A “Coffee Botanical Garden”

As part of the DCRI’s continuing efforts to grow the specialty coffee industry in Dominica, our first project features a “proof of concept” model to research and demonstrate best methods for coffee production. Located in the Syndicate region of Dominica on the upper slopes of the Morne Diablotins volcano, the DCRI will begin planting 6000 coffee shrubs. Variables of different coffee varieties, agroforestry crops, elevation, and shade are controlled and tested.

Once this test plot reaches maturity, the coffee crop will be analyzed for quantity and quality, providing insight into the best planting practices for Dominica’s microclimates. This information will be compiled into a technical package that will be distributed to interested farmers across the island alongside coffee seedlings. Furthermore, the Morne Diablotins test plot will serve as a living model whereby farmers from across the island can observe ideal planting and growing practices in action.