How to Harvest Sugar Cane

Overview

According to the University of Florida, sugar cane thrives in the warm, humid environment of the deep Southern United States where temperatures remain between 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 95 degrees Fahrenheit for most of the growing season.Of the three types of sugar cane: chewing, crystal and syrup, most home growers have chewing or syrup varieties of sugar cane that can successfully be grown on less than 2 acres.Take the fullest advantage of your sugar cane by correctly harvesting it and tasting sweet success.

Step 1

Before the first freeze of the year, and after Nov. 1, cut the canes to the ground using a sharp knife.

Step 2

Cut off the top green portion of the cane, which lacks the sugar content of the base.

Step 3

Trim the bottom portion of the sugar cane stalk into smaller lengths between the joints.

Step 4

Peel the tough, fibrous exterior from each of the sugar cane sections by setting the sugar cane piece upright on a cutting board and slicing down the length of the cane between the outer hull and the lighter-colored inner heart.

Step 5

Chew the inner portion of the sugar cane, spitting out the fiber, stir drinks with sticks cut from the sugar cane or use it in recipes requiring whole sugar cane.