Introduction
Sugarcane is a tropical, perennial grass that forms lateral shoots at the base to produce multiple stems, typically 3 to 4 m (10 to 13 ft) high and about 5 cm (2 in) in diameter. The stems grow into cane stalk, which when mature, constitutes around 75% of the entire plant. Sugarcane is rich in antioxidants so it helps fights infections and boost the immunity. It’s rich in iron, magnesium, calcium and other electrolytes so it’s great for dehydration. It helps cure the common cold and other infections and also fight fever as it boosts the body’s protein levels.
Uses
Sugarcane is a key ingredient in making:
- Bio fuelÂ
- paperÂ
- juiceÂ
Production, export, import and consumption in Nigeria
Production = 700,000 Import = unavailable, Export = unavailable. (Source: WITF (World Bank)2021Â Â
Growing Sugarcane
A well-drained loamy soil with neutral soil reaction (pH 6.5 to 7.5) and adequate nutrients and without soil compaction is considered an ideal soil for sugarcane production.   Â
Sowing and harvest period
A sugarcane plant can produce several stalks each, of which can grow well over ten feet and become fully mature in about 12 to 14 months. The best time to plant is between September to November and sprouting will start in early spring. After approximately 12 months, the mature sugarcane is ready for harvest. Grower’s average four harvests from a single planting. The harvesting campaign begins in mid-October and runs through mid-March or approximately 150 days.Â
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Main Producing States in Nigeria.
- Kastina
- Taraba
- Kano
- Adamawa
- Jigawa
- Kaduna
- Kebbi
- Sokoto.
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