Latex production of some recommended rubber clones on low tapping frequency

Abstract In the current fluctuating global rubber price, cost production efficiency, such as reducing the tapping frequency in the rubber harvesting, is important to maintain the sustainability of rubber production. However, a decrease in tapping frequency can cause a decrease in latex production. This study aimed to determine the effect of low tapping frequency in several rubber clones on rubber production. The research was conducted at Indonesian Rubber Research Institute, South Sumatra, from July 2020 to January 2021. This study used a nested design with two factors, i.e., tapping and stimulant application frequency. The rubber tree used recommended clones of IRR 112, IRR 118, and BPM aged 24 years old after planting in 2010. The results showed that decreasing in tapping frequency from d3 to d5 decreased productivity by 30-40%, from d5 to d7 by 20-40%, and from d3 to d7 decreased by 60%. Stimulant applications increased the production of clones BPM 24, IRR 112, and IRR 118 by 83%, 66%, and 333%, respectively. Overall, tapping on IRR 118 with d5 frequency and the addition of stimulant showed better results. This study implies that reduction of tapping frequency in combination with stimulant application is prospective to be implemented.