Soil Requirements - SS1 Agriculture Lesson Note

Soil Type: Well-drained, deep, and loamy soils are ideal for rubber cultivation. Soil should have good organic matter content and be slightly acidic to neutral in pH (around 6.0 to 6.5). Sandy or clayey soils are not suitable.

 

Soil Preparation: Proper land preparation involves clearing the area of weeds and debris, plowing, and incorporating organic matter. Adequate drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can be harmful to the roots.

 

Fertilization: Rubber trees require regular fertilization, especially with nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Appropriate fertilization helps in robust growth and latex production.

 

Spacing: Rubber trees should be planted with sufficient spacing to allow for proper growth and air circulation. Typically, a spacing of 6m x 6m or 7m x 7m is recommended.

 

Mulching: Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.