Growth dynamics of rubber tree clones in northwestern Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to evaluate the growth of rubber tree clones ( Hevea brasiliensis (Willd.exA.Juss.) Müll. Arg.) in the Northwest region of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Randomized blocks, constituted of three treatments (rubber tree clones) and four repetitions were used, and evaluated as plots subdivided in time. Subplots represent the evaluations carried out at the ages 62, 77, 87, 99, 113 and 128 months after planting. It was evaluated survival, stem circumference and total plant height. Current annual increment and average annual increment of circumference and also the number of trees fit for rubber tapping were calculated. Results obtained indicate that clones GT 1, IAN 2880, IAC 15, RRIM 600, PB 235 and IAN 3156 have potential to establish under local edaphoclimatic conditions. Increase in plant height and stem circumference throughout the evaluation period makes it evident that the clones have different growing paces in the studied region. Clones GT 1, IAN 3087, IAN 3156 and PR 255 had larger stalk circumference at 128 months, and PR 255 was the only one fit for rubber tapping at the age of 128 months after planting.