Suspension of irrigation during the maturation phase of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) cultivation

Resumen

Objective: To evaluate if there is an increase in the concentration of sugars in sugarcane grinding stalks as a result of controlled water stress.

Design/Methodology/Approach: An experimental plot on cultivar MEX 69-290 was established in 2^nd ratoon cycle, on a mollic Gleysol soil in the supply area of ​the​ Pujiltic sugar mill. Five treatments in irrigation suspension were established: T1 = 15 days; T2 = 30 days; T3 = 45 days; T4 = 60 days, and T5 = 75 days of suspension. The treatments were distributed in the field in a gradient plot design, following the slope of the land, with four repetitions within each irrigation strip.

Results: The results show that suspending irrigation between 45 and 60 days before harvest increases the quality of the juices as well as the yields of the grinding stalks. In addition, natural precipitation plus irrigation water do not satisfy the water needs of the crop in the area under the scheme followed by the farmers.

Study Limitations/Implications: Irrigation rotation.

Findings/Conclusions: The authors recommend providing the necessary amount of auxiliary irrigation to satisfy the water demand of the crop during the growth cycle but suspending irrigation at the beginning of the ripening and maturity stage.