Sugarcane Field Trial Compendium : A collection of research trial reports from 2012-2019

Abstract

This compendium captures a large body of work carried out by the Coastal Farming Systems team in an effort to assist sugarcane growers adopt more sustainable practices. There have been some 11 trials implemented to demonstrate to producers that nitrogen application rates based on the Six-Easy-Steps (6ES) to nutrient management guidelines produced the same cane yield as more traditional application rates. The reduction in nitrogen had the advantage of reduced input costs thereby improving grower profitability. Better matching nitrogen application to crop demand has the potential to reduce losses to the environment thereby improving water quality. The field trial activity also evaluated a range of enhanced efficiency fertilisers, like polymer coated and nitrification inhibitor products. The trials also highlighted that 6ES guidelines for fertiliser application after soybean and mill mud applications offer significant fertiliser and cost savings. Trials have also been conducted that address soil health, acidity and sodicity. Strategies and tools to address herbicide application are also highlighted. These trials have been conducted from Bundaberg to the Wet Tropics on a range of soil types using a wide range of sugarcane varieties.