As a post-harvest treatment, farmers often apply chemicals to crops to enhance their shelf life and appearance. This is particularly true for sugarcane, which is highly susceptible to drying symptoms during storage and transportation. To combat this issue, chemicals can be sprayed on sugarcane crops for drying symptoms.
One of the most common chemical treatments used for drying symptoms is Ethephon. It is a plant growth regulator that stimulates the natural ripening process and hastens the slow drying of crops. Ethephon works by converting into ethylene, a natural gas that promotes the release of abscisic acid (ABA) in the plant. This, in turn, causes the stomata to close, reducing transpiration and water loss.
To use Ethephon, farmers must first dilute it with water to an appropriate concentration. The chemical is then applied to the crop during the maturation process, about two weeks before harvesting. The sugarcane crop is sprayed directly with Ethephon to penetrate the leaves and stalks. The chemical is absorbed by the plant and converted into ethylene, which stimulates the natural ripening process.
Ethephon use is preferred by farmers because it is affordable, non-toxic, and does not harm the environment. Its low residue levels also make it safe for human consumption. The chemical is occasionally mixed with other pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides to improve the plant’s overall health and reduce losses resulting from fungal and bacterial infections.
In summary, Ethephon treatment is an effective way to combat drying symptoms in sugarcane crops. Farmers must be careful when applying this chemical to ensure that it does not cause any adverse effects on the crop’s overall health and yields. With proper application, Ethephon can significantly improve the shelf life of sugarcane and reduce post-harvest losses.