Studies on plant geometry and nutrient management strategy in relation to mechanization in sugarcane (Saccharum species hybrid)

Field experiments were conducted in autumn season during 2013–15 and 2014–16 at the Research farm of Sugarcane Research Institute, (UPCSR) Shahjahanpur (U.P) to study the nutrient requirements and optimum plant geometry and to mechanize the sugarcane cultivation at large scale. The experimental soil was sandy loam in texture, low in organic carbon (0.36%), low in available phosphorus (11.35 kg/ha) and medium in potassium (123 kg/ha) with PH value of 7.7. Experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with eight treatment combinations employing test variety Co 0238 (early nurturing) and replicated three times. There were four states of plant geometry and two levels of nutrient application. Two years data were recorded and statistically analysed. Among plant geometrical treatments, trench planting in paired row at 120 (90: 30) cm. resulted significantly higher number of shoots, millable canes and cane yield i.e. 165598/ha, 113462/ha and 127.45 t/ha, respectively and recorded maximum B: C ratio (2.03). Nutritional evaluation depicted that application of 100% recommended dose of fertilizers through inorganics + 25% N through organic manures along with bio- fertilizers (Azotobactor + P.S.B @10 kg/ha each) gave significantly higher number of shoots (151592/ha), millable canes (105272/ha) and cane yield (123.43 t/ha). with higher B: C ratio (2.01) than the crop receiving 100% recommended dose of fertilizers through inorganics. Commercial cane sugar (CCS%) in cane was not affected significantly due to plant geometry and fertility levels.