Abstract:
Rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) is grown globally as a crop plantation. Sri Lanka is the
10th largest producer of rubber in the world and 6th largest in the natural rubber
production. Rubber is the second largest commercial crop grown in Sri Lanka.
Rubber lands in Sri Lanka are owned by estate holdings and small holdings. Rubber
cultivation faces several issues and challenges. These issues commonly decrease
the productivity of rubber and decrease the interest to involve in the rubber
cultivation. This study is aimed to identify the climatic issues in rubber cultivation
in Mawanella DS Division. The primary data was obtained through semi-structured
interviews, questionnaire survey and field observation as well as secondary data
was obtained through published articles, reports and maps. Analysis of both
primary and secondary data reveals the results and discussions. The results of this
study summarize the climatic issues and challenges in rubber cultivation in the
study area. Distribution of rain guards in concession and implementation of
intercropping in rubber land are some recommendations which is essential to
increase the productivity and to uplift the economy of regional people.
