Sugarcane is a vital cash crop across the world, and its efficient cultivation demands a well-planned and guided nutrient management strategy. The specific nutritional requirements of sugarcane vary based on different climate, soil, and hybrid varieties. However, it generally requires a balanced addition of macro-nutrients, micro-nutrients, and soil amendments to achieve high crop yields and quality.
Amongst the macro-nutrients needed for optimal sugarcane cultivation, Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) are crucial. N is essential to enhance vegetative growth and maximize cane yield. P contributes to robust root development, early canopy coverage, and improved sugar transport and accumulation. K, on the other hand, is necessary for water absorption and efficient nutrient use, and plays a vital role in sugar accumulation and cane yield.
Micro-nutrients like zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and boron (B) are also critical for sugarcane nutrition. In a soil deficient in micro-nutrients, Zinc is the most valuable mineral for sugarcane. Zinc takes part in various metabolic processes, including photosynthesis, cell division, and sugar accumulation, and enhances the crop’s resistance to diseases. Copper is crucial for green color retention, active enzyme production, and improved sugar content. Boron plays a vital function in the plant’s cell division, sugar translocation, and crop quality.
Besides nutrient management, soil amendments like Lime and Organic Matter are equally important. Lime improves soil pH, which immediately increases nutrient availability and stimulates sugarcane growth. Organic materials, such as compost, vermicompost, or farmyard manure, enhance soil structure, retain moisture, increase biological activity, and provide important plant nutrients.
Several techniques can be used to maintain an optimum nutrient level in the soil include soil sampling and testing, fertigation, and foliar feeding.
In Summary, proper Nutrient management is critical for productive and high-quality sugarcane crops. A well-planned fertilization schedule, combined with liming and organic matter addition, can significantly improve nutrient availability, optimize plant growth and sugar production, and decrease input losses.