We are in the process of supplying planting materials to all those who had cleared the area intended for rubber planting and had completed the initial steps like lining and pitting. We are nearly half way thorough and we intend to complete the supply within July this year. It is our earnest request that the rubber growers keep in mind and also put into practice the following important points:
Filling the gaps or vacancies: One of the first steps in early plantation management is vacancy filling. Farmers are encouraged to replace any dead or weak plants with strong, advanced planting materials. A full, healthy stand of rubber plants is the key to maximizing yield in the years ahead.
Avoiding water stagnation: After the completion of planting, it should be ensured that rain water do not stagnate around the base of the plants. To ensure this, we have raise a small heap around the plant base, as the soil in the refilled pits settles with the rains
Staking: In the initial stages, weaker saplings may need physical support. Staking these plants with sticks help them stay upright will help and guide them to grow straight so that we get a very good bole for tapping
Intercropping: Intercropping the rubber planted area is recommended till the third or fourth year of planting with seasonal or annual crops or vegetables. This is to ensure that the rubber farmer gets some income from the area and also to control the weeds – that are most likely to come up if the area is left fallow. If no intercrops are possible, planting of cover crops is recommended
Pruning of off shoots and branch induction: All side branches developing upto a height of about 8ft should invariably be removed so as make available that part for tapping. If at all the branches do not develop naturally even after 8ft height, branching can be induced by leaf cap or leaf folding method, which should be removed once the lateral shoots develop. In no case should the apical shoot be cut or maimed. It should be allowed to grow up naturally.
Weeding and mulching: Weeds impede the proper growth of the plants and so should be regularly and systematically removed. This may be done manually or chemically. Further during the winter months, with the cessation of the rains, soil moisture is to be conserved and so the soil around the plant bases should be mulched using locally available materials like dry grass. This helps to conserve the soil moisture, maintain optimum soil temperature and also suppresses weeds. It also acts as an effective soil conservation measure and adds to the fertility of the soil
Protecting from the heat or sun: Young rubber plants are particularly vulnerable to harsh summer sunlight. Providing artificial shade using plaited coconut leaves or gunny bags or any other suitable materials can protect tender saplings from sun scorch during their critical initial years.
Whitewashing for protection: From the second year, rubber farmers should whitewash the lower stem of the plants using lime or china clay. This simple step can effectively prevent sunburn until the plant’s natural canopy is strong enough to provide shade, which usually occurs by the fourth year.
Timely irrigation: During dry spells, especially in the summer, life-saving irrigation is recommended to reduce the risk of plant casualties. Adequate water supply ensures consistent growth and root development in young plants.
Preventing fire hazards: With the approach of summer, fire safety becomes a major concern. Farmers are advised to create fire belts — clear strips 5 to 7 meters wide around the plantation. All the weeds and dry leaves should be removed from the fire belt strip and from the roads at frequent intervals during the summer. This will prevent fire damage of the rubber plantations to a very large extent
Cover crops – Nature’s ally: Establishing cover crops is another important practice. Fast-growing, leguminous creepers not only protect the soil from erosion but also fix atmospheric nitrogen, enrich soil fertility, and above all reduce weed growth. Popular choices include:
- Pueraria phaseoloides (Tropical Kudzu)
- Mucuna bracteata (East Himalayan Mucuna)
- Calopogonium mucunoides (Wild Groundnut)
- Centrosema pubescens (Butterfly Pea)
These natural ground covers also help regulate soil temperature, further contributing to healthier plantation conditions.
Sustainable Success: Early upkeep measures may seem labor-intensive, but they lay the foundation for a thriving rubber plantation. With proper care, farmers can ensure higher survival rates, better growth, and increased yields for years to come.
Kuruvilla Cherian,
Development Officer;
Emilia, Shanchobeni & Imtimingla,
Young Professionals