Additionally, visual symptoms such as stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and poor yield can indicate the need for additional fertilizer.
Q: What are the environmental benefits of sugarcane cultivation?
A: Sugarcane cultivation offers several environmental benefits, including carbon sequestration, soil erosion control, and biodiversity conservation. Additionally, sugarcane-based biofuels can serve as a renewable energy source, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
Q: Are there any sustainable practices for sugarcane cultivation?
A: Yes, several sustainable practices can be adopted for sugarcane cultivation, including minimum tillage, crop rotation, integrated pest management, and efficient water management techniques. These practices help conserve natural resources, improve soil health, and reduce environmental impact.
