We are experiencing a revolution that is set to change cocoa production worldwide. Precision irrigation is paving the way to highly efficient and consistent production, able to overcome the unpredictable challenges posed by climate change and more.
What is the difference between new drip-irrigated cultivation and traditional cultivation?
Planting configuration:
With traditional cultivation, trees are widely spaced or even scattered across the area at irregular spacing. With precision irrigated cultivation, trees are organized in a 2 X 4m configuration that allows more trees and yields per hectare and enables the use of agro-machinery tools.
Tree design:
In traditional practices, trees are grown large and pruned in a way that fruit is located at the highest parts of the tree, requiring additional labor for picking.In modern practices, the trees are short with multiple branches, enabling more fruit per tree and less labor for picking.
Yield:
In traditional practices, the average yield is about 400kg per hectare, while with modern practices using precision irrigation, the yield can reach 2.5 - 3 tons per hectare.
How much water can be saved when switching to drip?
Compared to flood irrigation, drip irrigation can save you more than 50% of the water. Compared to sprinkler systems, drip irrigation can save you up to 30% of the water.
Can drip irrigation systems be activated remotely?
Precision irrigation can be easily combined with remote control and automation. It is also possible to add digital tools, such as ground sensors or plant sensors to optimize your yields and resources. Learn more about our digital farming solutions
Why should I choose drip over other irrigation methods that seem to be less expensive?
It is not about cost. It is about making the best investment. It’s been proven that drip irrigation increases cocoa yields, while also improving crop quality. In addition, drip technology leads to significant savings in water, fertilizer and labor. Economic calculations show that in the long run, drip is the most sustainable system for cocoa agriculture, delivering higher economic returns than any other method.
Pressure-compensated, medium and thick-walled drip Lines– designed to uniformly irrigate crops with long runs or uneven topographies. Medium-walled models are ideal for field crops and the thick-walled models are ideal for orchards and vineyards.
Read MoreMedium and thick-walled drip Lines – perfect if you’re looking for durability, longevity and clog-resistance in challenging water conditions when irrigating on flat topographies. Ideal for subsurface drip, orchards, vineyards and field crops in permanent irrigation systems.
Read MoreFind out how digital farming is empowering growers with precision irrigation to control their own destinies in new ways.
Read MoreLet us help you find the best solution for you!