Q: Can I grow sugarcane in Georgia?

A: My Dad tried to grow it in Fayette county one year. It grew tall but wasn’t very sweet…..my guess is there were not enough sunshine or hot days. It needs a LONG summer to produce anything worth harvesting.

It’s not winter-hardy but requires 11 – 12 months from planting to harvest.

You might have success if you live below a line from Savannah to Macon to Columbus…and the further South, the better.

The purple-leaved form is sold as an ornamental grass and is very striking.

Florida Sugarcane Handbook  

Florida Backyard Sugarcane