Technology Utilization for Farm Management of Rubber Smallholding Among Rubber Ecological Zones

Abstract

     The study compared rubber technology utilization, suitable technology, and the feasibility of investment in a rubber farming system among high, rolling, and plain areas of rubber ecological zones. A sample of 158 smallholding rubber farms was selected by purposive sampling. Structured questionnaires and an in-depth interview were used for data collection in the study area. The results revealed that farmers in all three rubber ecological zones did not follow some of the technical recommendations of the Rubber Research Institute of Thailand regarding the rubber clone, tapping system, and fertilizer application. This has resulted in all zones having lower rubber productivity compared to the standard yield. Financial analysis showed that farms in rolling areas had the highest average latex yield with 265.68 kg/rai/yr. The net profit was highest for farms in this ecological zone as well, at around 5,415.52 baht/rai/yr. Moreover, the results of the financial investment analysis of the rubber smallholdings showed that the net present value, benefit cost ratio, and internal rate of return were highest for this ecological zone with around 29,970.13 baht/rai/yr. 1.46 times, and 9 percent, respectively. Recommendations were made regarding the application of rubber production technology. For example, in high areas, rubber smallholders should prepare terraces and grow a cover crop to prevent soil erosion, while in rolling areas, rubber smallholders should use a disease-resistant rubber clone and the double cut alternative tapping system (DCA). For plainareas, rubber smallholders should prepare land by adopting raised bedding.