Sugarcane cultivation (saccharum officinarum) and irrigation management

Abstract

Due to great competition in water uses, there will be a change in the paradigm of irrigation management for great economic efficiency than water requirements by plants. Due to the economic importance of sugarcane in Brazil and worldwide, associated to the production of sugar, energy and alcohol, current study forwards optimization techniques in irrigation managements for sugarcane. It is a culture highly sensitive to hydric deficit which affects its productivity. The study mainly focuses on scientific results on sugarcane response to hydric deficit and the efficient use of water, with socio-economic perspectives for the sugarcane culture. Secondary data retrieved from the literature show that yield and production of sugar and ethanol from irrigated sugarcane plants depend on the amount of water applied, irrigation management plus the correct quantity of fertilizers, variety and cutting age, soil type and climate. The most recommended irrigation system for sugarcane is the dripper method since it increases productivity, reduces cultural treats and increases sugarcane longevity.