Fertilizer Management in Sugarcane Crop: How to Do It?
Sugarcane is a tall grass plant primarily grown for its juicy stalks, which are a rich source of sugar. It is one of the most important cash crops and plays a significant role in the economy of many countries, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. However, cultivating sugarcane requires proper nutrient management, particularly fertilization, for optimal growth and yield. Here are some tips on how to manage fertilizer in a sugarcane crop.
Soil Testing
Before adding fertilizers, soil testing is crucial to determine the nutrient status of the soil. It will help determine what type of fertilizers are required in what amount for the sugarcane crop. Soil test reports provide valuable information about pH, organic matter content, and the levels of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Based on the results, fertilizer recommendations are made. Therefore, soil testing is the first step for fertilizer management in sugarcane cultivation.
Fertilizer Application
Sugarcane requires optimal quantities of essential nutrients at different crop growth stages to achieve maximum yield. Nitrogen fertilizers promote early growth and foliar development. The usual recommendation is to use 50% of the total nitrogen quantity at planting and the remaining in two split applications at 30-45 days and 75-90 days after planting. Phosphorus is essential for root development, and the usual recommendation is to apply 50% of the total phosphorus quantity at planting and the remaining in split applications 30-45 days and 75-90 days after planting. Potassium plays a vital role in sugarcane growth, and the usual recommendation is to apply 75-80% of the total potassium quantity at planting and the remaining in split applications, 30-45 days and 75-90 days after planting. Micronutrient deficiency can also reduce yield, so it is critical to apply micronutrients such as zinc, copper, iron, and boron if the soil test indicates that the soil lacks these essential micronutrients.
Fertilizer Placement
Fertilizer placement or placement of fertilizers in proximity to plant roots is critical for better nutrient uptake by roots. In sugarcane cultivation, the usual recommendation is to apply fertilizers deep below the soil surface. It facilitates nutrient uptake, promotes better root development, and reduces the loss of nutrients through percolation and volatilization. It is ideal to place nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers deep under the soil surface at planting.
Fertilizer Timing
Timing of fertilizer applications is essential to meet the nutrient demands of sugarcane plants at different growth stages. The correct timing ensures continuous nutrient availability throughout the crop growth period, promoting optimal plant growth and yield. In sugarcane cultivation, the usual recommendation is to apply fertilizers before or after rainfall. It reduces losses owing to volatilization or leaching.
Conclusion
Proper management of fertilizers is essential for sugarcane cultivation. It requires a fine balance between the quantity, the timing, the method, and the placement of fertilizers. Growers should monitor the crop’s nutrient requirements closely and adjust fertilizer application accordingly. Adopting these tips for fertilizer management will help farmers maximize yield and profitability in sugarcane cultivation.