Quick summary

Sugarcane , avital cropfor Kenya ’s economy andfood security , call for careful cultivation practice session to assure optimum yield . This comprehensive guide willmeticulously outlinethe steps involve in planting sugarcane in Kenya , empowering Fannie Farmer with the noesis to maximize their harvests .

Site Selection and Soil Preparation

1 . land site Selection : Choose a well - drain fieldwith deep , fat territory . Avoid areas prostrate to waterlogging or excessive salinity.2 . Soil Preparation : Plow thefield deeplyto loosen the territory and remove any smoke or debris . Amend the soil withorganic issue , such as manure or compost , to enrich its fertility .

Variety Selection and Propagation

1 . Variety Selection : Opt for sugarcane mixture that are well - befit to Kenya ’s climate andsoil condition . Consult withlocal agricultural extension officersfor recommendations.2 . Propagation : Cut stalksfrom good for you , mature sugarcane plantsinto 3 - 4node cuttings . Ensure that the cuttings have at least one bud .

Planting Techniques

1 . Planting fourth dimension : Theideal planting timeis during therainy time of year , typically from March to May.2 . Planting deepness : Dig furrows approximately 15 cm deepand infinite them 1 - 1.5 meter asunder . Place the cuttings in thefurrows horizontally , with the buds facing upwards.3 . Planting Distance : Plant the newspaper clipping at a spacing of 60 - 90 cm within the rows.4 . Covering : Cover the cuttings with soil andgently pressdown to firm them in situation .

Fertilization and Irrigation

1 . Fertilization : give abalanced fertilizeratplanting timeand append it withadditional nitrogenand potassium applications during the growing season.2 . Irrigation : Sugarcane requires regular irrigation , especially duringdry spells . utilise a drip orsprinkler irrigation systemto deliver water directly to the ascendent .

Weed and Pest Management

1 . Weed Control : Regularly weed the sugarcane field toprevent competitionfor nutrient and urine . Useherbicides selectivelyto control weeds.2 . Pest Control : supervise thesugarcane plantsfor pestilence such as mealybug , aphids , and borers . go through integrated pest direction strategies , let in biological control and the use of pesticides when necessary .

Harvesting and Processing

1 . harvest : Sugarcane istypically harvested12 - 18 month after imbed . Cut thestalks closeto the ground and bundle them for transportation to the processing plant.2 . Processing : Sugarcane is processed insugar millstoextract juice , which is then boiled and crystallized to produce sugar .

Final Thoughts

By meticulously following the steps sketch in this guide , farmers in Kenya canestablish thriving sugarcane plantationsthatyield abundant harvest . Remember to consult withlocal agricultural expertsfor specific good word tailored to your region and experimental condition .

Common Questions and Answers

1 . What is the bestsoil pHfor sugarcane polish ?

2 . How often should sugarcane be irrigated ?

3 . What arecommon diseasesthataffect sugarcanein Kenya ?