Sure, I can write an article on fertilizer dose for onion and sugarcane crop.
Fertilizer Dose for Onion Crop:
Onion is one of the most important vegetable crops grown globally. To ensure optimal growth and yield, it is crucial to provide adequate nutrition to the crop. The fertilization program for onion cultivation is usually divided into three doses of fertilizers –
1. Pre-Planting Fertilizer
Before planting the onion seedlings, it is necessary to add a basal dose of fertilizers to the soil. Most of the onion varieties require a nitrogen-rich fertilizer, particularly urea, as they have a high demand for nitrogen. The recommended dose of urea for the pre-planting period is usually 60-80 kg/ha, along with other nutrients like phosphorus (P) and potassium (K).
2. Top-Dressing
Top-dressing is provided once the onion seedlings have established. During this time, two to three applications of nitrogen-rich fertilizers like Ammonium Nitrate or Calcium Ammonium Nitrate should be given. These fertilizers improve the foliage development and increase bulb size and storage ability. The top dressing is suggested at a rate of 40-60 kg/ha with each application.
3. Foliar Feeding
Foliar feeding is a way of providing nutrients through the leaf surface of the plant. This method of fertilizer application is an effective and quick way to provide the necessary nutrients to the onion crop. A mixture of foliar fertilizers like urea, potassium nitrate, and Diammonium Phosphate is sprayed onto the leaves. Foliar feeding is generally done twice, during the vegetative and bulbing stages, at a rate of 2-3 kg/ha.
Fertilizer Dose for Sugarcane Crop:
Sugarcane is a tropical and subtropical crop commonly grown for its juice, sugar, and bioenergy production. The fertilizer requirement for sugarcane plantation varies depending on climatic conditions, soil characteristics, and the cultural practices adopted. The fertilization program for sugarcane cultivation is usually divided into three doses of fertilizers –
1. Pre-Planting Fertilizer
Before planting the sugarcane crop, it is necessary to provide a basal dose of fertilizers to the soil. The recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for pre-planting is usually 120, 60, and 60 kg/ha, respectively. The phosphorus and potassium are applied as superphosphate and muriate of potash, while nitrogen is supplied in the form of urea.
2. Split Application
Sugarcane requires several applications of fertilizers throughout the crop cycle. This method is referred to as split nutrient application. Sugarcane crop needs a significant amount of nitrogen for optimal growth, and it is suggested to be applied in three to four split doses during the plant crop phase. Nitrogen fertilizers like urea or Ammonium Sulphate are commonly used at a rate of 60-80 kg/ha during the split application.
3. Foliar Feeding
Foliar feeding is an important tool for providing micronutrients to sugarcane crops. Foliar spraying of nutrients like zinc (Zn), boron (B), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe) can reduce the incidence of plant diseases and boost crop productivity. The recommended dose of micronutrients for sugarcane is 0.5-1 kg/ha per application.
In summary, adequate nutrition is critical in the production of onion and sugarcane crops. A proper fertilization program can ensure optimal growth and yield, and the fertilizer doses mentioned above can serve as a guide for farmers. However, it is important to take into account the specific needs of the crop, climate, and soil conditions to adjust the application accordingly.