Dapu Sugarcane

Dapu Sugarcane

　　Dapu Sugarcane

　　Sugarcane is a plant of the genus Saccharum in the grass family, native to tropical and subtropical regions. It is a highly photosynthetically efficient plant with a high light saturation point, low carbon dioxide compensation point, low photorespiration rate, and strong photosynthetic intensity. Therefore, it yields high biomass and offers significant economic returns. Dapu in Yongchun County is one of the main sugarcane-producing areas.

　　Newly planted sugarcane is propagated by planting sugarcane seedlings. Shortly after planting, the seedlings root and sprout multiple shoots, forming a clump. During harvest, only the stems are cut, while the roots remain in the soil as stubble. The following year, these stubbles branch out and grow new stems. Thus, sugarcane is a perennial plant, capable of being harvested up to 7–8 times, though in China it is typically harvested around 3 times before the stubble is dug up and replanted after three years.

　　Modern medical research shows that sugarcane is rich in sugar and moisture, and also contains various vitamins, fats, proteins, organic acids, calcium, iron, and other substances beneficial to human metabolism. Sugarcane not only adds sweetness to food but also provides essential nutrients and calories for the body.