Mineral nutrition of rubber plants: XI. Aluminum concentration in the substract affecting the composition of n, p, k in young rubber trees (Hevea sp.)

Abstract

Young rubber trees were cultivated in Bolle-Jones nutrient solutions modified for iron supply. A separate solution of aluminum was prepared by dissolving a thin aluminum foil with HCl 1N. From these stock solution the following solutions were prepared: 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25ppm of aluminum. The plants remained for 24 hours in nutrient solution and for another 24 hours in the aluminum solutions. The procedure was carried out during 95 days. After 95 days the plants were harvested and divided into top whorls, remaining whorls, stem and roots. The material was analysed for N, P and K by routine methods. The authors concluded that the rubber plant is tolerant to concentration up to 15ppm of aluminum in the substract. Higher levels induce malnutrition of N, P and K in plants.