Latex Production of Rubber Plants Based On The Physiological Aspects

Abstract

Indonesia's rubber production is still lower than Thailand's rubber production, even though the area of Indonesian rubber plantations is wider. One of the determining factors is the superior clone. Indonesia has produced several superior clones, as the output of ongoing research. However, the tapping factors which include the length of the tapping groove, the frequency of tapping, and the use of stimulants are very decisive factors to obtain high production. These factors must also consider the physiological parameters of latex, namely the levels of dry rubber, sucrose, inorganic phosphate, and thiol. The dynamics of the content of these latex compounds can be used as an indicator of the tapping system applied and production projections. The condition of the plant canopy and climatic elements (especially the dynamics of rainfall) are the main determining factors in implementing a productive and profitable tapping system.