Instructions for collecting leaf samples in sugar cane

Material

  • 2 stakes

  • 1-meter rope tied from stake to stake

  • Kraft paper bag

  • Permanent marker

  • Precision scale (0.1 gram resolution)

  • Scissors

**Procedure

  1. Locate the five crop classes in the gauging APP with the interpolated PCD layer active.

  2. Locate the crop row where sampling will be performed.

  3. Place a first stake and from this point stretch the 1-meter string until it’s taut, following the same crop line. Where the string ends, drive the second stake to mark off the study area.

  4. Identify the first leaf with a visible collar or ligule (TVD leaf, top visible dewlap), as shown in figure 2 B of the plants found within the boundary marked by the stakes.

    SUGARCANE CAPACITY


    figura 2

  5. Cut the TDV leaf from its base, avoiding tearing or damaging the central vein. The neck or ligule of the leaf should remain visible. Then cut approximately the lower third and upper third of the leaf figure 2 C. The central third will be the portion of interest that will undergo laboratory analysis.

  6. Group the middle thirds of different TVD leaves until reaching 200 gr on the scale.

  7. Place the cut leaves in the Kraft bag(s) corresponding to the sample.

  8. Label each package with the sample ID. • It is recommended to make a plot sketch noting the sample IDs so that once laboratory data is obtained there is no confusion. SUGARCANE MEASUREMENT

  9. Repeat the operation with the remaining 4 classes to be sampled.

  10. In case it is not possible to quickly reach the laboratory to analyze the samples. Carry a portable cooler and cold packs (not ice since when thawed it could wet the Kraft bags and rot the leaves) in the transport vehicle to keep the sample fresh. Remember to put the cold packs in the refrigerator the day before sampling.

  11. Send the samples to the laboratory as soon as possible.

    Once the laboratory results are available, they must be entered again in the Gauging APP by searching for the plant ID:

  12. Search for the plot where the samples were taken.

  13. Search within the plot for the Capacity ID referenced in the laboratory results (having a sketch of the sampled points will help).

  14. Re-enter the capacity assessment, as if conducting a new assessment, selecting the gauging day and entering the data determined by the laboratory for that sample.