Effect of cutting depth during sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid) harvest on root characteristics and yield

Abstract

Ratooning is an important cultivation practice in sugarcane production around the world, with underground buds on the remaining stalk acting as the source for establishment of a subsequent ratoon crop. However, the optimal depth of cutting during harvest in terms of yield and root growth remains unknown. We carried out a two-year field study to determine the effects of three cutting depths (0, 5 and 10 cm below the surface) ratoon cane root and yield. Results showed that cutting to a depth of 5 cm increased the root fresh weight and root volume by 21–59% and 41–127%, respectively, compared to cutting depths of 0 and 10 cm. Remarkably, cutting to a depth of 5 cm also had a significant effect on the development of fine roots, which is closely linked to cane yield. The effect was particularly noticeable in terms of two root traits, root volume and the surface area of roots with a diameter of 1.0–2.0mm, and root length and the number of root tips in roots with a diameter of 0–0.5mm. As a result, a cutting depth of 5 cm below the surface increased cane yield by 43 and 28% compared to depths of 0 and 10 cm below the surface, respectively. Overall, these findings suggest that a cutting depth of 5 cm is optimal in terms of sugarcane yield, largely due to the enhanced effect on root traits, especially the development of fine roots. These findings will help optimize sugarcane ratoon management and improve the ratoon cycle.

The effect of root cutting on the availability of organic carbon stock in oil palm plants (elaeis guneensis jacq)

“…Root cutting at a depth of 5 cm increases root fresh weight and root volume in sugarcane crops by 21-59% and 41-127%, respectively, compared to cutting depths of 0 and 10 cm. Root cutting 5 cm below the surface increases sugarcane yields by 43 and 28% respectively compared to cutting depths of 0 and 10 cm below the soil surface as it helps optimize sugarcane ratoon management and improve the ratoon cycle [6].…”

Sugarcane Bagasse-Derived Cellulose as an Eco-Friendly Adsorbent for Azo Dye Removal

“…An important agricultural crop, sugarcane is cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas all over the world. Sugarcane has long been acknowledged to be one of the most effective crops at turning solar energy into chemical energy, which can be collected as sucrose and biomass [1]. After its production from the fields, sugarcane was brought to the manufactory and used to extract juice from sugar production.…”