Sugarcane is an important cash crop .It is mainly grown
for sugar and sugary production. It is an important source of income
and employment for the farming community of the country. It also
forms essential item for industries like sugar, chip board, paper,
barrages, confectionery, uses in chemicals, plastics, paints,
synthetics, fiber, insecticides and detergents. Sugarcane production
in the country has increased over time. In 1988, the area under
sugarcane was 878 x 103 hectares which increased to 886 x 103
hectares in 1992 and sugarcane production increased for 36976 x 103
tons in 1988 to 38059 x 103 tons in 1992.
Despite expansion in
production over years, increase in the productivity per unit of area
has been very low in Pakistan. The average sugarcane production in
the country required static between 45-50 tons/ha, which is very
much low compared to the cane production by other countries. The
average yield of sugarcane in the world is around 60 metric tons/ha,
while India and Egypt are getting around 66 tons and 105 tons/has,
respectively.
In this way, Egypt with highest cane yield in the
world is getting about 142 per cent high-yield than Pakistan. India
with almost similar soil and climatic conditions is obtaining about
53 per cent higher cane yield than Pakistan. As it is one of the
cash crops of the country, therefore, efforts should be made to
improve its productivity. As a result of these efforts, substantial
improvement can take place in its yield. Improved seed production,
quality control and distribution depends largely upon the
availability of skilled and competent local manpower, which is
present in insufficient in most developing countries.
In order to increase
the production of sugar cane several steps were taken by the Govt.
and the sugar mill association to help formers. In past several
reports/research work to increase the production were published on
different process which include chemical composition as well as
agricultural reforms/steps to increase the recovery and %age yield.
Here in this report information is published which can guide local
farmers to evaluate their cultivation system and improve it as per
requirements.
1. Sugarcane Production In Pakistan.
1.1
Introduction:
Sugarcane
is an important industrial and cash crop in Pakistan and in many
countries of the world. It is grown in tropical and sub-tropical
regions of the world in a range of climates from hot dry environment
near sea level to cool and moist environment at higher elevations.
Besides sugar production, sugarcane produces numerous valuable
byproducts like, alcohol used by pharmaceutical industry, ethanol
used as a fuel, bagasse used for paper, and chip board manufacturing
and press mud used as a rich source of organic matter and nutrients
for crop production.
Pakistan
occupies an important position in cane producing countries of the
world. It ranks at the fifth position in cane acreage and production
and almost 15th position in sugar production. A comparison of cane
yield and sugar recovery in some cane growing countries is given in
the table below.
Area and
yield of sugarcane in some major cane growing countries
|
||
Country
|
Area (000 ha)
|
Cane yield
(t/ha)
|
Brazil
|
4055
|
61.3
|
India
|
2862
|
59.9
|
Cuba
|
1350
|
49.6
|
China
|
1060
|
53.9
|
Pakistan
|
759
|
35.4
|
Mexico
|
555
|
70.5
|
Thailand
|
510
|
47.2
|
Philippines
|
338
|
43.2
|
Columbia
|
329
|
76.1
|
USA
|
322
|
83.9
|
Australia
|
310
|
82.0
|
Argentina
|
300
|
46.6
|
Indonesia
|
300
|
85.0
|
South Africa
|
253
|
81.1
|
Bangladesh
|
166
|
40.0
|
Vietnam
|
160
|
39.1
|
D. Republic
of Korea
|
148
|
49.3
|
Egypt
|
115
|
82.2
|
TOTAL
|
15920
|
58.5
|
1.1.1
Yield of sugarcane and sugar recovery in main sugarcane growing
countries of the world:
Country
|
Cane yield (t/ha)
|
Sugar recovery (%)
|
Sugar yield (t/ha)
|
Australia
|
100.4
|
13.8
|
13.85
|
Egypt
|
110.8
|
11.5
|
12.74
|
Brazil
|
68.4
|
14.5
|
9.91
|
U.S.A.
|
80.2
|
11.7
|
9.38
|
Colombia
|
80.5
|
11.5
|
9.26
|
Mexico
|
79.5
|
11.6
|
9.22
|
India
|
66.9
|
9.9
|
6.62
|
Pakistan
|
50.3
|
9.2
|
4.63
|
World Avg.
|
64.4
|
10.6
|
6.82
|
Sugarcane
growing areas in Pakistan fall between 24° N latitude in Sindh to
34° N latitude in N.W.F.P. These areas can be broadly divided in to
i)
Sub-tropical, irrigated with moderate temperature frost free zone
between 26° N latitude to 30° N latitude,
ii)
Irrigated arid sub-tropical zone between 240 N latitude
to 260 N latitude, iii) and temperate zone of northern
Punjab and N.W.F.P. between 320 N latitude to 340
N latitude.
1.2
Sugarcane production trends:
Sugarcane
is grown on an area of more or less one million hectares in
Pakistan. The Punjab shares 62 %, Sindh 26 % and N.W.F.P. shares 16
% of the total area. The national average cane yield (~ 47 t ha-1)
is far below the existing potential (Table 2). In respect of cane
yield Sindh with 53 t ha-1 is the leading province
followed by N.W.F.P. (45 t ha-1) and Punjab (40 t ha-1).
1.3
Cane yield potential and sugar recovery of
some commercial sugarcane varieties in the country:
Variety
|
Province
|
Maturity group
|
Cane yield
(t
ha-1)
|
Sugar recovery
(%)
|
BL-4
|
Punjab
|
Early
|
100
|
10.2
|
CP
77-400
|
Punjab
|
Early
|
100
|
12.7
|
CP
72-2086
|
Punjab
|
Early
|
90
|
12.0
|
CP
43-33
|
Punjab
|
Early
|
90
|
10.8
|
CPF-237
|
Punjab
|
Early
|
110
|
12.5
|
SPF-213
|
Punjab
|
Mid
|
100
|
12.0
|
BL-4
|
Sindh
|
Early
|
200
|
11.2
|
BF-129
|
Sindh
|
Mid
|
200
|
10.3
|
BL-19
|
Sindh
|
Early
|
180
|
11.0
|
Trition
|
Sindh
|
Early
|
200
|
10.7
|
Mardan-92
|
N.W.F.P.
|
Mid
|
100
|
12.0
|
Mardan-93
|
N.W.F.P.
|
Early
|
100
|
12.5
|
CP
77-400
|
N.W.F.P.
|
Mid
|
80
|
11.8
|
CP
65-357
|
N.W.F.P.
|
Early
|
70
|
12.8
|
Area
under sugarcane cultivation increased gradually up to 1993-94 and
after that it remained same. Average national cane yield also
followed similar trend as of cane acreage. However, sugar recovery
remained same, without any improvement, for the last many years.
Trends in area under cane, cane yield, sugar production and sugar
recovery in the country is given in the table below.
2. Factors Effecting the
Production of Sugarcane:
Reasons for low sugar cane production.
2.1 Agricultural Factors.
(i)
Unscientific/unsystematic agriculture practices
a)
Improper selection of land,
b)
Improper preparation of land
c)
Conventional planting methods,
d)
Late planting,
e)
Moisture stress at critical stages of
crop growth,
f)
Poor management of ratoon crop
g)
Early and late harvesting,
(ii) Environmental
resistance,
(iii) Low soil fertility,
(iv) defective varieties,
(v) Pests, disease and weeds,
(vi) Credit shortage,
(vii) Rapid/Unplanned increase in sugarcane acreage in unsuitable areas of Pakistan.
(iii) Low soil fertility,
(iv) defective varieties,
(v) Pests, disease and weeds,
(vi) Credit shortage,
(vii) Rapid/Unplanned increase in sugarcane acreage in unsuitable areas of Pakistan.
2.2 Policy Factor:
a)
Lack of Research In Sugar Cane Technology.
b)
Lack of Agricultural Education.
2.3 Economical Factor:
a)
Variation in Prices.
b)
Unavailability Of resources for the growers.
3. TO
INCREASE OUR SUGARCANE YIELD PER UNIT
AREA:
Our sugar yield i.e. cane yield x sugar recovery %cane is less than half of the developed cane growing countries of the world. Still it is not the lowest in the world.
AREA:
Our sugar yield i.e. cane yield x sugar recovery %cane is less than half of the developed cane growing countries of the world. Still it is not the lowest in the world.
The goal of
increasing sugar yield per unit area is difficult, time consuming
and needs dedicated efforts of government, millers and the growers.
Some of the measures to bring down the cost of cultivation and improve cane productivity include the selection of the right varieties, maintenance of soil health, quality planting material, nutrient management, the adoption of copping systems approach, weed management, water management, ratoon management and sound post harvest handling, according to the scientists.
Some of the measures to bring down the cost of cultivation and improve cane productivity include the selection of the right varieties, maintenance of soil health, quality planting material, nutrient management, the adoption of copping systems approach, weed management, water management, ratoon management and sound post harvest handling, according to the scientists.
3.1
Role of Grower:
As Grower is the main key factor which can help to increase the sugarcane production from the field. In Pakistan most of the grower doesn’t know the proper method or procedure of sugarcane cultivation. So that’s why the cane produced is of no good quality and we have less cane and sugar recovery. So it is recommended that there should be organizations who should guide the growers to increase their production. Here are some of the steps that if taken properly can improve the sugar cane production.
As Grower is the main key factor which can help to increase the sugarcane production from the field. In Pakistan most of the grower doesn’t know the proper method or procedure of sugarcane cultivation. So that’s why the cane produced is of no good quality and we have less cane and sugar recovery. So it is recommended that there should be organizations who should guide the growers to increase their production. Here are some of the steps that if taken properly can improve the sugar cane production.
3.2
Improvement in Production Technology
3.2.1
Land preparation:
Sugarcane is a deep-rooted crop and proper land preparation plays an important role in the development of cane root system, and achieving optimal growth of the crop. Land should be prepared by deep ploughing at least after every two years. The soil should be disked.
It is very important that well-rotten farmyard manure (FYM) should be applied a month prior to land preparation. Press mud from the sugar industry is another excellent source of organic matter and nutrients. .Green manuring may also serve the purpose.
Soil in the prepared field should be friable and well worked so that full germination takes place and later on plants grow without any inhibiting barriers (compact sub-soil layer).
Sugarcane is a deep-rooted crop and proper land preparation plays an important role in the development of cane root system, and achieving optimal growth of the crop. Land should be prepared by deep ploughing at least after every two years. The soil should be disked.
It is very important that well-rotten farmyard manure (FYM) should be applied a month prior to land preparation. Press mud from the sugar industry is another excellent source of organic matter and nutrients. .Green manuring may also serve the purpose.
Soil in the prepared field should be friable and well worked so that full germination takes place and later on plants grow without any inhibiting barriers (compact sub-soil layer).
3.2.2 Soil
Insect Control at Planting Time
Growers should be ever mindful of practices they can use to decrease the possibility of soil insect damage. Only two crop conditions require use of a soil insecticide in Louisiana sugarcane fields and usually only in sandy soils. These are:
(a)
When pasture, turf or grass-infested land is brought into cane
production for the first time or after being out of cane
production for several years. There are usually enough grubs or
wireworms already established in this type of land to warrant a
preventive application of insecticide at cane planting time.
However, a soil insecticide application may not be needed with the
second plant-cane crop if the field has been kept reasonably free of
grass during the ratoon crops.
(b)
When cane fields are extremely grassy, particularly when cane
is planted in a field that was not kept free of heavy grass
infestation when fallow. Ongoing wireworm and white grub
infestations will persist in grassy fields. Again, this may be
needed only on light or mixed soils.
Growers with fields
similar to those described should consider control measures for soil
insects at planting time and base chemical control on verification
of soil insect pest infestations (with fermented corn baits). Based
on new research data, the economic threshold is slightly above one
wireworm per bait sample before planting. Soil insecticides have had
a suppressive effect on beneficial predators in sugarcane studies.
3.2.3. Planting time:
The selection of an appropriate planting method and schedule greatly influences crop growth, maturity, and yield. Since low temperature and moisture stress are detrimental to germination and subsequent establishment, the planting season in subtropical regions is preferably spring. But in areas where winter is severe enough to restrict growth or even kill sugarcane, planting material may only be available in autumn, thus necessitating pre-winter planting. In tropical regions, particularly where irrigation is not practiced, a sufficiently moist season should be selected for planting and establishment.
There are two planting seasons: fall and spring. Fall planting starts from the first week of September and continues to mid-October in the Punjab and Sindh, while in the NWFP planting is done in October and November. Spring planting starts from mid-February and lasts until the end of March in the Punjab and Sindh. These planting times are strictly observed because late planting can reduce the yield by as much as 30 percent.
September planted crop usually produces 25 to 35 % higher yield. In Pakistan Planting time of Sugarcane planting is usually carried out in autumn and spring seasons. Autumn planting is of high yield and high sugar recovery compared to spring planting. In fact, September planting gives very luxuriant growth, which is mostly vulnerable to lodging. The crop gives good appearance till June-July but is subject to lodging in July or even earlier if there are windstorms or excessive rains. Around 26 per cent of the growers plant sugarcane in October, 45 per cent in November, 2 per cent in December and 7 per cent in February.
The selection of an appropriate planting method and schedule greatly influences crop growth, maturity, and yield. Since low temperature and moisture stress are detrimental to germination and subsequent establishment, the planting season in subtropical regions is preferably spring. But in areas where winter is severe enough to restrict growth or even kill sugarcane, planting material may only be available in autumn, thus necessitating pre-winter planting. In tropical regions, particularly where irrigation is not practiced, a sufficiently moist season should be selected for planting and establishment.
There are two planting seasons: fall and spring. Fall planting starts from the first week of September and continues to mid-October in the Punjab and Sindh, while in the NWFP planting is done in October and November. Spring planting starts from mid-February and lasts until the end of March in the Punjab and Sindh. These planting times are strictly observed because late planting can reduce the yield by as much as 30 percent.
September planted crop usually produces 25 to 35 % higher yield. In Pakistan Planting time of Sugarcane planting is usually carried out in autumn and spring seasons. Autumn planting is of high yield and high sugar recovery compared to spring planting. In fact, September planting gives very luxuriant growth, which is mostly vulnerable to lodging. The crop gives good appearance till June-July but is subject to lodging in July or even earlier if there are windstorms or excessive rains. Around 26 per cent of the growers plant sugarcane in October, 45 per cent in November, 2 per cent in December and 7 per cent in February.
3.2.4.
Seed rate and planting pattern:
Appropriate seed rate and spacing are often ignored by farmers, with the result that the optimum plant population, which is the key factor in sugarcane production, is not achieved in the field. The seed rate and spacing between rows differ with variety. Thick-cane cultivars like 'BL-4', 'Triton', and 'PR-1000' require a higher seed rate and more space between the rows than thin and medium-cane varieties. Eight to nine tonnes of stripped cane per hectare for thick varieties, and six to seven tones for medium to thin varieties is sufficient to produce a desired plant population of about 0.15 million canes/ha. A spacing of 1 m between the rows of thick varieties, and 0.60-0.75 m for thin to medium varieties allows sufficient space for operations like intercultural and earthing up.
Appropriate seed rate and spacing are often ignored by farmers, with the result that the optimum plant population, which is the key factor in sugarcane production, is not achieved in the field. The seed rate and spacing between rows differ with variety. Thick-cane cultivars like 'BL-4', 'Triton', and 'PR-1000' require a higher seed rate and more space between the rows than thin and medium-cane varieties. Eight to nine tonnes of stripped cane per hectare for thick varieties, and six to seven tones for medium to thin varieties is sufficient to produce a desired plant population of about 0.15 million canes/ha. A spacing of 1 m between the rows of thick varieties, and 0.60-0.75 m for thin to medium varieties allows sufficient space for operations like intercultural and earthing up.
3.2.5.
Method of Planting:
Sugarcane should be planted at a row spacing of 90 cm to 1 m. Two budded double sets should be placed end to end in the furrows covered with 2 to 3 cm soil layer. About 3.2 to 4 tonnes seed (80 to 100 maunds) of thin cane varieties and 4 to 5 tonnes seed (100 to 120 maunds) of thick varieties is sufficient to plant one acre.
Research has shown good yield increases in tonnage and sugar per acre when the planted row was widened from the V-furrow to the 15- to 18-inch furrow. It showed further yield increases as the furrow width was increased from 15 to 18 to 24 inches. Based on this research and the problems encountered by growers in handling furrow widths of more than 18 inches, it is suggested that growers use a 15- to 18-inch furrow for planting in 2001. Growers who can successfully handle the 24-inch width furrow are encouraged to do so. It is also suggested that the furrow opener be constructed to leave a wide bottom with a slight indentation on each side of the furrow and a slight ridge of loose soil in the middle of the furrow bottom. This opening configuration can be obtained by attaching a single disk on each side of the row opener to dig out the furrow sides and deposit the soil in the furrow middle. Some growers have found that packing rows ahead of opening will give more uniform furrows when opening with a three-row opener.
Sugarcane should be planted at a row spacing of 90 cm to 1 m. Two budded double sets should be placed end to end in the furrows covered with 2 to 3 cm soil layer. About 3.2 to 4 tonnes seed (80 to 100 maunds) of thin cane varieties and 4 to 5 tonnes seed (100 to 120 maunds) of thick varieties is sufficient to plant one acre.
Research has shown good yield increases in tonnage and sugar per acre when the planted row was widened from the V-furrow to the 15- to 18-inch furrow. It showed further yield increases as the furrow width was increased from 15 to 18 to 24 inches. Based on this research and the problems encountered by growers in handling furrow widths of more than 18 inches, it is suggested that growers use a 15- to 18-inch furrow for planting in 2001. Growers who can successfully handle the 24-inch width furrow are encouraged to do so. It is also suggested that the furrow opener be constructed to leave a wide bottom with a slight indentation on each side of the furrow and a slight ridge of loose soil in the middle of the furrow bottom. This opening configuration can be obtained by attaching a single disk on each side of the row opener to dig out the furrow sides and deposit the soil in the furrow middle. Some growers have found that packing rows ahead of opening will give more uniform furrows when opening with a three-row opener.
3.2.6. Depth of Planting
with Relation to Water Furrow
To avoid water damage to seed cane, it should be placed at least 3 to 4 inches above the final water furrow or middle. In soils with poor internal drainage, the seed cane should be placed even higher above the final water furrow.
Growers should be aware of the need to keep the seed cane above the area where water levels will hurt cane stands. Low row height at planting time could be a problem, especially with billet seed cane.
To avoid water damage to seed cane, it should be placed at least 3 to 4 inches above the final water furrow or middle. In soils with poor internal drainage, the seed cane should be placed even higher above the final water furrow.
Growers should be aware of the need to keep the seed cane above the area where water levels will hurt cane stands. Low row height at planting time could be a problem, especially with billet seed cane.
3.2.7.
Hot water seed treatment
Seed may be treated with hot water at 520 C for 30 minutes and with fungicide. This will help in better germination and the control of many cane diseases.
Soaking cuttings and treating with running water for 48 hours sometimes enhances germination of old cuttings. Soaking in hot water (500C) for 20 minutes greatly enhances germination. This, however, is difficult to control at a practical level. Treatment with running water has been suggested to remove fermentation products and inhibitors from the cutting. Indoleacetic acids (IAA) or naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) treatment enhances root growth but delays bud development. Acetylene promotes the growth of the cutting. Substances including ethyl alcohol, ammonium phosphate, complete nutrient solution, and ferrous sulphate have all on occasions proved beneficial to germination. On the other hand, at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, experiments have shown that soaking cane setts in water, cow urine, and 2% KmnO4 solution before planting reduced yield (Table 16.7).
Seed may be treated with hot water at 520 C for 30 minutes and with fungicide. This will help in better germination and the control of many cane diseases.
Soaking cuttings and treating with running water for 48 hours sometimes enhances germination of old cuttings. Soaking in hot water (500C) for 20 minutes greatly enhances germination. This, however, is difficult to control at a practical level. Treatment with running water has been suggested to remove fermentation products and inhibitors from the cutting. Indoleacetic acids (IAA) or naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) treatment enhances root growth but delays bud development. Acetylene promotes the growth of the cutting. Substances including ethyl alcohol, ammonium phosphate, complete nutrient solution, and ferrous sulphate have all on occasions proved beneficial to germination. On the other hand, at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, experiments have shown that soaking cane setts in water, cow urine, and 2% KmnO4 solution before planting reduced yield (Table 16.7).
Table Effects of various pre-planting seed treatments
on the cane yield of 'Co.L-54'.
Treatment
|
Cane yield (t/ha)
|
Normal setts (unsoaked)
|
82.76
|
Soaked in water
|
62.05
|
Soaked in cow urine
|
61.19
|
Soaked in 20% KmnO4
|
67.16
|
Source: Department of Agronomy, University of
Agriculture, Faisalabad
3.2.8. Amount of Soil Cover
over Seed Cane
Research on depth of soil cover over seed cane indicates that soil cover in excess of 4 inches can cause yield losses even if the excess is removed in the spring following planting.
Heat-treated cane should be covered with 2 inches of packed soil. After the cane is up to a good stand and before freezing weather occurs, add an additional 2 inches of soil to protect from freeze damage. Do not cover heat-treated cane with more than 2 inches of packed soil at planting.
3.2.9. Varieties:
Use healthy seed of improved varieties of sugarcane. This can increase cane yield from 20 to 25 per cent. Sugarcane varieties recommended for various provinces are given in Table 4.
Around 95 per cent planted BL-4 variety in the study area. This variety flourishes very well in heavy fertile and well-drained soil with good irrigation. As the variety occupied good fields, it established high yields. New variety BF-12-is yet in the stage of multiplication, while SPSG -26 and Th-10, has just been introduced. Results show that 87 per cent planted recommended varieties and the remaining 13 per cent planted non-recommended varieties The economic life span of sugarcane variety varies from 8 to 10 years and after that replacement the variety is necessary.
Available Sugarcane Tissue Cultured Varieties:
1. CP-43-33
2. CP- 77-400
3. CP 81-1435
4. ABT super
5. BF - 162
6. SPSG - 26
7. SPF - 234
8. BL - 4
9. T - 10
Research on depth of soil cover over seed cane indicates that soil cover in excess of 4 inches can cause yield losses even if the excess is removed in the spring following planting.
Heat-treated cane should be covered with 2 inches of packed soil. After the cane is up to a good stand and before freezing weather occurs, add an additional 2 inches of soil to protect from freeze damage. Do not cover heat-treated cane with more than 2 inches of packed soil at planting.
3.2.9. Varieties:
Use healthy seed of improved varieties of sugarcane. This can increase cane yield from 20 to 25 per cent. Sugarcane varieties recommended for various provinces are given in Table 4.
Around 95 per cent planted BL-4 variety in the study area. This variety flourishes very well in heavy fertile and well-drained soil with good irrigation. As the variety occupied good fields, it established high yields. New variety BF-12-is yet in the stage of multiplication, while SPSG -26 and Th-10, has just been introduced. Results show that 87 per cent planted recommended varieties and the remaining 13 per cent planted non-recommended varieties The economic life span of sugarcane variety varies from 8 to 10 years and after that replacement the variety is necessary.
Available Sugarcane Tissue Cultured Varieties:
1. CP-43-33
2. CP- 77-400
3. CP 81-1435
4. ABT super
5. BF - 162
6. SPSG - 26
7. SPF - 234
8. BL - 4
9. T - 10
3.2.10. Recommended varieties of sugarcane.
Punjab
Early
maturing:
BL – 4 , L –116, BF – 162, CP 43-33,CP 72-2086, CP 77-400, SPSG-26,
CPF-237
Mid
season:
TRITON,
COL –54, SPF-213
Late
maturing:
L –118,
COJ-84
Sindh
Lower
Sindh (areas south to Hyderabad)
Early
maturing:
BL –4
Mid
season:
PR –1000,
BF –129
Late
maturing:
NIA-98
Upper
Sindh (areas north to Hyderabad)
Early
maturing:
BL-4, L
–113, L –116, TRITON, SPSG-26
Late
maturing:
NIA-98
N.W.F.P.
Early
maturing:
CP
48-103, CP 51-21, CP 65-357, CPM –13, CO –1321, Mardan-93, JN
88-1, ABID-96, SPSG-26
Mid
season:
CP
77-400, CP 44-101, IM –61, L 62-96, Mardan-92, Bannu-1
3.2.11. Fertilizer application
According to rough estimate the farmers are using one fourth of chemical fertilizer against the sugarcane crop requirements due to non-availability as well as high cost of the same. Apart from this haphazard use of fertilizer brings no fruit and therefore the farmers do not get the crops to their expectations. The very important job getting the soil tested before the use of any particular fertilizer is not practiced in our country.
As mentioned earlier fertilizer use in Pakistan is imbalanced, inadequate and improper. Most of the cane growers in the country use only nitrogenous fertilizers while others use an imbalanced combination of N and P. Use of K is almost neglected in cane crop. It is very important to use proper doses of balanced fertilizers to exploit the maximum yield potential of cane crop. Fertilizer recommendations for sugarcane for various ecological zones are given in the table below.
3.2.11. Fertilizer application
According to rough estimate the farmers are using one fourth of chemical fertilizer against the sugarcane crop requirements due to non-availability as well as high cost of the same. Apart from this haphazard use of fertilizer brings no fruit and therefore the farmers do not get the crops to their expectations. The very important job getting the soil tested before the use of any particular fertilizer is not practiced in our country.
As mentioned earlier fertilizer use in Pakistan is imbalanced, inadequate and improper. Most of the cane growers in the country use only nitrogenous fertilizers while others use an imbalanced combination of N and P. Use of K is almost neglected in cane crop. It is very important to use proper doses of balanced fertilizers to exploit the maximum yield potential of cane crop. Fertilizer recommendations for sugarcane for various ecological zones are given in the table below.
Table
of Fertilizer recommendations for sugarcane in Pakistan:
Province
|
Nutrients (kgs acre-1 )
|
Fertilizer (bags acre-1 )
|
||||
N
|
P2O5
|
K2O
|
Urea
|
DAP
|
MOP/SOP
|
|
The
Punjab
|
70-100
|
50
|
50-60
|
2.25-3.50
|
2.25
|
1.75-2 / 2-2.5
|
Sindh
|
70-110
|
50
|
50-70
|
2.25-4
|
2.25
|
2.5-1.75 / 2-3
|
N.W.F.P
|
70-90
|
46
|
50-60
|
2.25-3
|
2
|
1.75-2 / 2-2.5
|
All
phosphorus and potash and one fourth N should be applied at the time
of planting. It is preferable that P and K may be applied in furrows
where seed setts are to be placed. Rest of the nitrogenous
fertilizer may be applied in three equal splits i.e. during April,
May and by mid June to February-March planted crop.
It will be beneficial if N is applied in four equal splits to September planted crop besides one fifth applied at planting. In this case it may be applied during March, April, May and June. September planted crop may be given an additional dose of 20 to 40 kg N (one to two bags of urea) per acre.
It will be beneficial if N is applied in four equal splits to September planted crop besides one fifth applied at planting. In this case it may be applied during March, April, May and June. September planted crop may be given an additional dose of 20 to 40 kg N (one to two bags of urea) per acre.
3.2.12.
Starter Fertilizer Application:
Recent fertilization trials have often shown yield responses to starter fertilizers applied in the planting furrow for cane planted after a fallow year as well as succession planted cane. Yield responses have been obtained in both plant-cane and stubble-cane crops with an application of 15-45-45 lbs/A of N-P2O5-K2O.
Recent fertilization trials have often shown yield responses to starter fertilizers applied in the planting furrow for cane planted after a fallow year as well as succession planted cane. Yield responses have been obtained in both plant-cane and stubble-cane crops with an application of 15-45-45 lbs/A of N-P2O5-K2O.
Based on these recent
findings, it is suggested that growers apply 15-45-45lbs/A of
N-P2O5-K2O into the planting furrow ahead of planting. Applying
nitrogen at rates exceeding 15 lbs/A is not recommended.
As an alternative to starter fertilizer, a rotational crop of soybeans might be considered. Although a nitrogen fertilizer credit has not yet been established, the organic nitrogen from soybeans should be sufficient to get the planted cane off to a good start in the fall.
As an alternative to starter fertilizer, a rotational crop of soybeans might be considered. Although a nitrogen fertilizer credit has not yet been established, the organic nitrogen from soybeans should be sufficient to get the planted cane off to a good start in the fall.
3.1.13. Soil Testing
The best way to determine lime, phosphorus and potassium requirements is with a reliable soil test. The soil sample must be collected properly for the test to be valid. Large fields should be broken up into smaller units for sampling purposes, and the smaller fields intensively sampled, because nutrient and pH levels often vary greatly within fields. Intensive, thorough sampling is the only way to detect these variations and adjust fertilizer and lime rates accordingly. Medium to heavy, pH 5.0-8.5. Liming required if pH < 5, or gypsum if pH > 9.5.
Soil samples may be collected anytime before fertilizing or liming, but soon after harvest is recommended, if possible. Turn-around time in the soil testing laboratory is faster in the fall and early winter. You will get your test results in time to plan a fertilizer program tailored to each individual field. Also,
The best way to determine lime, phosphorus and potassium requirements is with a reliable soil test. The soil sample must be collected properly for the test to be valid. Large fields should be broken up into smaller units for sampling purposes, and the smaller fields intensively sampled, because nutrient and pH levels often vary greatly within fields. Intensive, thorough sampling is the only way to detect these variations and adjust fertilizer and lime rates accordingly. Medium to heavy, pH 5.0-8.5. Liming required if pH < 5, or gypsum if pH > 9.5.
Soil samples may be collected anytime before fertilizing or liming, but soon after harvest is recommended, if possible. Turn-around time in the soil testing laboratory is faster in the fall and early winter. You will get your test results in time to plan a fertilizer program tailored to each individual field. Also,
Table 1. Effect of lime on sugarcane yields.*
Plant- First- Second- Plant-
First- Total
Treatment Cane Stubble Stubble Cane Stubble Increase
lbs
sugar/A
No
Lime 6126 4431 4708 6372
5299 -----
Lime
6382 4702 5348 6720 5515
-----
Increase +256 +271 +640 +348 +216
+1731
(*Initial soil pH was 4.8. Soil pH after liming was 6.0. Lime
applied one time previous to the first plant year.)
A complete soil fertility program is essential for maximum sugarcane yields and profits. Use soil tests properly. Know the lime and fertilizer requirements for each field on which you grow sugarcane, and apply the plant nutrients according to the recommendations and soil test results.
A complete soil fertility program is essential for maximum sugarcane yields and profits. Use soil tests properly. Know the lime and fertilizer requirements for each field on which you grow sugarcane, and apply the plant nutrients according to the recommendations and soil test results.
3.2.14. Weed control
Good land preparation is a key factor in controlling weeds. For proper weed control, Gesapax combi (80 WP) may be applied @ 1.4 kg per acre in medium textured soils and @ 1.8 kg per acre in heavy soils in 100 to 120 litres of water. The weedicide should be used with the advice of the technical experts.
Good land preparation is a key factor in controlling weeds. For proper weed control, Gesapax combi (80 WP) may be applied @ 1.4 kg per acre in medium textured soils and @ 1.8 kg per acre in heavy soils in 100 to 120 litres of water. The weedicide should be used with the advice of the technical experts.
3.2.15. Irrigation
It is very important to take care of the irrigation requirements of sugarcane, particularly in summer months. Farmers must plan their acreage to be planted under cane crop according to the available water at their farm. Keep in mind that each field should get at least 16 to 20 irrigations during the crop year adjusting the irrigation schedule according to rainfall in summer.
It is very important to take care of the irrigation requirements of sugarcane, particularly in summer months. Farmers must plan their acreage to be planted under cane crop according to the available water at their farm. Keep in mind that each field should get at least 16 to 20 irrigations during the crop year adjusting the irrigation schedule according to rainfall in summer.
Table of
Irrigation Schedule
March-April
|
12-14 days
|
May-June
|
8-10 days
|
July-August
|
10-15 days (if
there is no rainfall, irrigation interval should be 8-10 days)
|
September-October
|
15-20 days
|
November-December
|
25-30 days
|
3.2.16. Integrated Pest Management For
Sugarcane:
Insect pests play an important role in reducing the sugarcane yield. The most serious insect pests are sugarcane borers, Pyrilla, and whitefly. In some areas mealy bug, black bug and army worm are also causing damage.
In Pakistan exact estimates of yield losses due to insect attack are lacking but it has been reported that top borer, stem borer, gurdaspur borer and Pyrilla cause a reduction in yield from 15-20, 10-20 and 30-35 percent , respectively. In some cases as high as 80-85 percent reduction in crop yield due to insect attack has been reported.
These losses in sugarcane can only be minimized by proper protection of the cane crop from insect pests with scientifically designed IPM Programme throughout the year. Pesticides are applied as and when needed in combination with cultural practices, resistant varieties and introduction and conservation of natural enemies. Pesticides will continue to play an important role in the IPM Programme. The primary difference, however, is that these products will be used selectively and judiciously.
Farmyard manure should always be used when it is fully rotten. This will reduce termite attack. Trash in the field should not be kept for longer time and it may be burnt. Dry shoots attacked by the bores must be pulled out and burnt. Always cut the crop as close to the ground as possible. Use of light traps will help controlling the spread of borers killing their adults. Earthing up during May-June will help in controlling Gurdaspur borer as the adults will not be able to come out of the ridges of the soil. In case of severe attack of any insect, do not keep the crop as ratoon.
Besides using pesticides/insecticides, insects could also be controlled by biological measures. These control measures are safe for environment, and hazard free. Cotesia flavips is an important larval parasitoid of sugarcane bores. Its female lays eggs inside the borer larva and after hatching, its larvae feed inside the borer larva. Adult parasitoid attack more borer larvae in the field. Trichogramma chilonis destroys the eggs of sugarcane borers. Its female lays eggs inside the eggs of borers. Parasitoid larvae feeds in the host eggs, destroying them. Epi-pyropes destroys sugarcane pyrilla. These parasitoids are mass multiplied in the laboratory and then released in the cane fields.
Insect pests play an important role in reducing the sugarcane yield. The most serious insect pests are sugarcane borers, Pyrilla, and whitefly. In some areas mealy bug, black bug and army worm are also causing damage.
In Pakistan exact estimates of yield losses due to insect attack are lacking but it has been reported that top borer, stem borer, gurdaspur borer and Pyrilla cause a reduction in yield from 15-20, 10-20 and 30-35 percent , respectively. In some cases as high as 80-85 percent reduction in crop yield due to insect attack has been reported.
These losses in sugarcane can only be minimized by proper protection of the cane crop from insect pests with scientifically designed IPM Programme throughout the year. Pesticides are applied as and when needed in combination with cultural practices, resistant varieties and introduction and conservation of natural enemies. Pesticides will continue to play an important role in the IPM Programme. The primary difference, however, is that these products will be used selectively and judiciously.
Farmyard manure should always be used when it is fully rotten. This will reduce termite attack. Trash in the field should not be kept for longer time and it may be burnt. Dry shoots attacked by the bores must be pulled out and burnt. Always cut the crop as close to the ground as possible. Use of light traps will help controlling the spread of borers killing their adults. Earthing up during May-June will help in controlling Gurdaspur borer as the adults will not be able to come out of the ridges of the soil. In case of severe attack of any insect, do not keep the crop as ratoon.
Besides using pesticides/insecticides, insects could also be controlled by biological measures. These control measures are safe for environment, and hazard free. Cotesia flavips is an important larval parasitoid of sugarcane bores. Its female lays eggs inside the borer larva and after hatching, its larvae feed inside the borer larva. Adult parasitoid attack more borer larvae in the field. Trichogramma chilonis destroys the eggs of sugarcane borers. Its female lays eggs inside the eggs of borers. Parasitoid larvae feeds in the host eggs, destroying them. Epi-pyropes destroys sugarcane pyrilla. These parasitoids are mass multiplied in the laboratory and then released in the cane fields.
3.2.17. Control of diseases
For controlling sugarcane diseases, use healthy seed which is disease-free and preferably plant disease-resistant varieties. Treat the seed with fungicide/s before planting. The diseased plants from the field should be removed and either buried or burnt. Seed may be treated with hot water at 520 C for 30 minutes.
The practice of heat therapy is becoming more common at seed-production centers to rid seed of ratoon stunting disease, grassy shoot, and leaf scale. This treatment consists of submerging the cane setts in water heated to 520 C for two hours. In the hot air treatment or the moist hot air treatment, whole cane stalks are treated at 540 C for eight and four hours, respectively. The most hot air treatment is preferred, however, because the hot air treatment injures the buds which ultimately reduce germination. When planting a new crop, it is essential to use seed from samples of the best patches of cane crop, free of disease and insect pests. Disease-free, good-quality seed increases yield by 10-15%.
For controlling sugarcane diseases, use healthy seed which is disease-free and preferably plant disease-resistant varieties. Treat the seed with fungicide/s before planting. The diseased plants from the field should be removed and either buried or burnt. Seed may be treated with hot water at 520 C for 30 minutes.
The practice of heat therapy is becoming more common at seed-production centers to rid seed of ratoon stunting disease, grassy shoot, and leaf scale. This treatment consists of submerging the cane setts in water heated to 520 C for two hours. In the hot air treatment or the moist hot air treatment, whole cane stalks are treated at 540 C for eight and four hours, respectively. The most hot air treatment is preferred, however, because the hot air treatment injures the buds which ultimately reduce germination. When planting a new crop, it is essential to use seed from samples of the best patches of cane crop, free of disease and insect pests. Disease-free, good-quality seed increases yield by 10-15%.
3.2.18. Ratoon crop management
If the ratoon crop is properly managed, it could give higher returns than the plant crop because of savings in certain field operations and inputs. It is important to remember that ratoon crop requires 30 to 40 per cent higher fertilizers than the plant crop. The end of January to beginning of March is the best time to keep the crop for ratooning. Cane from the fields to be kept for ratoon should be cut at ground level.
The sugar recovery in ratoon crop is also better and it matures earlier than the plant crop. However, remember that it has to be managed with extra efforts and care. Apply all the phosphorus and potash fertilizer plus one third of N during March. Plough the land in between the furrows to mix the fertilizer well in the soil and then irrigate the crop. Fill the gaps, control the weeds, insect pests and diseases properly. Rest of the nitrogenous fertilizer should be applied in two equal splits during April and May.
Research work conducted on autumn ratooning of sugarcane at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, has shown that sugarcane planted in two row strips 90 cm apart not only ratooned well but also gave higher yields for each of three planting treatments than three and four-row strip planting systems.
If the ratoon crop is properly managed, it could give higher returns than the plant crop because of savings in certain field operations and inputs. It is important to remember that ratoon crop requires 30 to 40 per cent higher fertilizers than the plant crop. The end of January to beginning of March is the best time to keep the crop for ratooning. Cane from the fields to be kept for ratoon should be cut at ground level.
The sugar recovery in ratoon crop is also better and it matures earlier than the plant crop. However, remember that it has to be managed with extra efforts and care. Apply all the phosphorus and potash fertilizer plus one third of N during March. Plough the land in between the furrows to mix the fertilizer well in the soil and then irrigate the crop. Fill the gaps, control the weeds, insect pests and diseases properly. Rest of the nitrogenous fertilizer should be applied in two equal splits during April and May.
Research work conducted on autumn ratooning of sugarcane at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, has shown that sugarcane planted in two row strips 90 cm apart not only ratooned well but also gave higher yields for each of three planting treatments than three and four-row strip planting systems.
3.2.19. Harvesting
Stop irrigation 25 to 30 days before the harvest of crop and do not leave the harvested crop for long in the field. In case it has to be kept for a prolonged period, it should be covered with trash. Different varieties planted may be harvested according to their maturity. Harvesting of early maturing varieties may be started during November, mid season varieties during December and the late maturing varieties during January. The crop harvested during February-March gives good ratoon crop.
Harvesting is done when the crop has fully matured and ripened. Early varieties and ratoon crops are the first to be harvested. When the stem is close to the surface, great vigilance is required in order to cut the maximum portion of the stem, which is valuable both for its weight and sugar content. The harvested cane should be immediately hauled to the mill otherwise weight and sucrose losses may occur. For this purpose, transport should be arranged in advance.
Stop irrigation 25 to 30 days before the harvest of crop and do not leave the harvested crop for long in the field. In case it has to be kept for a prolonged period, it should be covered with trash. Different varieties planted may be harvested according to their maturity. Harvesting of early maturing varieties may be started during November, mid season varieties during December and the late maturing varieties during January. The crop harvested during February-March gives good ratoon crop.
Harvesting is done when the crop has fully matured and ripened. Early varieties and ratoon crops are the first to be harvested. When the stem is close to the surface, great vigilance is required in order to cut the maximum portion of the stem, which is valuable both for its weight and sugar content. The harvested cane should be immediately hauled to the mill otherwise weight and sucrose losses may occur. For this purpose, transport should be arranged in advance.
Age of sugarcane crop:
The maturing/harvesting age of sugarcane crop in most of the sugarcane growing countries are more than a year (15-24 months) but in Pakistan it is an annual crop (10-12 months) and some other countries are: Hawaii (18-24 months), Java (Indonesia) (12-15 months), Mauritius (14-20 months), Australia (20-25 months),South Africa (22-24 months), Philippines (11-14 months), Cuba (12-15 months), India (10-12 months),Pakistan (10-12 months).
The maturing/harvesting age of sugarcane crop in most of the sugarcane growing countries are more than a year (15-24 months) but in Pakistan it is an annual crop (10-12 months) and some other countries are: Hawaii (18-24 months), Java (Indonesia) (12-15 months), Mauritius (14-20 months), Australia (20-25 months),South Africa (22-24 months), Philippines (11-14 months), Cuba (12-15 months), India (10-12 months),Pakistan (10-12 months).
4.
Govt. Polices And Reforms.
D-1 We have not
established any sugarcane breeding station of international
standard.
D-2- We have not
taken interest in upgrading the sugarcane research station that
already exists. We do not have the staff and do not provide adequate
land and facilities for improvement of sugarcane research work.
D-3 Efforts should
be made to provide and use Ratoon stunting Disease free seed. The
work on biological control of sugarcane pests should be expanded to
cover all the area in all the mills.
D-4 We should not
have taken out the sugarcane research from breeding group. We should
create a Sugarcane Research Station in breeding group. The
agronomists already working on sugarcane should be asked to
concentrate on selecting other superior varieties besides
concentrating on just selecting drought tolerant varieties as we are
short of irrigation water. They should be provided laboratory
facilities for quality evaluation, so that selection of varieties on
cane yield is given full attention.
D-5 The crushing
season in the developed cane-growing countries is kept optimum when
high sugar yields are obtained. To increase our sugar yield, we
should not continue with our longer crushing season, but find ways
to decrease it.
D-6 The sugarcane
price is currently fixed as a minimum on the basis of average
recovery without consideration of mill efficiency or farmer’s
efficiencies. No quality payment has been introduced to match with
the developed cane growing countries of the world.
This action leads to a reduction of our sugar yield and increases its cost. In addition, the cane price is on average recovery of each mill without any minimum base. Thus if a cane price of Rs.40 is fixed for average recovery of 8.5%, the mills getting 7.5% recovery shall pay Rs. 35.29 for 40 kg and the mills getting 9.5% recovery shall pay Rs. 44.71. This means that Rs.0.47 shall be adjustable for increase or decrease of 0.1% in recovery from standard recovery fixed as 8.5%.
This action leads to a reduction of our sugar yield and increases its cost. In addition, the cane price is on average recovery of each mill without any minimum base. Thus if a cane price of Rs.40 is fixed for average recovery of 8.5%, the mills getting 7.5% recovery shall pay Rs. 35.29 for 40 kg and the mills getting 9.5% recovery shall pay Rs. 44.71. This means that Rs.0.47 shall be adjustable for increase or decrease of 0.1% in recovery from standard recovery fixed as 8.5%.
D-7 There should be a
zoning system. The farmers should not be free to sell their produce
to any mill they like. The present action of de-zoning should
discontinue. By this action the development work that was being done
by mills has greatly been reduced. The mills would not like to
invest their money on development of the farmers unless they are
sure to get their cane delivered to their mill. This has also
encouraged the middleman business, which has increased the cost and
decreased the quality of cane delivered. This has also increased the
after harvest losses and transport expanses.
D-8 The water rates
for sugarcane crops are charged on uniform basis. The farmers
getting high yields are using more water than the farmers getting
lower yield.
Therefore the system
should be introduced to charge water rates in relation to yield
groups might be very high, high, average, low, and very low. This
will provide some satisfaction to the farmers getting low yield and
very low yields.
4.1
Reforms
Also By Taking Following Steps We Can Also Increase The Sugar Cane Production.
Also By Taking Following Steps We Can Also Increase The Sugar Cane Production.
1- We should
immediately establish a sugar cane breeding and research institute
of international standard near our seacoast where natural flowering
and production of true seed is possible. The breeding station should
have all the necessary departments like physiology, agronomy,
engineering, statistics etc. Technical help may be taken from
friendly countries experts.
We should take
special care in selecting our staff and getting them fully trained
for their specified job in the institute. This institute should work
as a main center for our country as is coimbatore in India. It
should have good substations with competent staff end facilities for
work. It should have sufficient area and irrigation water for future
expansion also in addition to immediate need. We should have one
good substation in N.W.F.P. upper Punjab, lower Punjab and upper
Sindh.
