Performance of sugarcane varieties in Kerala

Abstract

With a view to evolving cane varieties superior to the local promising ones under cultivation in the river bank areas of Kerala, a varietal trial with 12 varieties was conducted at the Sugarcane Research Station, Thiru valla during the year 1977-79. Co. 62175 excelled all other varieties in germination in the plant crop, but not in the ratoon crops. Co. 997 is found to be better than other varieties in number of mi liable canes. But this number has contributed for yield. Co, 62175 is the highest yielder among the twelve varieties studied. The increase in yield over the most popular variety Co. 997 is 45. 4%, 22%, 32.4% for the plant crop, first ratoon, second ratoon respectively. The mean percentage increase over all the seasons is 37.6%. The increase in cane yield of this variety is due to the increased length and girth of canes. There is no significant difference in Brix, Pol and purity between the varieties. Co. 62175 can be recommended for commercial cultivation on the river banks of Kerala.