Sugar beet SKL (5121 P 99/96) is a single-stemmed triploid MS hybrid developed by the Belotserkovskaya and Ivanovskaya experimental and breeding stations of the Sugar Beet Institute. This hybrid is characterized by high root crop yield, averaging 533 centners per hectare, and high sugar content at 17.2%. Sugar recovery is approximately 91.7 centners per hectare, making this variety particularly attractive for industrial cultivation and processing. It is recommended for cultivation in the Forest-steppe and Polesye zones, where it demonstrates stable results.
Sugar beet is a biennial plant, forming an elongated root crop with firm white flesh and basal leaves forming a rosette in the first year. In addition to sugar production, beet processing allows for the utilization of all parts of the plant without waste: pulp serves as nutritious feed for livestock, molasses is used in the production of alcohol, glycerin, citric acid, and yeast, while defect is used as a valuable fertilizer. Moreover, ethanol is obtained from sugar beet, which can serve as alternative fuel, replacing diesel fuel.
Successful cultivation of sugar beet SKL (5121 P 99/96) requires proper agronomy. Seeds are recommended to be sown in a dotted manner with row spacing of 45 cm, placing one seed per row. Planting depth at sufficient soil moisture is 2–3 cm, and increases to 3–4 cm when moisture is insufficient to ensure good germination. The optimal sowing rate is 90,000–110,000 seeds per hectare, accounting for losses during sowing and row closure. Adherence to these recommendations contributes to high yield and quality raw material for sugar production.
