Influence of the number of primary roots and mulching on vegetative development of rubber seedlings in nursery

Abstract

A study was conducted to assess the influence of the number of these secondary roots of rubber (Hevea sp.) seedlings, on the emission of new functional lateral roots. Besides, the effect of the vegetative cover was evaluated. The results of this study showed that: a. the development and functioning of lateral roots present on seedling at the age of twelve months did not depend on the number of lateral roots; b. the number of primary lateral roots do not provide a reliable criterion for the selection of seedlings; c. surface mulch had a beneficial effect on plant growth giving rise to the highest percentage of good plants as well as to the best final budded stand; and, d. the feasibility of using surface mulch will depend mainly on economical factors.