Planting Seasons of Sugarcane

 

The duration of sugarcane crop in India ranges from10-18 months. A 12 months crop is most common. Time of planting is governed by weather conditions. Sugarcane requires about 25-32⁰ C temperature for good germination. Spring  and autumn plantings are two important planting seasons.

Spring Planting

In Northern India spring planting is done in February-March while in Peninsular India it is done in January-February. Spring planted crop is known as suru in Maharashtra and eksali in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh.

Autumn Planting

This planting is very popular in northern India. This planting is done in September-October while in Bihar and Peninsular India it is done in October-November. Autumn planting is also known as pre-seasonal planting in Maharashtra and Gujarat. The pre-seasonal crop matures in 13-15 months and supplies sugarcane in early crushing period.

Adsali Planting

In Maharashtra and Karnataka, adsali planting is done I n July-August and the crop matures in 16-18 months. Because of extended growing season, there is increase in yield as well as sugar recovery. Biggest advantage of adsali is that it passes through only one summer season. In the present scenario, area under adsali planting is declining because of less availability of irrigation water.

Late Planting

Because of wheat crop is taken on large area in rabi season in Northern and Central India, planting of sugarcane is delayed until harvesting of wheat in March-April. Research data has been proved conclusively that delay in planting causes considerable yield reduction.