How Does One Grow Cocoa (Chocolate) Plants?
Cocoa beans are the product of the cacao tree. The origin of the cacao tree is in dispute. Some say it originated in the Amazon basin of Brazil, others place it in the Orinoco Valley of Venezuela, while still others contend that it is native to Central America. Wherever its first home, we know the cacoa tree is strictly a tropical plant thriving only in hot, rainy climates. The cacao tree is very delicate and sensitive. It needs protection from the wind by other, taller trees and requires shade. A newly planted cacao seedling is often sheltered by a different type of tree. It is normal to plant food crops for shade such as banana, plantain, coconuts or cocoyams. Rubber trees and forest trees are also used for shade. Once established, however, cacao trees can grow in full sun light, provided there are fertile soil conditions and intensive husbandry. Cacao plantations, usually in valleys or coastal plains, must have evenly distributed rainfall and rich, well drained soil. As a general ru
