Why Sugarcane Needs Iron
Iron is an essential nutrient for Sugarcane growth and development. Iron deficiency (chlorosis) is common in high pH calcareous soils across India and globally.
In India, Iron Deficiency is particularly common in Sugarcane grown in UP, Maharashtra, Karnataka, TN due to specific soil conditions in these regions.
Visual Symptoms of Iron Deficiency in Sugarcane
🔍 What to look for in your Sugarcane field:
Soil Causes of Iron Deficiency in Sugarcane
Iron Deficiency in Sugarcane is commonly caused by: Alkaline soils, waterlogged conditions, high phosphorus soils
A soil test is the most reliable way to confirm Iron deficiency. Use SoilPro's NPK Calculator to get fertilizer recommendations based on your soil test values.
How to Correct Iron Deficiency in Sugarcane
| Product | Application Method | Dose | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrous Sulphate 19% (foliar 0.5%) | Foliar spray | foliar 0.5% | Vegetative stage |
| FeSO4 soil application (20 kg/acre) | Soil | 20 kg/acre | Pre-sowing |
| Fe-EDTA foliar | Foliar spray | As per label | Vegetative stage |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of Iron Deficiency in Sugarcane?
young leaf yellowing with green veins (interveinal chlorosis in young leaves), pale green color overall
How quickly can I fix Iron Deficiency in Sugarcane?
Foliar sprays show improvement in 7-10 days. Soil applications take 2-3 weeks. Severe deficiency may need 2-3 foliar sprays at weekly intervals.
Does Iron Deficiency affect Sugarcane yield?
Yes significantly. Iron deficiency reduces Sugarcane yield by 20-50% depending on severity. It also reduces fruit/grain quality.
Which soil test should I do for Sugarcane?
Test for pH, EC, N, P, K, Zn, Fe, Mn, B, and organic carbon. SoilPro can interpret any soil test report and give crop-specific recommendations.