Introduction
Historically the sugar industry developed in Guyana because of its favourable agro-climatic coastal features. While sugar cane is one of the hardiest commercial crops, because of Guyana’s low-lying coast its successful cultivation requires a complex network of canals, drains and other waterways, supported by widely distributed sluices and mechanical pumps.
Cultivation Challenges
Presently, several cultivation challenges face Guysuco, including 1) the need for a more science-based land selection 2) improved planting methods (better fallowing, ratooning, weed and pest control, as well as plant material distribution and density) 3) effective water management practices 4) more science-based chemical applications in order to enhance sucrose quality and contain pests; and, 5) wider use of mechanized cane growing and harvesting.
These challenges are basic and have been duly recognized in Guysuco’s Strategic Plan 2013-17; where a number of targets
