Sugarcane ratoon crop plays an important role in sugarcane farming because it reduces cultivation cost and gives quicker returns compared to the plant crop. However, ratoon crops often show poor growth and low yield if nutrients are not managed properly. Since ratoon cane grows from the stubble of the previous crop, it requires special attention to nutrition to support quick sprouting, strong tillering, and good cane development.
The first step in nutrient management of sugarcane ratoon is proper stubble management after harvesting the plant crop. Immediately after harvest, the remaining stubbles should be cut close to the ground and damaged shoots removed. This helps new buds sprout uniformly. Trash should be spread evenly in the field as mulch instead of burning, as it helps conserve moisture and adds organic matter to the soil.
Organic manure application is very important in ratoon crops. Applying well-decomposed farmyard manure or compost improves soil structure, microbial activity, and nutrient availability. Organic matter also helps the soil retain moisture, which supports early ratoon growth. Trash mulching further enhances soil health and reduces nutrient loss.
Sugarcane ratoon crop has a higher nutrient requirement, especially nitrogen, compared to the plant crop. Nitrogen is essential for quick sprouting, tillering, and leaf growth. Most of the nitrogen should be applied early, within 30–45 days after harvest, to support rapid growth. Delayed nitrogen application results in weak tillers and uneven crop stand.
Phosphorus plays an important role in root development and early plant establishment. Since phosphorus does not move easily in the soil, it should be applied near the root zone soon after ratooning. Adequate phosphorus ensures better root growth and helps the crop absorb other nutrients efficiently.
Potassium is very important for ratoon sugarcane because it improves cane strength, sugar accumulation, and resistance to pests and diseases. Potassium deficiency often leads to weak canes and lodging. Applying sufficient potassium helps improve overall crop health and yield.
Micronutrients such as zinc, iron, and magnesium are often deficient in ratoon crops due to continuous cropping. Zinc deficiency causes poor tillering and yellowing of leaves. These deficiencies can be corrected through soil application or foliar sprays when symptoms appear.
Split application of fertilizers gives better results in ratoon crops. Nitrogen and potassium should be applied in two or three splits to reduce losses and improve uptake. Fertilizer application should be followed by irrigation to help nutrients reach the root zone.
Water management is closely linked with nutrient use efficiency. Ratoon crop requires timely irrigation to support nutrient absorption. Moisture stress reduces nutrient uptake and delays growth. At the same time, waterlogging should be avoided, as it damages roots and leads to nutrient loss.
Weed control is also important in nutrient management. Weeds compete with ratoon cane for nutrients and water, especially during early growth stages. Timely weeding helps the crop utilize applied nutrients effectively.
Regular observation of crop growth helps identify nutrient problems early. Yellowing leaves, poor tillering, or weak canes indicate nutrient deficiency and need immediate correction.
In conclusion, nutrient management in sugarcane ratoon crop requires early nitrogen application, balanced supply of phosphorus and potassium, use of organic manures, trash mulching, micronutrient correction, proper irrigation, and weed control. By following these practices, farmers can improve ratoon crop growth, increase cane yield, and maintain soil health for long-term sugarcane production.
