What are Raised Beds?
Raised beds are a popular method of drying coffee beans during the dry-processing stage of coffee production. Also known as "African-style beds," these elevated beds offer several advantages over patio-drying, the other common method of drying coffee. Raised beds promote better airflow around the beans, allowing for even and rapid drying, which reduces the risk of mold and rot. Additionally, because the beans are not in direct contact with the ground, they are less likely to pick up any unwanted flavors or contaminants.
Raised beds are typically made from wood or bamboo and are built on an incline to allow for drainage. Once the freshly harvested coffee cherries have been sorted and washed, they are spread out in a single layer on the raised beds to dry. During this process, the coffee beans are raked and turned regularly to ensure even drying. The length of time it takes to dry the beans on raised beds can vary depending on the weather and humidity levels, but it typically takes anywhere from 1-3 weeks.
Overall, raised beds are a reliable and effective way to dry coffee beans during the dry-processing stage. They offer several benefits over patio-drying, including improved airflow, reduced risk of mold or rot, and less chance of picking up unwanted flavors or contaminants.