In organic cocoa farming, it is critical to have healthy, robust trees by maintaining an optimal balance of sunlight, shade, air, water and nutrients. This will help prevent diseases, especially in the absence of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which are not part of organic farming systems.

A mixed system with more shade is encouraged, because cocoa grown in full sun tends to be more susceptible to harmful insect attacks, as well as reduced moisture loss from the soil. Different tree types encourage other birds and insects to come into the environment. While biodiversity decreases the risk of diseases*. An added advantage is that the additional food crops will enrich the family’s daily diet and offer additional sources of income.