Land Preparation and Nursery Requirements - SS1 Agriculture Lesson Note
Land Preparation:
- Clearing: Begin by clearing the selected area of any weeds, rocks, or debris. This is essential to create a clean and suitable space for planting rubber trees.
- Plowing and Tilling: Plow the land to break up the soil and improve its structure. Tilling helps to prepare a smooth seedbed for planting.
- Drainage: Ensure proper drainage by creating channels or installing drains if needed. Rubber trees are susceptible to waterlogging, which can damage the roots.
Nursery Requirements:
- Site Selection: Choose a well-drained location with partial shade for the nursery. Adequate shading is crucial for young rubber seedlings to prevent sunburn.
- Nursery Beds: Prepare raised nursery beds to improve drainage. These beds should be around 15-20 cm high and well-leveled.
- Seeds or Scions: If using seeds, plant them at the right depth in rows. If propagating through scions, bud grafting can be performed in the nursery.
- Irrigation: Maintain consistent soil moisture in the nursery by providing regular irrigation.
- Weed Control: Keep the nursery area free of weeds that can compete with young rubber plants for nutrients and water.