Development of sustainable farming systems for sugarcane

Abstract

This paper reviews developments in cane crop production and management strategies informing sustainable farming. This is to counteract a range of concerns, such as declining soil fertility (particularly soil organic matter reserves), build-up of disease and insect pests, soil erosion and soil compaction arising from intensive monoculture agriculture. Progress made in the practice of green cane harvesting, introduction of crop rotation and controlled traffic systems to improve soil health and reduce soil compaction, respectively, along with judicious use of fertilizers and crop protection chemicals, are highlighted.