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Irrigation and nitrogen requirements of sugar beet in a Mediterranean environment

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 March 2009

Chr. Metochis
Affiliation:
Agricultural Research Institute, Nicosia, Cyprus
P. I. Orphanos
Affiliation:
Agricultural Research Institute, Nicosia, Cyprus

Extract

Sugar beet has never been grown commercially in Cyprus. Sugarcane was grown in the Middle Ages but its cultivation has since gradually declined, and none has been grown in the last 200 years (Aristidou, 1986). Recently a research programme was undertaken to assess the feasibility of growing sugar beet so that imports of sugar may be reduced. Sugar yields of up to 20 t/ha (165 t fresh roots/ha) were obtained in a coastal area (Akhelia) when the crop was sown in November and harvested in July–September (Hadjichristodoulou, 1984, 1987). Because the period April–October is practically rainless, the crop has to be irrigated, but with November sowing full advantage is also taken of the winter rainfall.

Type
Short Notes
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1988

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