Sugarcane intercropping impact on weed dry matter, sugar quality and sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) production

The effects of sugarcane intercropping on weed dry matter, sugar quality and sugarcane production was evaluated at Badeggi, Nigeria in 2016/2017 seasons. The results revealed that application of Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping produced lower weed dry matter comparable to Sugarcane + Soybean intercropping which significantly increased sugarcane production. Application of Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping, resulted in a comparable germination count, Tiller count, plant and stalk height to Soybean intercropping. Similarly, Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping and Soybean intercropping produced comparable stalk height and brix content. Also, Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping generated more millable canes and stools per plot. Application of Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping demonstrates similarly as Soybean intercropping in producing the highest cane yield. Highest net farm income was found in Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping.In the same way, Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping and Soybean intercropping produced comparable sucrose and glucose content. Weed dry matter was low in Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping, and higher plant and stalks, cane girth, brix %, millable canes, stools, sucrose, glucose. and sugarcane yield were found in Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping. In conclusion, application of Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping or Soybean intercropping effectively suppressed weeds, improve growth and yield of sugarcane.