Rubber Agroforestry Experiments in Jambi at the end of a 25-Year Cycle

The rubber agroforestry experiments in Jambi started with the theory of change that productive clonal could be economically used low-labour intensity agroforests, allowing selective retention forest species or planted fruit trees interrows. At end what was expected to a 25-year production cycle we revisited farmers (or their next generation), recorded had happened plot and registered farmer plans for way forward. Qualitatively, results showed wide range directions actual change. envisaged plots, full-grown tapped secondary setting did occur – but as exception rather than rule. Some plots early on been converted oil palm when white root rot disease killed many trees. Others were gradual transition palm, already interplanted, depended natural regeneration within currently being tapped. completely destroyed land sold local coal-mine developer. Overall tapping frequency low, farmgate prices have recent years low other options (including participating small-scale gold mining). Farmer experience various clones tested led mixed opinions which (if any) introduced superior past (and still regenerates landscape). GT1, robust clone, seen hardly more germplasm, PB260 BPM1 clone productive, especially sensitive disease. quality wood concern some farmers. most successful intervention, from farmers’ well environmental perspective, has probably interplanting meranti ( Shorea leprosula ) tembesu Fagraea fragrans young stands, good prospects generating substantial income.