Coffee grows best in tropical areas between altitudes of 1000-2000 meters, with temperatures between 13-26°C. It needs both sun and rain, as well as shade during growth and sun when producing fruits. Coffee prefers rich, moist soils that can both retain water and drain excess water rapidly. The main types of coffee grown in Guatemala are Arabica varieties like Bourbon, Tipica, and Maragogype, as well as Robusta, primarily in the regions of Huehuetenango, Antigua, Cobán, and San Marcos.
1. Types of soil and ideal conditions for
growing coffee
Within the framework of the
Global Soil Partnership
2. In what climates does coffee grow?
- Between temperatures of 13-26°C
- It requires both sun (dry season) and rain
- Wind and humidity have a negative impact on coffee: they
damage branches, burn its buds (cold wind) and cause the
development of fungi and parasites (excess moisture).
- Coffea needs shade in its growth phase and sun when it starts to
produce its fruits (not direct sun).
All of these climatic conditions are found in tropical zones.
Another feature that distinguishes the areas suitable for the
cultivation of coffee is altitude:
- Between 1000 -2000 metres for Arabica
- Around 200-300 metres for Robusta
3. Soils favoured by the coffee plant…
…rich and moist soils, that area capable of
rapidly storing water but also of rapidly
draining excess water.
4. Types of coffee in Guatemala?
ARABICA:
- Bourbon
- Tipica
- Maragogype
- Coban
- Antigua
- Amatitlan
ROBUSTA
5. Where does Guatemalan coffee
grow?
Huehuetenango
8 regions of production
•Acatenango
•Antigua
•Atitlán
•Cobán
•Fraijanes
•Huehuetenango
•Nuevo Oriente
•San Marcos
The optimum temperature is around 18 °C but it can also withstand temperatures of up to 30 °C.
Note: The coffee plant loves light but not direct sun as this burns its leaves
Since it is not very resistant to frost, coffee is grown in the tropics, in areas with cool and temperate climates.
Coffee grains contain oily substances and fats which characterize the aromas of the various types of coffee. The characteristics of these change according to temperature, humidity and the type of soil in which they grow.
Guatemala is considered among the countries that meet the world's coffee needs (Washed Arabica and Robusta species). The principal varietals of Arabica are: Bourbon, Tipica, Maragogype, Coban, Antigua, Amatitlan. These are processed using the wet method , they have high acidity, a spicy smell and a chocolate aroma and are intended for export. Cultivation altitude: 700 – 1700 metres above sea level.
Characteristics of coffee from the Huehuetenango region
This is a non-volcanic region of Guatemala, soils are developed mainly from sedimentary rocks (principally limestone).
Huehuetenango is the highest and driest region.
In the mountains, caressed by dry winds that protect them from frost, coffee is grown at altitudes reaching 2 000 metres above sea level.
The varieties grown in this region are: Bourbon, Caturra and Catuaí.
Huehuetenango coffee is fine, full-bodied and pleasantly acidic.
The altitude and parent material give this coffee its quality.