How to improve cacao health
Cacao is at high risk from the many pests and diseases which thrive in the hot, humid environment under an enclosed canopy.
Cacao yields can be halved due to pests, disease and weed competition. A healthy cacao crop has a high tolerance to diseases, and water or frost stress. It also promotes vigor and boosts cell strength.
Diseases are the greatest threat - most common are black pod and witches’ broom. Swollen shoots and The Cacao Pod Boarer (CPB), also known as Cacao Moth are other common diseases in cacao.
Crop nutrition is also essential in improving cacao health.
Crop Nutrition and Cacao Health
By applying fertilizers, trees are naturally healthier, with a larger canopy (leaf area index) and are at reduced risk of black pod disease and other growth stresses, resulting in higher cacao yields and better cacao quality.
Calcium and Boron – maximize strong plant growth of healthy tissues and minimizes cherelle wilt, pod drop and black pod disease.
Good boron and potassium nutrition helps reduce VSD.
A good supply of zinc and magnesium ensures that cacao can cope with high levels of sunlight.
