Nutrients

N Nitrogen
P Phosphorus
K Potassium
Mg Magnesium
Ca Calcium
S Sulfur
B Boron
Fe Iron

Sugarcane - Growth retardation

Symptoms
Leaves - particularly older leaves - become light green to yellow in color and plant growth is reduced. Leaf tips may become necrotic. Stalks are thin and stunted with reduced length between internodes. Reduced tillering and lower root mass.

Reasons
Nitrogen deficiency Low nitrogen supply also increases the risk of an early switch from vegetative to generative growth causing development of unwanted flower panicles.

Sugarcane - Growth retardation

Symptoms
Leaves - particularly older leaves - become light green to yellow in color and plant growth is reduced. Leaf tips may become necrotic. Stalks are thin and stunted with reduced length between internodes. Reduced tillering and lower root mass.

Reasons
Nitrogen deficiency Low nitrogen supply also increases the risk of an early switch from vegetative to generative growth causing development of unwanted flower panicles.

Nitrogen deficiency made worse by

  • Low or high pH soils
  • Sandy or light soils (leaching)
  • Low organic matter
  • Drought conditions
  • High rainfall (leaching) or heavy irrigation
  • Addition or high levels of non-decomposed organic matter/manure (eg straw)
  • Fast growing crops

Nitrogen is important for

  • Productive growth
  • High yield and sugar quality