Description
The Cacao tree (Theodroma cacao) is an evergreen tree which can live for up to 100 years but will only provide fruit for about 25-30 years. These trees are relatively small in size growing to a height of between 4-8 metres. They produce lots of flowers that are male and female, however, they cannot self pollinate and need pollen from another flower on the same tree to bear fruits. Hand pollination is possible, and they start bearing at 3 years depending on climate and maintenance.
The seeds of the Cacao tree is used in the production of cacao powder and chocolate. These seed pods can grow out of the trees trunk and branches with many of them developing from the pinkish-white flowers. These pods grow to about 30 cm with a diameter of about 7cm.
Growing cacao is a very hard and labour intensive task as caring for and harvesting the pods requires close and constant attention. The pods start off green and over a total of several months ripen to a yellow-orange colour. Within each egg shaped pod you will find about 20-40 cocoa beans which are covered in a sweet white pulp.
PLEASE NOTE: Imported tropical plants maybe small in size.
Position
Temperatures of 18-32°C are ideal for cacao trees, and they do not bear fruit at temperatures below 20°C. Cacao trees thrive in hot, humid climates and will even do great in a greenhouse. They prefer areas with full sun.
Size
A mature cacao tree can grow to between 6 and 9 metres tall with a spread of up to 1 metre.
Soil
Cacao trees can withstand both acidic and alkaline soil with soil pH between 5 and 7.5. Soil should be loamy, moist and well-drained.
Watering
Cacao trees enjoy plenty of water, so ensure you water these trees regularly.
Fertilising
Apply our slow-release Berry/All-plant Fertiliser. For young trees, apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months.
Pruning
The first pruning will occur just after the main harvest and before the rainy season. Whilst a second pruning will be needed five months later. Pruning aims to give the cacao tree a structure that will help maximize its production.
Harvesting
Cocoa beans will grow from the trunk and branches of the cacao tree. Pods are harvested manually by making a clean cut through the stalk. Harvest the cocoa by removing ripe pods from the tree and opening them to extract the wet beans.
