Coffee

There are two main coffee varieties, namely Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are mild and have less caffeine, while Robusta is more aromatic. The Robusta tree appears bushier, the leaves are larger and the berries form in clusters.

Some areas and soils are better for growing coffee than others.

Arabica

Altitude: 1300 - 2300m above sea level.
Terrain: Flat or gently sloping
Temperature: 15 - 24°Celsius
Rainfall: 1200 -1500 mm per year and which is well distributed
Soil: Deep well drained fertile and slightly acidic loamy soils with a pH of 4.5 to 5.

Robusta

Altitude: 800-1500m above sea level
Terrain: Flat or gently sloping
Temperature: 18 - 27°Celsius
Rainfall: 1200 -1500 mm per year and which is well distributed
Soil: Deep well drained fertile loamy soils, rich in organic matter and potassium.