Origin
Coffea microcarpa DC. is a plant species that originates from the tropical and subtropical regions of east and central Africa.
Common Names
Coffea microcarpa DC. is commonly known as Small-fruited Coffee, Kiharu (in Kikuyu language, a Bantu language spoken in Kenya), and Mfeka (in Swahili language).
Uses
Coffea microcarpa DC. is primarily grown as a coffee plant. Its beans, which are very small in size, are used to produce a coffee beverage with a strong, bitter taste. The plant also has medicinal properties and is used to treat certain ailments.
General Appearance
Coffea microcarpa DC. is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 10 meters tall. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped, with a pointed apex and a smooth margin. The small white flowers, which are arranged in clusters, have a sweet fragrance. The fruit is a small drupe, about 5-7mm in diameter, containing two seeds (coffee beans) that are flat on one side and convex on the other, just like those of Coffea arabica.
Light Requirements
The Coffea microcarpa DC. requires bright but indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can harm the plant and cause the leaves to wither. It thrives well in partial shade as it naturally grows under forest canopies.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical Africa and requires a warm and humid environment to grow and thrive. The ideal temperature range for Coffea microcarpa DC. is between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). Temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause the plant to suffer damage and even die.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. The soil should contain organic matter, such as compost and peat moss, to help retain moisture and provide nutrients to the plant. It also requires good aeration as stagnant moisture can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Coffea microcarpa DC., commonly known as Wild Coffee, is a tropical shrub that requires warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight. It is best grown in areas with temperatures between 60°F and 80°F and can be planted either from seeds or cuttings.
To cultivate Coffea microcarpa DC., you need to prepare well-draining and nutrient-rich soil. The plant grows well in sandy loam soil enriched with organic matter. Before planting, ensure that the soil pH is between 5.5 and 6.5. It is also essential to ensure good air circulation around the plant, so avoid planting it too close to other plants.
Watering Needs
Coffea microcarpa DC. requires regular watering, especially during dry seasons. However, it is essential to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot. Instead, water the plant once the soil starts to dry out. Frequent but light watering is recommended.
It is also advisable to mulch around the plant to help retain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and protect the roots from extreme temperatures.
Fertilization
Coffea microcarpa DC. requires regular fertilization to grow healthy and produce quality crops. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 14-14-14. Apply the fertilizer once every two months during the growing season, starting from the onset of the rainy season.
The application should be made at the base of the plant, away from the leaves, and then watered in properly. Do not apply fertilizer during the dry season as the plant may not be able to utilize it effectively, leading to nutrient leaching.
Pruning
Coffea microcarpa DC. requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote proper growth. Pruning should be carried out during the dry season when the plant is dormant. Remove dead or diseased branches, and any non-productive stems that may be congesting the plant.
It is also advisable to prune the plant to the desired height to make it easier to manage and harvest. When pruning, use sharp and sterile pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, ensure that you dispose of pruned material properly, away from the plant and other crops.
Propagation Methods for Coffea microcarpa DC.
Coffea microcarpa DC., commonly known as dwarf coffee, is a small shrub that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. This plant is native to tropical Central Africa and is cultivated for its beans, which are used for making coffee. Propagation of Coffea microcarpa can be done through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Coffea microcarpa is seed propagation. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits and planted in well-drained soil. The seeds should be sown at a depth of no more than 1 cm and covered lightly with soil. The seeds will take about three weeks to germinate, and once they have sprouted, they should be transplanted into individual containers.
Cuttings Propagation
Coffea microcarpa can also be propagated by stem cuttings. During the growing season, take a stem cutting that has at least two nodes. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone. Plant the stem cutting in moist, well-drained soil, and cover it with a clear plastic bag to increase humidity. The stem cutting will take two to three months to root and should be kept in a shaded area until it is established.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering can also be used to propagate Coffea microcarpa. Select a healthy stem with no less than two nodes. Make a 1-inch cut on the stem, remove the bark, and wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and tie it securely with twine. The air-layered stem will take two to three months to root. Once roots have established, cut the stem below the air-layered area and plant in well-drained, moist soil.
Conclusion
Coffea microcarpa DC. can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering. Each method requires a certain level of proficiency, and the seed method is the most suitable for beginner gardeners. However, for gardeners who want to have a more predictable result, other methods such as stem cuttings and air layering may be more appropriate.
Disease and Pest Management for Coffea microcarpa DC.
Coffea microcarpa DC. is a coffee plant that is quite hardy, but it can still be affected by diseases and pests. Here's a quick guide on how to manage the most common problems:
Diseases
Leaf rust: This is a fungal disease that appears as yellow or orange spots on the leaves, which turn brown and fall off. To manage it, remove any infected leaves and spray the plant with a copper-based fungicide.
Coffee berry disease: This is a fungal disease that affects the berries and causes them to shrivel up and turn brown. To manage it, prune the affected branches and discard any infected berries. You can also use a copper-based fungicide.
Root rot: This is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, and it can be fatal. To manage it, make sure the plant is in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If the plant is already infected, you can try to save it by repotting it in fresh, dry soil.
Pests
Coffee berry borer: This is a small beetle that bores into the berries and lays its eggs. The larvae then eat the berries from the inside out. To manage it, use pheromone traps or insecticides specifically designed for coffee berry borers.
Mealybugs: These are small, white, cotton-like insects that like to feed on new growth and the undersides of leaves. To manage them, wash the plant with a soapy solution and use an insecticide if necessary.
Scale insects: These are small, oval-shaped insects that can be black, brown, or white. They like to feed on the sap of the plant and can cause it to weaken or even die. To manage them, wash the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap, and then apply an insecticide if necessary.
By being vigilant and managing any potential diseases or pests early on, you can help ensure that your Coffea microcarpa DC. plant stays healthy and productive.
