INTRODUCTION
Most people consuming coffee may have a basic idea of how coffee is brewed, or even roasted if engaged with an avid cafe or coffee roaster, but rarely do people explore how this unanimous drink is grown. Whilst roasting and brewing great coffee requires care and attention, the hardest working people in this industry are the farmers. 3-5 years from planting to harvest, with a great deal of care between shows the dedication required to outstanding coffee to roast and brew. Let's explore...
FARMING
Arabica coffee is one of the most widely consumed types of coffee and is a significant component of many people's everyday life. A delicious staple to stay caffeinated and motivated, and desired for its nuanced flavour and unique aroma. Arabica coffee is highly regarded, but how are Arabica coffee plants developed and raised?
Although Arabica coffee is cultivated in many nations, Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, and India produce the majority of the crop. Coffee plants are cultivated at heights between 1,200 and 2,000 metres above sea level in a range of climates, from tropical to temperate. The optimal conditions for growing Arabica coffee plants include high humidity, warm temperatures, and regular rainfall.
An evergreen shrub, the Arabica coffee plant produces coffee cherries, which are where the coffee beans are found. The shrub produces clusters of tiny, white blooms with a delicate, sweet scent. The coffee cherries will grow from the blossoms if they are fertilised. When the cherries are mature, they change colour from green to red, and it is at this time that the coffee beans are collected.
Arabica coffee trees need to be handled properly to provide high-quality coffee. frequent pruning of the leaves is necessary to promote healthy development, and the plants also require frequent fertilisation and watering. There are many different treatments for diseases and pests, including chemical and biological ones.
Farming at high altititudes, and in unique regions tends to yield the highest scoring and best arabica coffees, however, this presents great challenges to farmers. The terrain itself can be very steep if not downright dangerous, and after processing and harvest, the logistics of transporting coffee across broken roads in rainy climates, in a long distance is certainly tough work. The incentives do however remain strong, and through direct-trade relationships between roaster, and farmers, workers can be paid better and work in infastructure which improves overall farming operations.
Understanding the processes involved in planting and growing Arabica coffee is crucial since it plays a significant role in many people's morning rituals. The best-tasting beans can only be produced by properly tending the plants and harvesting and processing the cherries. Check out other our blog on coffee processing which explores the next major step involved in preparing green coffee!