Water deficit, fertigation, and bio-inputs in sugarcane cultivation: a scientometric review and practical recommendations

Abstract

Brazil is the world's leading producer of sugarcane (FAO, 2020). However, certain production regions face periods of severe water deficit and are characterized by low-fertility soils. Research highlights the importance of irrigation and fertigation as effective strategies to improve growth and productivity. Simultaneously, bio-inputs have emerged as a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical fertilizers. This study aims to evaluate research trends on water deficit, fertigation, and bio-inputs in sugarcane cultivation, and to provide recommendations for optimal outcomes. A comprehensive search of the Scopus database was conducted using the following keywords: "water stress" OR "water deficit" AND "sugarcane"; sugarcane AND "fertirrigation*" OR "fertigation*"; sugarcane AND "fertirrigation*" OR "fertigation*" AND "water" AND "deficit*"; sugarcane AND "bioinputs". The scientometric analysis considered the year, journal, and geographic distribution of publications. Recommendations are based on articles published in the last decade, focusing on irrigation depth, fertilizer types and dosages, and bio-inputs. A notable rise in publications, particularly from Brazil and India, has been observed over time. High yields (≥100 Mg ha-1) were reported even under water deficit conditions (50% ETc). The most recommended fertilizer rates were 60–120 kg ha-1 of nitrogen and 130–320 kg ha-1 of K₂O. One study on bio-inputs demonstrated a 10.7% increase in productivity compared to mineral fertilizers, with phosphate-solubilizing micro-fertilizers being the most commonly used bio-fertilizers.