338 



needs to be done only a few times during the season, and a 

 proportionately greater amount of rubber is obtained at each 

 tapping. 



In regard to methods of cultivation Castilla needs the same 

 care as Hevea. It is not necessary to sow the seeds in a nursery. 

 Being comparatively cheap a larger number of seeds can be 

 planted at stake and thinning done subsequently. Experience 

 has proved this to be the best plan for planting Castilla. The 

 tree can be easily propagated from cuttings, but seed plants are 

 preferable as they are stronger and live for a longer period. Both 

 Hcvea and Castilla have to be pruned in order to secure single 

 straight trunks with the largest possible tapping area. Both are 

 almost equal in regard to injuries bv insect or fungus attacks. 

 In this regard Ccara rubber is more liable to damage. The young 

 seedlings are attacked by numerous enemies as both roots and 

 leaves contain a large amount of starch which is naturally sought 

 for by various animals. 



The seeds of Castilla are somewhat difficult to transport over 

 long distances, but by packing in slightly moistened charcoal they 

 can retain their germinating power for months. In obtaining 

 seeds of Castilla it is important to know the origin of the seeds 

 as there are many varieties of this tree which are non-productive 

 or produce only a limited amount of rubber. The best variety is 

 Castilla lactiiiiia, originally described from La Zacualpa, in Mex- 

 ico. In sowing these seeds they should be only slightly covered 

 with light soil. If planted too deep germination will be con- 

 siderably retarded. Castilla can be planted at the same distance 

 as Hez'ca, that is about loxio feet. Thinning has to be done 

 from time to time. 



There are very few localities on the Hawaiian Islands which 

 seem suitable to Castilla. Where such conditions o'otain, that is, 

 where the temperature is about 74° Fahrenheit and the rainfall 

 not more than 80 inches, the Castilla should do well. It cannot 

 be grown profitably above an elevation of 500 feet and it requires 

 good shelter as the leaves are very liable to injury from high 

 winds. 



In regard to Manihot seeds they are easily obtainable and can 

 be held for several years without losing their germinating power. 

 It has been proved that seeds kept in a dry place for two year*; 

 germinate better and give stronger seedlings than recently picked 



