Sugar cane trials at the Kimberley Research Station in north-western Australia

Abstract

Preliminary investigations into the possibilities of cane growing in the Ord River area of the East Kimberleys were carried out between 1950 and 1957. Special attention was given to variety comparison, time of planting, and fertilizer requirements. Results showed that the crop is well adapted to the environmental conditions of the area. The weighted mean yield for all experiments and treatments, including plant crops, first ratoons, and second and third ratoons, was over 30 tons an acre for each harvest, with a sugar yield of 4.25 tons an acre per harvest. Variety trials indicated that Pindar was the most promising variety. Time of planting trials showed that delay in planting after April tends to reduce yields, the magnitude of the reduction depending on variety. Responses to both nitrogen and phosphate were recorded in fertilizer trials. In addition to rainfall, about 20 irrigations totalling 60 inches were needed to ensure satisfactory cane growth. No major pest and disease problems were encountered.