Effects of Intercropping with Peanut and Silicon Application on Sugarcane Growth, Yield and Quality

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted in two consecutive years (2013 and 2014) in order to explore the effects of intercropping sugarcane with peanut and silicon (Si) application on cane growth, yield and quality, and soil nutrients on acidic soil. The plant height was significantly increased with Si and intercropping + Si. The stalk diameter and stalk fresh weight were significantly enhanced with intercropping, Si application and intercropping + Si, except with intercropping in 2013. The yield, brix, pol, sucrose, and purity were remarkably increased, but reducing sugar and fiber content were significantly decreased with intercropping, Si application and intercropping + Si. Soil organic carbon (SOC), soil phosphorus (P), soil potassium (K), and soil Si content were enhanced with intercropping, Si application and intercropping + Si. Thus, by using intercropping with peanut and Si application, the plant growth, yield and quality of sugarcane and soil nutrient could be improved.