This crop called Cocoa is a tropical
crop. Cocoa is popularly known in West Africa, Nigeria and Ghana are among the
leading producers. This crop is believed to have been introduced in Nigeria
from Fernando PO (Portugal) in 1874. The following are the major parts of
Nigeria where Cocoa can be found; Ekiti, Cross River State (Ikom, Etung Local
government areas), Edo, Ondo, etc.
The following are what Cocoa is used
for:
1. Cocoa is really a valuable ingredient
for beverages.
2. Cocoa husks are used for feeding
livestock.
3. Cocoa can be used to manufacture
medicinal powder.
4. It can also be used to produce body
cream.
5. Cocoa can be used as cake fillers in
cake industries.
6. Cocoa is also used in coating
ice-cream.
7. Cocoa is made into chocolate for
biscuit, crackers, etc.
8. Cocoa can also be extracted and used
for drugs.
9. Cocoa can also be fermented into
wines and other alcoholic drinks.
Steps on how to start Cocoa farming
in Nigeria
The propagation: This crop is
propagated by seeds and by any vegetative means which also includes budding,
grafting cutting and layering.
The selection of land and
preparation: The key to cocoa farming or cocoa production is getting a good and
suitable land. This crop actually requires a favorable climate and soil for
optimum yields. After considering the land area, the land must be cleared properly,
this involves cutting down any already present trees in the land.
The field maintenance: The field
maintenance practices in cocoa farming are:
1. The provision of shade during the
establishment phase which is about two to three years before the canopy closes.
2. Mulching plants: Mulching in the
cocoa field is normally done in October before the rain ceases, the
transplanted plants are mulched 60cm-90cm wide with about 15cm deep layer of
mulch place 15cm from the base of the tree plant.
3. Weed control: Normally weeding is
usually done on small-scale holdings. Although in large scale production where
fields are involved, row weeding is carried out 3 times followed by four to
five slashing.
4. Pruning of plant: Under normal
condition pruning is carried out between May-June when the cocoa tree is two to
three years, using a sharp cutlass.
Harvesting of the Cocoa: Cocoa starts
to produce fruits at four to five years up to thirty-five years. The harvesting
of Cocoa is carried out with sharp machetes. Harvesting cocoa with a short
knife handle depends on the height the tree has attained. A sharp knife must be
used to actually avoid damage to the bark of the tree and the flower cushion.
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