Failure of preharvest foliage sprays with 2, 4-d and maleic hydrazide to affect the sucrose content of sugarcane

Abstract

Data are presented here on the effect of applications of 2,4-D and maleic hydrazide to sugarcane at intervals prior to harvesttime. Field experiments were conducted at Río Piedras in northern Puerto Rico and at Colonia Río Grande, between Caguas and Gurabo, in east-central Puerto Rico. Daily fluctuations in Brix, polarization, purity, and available 96° sugar percent cane were followed for 46- and 72-day periods, respectively. No significant differences were observed between the mean available 96° sugar percent cane that could be ascribed to treatments. Seasonal variations and variations attributable to weather conditions were rather important factors at both locations.