Origin
Coffea humilis A.Chev. is a species of coffee plant that is native to West and Central Africa, specifically in the countries of Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
Common Names
This coffee plant is commonly known as Congo coffee or dwarf coffee due to its smaller size in comparison to other coffee plant species.
Uses
Coffea humilis A.Chev. is not typically grown for commercial coffee production due to its smaller size and lower yield. However, it is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens or as a houseplant. It may also be grown by coffee enthusiasts as a novelty item or for educational purposes, as it is an unusual species of coffee that is not commonly found in cultivation.
General Appearance
Coffea humilis A.Chev. is a small coffee plant that typically grows to a height of 1-2 meters. The leaves are dark green and shiny, and have a glossy appearance. The plant produces small white flowers that give rise to small, red berries that contain the coffee seeds. The berries are edible, but the seeds are typically not used for coffee production due to their small size and lower yield.
Light Requirements
Coffea humilis A.Chev. prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and hinder growth. It is best to place the plant near a window with filtered light and ensure that the light source is consistent throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
Coffea humilis A.Chev. thrives in temperatures between 60-80°F (15.5-26.5°C). Sudden changes in temperature can cause stress to the plant. Avoid placing the plant near drafts, vents, or air conditioning units. It is best to keep the temperature stable and consistent.
Soil Requirements
Coffea humilis A.Chev. requires well-draining soil that can retain moisture. It is recommended to use a mixture of peat moss and perlite or vermiculite to create a well-draining soil. A pH level of 6.0-6.5 is optimal for the growth of Coffea humilis A.Chev. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and nutrients to aid in plant growth and development.
Cultivation Methods:
Coffea humilis A.Chev. is a low growing plant that requires ample sunlight and a warm climate for proper growth and development. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6-6.5. It can be grown in both open fields and in containers. The best time for planting is during the rainy season, and planting should be done in a row or at a distance such that the plants receive enough sunlight.
Watering Needs:
Regular watering is crucial for Coffea humilis A.Chev. It requires an even supply of moisture, but water-logging should be avoided. The frequency of watering depends on the type of soil, stage of growth, and the weather. During the flowering period, extra care should be taken to avoid water stress as it can cause flower shedding and affect yield.
Fertilization:
To ensure optimal growth and production, Coffea humilis A.Chev. needs a steady supply of nutrients. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 9:6:6 or 12:12:17 should be applied at regular intervals. The fertilizer should be evenly distributed around the plant base and away from the stem. Organic materials such as compost, cow dung, and bone meal can also be used as fertilizers.
Pruning:
Pruning is essential to maintain plant health and productivity in Coffea humilis A.Chev. It involves cutting away dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and shaping the plant to encourage lateral branching. Pruning should be done during the dry season to avoid the spread of diseases and pests. Regular pruning can also help to control plant height and improve yield by allowing sunlight to penetrate the lower branches.
Propagation Methods for Coffea humilis A.Chev.
Coffea humilis A.Chev., also known as the Dwarf coffee, can be propagated through different methods such as:
Seed Propagation
The most common and easiest method of propagating C. humilis is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from healthy and mature plants, as the viability of seeds decreases with time. The seeds should be sown immediately in well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5- 6.5 and should be watered regularly. Germination usually occurs within a period of 2-4 weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted after they have developed their leaves and become sturdy enough to handle the transfer without damaging the roots.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation as a method of propagating C. humilis is a bit more complex than seed propagation. The cuttings should be taken from mature and healthy plants, and the cuttings should be treated with rooting hormones before planting. The cuttings should be planted in sterile soil and kept in a warm and humid environment to encourage root development. The rooting of the cuttings might take a while up to six months. Once the roots have developed, the plant can be taken out and transplanted into a permanent growing pot.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a method of asexual propagation that involves the fusion of two different plants of the same species. This method is usually used to change the characteristic of the plant. For C. humilis, grafting can be used to give the plant a better root system. The scion, which is the upper part of the plant, is taken from the desired cultivar, inserted into the rootstock, and held in place with grafting tape until the two plants fuse together. The plant should be kept in a warm and humid environment for a few weeks to allow it to heal before being transplanted into a growing pot.
Disease and Pest Management for Coffea humilis A.Chev.
Coffea humilis A.Chev., commonly known as the dwarf coffee, is susceptible to many diseases and pests that can significantly impact its growth, development, and yield. Disease and pest management are crucial to ensure healthy plant growth and obtain quality produce. In this article, we will discuss common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them effectively.
Common Diseases
Coffee Leaf Rust (CLR) is a severe fungal disease that affects the leaves of Coffea humilis A.Chev. The disease first appears as yellow spots on the upper surface of the leaves and then develops into orange powdery masses of spores. CLR can significantly reduce the photosynthetic capacity of Coffea humilis A.Chev. and cause defoliation. To manage CLR, farmers should practice proper sanitation, remove infected leaves immediately, and use fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
Anthracnose is another prevalent fungal disease that affects Coffea humilis A.Chev. Anthracnose causes premature fruit fall, reduces yield, and affects the quality of the produce. The disease first appears as water-soaked lesions on the fruits that later develop into dark sunken spots with pinkish spore masses. To manage anthracnose, remove infected fruits, practice proper sanitation, and use fungicides.
Common Pests
Coffee Berry Borer (CBB) is an insect pest that attacks the berries of Coffea humilis A.Chev. The insect destroys the bean inside the cherry, making the produce unsuitable for consumption. CBB infestation can cause up to 80% yield loss. To manage CBB, farmers should practice good cultural practices, including harvesting the berries at the right time, proper sanitation by removing fallen berries, and using insecticides.
Mealybugs are another pest that infects Coffea humilis A.Chev. Mealybugs, also known as scale insects, feed on plant sap, causing yellowing and curling of leaves, stunted growth, and dieback. To manage mealybugs, farmers should use insecticides, implement biological control methods such as predators and parasites, and prune off infected parts of the plant to control the population.
Conclusion
Effective disease and pest management practices are essential for Coffea humilis A.Chev. Farmers should routinely monitor their plantations to detect any signs of diseases and pests and implement appropriate management practices. Proper cultural practices such as proper sanitation, removal of infected parts, use of insecticides, and adoption of biological control methods can effectively manage diseases and pests and ensure healthy plant growth and quality produce.
