Evaluating the Effect of Seaweed Formulations on the Quality and Yield of Sugarcane

Abstract

The effect of seaweed formulations on the growth and development, quality and yield response of sugarcane variety Co 86032 was evaluated by conducting field experiment. The results of the study indicated that the foliar application of seaweed formulations with different concentrations significantly improved the plant height, LAI, SPAD value and total dry matter production (TDMP), yield and yield components compared to control plants. Among the seaweed extract formulations tested, LBS 6 @ one ml/L recorded significantly higher plant growth parameters, yield attributes and cane yield (161 t. ha-1) compared to other treatments studied. It was found that sugarcane cane yield was increased significantly by 22.2 % over control. This treatment also recorded higher economic returns (Rs. 2,38,300. ha-1) and benefit cost ratio (2.08).