High density planting as an economic production strategy: (a) overview and potential benefits

Low sugar prices have highlighted the deficiencies of current sugarcane production procedures. Conceptually, high density planting (HDP) is one way to address some of these deficiencies and increase crop productivity in the sugar industry. However, attempts to adopt HDP commercially in the past have met with little success. Rather -than discarding the concept, we have confirmed the benefits available, identified the requirements to achieve these benefits and developed systems for their commercial application. HDP can significantly increase light interception by the crop prior to canopy closure, giving better use of available water and nutrient resources during this period. Simulation modeling of crop growth suggests that dual rows (at 1.8 m centres) and close rows (0.5 m apart) might increase yields by about 20 and 60 tonnes of cane per hectare (TCH) respectively. An extensive field trial program has confirmed that such yield increases can be obtained in many districts. Economic analysis shows that growers might expect to significantly improve profits and reduce production costs by adopting HDP. However, adoption of close rows will require modification of current farming systems and the development of specific planting and harvesting equipment.