Effect of varieties and planting dates on quality parameters of sugarcane

This study was conducted at the Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Rudrur, Telangana, during the Eksali season 2023-2024 to evaluate the influence of varieties and planting dates on the quality parameters of sugarcane. The experiment utilized a split-plot design with two varieties 2006 A 223 (early maturing) and Co 86032 (mid-late maturing) and eight planting dates ranging from 5th December to 20th March. Key quality attributes, including Brix (%), sucrose (%), Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS%), and purity coefficient, were assessed at harvest. Results indicated that the sugarcane variety 2006 A 223 recorded significantly higher CCS% (13.8%) compared to Co 86032 (13.3%). While individual factors of variety and planting date did not independently show statistical significance for Brix (%), their interaction was highly significant, with 2006 A 223 reaching maximum potential (>20%) during January planting windows. Conversely, sucrose percentage and the interaction effect for CCS% were statistically non-significant, suggesting a robust physiological stability in sucrose synthesis across different sowing periods. Based on the regression analysis, Co 86032 is the more stable and dependable variety, characterized by higher R2 values (0.84 for sucrose; 0.69 for CCS) that indicate consistent performance across varying environments. In contrast, 2006 A 223 offers a higher genetic ceiling for sugar yield but exhibits greater sensitivity to external factors (R2 = 0.40 for CCS). Consequently, 2006 A 223 is ideal for optimized, early-sowing conditions, while Co 86032 is the superior choice for resilience and predictable recovery under sub-optimal or fluctuating conditions.