13/06/2025
The process of harvesting rubber from a rubber tree, known as tapping, involves carefully extracting latex sap without harming the tree. A shallow, V-shaped incision is made in the bark, allowing the milky latex to flow out. The latex drips into a collection cup attached to the tree and is gathered over several hours. Tappers ensure that cuts are made at specific angles to promote continuous latex flow while preserving the tree’s health. Once collected, the latex is filtered, coagulated, and processed into rubber sheets or blocks for industrial use. A single tree can produce latex for over 20 years if tapped correctly. Credit: Creator unknown (DM us!)