The study investigated whether cacao agroforestry systems lead to higher pest and disease incidence compared to monocultures. Contrary to traditional beliefs, the study found that when good cultural management practices—such as regular pruning, frequent harvesting, and prompt removal of diseased pods—are implemented, agroforestry systems do not have higher pest and disease rates than monocultures. In...Read More

A recent study by Niether et al. presents a comprehensive meta-analysis comparing cocoa agroforestry systems with monocultures. Analyzing 52 articles, the research found that while cocoa yields in agroforestry systems are about 25% lower than in monocultures, the total system yields—including other crops like fruits and timber—are approximately ten times higher. This diversification contributes significantly...Read More