Sustainable Pest Management: Our Natural Biocontrol Solutions

We also utilize pure baking soda in our coffee nurseries by applying it to the stems of the plants and creating a protective circle around them. This serves as a natural deterrent for ants and coffee tree leafcutter ants, known as "zompopos," which can cause damage to the coffee plants. Additionally, as the baking soda dissolves, it enriches the soil, contributing to its fertility. This method not only helps repel pests but also provides a sustainable way to nourish the soil, ensuring the optimal growth and development of our coffee crops.

Pure Baking Soda

Methyl & Ethyl Alcohol

We combat the coffee berry borer, known as "broca," using traps made from containers painted in red to simulate the color of coffee. This fruit miner is attracted to methyl and ethyl alcohols, which are inserted inside the traps. The broca insects get trapped inside these containers, allowing us to measure their population by counting the trapped insects in each area of the plantation. This effective method helps us monitor and control the broca infestation, ensuring the health and quality of our coffee crops.

Beeswax

We combat the coffee berry borer, known as "broca," using traps made from containers painted in red to simulate the color of coffee. This fruit miner is attracted to methyl and ethyl alcohols, which are inserted inside the traps. The broca insects get trapped inside these containers, allowing us to measure their population by counting the trapped insects in each area of the plantation. This effective method helps us monitor and control the broca infestation, ensuring the health and quality of our coffee crops.

"Siete Caldos" Chili

In the nursery, we use Chile siete caldos, a type of hot chili pepper, because its strong scent and spiciness deter crickets. We boil the chili in barrels and spread it around the nursery to prevent the presence of "gusano de noche" (night worms) and crickets. The powerful pungency of the chili acts as a natural repellent, creating an unfavorable environment for these pests and ensuring the health of our coffee seedlings.

Our Natural Methods To Combat Insects

Our Natural Pest Control Solutions

Neem Trees

We take a holistic approach to pest management by planting Neem trees on our farm and utilizing the fruits they produce. These trees are carefully cultivated, and the fruits are harvested when they reach optimal maturity. The harvested fruits are then processed to extract their valuable oil, which contains a potent blend of bioactive compounds. The rich composition of Neem oil, including azadirachtin and other limonoids, makes it highly valuable for pest control. Its natural properties act as both an insect repellent and pesticide, effectively combating various pests that threaten the health of our coffee plants.

Our Natural Fungal Control Solutions

Garlic, Cinnamon & Milk Formula

We utilize unique formulas based on garlic, skim milk, and cinnamon to combat fungal infections. This carefully crafted blend has shown remarkable efficacy in controlling fungi on coffee plants. The natural properties found in garlic, skim milk, and cinnamon work synergistically to inhibit the growth and spread of fungal pathogens. Garlic contains potent antimicrobial compounds, while skim milk provides essential nutrients that strengthen the plant's natural defense mechanisms. Cinnamon, with its antifungal properties, further enhances the effectiveness of the mixture. Together, these ingredients create a powerful and natural solution to combat fungi, ensuring the health and vitality of our coffee crops.

Guarumo Water

Guarumo water acts as a potent fungicide due to its natural properties and compounds that effectively combat fungal infections. The active components present in guarumo water have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which inhibit the growth and development of fungal pathogens. When applied to coffee plants, the guarumo water creates an unfavorable environment for fungal spores, preventing their colonization and spread. This helps to control the "ojo de gallo" fungal infection and promotes the overall health and productivity of our coffee crops.

Chili Pepper Formula

Roya, also known as coffee leaf rust, poses a significant threat to coffee crops worldwide, causing defoliation and reducing yields. By utilizing our unique combination of chili peppers, which possess natural compounds known for their potent anti-fungal properties, we create an effective defense against this destructive fungus. The natural compounds present in the chilies work synergistically to inhibit the growth and spread of roya, safeguarding the health and productivity of our coffee plants.

Cassava Root

We employ a natural and effective method to combat roundworms in our coffee plantations by planting cassava root annually. Cassava, also known as yuca, contains natural compounds that have been found to be toxic to roundworms. By incorporating cassava into our farming practices, we introduce a powerful ally in the fight against these harmful pests. As the cassava root grows, it releases substances that can effectively kill and deter roundworms, minimizing their impact on the coffee plants.

At El Catuai, we prioritize the use of chlorine-free water in all our formulas for pest management. The water we utilize comes from open channels sourced from mountain springs, ensuring its purity and freshness. This includes the water used in our coffee washing process and the preparation of our various solutions. By relying on pristine mountain water, we uphold our commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, ensuring the highest quality standards in every step of our coffee production.