Sugarcane is one of the most economically important crops in the world, and it requires proper management for optimal yields. Fertilizer management plays a vital role in ensuring high yields during sugarcane production. The application of the correct dose of fertilizers at the time of planting is crucial for the success of sugarcane production.
The fertilization requirements of sugarcane vary depending on several factors such as soil type, climate, variety, and crop management. The fertility status of the soil should be assessed before any fertilization application. Generally, sugarcane requires high amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Therefore, the recommended fertilizer dose at planting should contain these three essential nutrients.
Nitrogen is a vital nutrient required in large quantities by sugarcane for proper growth and yield. For sugarcane, the recommended nitrogen dose at planting varies between 50-120 kg/ha (kilograms per hectare) of urea or its equivalent. Phosphorus is essential for the development of strong roots and stalks. The recommended dose of phosphorus at planting varies between 60-120 kg/ha of Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP). Potassium is essential for the proper functioning of the plant’s enzymes and helps in enhancing its drought tolerance. Depending on the soil’s fertility, the recommended dose of potassium at planting ranges from 35-85 kg/ha of Muriate of Potash (MOP).
Apart from the primary nutrients, sugarcane needs secondary nutrients and micronutrients for optimal growth and yield. Secondary nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and sulfur play regulatory roles in enhancing nutrient uptake and balancing soil pH. Recommended doses of secondary nutrients at planting include calcium between 600-1200 kg/ha of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN), magnesium between 100-200 kg/ha of Magnesium Sulphate (Epsom Salt), and sulfur between 30-60 kg/ha of Sulfur Bentonite.
Micronutrients are required in small quantities by sugarcane for proper growth and yield. The recommended micronutrient doses at planting include zinc between 15-25 kg/ha of Zinc Sulphate and boron between 2-5 kg/ha of Borax.
In conclusion, proper fertilization at planting is essential for optimal sugarcane production. The appropriate dose of fertilizer, including the primary nutrients, secondary nutrients, and micronutrients, should be applied at planting, based on the soil’s fertility status. The accurate application of fertilizers at planting helps to boost the crop’s growth, enhance its yield, and maximize the crop’s profitability.