SUGARCANE CROP DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES AND WATER REQUIREMENT: A REVIEW

Abstract

Sugarcane, grown in the subtropical conditions of Pakistan, is a long-duration crop with a growth cycle lasting 10-15 months. The growth period commences 25-45 days after planting. The months of June to August mark the peak growth period, while September to October represent a transitory phase as the growth tapers off, making way for sugar accumulation. From November onward, the crop enters the maturity period. During the early stages of growth, particularly from April to June for spring planting and March to May for autumn planting, the crop's development is most critical in terms of plant growth and tiller formation. For successful germination and an initial healthy stand of the crop, it is vital to avoid soil moisture deficiency soon after planting. Such deficiency can have detrimental effects on the germination process. In irrigated agriculture, the yield of cane heavily relies on the availability of water, both in terms of quantity and frequency, precisely timed to meet the plant's water requirements at various physiological stages of development. The water needs
exhibit significant variation as the crop progresses through its growth cycle. In this review, we will focus on the water requirement of sugarcane crop in different developmental stages and its impact
on yield and sugar recovery.