Topic 3: Coffee Nutrition
Video
Welcome to this session on coffee nutrition. Coffee trees require balanced and timely nutrients to grow strong, produce stable yields, and maintain good quality. Poor nutrition results in weak trees, low production, increased pest and disease pressure, and irregular bearing. In contrast, proper feeding supports healthy growth, consistent yields, and improved cup quality. Nutrients come from both organic sources, such as compost, manure, cover crops, and crop residues, and chemical fertilizers that supply essential elements for plant growth. Organic inputs improve soil structure and long-term fertility, while chemical fertilizers provide nutrients quickly to support immediate plant needs.
Coffee trees require different nutrients at different growth stages, including during nursery development, vegetative growth, flowering, fruiting, and post-harvest recovery. Applying the right type and amount of fertilizer at the appropriate time enhances productivity and reduces waste. In Rwanda, fertilizer programs are adapted to rainfall patterns and soil conditions, and should always follow soil test recommendations and extension guidance. A well-planned nutrition program strengthens tree resilience and ensures sustainable coffee production.
Audios
Chapter 1. Introduction
Introduces the importance of balanced nutrition for maintaining healthy coffee trees, stable yiel...
Chapter 2. Sources of Nutrients
Explains organic and chemical fertilizer sources, their benefits, and how they support soil ferti...
Chapter 3. Nutrient needs by Growth Stage
Describes nutrient requirements during nursery, vegetative growth, flowering, fruiting, and post-...
Chapter 4. Example of a Coffee Fertilizer Program in Rwanda
Provides practical fertilizer timing and dosage guidance based on Rwandan rainfall patterns and s...
