Problems and technological knowledge package of Para-rubber production for smallholders in Nakhon Phanom province

Abstract

Para-rubber is a new economic crop of farmer’s society in Northeastern Thailand. This study aims toidentify problems and needs for technological knowledge packages on rubber production of smallholders in NakhonPhanom Province. The data were collected by using two times group discussion forums as a tool, together with andchecklist short questionnaire with 95 participants. The results of problem on rubber production were; 1) high cost andlow quality of chemical fertilizer, lack of knowledge in management of fertilizer and application, 2) trunk beforetapping with slow growth, 3) death before tapping and being destroyed pest damage, and 4) tapping panel dryness.This study can be synthesized and concluded in four categories needs for technological packages were determined asfollows: 1) fertilizer, soil and land management, 2) management during immaturity and maturity, 3) harvest andpostharvest management, and 4) pest management.