Description

Small farmers are the main producers of cocoa in Indonesia and throughout the world. Many farmers grow their cocoa by intercropping with other types of trees and plants in a “cocoa agroforestry system”. Species diversification through this system reduces the biological, market and livelihood risks faced by farmers. Additionally, tree intercropping helps to maintain soil moisture, structure, and fertility; maintain medium- and long-term productivity. Species diversity also reduces the occurrence of pest and disease problems. Overall, these impacts often lead to reduced reliance on agricultural inputs, particularly chemical fertilizers, and pesticides. Competition from similar crops may reduce cocoa yields, but this is offset by better system resilience, flexible management options and overall farm productivity. In addition to biodiversity, cocoa agroforestry systems also provide other ecosystem services and represent a climate-smart alternative. Most small farmers are aware of cocoa agroforestry options and their positive impacts. However, adequate knowledge about cocoa agroforestry design options and good management practices is often lacking.

ICRAF Indonesia together with Mars Symbioscience colleagues will develop series of crop type information cards from the knowledge and insight which was gained from years of experience working with small-scale cocoa farming communities. This card aims to provide users, farmers and extension workers with information and examples that support them to develop and manage cocoa agroforestry by starting from a set of proven options. 15 species will be featured in this card set which are common companion plants and work well with cocoa trees, producing a commercial product that also has valuable household uses.