Rubber tree exploitation systems utilized in Asian clones Prang Besar, in the West of São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate the yield performance, and economic and physiologic aspects of four Asian clones Prang Besar of rubber tree [Hevea brasiliensis (Willd. ex A. Juss.) Muell. Arg.], in different tapping systems. The trial was placed at Santa Gilda farm, City of Guararapes, São Paulo State, Brazil, in a randomized block design with split-plot in time. The main treatments were PB 260, PB 235, PB 330 and PB 217 clones submitted to nine systems of tapping: ½S d/3.ET 2.5% 8/y; ½S d/3.ET 5% 8/y; ½S d/4.ET 2.5% 8/y; ½S d/4.ET 5% 8/y; ½S d/5.ET 2.5% 8/y; ½S d/5.ET 5% 8/y; ½S d/7.ET 2.5% 8/y; ½S d/7.ET 5% 8/y and ½S d/2 (check). The variables evaluated were: girth increment, dry rubber production, brown bast; it was also evaluated the economic viability. Results indicated the economical superiority of the ½S d/5.ET 2.5% 8/y and ½S d/7.ET 5% 8/y systems in PB 260 clone; ½S d/7.ET 2.5% 8/y system in PB 235 clone; and ½S d/3.ET 2.5% 8/y and ½S d/3.ET 5% 8/y in PB 330 and PB 217 clones, compared with the check. The smallest incidence of panel desiccation was observed in ½S d/7.ET 5% 8/y system, except for PB 235 clone.