Nitrogen rate and harvest date effects on energy cane yield, quality parameters, nutrient uptake and biomass chemical composition

Enhancing energy cane biomass production can increase feedstock supply for lignocellulosic-based ethanol production. This study was conducted at the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center (LSU AgCenter) Sugar Research Station in St. Gabriel, LA, from 2013 to 2015 evaluate yield, fiber composition, and nutrient removal rate of harvested different dates. The treatments included two cultivars (‘Ho 02-113’ ‘Ho 72-114’) four N rates (0, 56, 112, 224 kg ha–1), arranged split plot a randomized complete block design with replications. Fifteen plants were collected once month beginning 2 mo prior harvest date then separated into leaves stalks analyzed composition. Harvest date, cultivar, significantly affected yield (stalk leaves), quality components, lignocellulosic (p < .05). On average, harvesting 1 earlier than scheduled reduced stalk by 4% 20% leaf 3% 15%. Minimal changes on content composition response documented but no specific consistent trend established. With included, increased 32%; however, this result significant plant essential nutrients, particularly (105 P (16 K (116 ha–1). long-term impact field could decline soil fertility productivity.