Team : MEA 

Project manager :  MALAGOLI Philippe

Context

The life cycle of a rubber plantation is divided into an initial phase of 6-7 years, called the "immature phase," during which the trees are not harvested, and a mature phase of approximately 20 years, during which the trees are tapped for latex extraction. The criterion for transitioning from the immature to the mature phase depends on the circumference of the tree trunk. The objective of the immature phase is therefore to make the trees grow as quickly as possible to enter the plantation's harvesting phase as soon as possible.

Fertilization management is a crucial factor in achieving this objective. The intensification of crop cycles (replanting) and economic and environmental concerns related to the use of mineral fertilizers require a rethinking of fertilization practices during the immature phase. This includes developing alternative practices to all chemical fertilizers and developing tools for assessing soil fertility and managing fertilization practices.

Partners

• Eco&Sols, CIRAD Montpellier
• Unité Systèmes de Pérennes du Cirad
• IRD
• Université de Nangui Abrogoua à Abidjan en Côte d’Ivoire

Funding source

Institut Français du Caoutchouc, Michelin, SIPH et Socfin