Question

Explain the ‘Ratoon method’ of sugarcane cultivation.

Answer 1

The Ratoon method is an effective sugarcane cultivation technique in which the main crop is harvested by cutting the stalks near to the ground while keeping the lower stubble and root system intact in the soil. Rather than preparing the field and planting new seeds, a second fresh crop (the ratoon) emerges naturally from the existing roots. This method saves farmers time and money by eliminating the costs of purchasing new seed cane, tilling the field, and intensive labour, while also allowing for a faster second harvest.