Does stalk death set the yield ceiling in high-yielding sugarcane crops?

The pattern of yield accumulation in high-yielding sugarcane crops growing in tropical irrigated environments was examined. The occurrence of an early yield plateau before scheduled crop harvest was identified. This yield plateau occurred when climatic conditions and resource supply were favourable for continued crop growth. Stalk death and subsequent loss of biomass were significant contributors to the cessation in yield accumulation. Consequently, the efficiency of utilisation of radiation, water and nutrients was poor during late growth in these crops. Opportunities for genetic improvement and modified crop management to overcome the yield ceiling imposed by stalk death are discussed.