What are the geographical requirements for coffee cultivation?
Temperature:
Mean monthly temperature range from 14°C to 26°C.
Rainfall:
Annual rainfall ranging between 1016 and 2030mm
Upland Conditions:
Slopes between 610 to 1830 metres are preferred.
Soils:
• Virgin soils, newly cleared of forests give the best yields because of the thick layer of undistributed humus.
• Well-drained volcanic soils like the terra roxa of Brazil which contain much potash as well as organic material are the best.
Labour:
Harvesting and processing requires huge labour.
Coffee cultivation is done in which parts of India?
Coffee production in India is dominated in the hill tracts of South Indian states, with Karnataka accounting for 71% (Kodagu alone produces 33% of India’s coffee), followed by Kerala with 21% and Tamil Nadu (5% of overall production).
India mostly grows superior quality coffee, arabica, which is in great demand in International market
Indian coffee is said to be the finest coffee grown in the shade rather than direct sunlight anywhere in the world.
Indian coffee makes up just 4.5% of the global production. Almost 80% of Indian coffee is exported; 70% is bound for Germany, Russia, Spain, Belgium, Slovenia, United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Greece, Netherlands and France. Italy accounts for 29% of the exports.
What factors have led to the development of coffee cultivation in Kerala?
Climate
Favourable climate along with a fairly dry spell of 70 to 90 days
Moderating effect of Lakshadweep sea= temperature stays ~25 degree C throughout the year.
Soil
Light soil with free subsoil and good drainage
Topography
The Wayanad hills, at an elevation of 2000 feet to 6000 feet above sea level found to be ideal for coffee plantations.
Historical
The administrative reforms and commercial laws passed by the British Parliament from time to time created a favourable environment for the development of coffee plantations.
Transport
Proximity to Kochi Port.
Market
Kochi port to (mostly) Italy and local demand in South India.
