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Abstract
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Article Information:
Explanatory Variables Associated with the Yield Performance Gap among Small- Medium-and Large-Scale Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) Growers at Ubombo Sugar, Big bend, Swaziland
Mbuyazwe M. Dlamini and Barnabas M. Dlamini
Corresponding Author: Mbuyazwe M. Dlamini
Submitted: 2011 August, 16
Accepted: 2011 October, 07
Published: 2012 January, 25 |
Abstract:
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The purpose of the ex post facto study was to determine explanatory variables for sugarcane
(Saccharum officinarum) yield among small, medium and large scale-growers at Ubombo Sugar, Swaziland.
The target population of the census study was all small-medium-and large-scale-growers, milling their cane at
the Big Bend Mill. Data were collected using valid and reliable questionnaires. The findings indicated that
large-scale farmers obtained significantly higher yields than small and medium scale-growers. However,
sucrose percentage was higher with small-scale than medium and large scale-growers. Production inputs and
farming services were available, accessible, and affordable to all groups of sugarcane growers. Sugarcane
growers were within the recommended delays in implementing the crucial planting and post harvest operations
for sugarcane; and the man-days used per activity per hectare were within recommended practice. Explanatory
variables for sugarcane yield were found to be distance between the farm and the mill; hand application of
fertilizer man-days per hectare; and labour strength. Distance between the farm and the mill had a significantly
negative influence on sugarcane yield. The research failed to reject the research hypothesis that good
management and adequate production inputs increases sugarcane yield. The main conclusion was that, those
farmers who were furthest from the mill should consider replacing sugarcane with other viable business
ventures.
Key words: Ex post facto, growers, predictors, sugar, yield performance, ,
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Cite this Reference:
Mbuyazwe M. Dlamini and Barnabas M. Dlamini, . Explanatory Variables Associated with the Yield Performance Gap among Small- Medium-and Large-Scale Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) Growers at Ubombo Sugar, Big bend, Swaziland. Asian Journal of Agricultural Sciences, (1): 32-39.
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ISSN (Online): 2041-3890
ISSN (Print): 2041-3882 |
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