Sugarcane Production for 12-, 18-, and 24-Month Cycles Under Conditions in Puerto Rico

Abstract

The data presented in this paper are from field experiments conducted at Corozal and Barceloneta following a split plot design where sugarcane cropping cycles or age at harvest (12-, 18-, and 24-month) were the main plots and varieties were the subplots. The varieties studied were: P.R. 1028, P.R. 1016, P.R. 1013, P.R. 980, P.R. 975 and B. 4362. Six replications were used. Statistical analyses of the data revealed that under the conditions prevailing in Puerto Rico, with the sugarcane varieties now available, and under typical current soil and crop management practices, 12- and 18-month canes are more efficient sugar producers than 24-month cane. More cane tonnage and more total sugar per acre per month were obtained during the short cycles than during the 24-month cycle.