The Surprising Truth About Sugarcane Farming in China Nobody Tells You

Sugarcane Farming in China Sugarcane farming is a significant agricultural activity in China, contributing to the country’s sugar production and rural economies. Here's an overview of sugarcane farming in China: Key Sugarcane-Producing Regions Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region: Accounts for over 60% of China’s sugarcane production. Known as the "Sugar Bowl" of China. Yunnan Province: A major contributor with favorable highland conditions. Guangdong Province: Produces both sugarcane for sugar and juice extraction. Hainan Province: Ideal for sugarcane cultivation due to its tropical climate. Climatic and Soil Requirements Climate: Sugarcane thrives in warm and humid climates. Requires temperatures of 20–35°C for optimal growth. Rainfall: Requires about 1,200–1,500 mm of annual precipitation. Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal. Cultivation Practices Planting: Sugarcane is planted using stem cuttings (setts) in rows. Planting season: February to April in most regions. Irrigation: Regular irrigation is crucial, especially during the dry season. Fertilization: Farmers use organic manure and chemical fertilizers for higher yield. Pest and Disease Management: Pests: Top borer and aphids are common threats. Diseases: Red rot and smut can impact crop health. Harvesting: Harvesting season: October to April. Manual harvesting is still predominant, but mechanization is increasing. Uses of Sugarcane Sugar Production: Sugarcane accounts for most of the sugar produced in China. Guangxi alone produces over 90% of China’s sugar output. Sugarcane Juice: A popular street drink in many cities, especially in tropical regions. Bioethanol: Sugarcane is increasingly used to produce ethanol as part of China’s push for renewable energy. Animal Feed: The fibrous residue (bagasse) is often used as animal feed or fuel in rural areas.