Are there other people in Costa Rica planting trees for later harvest?
Yes. There are several other commercial growers enjoying the political stability and lush growing conditions in Costa Rica. For example, U.S.-based Stone Container Corp. planted several large gmelina plantations in Costa Rica, some only a few miles from our farms. Gmelina is a fast growing tree whose wood initially was used in the manufacture of paper and cardboard and is now recognized as an excellent hardwood for beautiful furniture and architectural details. There are also several other teak plantations ranging from newly-planted, to more than 20 years old. Trees planted in plantations in Costa Rica have shown some of the highest growth rates in the world.