Stimulation of the Yield of Rubber Trees as a Routine Estate Practice.

Abstract

Field experiments on the use of synthetic growth substances to stimulate yields have been in progress since 1951 at the Rubber Research Institute of Malaya. This article, reprinted from Planters’ Bulletin No. 45 by courtesy of the Rubber Research Institute recommends usages of these substances in routine estate practice. Properties of available stimulants, methods of application and yield response are discussed. Finally a schedule is suggested for tapping and stimulation of buddings and seedlings grown under normal management. Research on stimulants is also being undertaken by the Department of Agriculture, Stock and Fisheries, but this is necessarily a long-term project and it will be some time before firm recommendations can be made as a result of local experience.