The journey of coffee begins with the careful cultivation of coffee plants, a process requiring knowledge, patience, and optimal environmental conditions. Here's a step-by-step look at how coffee grows from seed to plant:
1. Planting the Seeds
- Coffee seeds, often referred to as "coffee beans," are planted in shaded nurseries.
- Seeds are typically germinated in nutrient-rich soil and watered regularly. This stage requires a few weeks to months, depending on conditions.
2. Seedling Stage
- Once germinated, the seedlings are nurtured in nurseries until they are robust enough to be transplanted.
- This period involves meticulous care, including shading, watering, and protection from pests and diseases.
3. Transplanting
- When seedlings grow to a few inches tall and develop a strong root system, they are transplanted into fields.
- Coffee is usually grown in regions with altitudes between 1,000 and 2,000 meters, where temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C.
4. Growth and Maturity
- Coffee plants take about 3 to 4 years to mature and produce their first cherries.
- During this period, the plants require regular pruning, fertilization, and pest management to ensure healthy growth.
5. Flowering and Fruiting
- Coffee plants bloom with small white flowers, typically triggered by rainfall. The flowers are short-lived, lasting only a few days.
- After flowering, the cherries develop over several months, ripening from green to red (or yellow, depending on the variety).
6. Harvest Readiness
- Fully ripened cherries are ready for harvesting, marking the next step in the coffee production journey.
Coffee growing is deeply tied to environmental factors, including altitude, climate, and soil quality, which influence the eventual flavor profile of the coffee
