Mulching

When organic material such as cocoa husks, pruned branches, fallen leaves is left on the soil surface rather than burnt or removed, it slowly breaks down and feeds the soil beneath it. This is mulching. It reduces water loss from the soil surface, suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperature, and adds organic matter over time.

On this farm, sweet potato vines serve as a living mulch between trees, covering exposed ground and protecting the soil from erosion and direct sun. Dried pineapple leaves and cocoa husks are also used around the base of young seedlings to retain moisture during dry periods. Mulching costs nothing! It uses what the farm already produces.