Growth and Yield of Sugarcane (Saccharam officinarum) as Influenced by Planting Materials and Plant Geometry

Field experiments were conducted at Sugarcane Research Station, Melalathur, from 2010 to 2012, aiming to investigate the impact of plant geometry (5 x 2 ft single row, 5 x 1 ft double row) and various planting materials (single budded setts, double budded setts, and transplanting of sprouted seedlings). The results indicated that transplanting cane using chip bud seedlings exhibited significant establishment and vigor compared to direct planting of setts. In terms of planting geometry, the crop planted in a 5 x 1 ft double row configuration demonstrated a higher number of tillers and millable cane. However, when considering single cane weight, commercial cane sugar percentage, and benefit-cost ratio, the 5 x 2 ft planted crop outperformed, showcasing higher cane yield in comparison to other treatments.