Two important tips for better production of Ratoon Sugarcane || Crop Reformer скачать в хорошем качестве

Two important tips for better production of Ratoon Sugarcane || Crop Reformer

For farmers growing ratoon sugarcane in Pakistan, especially in areas like Punjab, February and March are very critical months. Proper management during this time directly affects tillering, stalk population, and final yield. Here are the essential steps you must follow: 1️⃣ Stubble Shaving (Trash Cleaning & Cutting) After harvesting plant cane, the first step in February is proper stubble shaving. Cut the remaining stubble close to ground level. Remove dry leaves (trash) from the field or use them as mulch properly. Avoid leaving high stubbles because they reduce uniform sprouting. Low and clean shaving encourages uniform and healthy ratoon shoots. 2️⃣ Gap Filling (If Required) Check the field carefully for missing plants. If gaps are more than 10–15%, fill them immediately in February. Use healthy sett pieces from the same variety. Irrigate lightly after filling. Maintaining proper plant population is key for high yield. 3️⃣ Early Fertilizer Application Ratoon crop needs more nitrogen than plant cane because the root system is already active. Recommended practice (Punjab conditions): Apply 1/3 nitrogen dose immediately after first irrigation. Total Nitrogen: 20–25% higher than plant crop. Apply full Phosphorus and Potash (if not applied earlier). Example: If plant crop required 3 bags Urea per acre, ratoon may need 3.5–4 bags. Apply fertilizer before irrigation for better absorption. 4️⃣ First Irrigation (Very Important) Give first irrigation immediately after: Stubble shaving Fertilizer application Do not delay irrigation in March, especially if temperature rises. Early moisture helps in strong tillering. 5️⃣ Hoeing & Earthing Up After sprouting: Perform light hoeing to break soil crust. Remove weeds early. First earthing-up should be done in March when shoots are 1–1.5 feet tall. This strengthens roots and prevents lodging later. 6️⃣ Pest & Disease Monitoring In early ratoon stage, keep watch for: Early shoot borer Termites Pyrilla If infestation appears, take immediate control measures with recommended pesticides. 7️⃣ Weed Control February–March is peak weed germination period. Apply pre-emergence herbicide after first irrigation if needed. Or perform manual hoeing within 20–25 days. Weeds compete strongly in early ratoon stage and reduce yield badly. 🌾 Extra Tip for Higher Yield Do not keep ratoon for more than 2 cycles. Maintain proper plant population. Balanced fertilizer + timely irrigation = higher tonnage.