Question

Explain the following term.

Ratooning

Answer 1

Ratooning is an agricultural harvesting method where the main crop is cut down close to the ground, leaving the lower stalk and root system intact to naturally develop a new second crop (known as a “ratoon”). This method is most commonly employed in sugarcane production, but it is also applied to rice, pineapples, and bananas. Ratooning saves farmers time and money by eliminating the need to transplant seeds, clear the field or till the soil again. It also allows for a faster second harvest.