Have you ever been strolling through the grocery store, stumbled upon those long, mysterious stalks of sugarcane, and thought, “What if I could grow this at home?” If you’re in Canada, you might think it’s impossible because of the cold weather—but guess what? With a little creativity and care, you can totally grow sugarcane in Canada. It’s a fun project that will make you feel like a tropical farmer right in your backyard.
How to Grow Sugarcane:
Step 1: finding sugarcane at the grocery store
First things first, you’ll need to grab some sugarcane. Most major asian grocery stores will carry it, look for thick, green or purplish stalks that are firm and unblemished. These stalks are the key to starting your sugarcane growing journey.
Step 2: Preparing your sugarcane for planting
Sugarcane grows from cuttings, so you won’t need seeds, just the stalk itself.
- Cut the stalk into segments: Using a sharp knife, divide the sugarcane into 6-8 inch pieces. Make sure each piece has at least one “node” (the little knobby ring where the plant will sprout).
- Soak the segments: Place the cuttings in a bowl of water for 1-2 days. This helps to hydrate the stalk and jumpstart root growth.
- Prepare a pot for sprouting: Choose a medium sized container (about 8-10 inches deep) and fill it with water and let it soak until you start seeing it sprout
Step 3: Transplanting sugarcane outdoors
Once the threat of frost has passed, it’s time to move your sugarcane outside. Choose a sunny spot in your garden or a very large container (at least 10-15 gallons.
- Prepare the soil: Sugarcane loves nutrient-rich, slightly acidic soil. Mix in an organic amendment like compost or well rotted manure to give it a boost.
- Transplant gently: Carefully move your sugarcane from its indoor container to the outdoor spot. Be sure to space the stalks about 6-8 inches apart if planting multiple pieces.
- Feed it organically: Sugarcane thrives with organic amendments like compost tea, fish emulsion, or seaweed extract. These natural fertilizers provide the nitrogen and minerals the plant needs to grow tall and strong.
Step 4: Caring for your sugarcane
Sugarcane is relatively low maintenance once it’s established. Here are a few tips:
- Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot summer days.
- Mulch for warmth: Adding a layer of mulch around the base can help retain moisture and keep the soil warmer in cooler climates.
- Protect from frost: If fall arrives early, you can cover your sugarcane with a frost blanket or move it back to a protected area.
Sugarcane a fun and unique plant to grow in Canada. So, what are you waiting for? Next time your at the grocery store, why not try to grow it too?
