The selection of an optimal sugarcane variety is vital for the successful production of refined sugar, as each variety demonstrates different potentials for sugar accumulation. A major threat to these varieties arises from disease outbreaks, particularly those affecting mature stalks, with Red Rot being the most concerning. In recent years, our primary variety SPF-234 suffered a significant decline due to this disease. Similarly, our alternative variety CPF-246 has also shown susceptibility to Red Rot, resulting in comparable damage. To address this challenge, we have recently introduced two disease-resistant varieties—CP.77-400 and CPF-253—into our region to mitigate the impact. From 2024 spring planting we have also introduce two new sugarcane varieties J16-639 and J16-487. These varieties have been developed by the JDW’s Thatta Breeding Station. However, it is important to mention that among the newly introduced varieties, J16-487 was affected by Smut disease and Top Rot disease, due to which its further multiplication has been discontinued. During the 2025 season, seed selection activity was carried out to ensure pure variety plantations. Currently, the varietal share stands at 52% CPF-253, 39% CP.77-400, 4% J16-639 and 5% Other. The area under J16-639 is expected to increase further due to its promising performance and encouraging field results, and it is gradually being spread over more plantation areas in the ongoing expansion phase. Hopefully this variety will become part of our crushing In Sha ALLAH during the 2027. Keeping in view sucrose accumulation potential of this variety we will In Sha ALLAH achieve new heights in sugar recovery in the near future.
The prominent diseases adversely affecting sugarcane varieties include “Red Rot,” “White Leaf,” and “Smut,” which have been prevalent within the crushing zones of JDW Group Mills. To safeguard our crops from these diseases, we have implemented the following strategies:
(i) Introduction of disease resistant varieties.
(ii) Managing insect vectors responsible for spreading WLD.
(iii) Spray of fungicides for control of disease outbreaks.
