Use of low grade iron pyrite as an amendement for calcareous alkaline soil to improve sugarcane productivity in India

Abstract

Sugarcane displays iron chlorosis when grown in calcareous alkali soils (pH 7.8 to 8.6) of south India resulting in decline in cane productivity. Several foliar sprays of different iron materials resulted in greening of the leaves but the effect was temporary. The soil application of low grade iron pyrite (FeS₂) in these problem soils showed more promise. Large deposits of pyrites are found in various parts of India and could be effectively utilized for improving the sugarcane productivity. Pyrites application showed significant influence in improving soil fertility, the availability of active iron and other plant nutrients. The recovery is also observed in increasing growth, chlorophyll content in leaves and sucrose content in juice. Application of pyrite at the rate of 2 m.tons per hectare on moist soil surface during summer is found to be more advantages.

Key words:

• Calcareous soil
• Iron chlorosis
• Pyrite
• Sugarcane