How to Plant Cocoa Tree in Kerala

Cocoa is one of the important cash crops grown in the southern region of India, including the state of Kerala. The ideal planting time for cocoa in Kerala is during the onset of the monsoon season. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of planting cocoa trees in Kerala.

Step 1: Selection of Land

The first step in cocoa cultivation is selecting a suitable land. The soil should be well-drained, deep, and fertile, with a pH level of 5.5 to 7.5. If the soil is acidic, it can be neutralized by adding agricultural lime. Cocoa requires a minimum rainfall of 1500mm per year, and temperatures between 20 to 32 degrees Celsius.

Step 2: Seedling Selection

The seedlings of cocoa can be obtained from government nursery or private nurseries that specialize in cocoa cultivation. Care should be taken to select healthy seedlings, free from disease or insect infestation. The seedlings should have at least four to six true leaves and a height of around 30 cm.

Step 3: Land Preparation

The land should be prepared by clearing weeds and unwanted vegetation. The soil should be plowed or dug deep to a depth of 60 cm, and organic matter such as compost or cow manure should be added to enrich the soil. After preparing the land, the field should be laid out with rows, with a spacing of 2 m x 2 m.

Step 4: Planting

The selected seedlings should be planted at the center of each spacing. The planting hole should be dug deep enough to accommodate the root ball of the seedlings. The seedlings should be transplanted with care, ensuring that the roots are not damaged during the process. The seedlings should be planted at the same level as in the nursery, and watered well. Shade trees such as coconut or jackfruit can be planted along with cocoa trees to provide shade.

Step 5: Maintenance

Good maintenance practices are essential for the healthy growth of cocoa trees. Regular watering and weeding should be done to ensure that the soil is moist and free from weeds. Fertilizers should be applied during the first year of growth. After two years, a pruning of the cocoa tree is necessary to remove old branches and promote new growth. The cocoa trees should be protected from pests and diseases, and appropriate control measures should be taken if an infestation is noticed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cultivating cocoa can be a profitable venture in Kerala if done in the right way. The planting, maintenance, and harvesting of cocoa requires patience and hard work, but the rewards can be substantial. Following the above-mentioned steps will help in the successful planting of cocoa trees in Kerala.