Polyhalite Positively Influences the Growth, Yield and Quality of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) in Potassium and Calcium-Deficient Soils in the Semi-Arid Tropics

In semi-arid tropics, sugarcane yield and quality are affected by deficiencies in soil nutrients, including potassium calcium. We examined the effects of two different fertilizers, a traditional muriate potash (MOP) polyhalite (which contains calcium), on growth, yield, quality. Experimental treatments compared control 0 kg K ha?1 (T1) to applied as MOP only at 80 (T2) 120 (T3), an equal split (T4) (T5). Relative potassium-enhanced had improved rates key growth parameters, cane yields, which were 4.4, 6.2, 8.2, 9.9% higher T2, T3, T4,, T5, respectively, than T1. Regardless fertilizer used, achieved highest sugar purity commercial content. All reduced (although non-significant) incidences three insect pests. The economic benefits due its cost relative MOP. Combining equally achieve application rate is recommended enhance yield.