What is Shade Grown coffee?
Coffee can be cultivated in two main ways: under the shade of trees or in direct sunlight. Shade-grown coffee is the more traditional approach, mimicking the way coffee naturally grows beneath a canopy. This method creates a diverse ecosystem where trees of varying heights provide a protective layer, cooling the environment and shielding coffee plants from extreme temperatures and strong winds. The slower cherry maturation in shaded conditions results in a sweeter, more complex flavour, making these coffees highly valued in the specialty market. Farmers who grow shade-grown coffee often fetch higher prices and benefit from additional crops that can be sold or used for their own needs. Handpicking—common in shade-grown systems—not only improves quality but also creates more jobs.
Shade grown coffee is often associated with sustainable agriculture practices, as it can provide habitat for wildlife and promote biodiversity. However, the term "shade grown" is not regulated or certified, which means that the quality of the shade can vary greatly between farms. Some shade grown coffee may be grown under trees that are too tall or too sparse to provide adequate protection, while others may be grown in a more diverse and ecologically rich environment. The specific type of shade used can also affect the quality and taste of the coffee. For example, coffee grown under a canopy of fruit trees may have a sweeter, more complex flavour profile than coffee grown under a simple layer of foliage. As such, it is important for coffee consumers to research the specific shade growing practices of a coffee farm or region in order to fully understand the quality and sustainability of the product.