Integrated Effect of Organic & Inorganic Fertilizers on Sugarcane Crop

This study was conducted to determine the optimum inorganic and organic nutrient sources and rates for sugarcane production. A set of experiments were designed and conducted at Sugarcane Section, Agriculture Research Institute, Tandojam, Pakistan, located at 25o25’60’N 68o31’ 60E during 2008-09 and 2009-10. In all the experiments, Thatta-10 sugarcane variety was sown. In the light of findings it is concluded that integrated nutrient management recorded 25% saving in inorganic NPK fertilizers due to application of FYM and or press mud applied at 20 t ha-1. The residual effect of FYM and press mud showed significant effect on subsequent ratoon crop. The residual FYM and or press mud at 20 t ha-1 + supplemental application of 25% less inorganic NPK fertilizer was found sufficient nutrient level. This study recommends that organic and inorganic nutrients should be applied to enhance growth, yield, quality and nutrient uptake of both plant and ratoon sugarcane. Residual effects were seen on the subsequent ratoon crop due to FYM and press mud applications. Therefore, application of FYM and or press mud at 20 t ha-1 once in a two year with 25% less NPK fertilizer is recommended.

Dr. Abdul Fatah Soomro is an Agronomist by profession. He is working as a Senior Scientific Officer in a highly reputable organization “Pakistan Agricultural Research Council” he has thirteen years research experience. Dr.Soomro got the degree of Doctor of Philosophy from Sindh Agriculture University Tando jam,Sindh, Pakistan during the year 2013