Shade Management

Shade is a management tool, not a background condition. The trees you see on this farm are placed deliberately, spaced to provide the right amount of cover for cocoa at each stage of its growth, without tipping into over shading that suppresses yield.

High canopy species like mahogany and Terminalia provide deep structural shade and microclimate stability. Mid canopy species like avocado and citrus provide moderate shade and fruit income. Plantain provides temporary shade for young cocoa seedlings in their first two to four years, then is pruned back as the cocoa establishes and needs more light. The canopy is assessed continuously. Where shade is too dense, targeted pruning opens it up. Where it is too thin, new plantings fill the gap.