Sugarcane is a major cash crop, typically sown between February and March in the northern Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab. However, due to various circumstances, farmers often opt for late sowing of sugarcane in April, following the wheat harvest. Experts believe that with the selection of the right variety and the adoption of proper techniques, late sowing can also lead to a high yield.
During summer, high temperatures lead to rapid loss of soil moisture, which can hinder germination and early growth of sugarcane. Therefore, farmers need to take special precautions while sowing sugarcane late in the season.
Seed Selection: Instead of using traditional cane setts, it is more beneficial to use single bud nursery plants or plants prepared through the STP (Single Bud Planting) method. These plants are already partially developed and help compensate for the 30–35 days delay in sowing.
If nursery plants are not available, use fresh and disease-free two or three-bud cane setts. Choose the top one-third portion of the cane for planting, as it has better germination potential.
Row Spacing: Normally, the row-to-row spacing is maintained at 4.5 feet. For late sowing, it is advisable to reduce the spacing to 3 feet and slightly increase the seed rate to ensure adequate plant population.
For late sowing, sugarcane varieties that mature faster and can withstand high temperatures and dry conditions should be selected. Prominent varieties include CoS 15023, CoLk 1602, and CoS 10231. These varieties are not only disease-resistant but also have high yield potential.
Ensure Proper Field Preparation and Soil Moisture: Adequate moisture in the field is crucial at the time of sowing. If the soil lacks moisture, pre-irrigation (palewa) should be done to prepare the field properly. The soil should be well-tilled and friable to facilitate better germination.
Don’t Ignore Seed Treatment and Pest Control: Before planting, treat the cane setts by dipping them in a 0.1% solution of Bavistin or Thiophanate-methyl for 10 minutes to protect them from seed-borne diseases. Since late-sown sugarcane is more susceptible to pests and diseases, regular monitoring is essential, and timely preventive measures—either organic or chemical—should be implemented.
