Fertilizer Management in Sugarcane Crop

In sugarcane farming, farmers typically use three types of fertilizers: DAP, urea, and potash. However, due to a lack of proper knowledge about the correct quantities, farmers sometimes overuse fertilizers, leading to increased costs. On the other hand, using insufficient amounts of fertilizers can negatively impact the yield and quality of the crop, preventing farmers from achieving optimal production. This can become a major cause of financial loss for them. For detailed information on using the right amount of fertilizers in sugarcane crops, read this post carefully.

Problems Caused Due to Lack of Fertilizers in Sugarcane Crop

• Reduction in Yield: Lack of nutrients can hinder plant growth, leading to a reduction in the yield of the sugarcane crop.
• Decline in Quality: Without adequate nutrients, the sugar content in sugarcane may decrease, which negatively affects its quality.
• Increased Susceptibility to Pests and Diseases: Nutrient deficiency weakens the plant's immune system, making it more vulnerable to pests and diseases.
• Delayed Harvest: Insufficient nutrition slows down the growth of plants, causing the crop to take longer to mature and be ready for harvest.

Fertilizer Management in Sugarcane Crop

• Mix 5 tons of well-decomposed cow dung manure per acre of field.
• For one acre of sugarcane field, 130 kg of urea, 52 kg of DAP (Diammonium Phosphate), and 40 kg of Muriate of Potash (MOP) are required.
• As a basal dose, apply 1/3 of the urea along with the entire quantity of DAP and MOP. The remaining urea should be used for top dressing when the tillers start emerging.
• Apply 80 kg of DAP before sowing.
• To fulfill the micronutrient needs, apply 5 kg of zinc sulfate, 25 kg of DeHaat NutriOne MgSO4, and 8 kg of DeHaat Starter per acre of field.
• For sulphur supplementation, apply 200 kg of gypsum per acre of land.

Fertilizer Management 30-60 Days After Sowing

• Use 5 grams of DeHaat NutriOne NPK 19:19:19 per liter of water.
• Use 1-2 milliliters of DeHaat NutriOne Zinc Oxide 39.5% per liter of water.
• Use 2-3 milliliters of DeHaat NutriOne Boost Master per liter of water.

Fertilizer Management 90-100 Days After Sowing

• Apply 1-2 kilograms of Boron 14.5% (DeHaat NutriOne DTB) per acre.
• Use 5 grams of Mono Potassium Phosphate 00:52:34 (DeHaat NutriOne MKP) per liter of water.

Things to Keep in Mind While Using Fertilizers for Crops

• Soil Testing: Before applying fertilizers, it is important to test the soil to determine its nutrient content and pH level. This will help in deciding the type and amount of fertilizer required for the crop.
• Type of Fertilizers: Different crops require different types of fertilizers based on their nutrient needs. It is crucial to select the right type of fertilizer for the specific crop.
• Fertilizer Quantity: The quantity of fertilizer should be based on the nutrient requirements of the crop and the results of the soil test.
• Proper Timing: Fertilizers should be applied at the right time to achieve better yields. For example, nitrogen should be applied 2-3 times during the crop's growth cycle, split into intervals.
• Application Method: Fertilizers can be applied through various methods such as broadcasting, banding, or fertigation. The application method should be chosen based on the crop’s nutrient requirements and the type of soil.
• Storage: To ensure the effectiveness and safety of fertilizers, they must be stored properly. Keep fertilizers away from direct sunlight and store them in a cool, dry place, away from moisture.

Harmful Effects of Excessive Use of Fertilizers

• Soil Degradation: Excessive use of fertilizers can lead to soil degradation, as it alters the soil's structure and reduces its fertility. This can result in lower crop yields and increased soil erosion.
• Environmental Pollution: Overuse of fertilizers can cause environmental pollution, as excess nutrients may leach into groundwater and surface water, leading to eutrophication and harmful algal blooms.
• Harmful to Health: Excessive use of fertilizers can lead to nitrate accumulation in crops. Consuming these in large quantities can be harmful to human health.
• Loss of Biodiversity: Overuse of fertilizers can reduce the population of beneficial microorganisms in the soil, leading to a decline in biodiversity.
• Increased Costs: Using more fertilizers than necessary can increase agricultural costs.
• Climate Change: The production and use of fertilizers contribute to climate change, as they require significant energy and release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide.

Do you test the soil before using fertilizers in your sugarcane crop? Let us know your answer in the comments. We hope the information provided in this post proves to be beneficial for you. If you found this information helpful, please like this post as much as possible and share it with your fellow farmers. For more such tips on improving crop yield, follow the 'Krishi Gyan' channel right away!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best fertilizer for sugarcane?

A: The best fertilizer for sugarcane depends on various factors such as soil type, climate, and the crop's growth stage. Generally, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) fertilizers are recommended for sugarcane farming. The amount of fertilizer should be adjusted according to the nutrient content present in the soil.

Q: What fertilizers should be used for sugarcane?

A: To achieve better yields in sugarcane, it is important to use key nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.

Q: How can I boost the growth of sugarcane?

A: To enhance sugarcane growth, ensure proper field preparation, select sugarcane varieties based on your region and season, sow at the right time, apply fertilizers in appropriate amounts, manage irrigation, control pests and diseases, and take steps for weed management. These practices will significantly improve sugarcane development.