Influence of different planting techniques on maximisation of yield in sugarcane

‘Field experiment was conducted during 2008 to 2009 to evolve the suitable planting techniques for yield maximization of sugarcane. The field experiment was laid in a randomized block design with three replications viz.,T1 - 120 cm row spacing (Wide row) with end to end method of planting, T2 - 120 cm row spacing (Wide row) with cross planting method (setts placed across the furrow), T3 - T1 + intercropping (black gram), T4 - T2 + intercropping (black gram), T5 - 80 cm row spacing (normal row) with end to end method of planting (conventional planting method), T6 - 80 cm row spacing (normal row) with cross planting method (setts placed across the furrow), T7 - T5 + intercropping (black gram), T8 - T6 + intercropping (black gram). The treated setts were planted in the furrows at the rate of 60,000 setts ha-1 in 120 cm row spaced (wide row) and 75,000 setts ha-1 in 80 cm row spaced (normal rows). The black gram (Vigna mungo) were selected and dibbled in levelled ridges at the rate of 2 to 3 seeds hill-1. In 80 cm row spacing (normal row) of sugarcane, the black gram was sown in single row. While in 120 cm row spacing (wide row), the black gram was sown in 3 rows. The growth and yield parameters of sugarcane were favourably influenced by planting technique. T7 - T5 + intercropping recorded higher no. of germinant (1,09,090 ha-1), Tiller production (2,68,460 ha-1), Plant height at 270 DAP ( 260.99 cm), LAI at 270 DAP(5.25) and NMC (1,14,950). T4 - T2 + intercropping recorded higher individual cane weight of 1.50 kg, Cane yield of 151.93 t ha-1 and Sugar yield of 17.78 t ha-1.