Evaluation and Final Selection of Sugarcane Clones Based on Biometric Performance and Qualitative Characteristics

Author(s) : Abdul Majeed1 , Mahmood-ul-Hassan2, Syed Saqlain Hussain2, Muhammad Awais Khalid1, Munazza Rafique1, Babar Hussain Babar2, Abdul Khaliq3, Imran Rashid2, Muhammad Shahzad Afzal2 and Hafiz Basheer Ahmad

Digital object identifier:

https://doi.org/10.52587/JAF070104

Abstract:

Eleven sugarcane clones, including two check varieties, were evaluated under field conditions to assess agronomic traits and sugar recovery for commercial selection. Clone SLF 18-92 produced the most tillers but was rejected due to lodging and lower recovery. SLF 18-743 produced the highest cane yield (111 t/ha), while SLF 18-748 yielded 108 t/ha. The maximum sugar recovery was recorded in SL-41 (12.63%), followed by SLF-569 (11.94%). Conversely, SL-83 was rejected due to poor yield (82 t/ha) and disease susceptibility. Ultimately, SL-41 was promoted for commercial cultivation due to its superior sugar recovery and adequate yield. Meanwhile, clones SLF-569, SLF 18-743, SLF-661, and SLF 18-748 were retained for further trial evaluation. This study underscores the necessity of multi-trait evaluation for selecting high-performing sugarcane clones adapted to local conditions.