Knowledge and Acceptance of Chemical Ripening to Advance Sugarcane Quality Management by the Small-scale Grower Sector at Umthwalume in South Africa

Abstract

Small-scale sugarcane growers (SSGs) in South Africa face persistent challenges in improving crop quality and profitability, largely due to limited access to knowledge, resources, and appropriate technologies. This study assessed the knowledge, acceptance, and economic potential of chemical ripening as a strategy to enhance sugarcane quality among SSGs in Umthwalume, KwaZulu-Natal. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using purposive sampling, and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 65 growers from the Bhekisisa Cooperative to capture demographic data, farming practices, training, yield history, and perceptions of chemical ripeners and farmer field schools. Results revealed that although only 35.4% of participants were aware of chemical ripening, a significant majority (87.3%) expressed willingness to adopt the practice if it were accessible. Major barriers included cost, lack of technical know-how, and field fragmentation. However, the use of drone technology demonstrated practical feasibility and yielded increased income ranging from R3,514 to R11,929 per hectare in demonstration trials. Furthermore, while 66.2% of growers were unaware of farmer field schools, nearly all (97.6%) expressed interest in participating. These findings underscore the importance of targeted training, on-farm demonstrations, and supportive extension services in promoting the adoption of sugarcane quality-enhancement practices in the small-scale sector. The study recommends strengthening extension services through farmer field schools and on-farm demonstrations, coupled with expanded access to drone-based application services and targeted training, to improve the adoption of chemical ripening and enhance sugarcane quality and profitability among small-scale growers.