Work from May 1907 to January 1908 (continued)
Preparation of the land
In parallel with the division of the plots, the land was carefully cleared to ensure optimal conditions for planting, both in terms of success and economy. The recommendations of Mr Vernet, agricultural engineer at the Institut Pasteur plantation, who advocates planting on perfectly clear land, confirmed our approach. During the board of directors’ visit, the condition of the plots dispelled any doubts about the effectiveness of this method. This year also demonstrated the usefulness of dividing the land into lots and the absolute necessity of metal bramble fencing.

Rubber tree planting
Rubber tree cultivation is our company’s main objective. A large number of plantations have been established under ideal conditions. The first holes were dug in May, and the first trees were planted in early June, as the land was prepared. However, work was slowed down by the large number of stumps left on the cleared plots before May 1907.
To date, the rubber tree plantation covers 91 hectares, with 45,000 trees in excellent condition. In addition, a nursery of 112,000 plants, in full growth, is ready for the 1908 planting campaign.

Source:
L’Avenir économique de nos colonies, Paris, 1908