In intercropping technique, two or more crops are grown simultaneously in the same field. These crops are planted in different rows and are called companion crops. This technique makes better use of soil nutrients, helps in pest control, and maintains the fertility of the soil.
According to the Indian Sugarcane Research Institute, farmers can earn an additional Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh per acre by cultivating winter vegetables with autumn sugarcane. For this, it is important to choose the right method and varieties.
Vegetables can be grown in the empty space between sugarcane rows by keeping a distance of 90 cm. Farmers can earn Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh per acre by growing crops like potatoes, onions, garlic, cauliflower, and cabbage.
Intercropping of potatoes can yield 100 quintals of potatoes per acre, while onion cultivation can yield 80 to 100 quintals of onions per acre. With this, farmers can get additional benefits from these crops along with sugarcane
Cauliflower, cabbage, and kidney beans can also be cultivated with sugarcane. Cauliflower and cabbage can yield 100 to 110 quintals per acre, while 80 to 100 quintals can be obtained from kidney beans.
The furrow method and pit method are considered more effective for sowing sugarcane. Apart from this, the new planting method, in which sugarcane nurseries are prepared and plants are planted in the field, is especially useful for intercropping. With the intercropping technique, farmers can increase their income and earn profits from additional crops along with sugarcane cultivation.
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Sugarcane farmers often face the problem of outstanding payments, to solve which the use of intercropping technique can be beneficial. With this technique, additional income can be obtained by growing other crops along with sugarcane crop. Especially, more profit can be earned in less time by cultivating vegetables.