Growing coffee

Integrated coffee production is one of the two main agroforestry systems in Venezuela. The multi-species, multi-layered coffee production systems are practised mainly in the premontane moist forest of the Andes region, but are also found in other areas of the country. Various tree species are used for shade and as fence in big coffee plantations, whereas in small units with traditional production pattern, coffee is planted along with many other species, often constituting a 3-4 layer canopy. Although the system is practised over large areas of the country, practically no research has been done to improve it. In order to strengthen national capability to undertake such research, international support of cash and as well as technical advice is needed.