How to Get Sugarcane in Animal Crossing: A Comprehensive Guide and the Curious Case of the Singing Turnip

How to Get Sugarcane in Animal Crossing: A Comprehensive Guide and the Curious Case of the Singing Turnip

Animal Crossing: New Horizons has captivated players with its charming gameplay, adorable characters, and endless opportunities for creativity. One of the many joys of the game is cultivating crops, and sugarcane has become a fan favorite since its introduction. But how do you get sugarcane in Animal Crossing? And why does the singing turnip in the village square seem to know more than it lets on? Let’s dive into the details.


How to Obtain Sugarcane in Animal Crossing

1. Purchase Sugarcane Starts from Leif

Leif, the friendly sloth who runs a gardening shop, is your primary source for sugarcane starts. He visits your island periodically, so keep an eye out for his stall in the plaza. Sugarcane starts can be purchased for 280 Bells each. Once you have them, plant them in fertile soil, water them daily, and watch your sugarcane grow!

2. Harvesting Sugarcane

Sugarcane takes three days to grow fully. Once matured, you can harvest it by pressing the “Y” button. Each plant yields three sugarcane pieces, which can be used in cooking recipes or sold for a profit.

3. Trading with Friends

If you’re impatient or Leif hasn’t visited in a while, consider trading with friends. Many players are willing to exchange sugarcane starts for other items or Bells. This is a great way to diversify your crops and build relationships within the Animal Crossing community.

4. Kapp’n’s Mystery Tours

Kapp’n, the sea-shanty-singing turtle, offers boat tours to mysterious islands. Occasionally, these islands feature rare crops, including sugarcane. Bring your shovel to dig up sugarcane starts and bring them back to your island.

5. Time Travel (If You Dare)

For those who don’t mind bending the rules, time traveling can speed up the process. By adjusting your Nintendo Switch’s clock, you can fast-forward to Leif’s next visit or accelerate sugarcane growth. However, this method is controversial and may disrupt other aspects of your island life.


The Curious Case of the Singing Turnip

While sugarcane farming is straightforward, the singing turnip in the village square remains a mystery. Some players claim to have heard faint melodies emanating from their turnip patches, while others swear they’ve seen turnips glow under the moonlight. Could there be a connection between sugarcane and these enigmatic vegetables?

Theories About the Singing Turnip

  • Magical Crop Synergy: Perhaps sugarcane and turnips share a mystical bond. Planting them near each other might unlock hidden features or rare events.
  • Island Folklore: The singing turnip could be part of an ancient island legend, hinting at a deeper storyline involving crops and their origins.
  • Developer Easter Egg: It’s possible that the singing turnip is a playful nod from the developers, encouraging players to explore and experiment with their farms.

Creative Uses for Sugarcane

Once you’ve mastered sugarcane farming, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to make the most of your harvest:

  • Cooking Recipes: Sugarcane is a key ingredient in dishes like sugarcane juice, sugarcane cookies, and sugarcane pie. Experiment with different recipes to impress your villagers.
  • Decorative Farming: Use sugarcane to create a tropical farm aesthetic. Pair it with palm trees, bamboo, and water features for a serene island vibe.
  • Gifting: Share your sugarcane with villagers to boost friendship levels. Some characters, like Zucker or Merengue, might even have unique dialogue for sugarcane-related gifts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can sugarcane grow on the beach?

A: No, sugarcane requires fertile soil to grow. Planting it on the beach will not yield any results.

Q2: How much Bells can I earn from selling sugarcane?

A: Each sugarcane piece sells for 350 Bells. With three pieces per plant, you can earn 1,050 Bells per harvest.

Q3: Does sugarcane attract rare bugs or fish?

A: While sugarcane itself doesn’t attract specific critters, maintaining a well-tended farm can create an environment that encourages rare spawns.

Q4: Is there a limit to how much sugarcane I can plant?

A: There’s no strict limit, but be mindful of your island’s layout and space constraints. Overcrowding can make your island feel cluttered.

Q5: Why does the singing turnip only appear at night?

A: The singing turnip’s nocturnal habits remain a mystery. Some believe it’s tied to the island’s lunar cycle, while others think it’s simply a quirky feature added for fun.


In conclusion, sugarcane farming in Animal Crossing is a rewarding endeavor that adds depth and charm to your island life. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or a curious newcomer, the journey to grow and harvest sugarcane is filled with joy and discovery. And who knows? Maybe one day, the singing turnip will reveal its secrets, adding another layer of magic to your Animal Crossing experience.