Sowing Method for Potato and Sugarcane Crop
Potato and sugarcane are two significant cash crops that play a crucial role in the global food supply chain. Both crops are grown in different parts of the world and require specific sowing methods to ensure a higher yield. In this article, we will take a closer look at the sowing method for potato and sugarcane crop.
Sowing Method for Potato Crop
Potatoes are one of the most widely grown vegetables in the world. The sowing method for potato crop depends on the variety and climate of the region. Here are the three methods of sowing potatoes:
1. Hill Planting
Hill planting is perhaps the most common method of sowing potatoes. In this method, the seed potatoes are cut into small pieces, with each piece having at least one eye. Then, these potato pieces are planted in holes with a foot distance apart and about 4-6 inches deep. After some time, the tubers will sprout, and soil can then be loosely hoed around the emerging plants (or hills) to create a mound, which promotes tuber formation and also protects the potatoes from being exposed to sunlight.
2. Furrow Planting
In Furrow Planting, a furrow is made in the soil with the help of a hoe. After which seed potatoes are placed at regular intervals (around 9 inches apart) in the furrow, then covered with soil. As plants grow, soil is added to the furrow, and the rows are ‘hilled up.’ This method of planting provides better drainage and yields.
3. Container Planting
Container planting is another method of planting potatoes. This method is useful for those who have limited space for planting potatoes. In this method, the seed potato is planted in a container with soil where it grows. The tubers will form on the side of the stem that is growing towards the sunlight.
Sowing Method for Sugarcane Crop
Sugarcane is a tropical grass crop that requires warm weather, ample rainfall, and irrigation. The sowing method for sugarcane crops involves a different process. Here are two methods of sowing sugarcane:
1. Bud Chip Plantation
In Bud Chip plantation, the sugarcane stalks are cut into short fragments called bud chips, which are around two to three inches long. The bud chips are then planted vertically in furrows with a spacing of 24-36 inches and a depth of 2-3 inches. This method of plantation is ideal for highly fertile soil and moist conditions.
2. Sett Plantation
In the Sett plantation method, small sugarcane stems are cut into pieces called ‘setts,’ and once cut, they are left to dry. After a few days, the setts are planted horizontally in furrows, which are approximately 4-6 inches deep and 18-24 inches apart. Setts with two or three buds are used for planting. This method of planting is perfect for regions where soil and water conditions are suboptimal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sowing methods for potato and sugarcane crops determine how efficiently the crops will grow and how much yield will be obtained. Adequate attention and effort should be put into selecting the right method and ensuring that crops receive the necessary nutrients and care. By taking the time to understand these methods, farmers can increase their yield and produce a greater surplus for the market.