/ "How to fertilize and maintain fertile soil with sugar cane")
This fertilization promotes crop productivity without compromising the quality and availability of this resource in the future. The approach combines different strategies based on in-depth knowledge of the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil, as well as the requirements of the crop. (Read in WITHlivestock context: Questions and answers: How to make the most of sugar cane in livestock farming)
According to him manual of the Colombian Agricultural Research Corporation (Agrosavia) called “Green growth and climate-smart agriculture in the cultivation of sugar cane for the production of panela”, in the case of sugar cane, Integrated fertilization becomes an essential practice to ensure high yields and sustainability of the productive system.
Sugar cane is a crop that demands significant amounts of nutrients from the soil during its production cycle. The main elements absorbed are nitrogen, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, with absorption peaks that vary throughout the cycle: at 335 days after the cut for nitrogen, calcium and magnesium, and at 392 days after the cut for potassium and phosphorus..
Before establishing a fertilization plan, it is important to carry out a soil analysis to understand its characteristics and deficiencies, as well as identify the specific requirements of the crop.
Fertilization plan for sugar cane
This fertilization plan should include a combination of sources that optimize nutrient availability, improve soil health, and promote microbiological biodiversity. Additionally, the plan must take into account the application of chemical, organic, composted and biofertilizer sources, such as:
- Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi: According to Agrosavia, these soil microorganisms form a symbiosis with the roots of the plants, facilitating the absorption of nutrients such as phosphorus and improving root exploration.
- Nitrogen-fixing bacteria: They incorporate atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, especially in association with legumes. This process reduces dependence on chemical nitrogen fertilizers.
- Phosphate solubilizers: The corporation mentions that microorganisms that convert insoluble phosphates into forms assimilated by plants, optimizing the use of phosphorus available in the soil.
Additionally, species such as rhizobium sp., pseudomonas spy azospirillum sppromote root growth, increase crop productivity and strengthen the enzymatic activity of the soil.
These functions have a direct implication in soil conservation because they promote the diversification of the microorganisms responsible for maintaining the biological component and providing the crop with greater exploration of the roots in the soil profile and increased absorption of water and nutrients. (Read in WITHlivestock context: Sugar cane, alternative feed for livestock)
1. Can you tell us a bit about the importance of integrated fertilization in sustainable sugar cane production?
2. How can soil analysis help in determining the specific nutrient requirements of sugar cane?
3. What are some of the challenges related to the implementation of sustainable fertilization practices in sugar cane production?
4. Can you explain the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen-fixing bacteria in promoting sustainable sugar cane cultivation?
5. How do phosphate solubilizers contribute to nutrient availability in the soil for sugar cane plants?
6. What are some of the benefits of using biofertilizers in sugar cane farming?
7. Are there any concerns regarding the potential negative impacts of excessive fertilization on soil health and the environment? If so, how can these be mitigated?
8. In what ways does integrated fertilization contribute to soil conservation efforts in sugar cane farming?
9. What research or innovations are currently being pursued in the area of sustainable sugar cane production?
10. How can farmers balance the need for high yields with the sustainability of their production systems?
