Experts Recommend Earthing Up, Organic Manure and Proper Drainage for Healthier Sugarcane Crop
With the arrival of the monsoon season, agricultural experts are urging sugarcane farmers to complete essential field management practices before heavy rainfall begins. Timely preparation can help protect the crop from strong winds, waterlogging, and lodging while improving plant growth and overall productivity.
Although the monsoon has reached several parts of the country, including Jharkhand, consistent rainfall is yet to occur in districts such as Deoghar. Agriculture specialists say farmers should use this period to strengthen their sugarcane fields instead of waiting for regular rains.
Earthing Up Helps Prevent Crop Lodging
According to agricultural experts, farmers should prioritize earthing up by piling soil around the base of sugarcane plants. During the monsoon, softened soil and rapid plant growth make the crop more vulnerable to falling over due to strong winds and heavy rain.
Lodged sugarcane plants experience reduced growth, making harvesting difficult and lowering overall yield. Earthing up provides better support to the stalks, strengthens root systems, and improves the crop's ability to withstand adverse weather conditions.
Apply Organic Manure Before Earthing Up
Experts also recommend applying well-decomposed farmyard manure or compost before carrying out earthing-up operations. Organic manure enriches soil fertility, enhances microbial activity, and supplies essential nutrients that encourage healthy root development.
If cattle manure is unavailable, farmers can use other organic alternatives such as compost or vermicompost. Regular use of organic inputs also improves long-term soil health and supports sustainable sugarcane cultivation.
Ensure Proper Drainage to Avoid Waterlogging
One of the biggest risks during the rainy season is waterlogging. Excess water remaining in sugarcane fields for prolonged periods can damage roots, encourage fungal diseases, and reduce plant vigor.
Farmers are advised to create drainage channels in advance to ensure rainwater flows out quickly. Efficient drainage not only protects the crop from root rot but also promotes better growth throughout the monsoon.
Timely Preparation Can Increase Productivity
Agriculture experts believe that completing key field operations before the onset of heavy rainfall can significantly improve crop performance. Proper earthing up, organic nutrient management, and effective drainage help sugarcane plants remain upright, healthy, and productive during the monsoon season.
Key Monsoon Tips for Sugarcane Farmers
✓Complete earthing-up before heavy rainfall begins.
✓Apply well-rotted organic manure or compost to improve soil fertility.
✓Use organic alternatives if farmyard manure is unavailable.
✓Create drainage channels to prevent waterlogging.
✓Monitor fields regularly during the monsoon for lodging and disease.
By following these simple yet effective practices, sugarcane growers can minimize weather-related damage, improve crop health, and achieve higher yields and better farm income during the harvesting season.
