Farming systems for green cane trash blankets in cool wet conditions : SRDC final report BS63S

Abstract

The three year project to evaluate different farming systems for green cane trash blanketing in cool wet conditions was directed at; evaluating the effect of different trash management practices on crop growth; evaluating improved drainage as a means of reducing any negative effect of trash blanketing. Trials were established at Childers and Rocky Point on relatively poorly drained soil types to compare full trash blanketing with trash raking off the cane row and bare cultivation; and, to determine any benefits from hilling-up or mole drainage in trash blanketed blocks. The trial sites were land planed at Rocky Point to improve surface drainage but this was not possible at Childers. The Rocky Point sites were dryland and the Childers sites received supplementary irrigation. The objectives of the report was to; determine the factors which affect ratooning under green cane trash blankets in cool wet conditions in south Queensland; to identify and demonstrate the cultural practices which minimise these factors; to extend the adoption of green cane harvesting in areas where this practice is considered appropriate.