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

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate if there is an increase in the concentration of sugars in grinder stems of sugarcane due to the effect of controlled water stress.
Design / Methodology / Approach: An experimental plot on cultivar MEX 69-290 was established in 2nd ratoon cycle, on a Gleysol molic soil in the supply area of sugarmill Pujiltic. Five irrigation suspension treatments 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 design of plots divided in gradient, 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 grinder stem. In addition, the natural precipitation plus irrigation water do not satisfy the water needs of the crop in the area under the scheme followed by the producers.
Study limitations / implications: Irrigation innings.
Findings / Conclusions: It is recommended to give the amount of auxiliary irrigations necessary to satisfy the water demand of the crop during the growth cycle but to suspend the irrigation at the beginning of the seasoning and maturity stage.