Agronomic Management of Sugar Beet

Abstract

AbstractSugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) roots contain a high concentration of sucrose and grown commercially for sugar production next to sugar cane. Sugar productivity from sugar beet is higher than sugar cane per unit of time due to its shorter growth period and higher sucrose concentration in juice. Sugar beet is a temperate crop but cultivating the subtropical environment in the winter season. Beet and sugar yields depend on varietal selection, sowing time, sowing methods, plant spacing, sowing depth, providing adequate crop nutrition, weed control, and irrigation schedule of sugar beet. The time of sowing of sugar beet is decided by the prevailing temperature of the farming areas. Low temperature with adequate soil moisture during sowing enhances seed germination and seedling establishment of sugar beet. November to April appears as the appropriate time for sugar beet growing in Bangladesh. Ridge or bed sowing with 50 cm × 20 cm spacing is suitable for crop growth and root development. Proper growth and beet yields can hamper from both shortage and excess-irrigation. Improvement of growth and yields can be obtained through providing a higher dose of N and K fertilization along with B depending on soil fertility. The collective use of manure and chemical fertilizers can be advantageous for sugar beet production. This chapter discusses agronomic practices of sugar beet notable highlighting on the subtropical environment.KeywordsManagementSugar beetQualityYield