Bong tree (Persea kurzii), is a native tree species found in different regions in Lao PDR. In
the past, farmers collected Bong barks from natural forest, as it contains gum and
aromatic oils for the internationally very requested production of joss sticks. But the
availability of wild Bong trees has been declining significantly. In order to keep this
important source of income for farmers, Bong tree cultivation can be seen as valuable
alternative to maintain the local livelihood whilst ensuring the preservation of the
natural forests. The idea of commercial Bong tree plantation came from a Vietnamese
trader (in 2000) who introduced Bong tree through a trial plantation. In 2006 land users
who were experienced in the highly costly and labor-intensive coffee and pepper
cultivation shifted to Bong tree cultivation. And in 2010, land users who gained lessons
on seedling production and Bong tree cultivation from Vietnam established first trial
cultivations on their farms. Later an IFAD Project in collaboration with the Samouey
District Agriculture and Forestry Office promoted Bong tree plantation by providing
organic fertilizer and advisory support to model households of the Samouey District .
Due to the easy handling and the potential benefits a number of farmers have been
interested to participate. Bong trees are perennial and fast growing plants (first harvest
of bark or log 6-7 years after planting) preferring humid climate and can be easily
planted also on sloping terrain. Currently, Bong tree covers approximately 38 ha of land
with an average increase of 1-2 ha/year. This land belongs to Mr. Sailava at Samoey
district. The detailed method of Bong tree plantation is following:
1)Land preparation: first, it requires land clearance by removing weeds and bushes,
along with hole digging in advance of rainy season (July to September);
2)Spacing: the appropriate spacing between the tree plants should measure about 2.5 x
2.5 meters. Staking is required throughout the plantation area before the holes can be
dug. The planting holes are 25 cm x 25cm. The excavated topsoil should be stockpiled
around the holes for refilling them later;
3)Planting and applying fertilizers: Bong seedlings need organic fertilizer (0.5kg/tree) that
is mixed with soil and then filled in the holes. Finally the seedlings are gently placed in
the holes by filling up with further topsoil. If the seedlings are tall, staking is required.
4)Maintenance: 2-3 months after planting ‒ only in case it is needed ‒ additional fertilizer
will be added and/or weeding is carried out. The plant residues from weeding are used
to cover the ground around the seedlings to keep soil moisture, and once decomposed,
to provide natural organic matters to the soil. In conditions of dry climate and hard soil,
watering is required to prevent soil cracking which is a cause of breaking tree’s roots and
subsequently trees will die.
The advantages of planting Bong trees include direct income generation for households
as well as increased forest canopy. It minimize the carbon emissions of slash-and-burn
land use. The falling Bong tree leaves provide organic matters to soils, help retaining soil
moisture and subsequently increase soil fertility. Under-story vegetation includes lianas
and grasses that provide fodder for livestock. Three years after plantation, the land users
can utilize the area for animal grazing such as cows and poultry. In fact, poultry can find
earthworms around Bong trees which provide rich nutrition for animals. However, some
disadvantages of planting Bong trees have to be mentioned as well: Some plantations
may become shrubs where weeding is not conducted regularly. Poor maintenance
provokes invasion of snakes, bees, and mosquitos.

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