The germination phase is from planting to the completion of germination of buds.

Under field conditions germination starts from 7 to 10 days and usually lasts for about 30-35 days.

In sugarcane, germination denotes activation and subsequent sprouting of the vegetative bud.

The germination of bud is influenced by the external as well as internal factors.

The external factors are the soil moisture, soil temperature and aeration.

The internal factors are the bud health, sett moisture, sett reducing sugar content and sett nutrient status.

Optimum temperature for sprouting is around 28^o-30^oc .Base temperature for germination is about 12^o. Warm, moist soil ensures rapid germination.

Germination results in an increased respiration and hence good soil aeration are important.

Therefore open structured porous soils facilitate better germination.

Under field conditions, about 60 per cent germination can be considered safe for raising a satisfactory crop.