( 4 ) 
In order to avoid replanting, the canes after har- 
vesting may be allowed to ratoon, that is, to grow 
up from the root-stocks. This method, however, 
was found to be unsuited to this country and only 
practised as a last resource when, owing to shortage 
of time and labour, it was impossible to uproot the 
old cane and replant in the usual way. 
The labour requirements for sugar-cane cultivation 
are fairly heavy, and it is estimated that at least 
one unit of Indian labour is required per acre, but 
this can be reduced considerably by employing 
mechanical power for cultivation and preparation of 
the land. 
During the first six months after planting the soil 
is maintained in a friable condition by transferring 
the soil from the ridges to the furrows in which 
the cuttings are planted. 
Canes grown from cuttings usually take about 
twelve months to reach maturity, but if a second 
or ratoon crop is allowed to grow from the old roots 
it will mature in from nine to twelve months. 
It is well-known that some varieties ripen earlier 
than others, whilst climatic conditions may accelerate 
or retard the period of growth. 
Yields . — Shortly after flowering, when the canes 
become hardened and ripe, which can be seen from 
their general appearance, they should be cut as 
close to the ground as possible, since the sugar 
content is highest near the base. After cutting, 
the canes are tied into bundles and transferred to 
punts, bullock carts or trucks on light rails for 
transport to the factory. 
