small holding in Kodagu confused between arabica and robusta which to plant
Arabica or robusta coffee, which is better for a small Kodagu estate?
PPonnappa12mo ago · 383 views
5 Answers
🌾Farmer.in Krishi TeamExpert ✓11mo ago
For a small Kodagu holding, robusta is usually the safer and more rewarding choice because it yields more, tolerates white stem borer and leaf rust far better, and needs less intensive care, while arabica fetches a higher quality price but yields less and demands more management. Robusta suits lower elevations and warmer wetter tracts, arabica prefers higher cooler elevations with about 50 to 60 percent overhead shade. Many estates grow both to spread risk and price. Robusta can give higher clean bean yields per acre, but arabica earns more per kg when quality and processing are good. Decide by your elevation, labour availability and the price your buyer offers, and confirm planting material and spacing with the Coffee Board.
AAiyappa11mo ago
On my small place in Kodagu robusta is less headache, the borer and rust hit arabica much harder. Robusta gives steady yield with less spraying. Arabica pays more but only if you can manage it well.
KKushalappa11mo ago
I keep a bit of arabica at the higher cooler part of the estate and robusta lower down. The arabica earns a premium when I process it carefully, and robusta carries the yield. Mixing them spread my risk.
MMuthanna11mo ago
Think about water for processing before you choose. Arabica done as washed coffee needs more water and careful pulping to earn its premium. On my small holding the water was limited so robusta as dry cherry suited me better and was less work at harvest.
BBelliappa10mo ago
If a buyer or agent offers a fixed forward price for your whole arabica crop, check their track record before tying up. Coffee prices move a lot and some agents back out or cut the grade when the market falls. Keep a part of your crop free to sell on the open rate.