How to Grow Sugarcane
Saccharum officinarum
Sugarcane is a tropical grass grown for its sweet, juice-filled stems. Plant stem cuttings (setts) horizontally in warm, fertile soil once all frost risk has passed. It needs full sun, consistent moisture, and a long frost-free growing season of at least 8–12 months to reach harvest. In cool climates, grow in a large container under glass. Harvest by cutting canes at the base when thick and juicy; chew fresh or press for juice. Store lifted rhizomes frost-free over winter.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 10°C and soil has warmed to at least 18°C.
Don't know your frost date? Find it here →
Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Apply a balanced fertiliser at planting, then switch to a nitrogen-rich feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
- In cool climates, grow in a large container in a greenhouse or polytunnel. Rattoon crops (second-year regrowth from cut canes) are possible in frost-free regions.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 18°C+
- Direct sow
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 60 cm |
| Row spacing | 120 cm |
| Mature height | 400 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 18°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | short day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Sugarcane?
- Plant Sugarcane 60cm apart with 120cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Sugarcane?
- Sugarcane is ready to harvest approximately 270 days after transplanting.
- Is Sugarcane frost hardy?
- Sugarcane is classified as Tender.
