Introduction to Coffee Farming: Cultivating Excellence from Seed to Harvest

Welcome to our comprehensive Coffee Farming Course, where we delve into the art and science of coffee cultivation, empowering aspiring farmers with the knowledge and expertise to thrive in this captivating industry.

Course Overview: In this immersive program, participants will embark on a journey through the entire coffee farming process, gaining a profound understanding of the intricacies involved in producing high-quality coffee beans. From the initial stages of planting the seeds to the final harvest, we will cover every aspect necessary to cultivate coffee beans of exceptional flavor, aroma, and sustainability.

Course Modules:

1) Introduction to Coffee Agriculture:

a. Understanding the coffee plant: botanical overview and varieties.

b. Exploring coffee-growing regions and the impact of terroir on coffee flavor.

2) Harvesting Techniques:

a. Recognizing signs of ripeness and readiness.

b. Selective picking vs. strip picking (the impact on bean quality).

3) Post harvesting process:

a. Differentiating between the wet and dry processing methods.

b. Identifying different coffee bean drying techniques (washed, honey, natural)

c. Understanding the significance of fermentation in flavor development.

4) Quality Control and Cuppings

a. Evaluating coffee quality through sensory analysis (cuppings)

b. Grading coffee

c. Promoting Fair Trade (wholesale vs private relationship with farmer).

Course Format:

Our Coffee Farming Course combines engaging lectures, hands-on practical sessions, field visits to coffee farms, and interactive group discussions led by seasoned industry experts.

Participants will have the opportunity to apply their newfound knowledge in real-world settings, fostering a deep connection with the art and science of coffee farming.

This course requires an in-person site visit to Spirit Mountain Coffee farm in the Dominican Republic.