Costa Rica Coffee Farms: Gourmet Coffee at Its Finest

The Heart of Costa Rican Coffee Farming

Costa Rica's coffee farms, whether large or small, are a testament to the dedication and passion of their growers. These farmers, known as "Ticos," are deeply committed to the land and the quality of their coffee. They come from diverse backgrounds, including seasoned farmers, visionary entrepreneurs, political activists, and even statesmen. Their shared campesino heritage instills values of perseverance and a commitment to balancing successful business practices with high-quality coffee production.

The Landscape of Costa Rican Coffee Farms

• Small Farms: 92% of Costa Rica's coffee growers operate on less than 12 acres of land. Collectively, these small farms account for 44% of the country's total coffee-growing area.
• Medium Farms: 6% of growers have between 12 and 50 acres, representing 21% of the total coffee-growing area.
• Large Farms: Only 2% of growers have plantations exceeding 50 acres, yet these large farms cover 35% of the coffee-growing land.

Coffee Varieties and Planting Techniques

Costa Rican coffee growers predominantly plant high-yield varieties such as Caturra and Catuai, which make up over 90% of the coffee grown in the country. The recommended planting density is 5.5 feet between rows and 2.75 feet between plants, allowing for an average population of 7,000 plants per hectare (approximately 2,834 per acre).

Sustainable Practices and Ecological Balance

Tico coffee growers are cautious but not fearful, employing hybrid varieties, appropriate pruning methods, and pest-control strategies. They strive to maintain the natural ecological balance while achieving high yields. This dedication to sustainability is a key factor in the exceptional quality of Costa Rican coffee.

Interesting Statistics About Costa Rican Coffee

• Global Impact: Costa Rica produces around 1.5 million bags of coffee annually, contributing significantly to the global coffee market. (Source: International Coffee Organization)
• Economic Contribution: Coffee is one of Costa Rica's top exports, generating over $300 million in revenue each year. (Source: Central Bank of Costa Rica)
• Employment: The coffee industry provides employment to over 200,000 people in Costa Rica, highlighting its importance to the country's economy. (Source: Instituto del Café de Costa Rica)

The Mission Grounds Initiative

Boake Moore founded Mission Grounds Gourmet Coffee with a noble purpose: to help children in need. All profits from Mission Grounds' Costa Rican coffee sales are donated to orphanages and children's charities. This initiative not only supports vulnerable children but also promotes the exceptional quality of Costa Rican coffee.

Conclusion

Costa Rican coffee farms are a shining example of dedication, sustainability, and quality. The commitment of Tico coffee growers to their land and their craft results in some of the finest gourmet coffee available. With a rich heritage, sustainable practices, and a focus on high yields, Costa Rican coffee continues to be a global favorite.

For more information on Costa Rican coffee and the Mission Grounds initiative, visit Mission Grounds Gourmet Coffee.

Sources:

1. International Coffee Organization
2. Central Bank of Costa Rica
3. Instituto del Café de Costa Rica