Abstract:
This paper attempts to identify impact of rainfall and moisture stress on growth and
yield of rubber to develop suitable adaptation measures subsequently. The capacity of
rubber plantations to mitigate adverse weather conditions is also discussed. Adverse
impacts of soil moisture stress identified in this study were; 30% decrease in
establishment success, 35% reduction in girth at 6 months after planting and increase in
unproductive immature period by more than 2 years. Planting hole application of
organic material, mulching around rubber plants at the time of planting and application
of high dose of K fertilizer were identified as suitable adaptation measures. Low water
use, osmotic adjustments, capability of capturing more rainfall and high carbon
sequestration were identified as adaptation characteristics inherent in rubber
plantations. The paper emphasizes the role of rubber plantations as a self-sustaining
and environmentally acceptable ecosystem, which can withstand drought while
simultaneously contributing to maintenance of the global carbon balance with an
economical benefit.
