Phosphorus deficiency-Sugarcane

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Nutrients

Sugarcane - Discolouration

Symptoms
Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency vary with the different varieties of sugarcane. This photo shows a purple discoloration of the stem, but discoloration of the tips of older leaves is also possible.

Reasons
Phosphorus deficiency Similar symptoms are caused by weakened root systems due to poor soil texture, salinity or diseases.

Sugarcane - Discolouration

Symptoms
Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency vary with the different varieties of sugarcane. In this case, a reddish to brown discoloration starts on the main leaf vein and along the leaf edges. Older leaves and stalk bases turn uniformly brown.

Reasons
Phosphorus deficiency Similar symptoms are caused by weakened root systems due to poor soil texture, salinity or diseases.

Sugarcane - Discolouration

Reasons
Phosphorus deficiency Similar symptoms are caused by weakened root systems due to poor soil texture, salinity or diseases.

Sugarcane - Discolouration

Reasons
Phosphorus deficiency Similar symptoms are caused by weakened root systems due to poor soil texture, salinity or diseases.

Phosphorus deficiency made worse by

Acidic or very alkaline (calcareaus) soils
Low organic matter
Cold or wet conditions
Crops with a poorly developed root system
Soils with low P reserves
Soils with a high phosphate capacity
Iron rich soils

Phosphorus is important for

"Productive growth, i
e
more tillers, quick canopy closure, strong stalk development, big root mass
High yield and sugar quality
Adequate P levels necessary in cane juice for proper clarification
"

Yara recommended fertilizers for Phosphorus

YaraMila 16-16-16

Sugarcane: At pre-planting, apply 250kg/ha. At 30 days after transplanting, apply 200kg/ha. At 60 days after transplanting, apply 200kg/ha.