OVERVIEW
- Potassium (K) and boron (B) are key components of a sugarcane nutrition program.
- Deficiencies of both K and B are often observed in coarse, well-drained, sandy soils.
- Boron is crucial for cell growth, reproductive development and increased yield.
- Research has shown that K fertilizers containing micronutrients in a single granule provide improved nutrient distribution and increase crop nutrient uptake compared to conventional fertilizer blends.
- Aspire® premium potash combines K and B in each granule to help achieve uniform nutrient distribution.
TRIAL DETAILS
Locations and Crop Management:
Crop: Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum)
Years: 2013–2014; 2014–2015; 2015–2016
Locations: 6 crops (plant and ratoon) across 3 locations in FL
Data Source: Field study conducted by the University of Florida.
Experimental Design: Small-plot RCBD with 4 replications.
SOIL TYPE: Mineral (Sand) Soil
Croppping Condition:
K Rate: 250 lbs K₂O/ac applied as MOP or Aspire®
B Rate: 2.1 lbs B/ac applied as Aspire®
Plant Cane: 1/4 of total at planting, 1/4 in each of 3 sidedress applications
Ratoon Cane: 1/4 in each of 4 sidedress applications
Results
SUMMARY
- The trials were responsive to both K and B.
- Cumulative cane yield with Aspire® was 4.1 tons/ac (4.5%) higher than MOP.
- Cumulative sugar yield with Aspire® was 0.5 tons/ac (3.9%) higher than MOP.
- Higher yields achieved using Aspire® demonstrate the benefits of B and uniform nutrient distribution.
