A file photo of coffee beans in an estate in Kodagu district (Coorg) of Karnataka.
| Photo Credit: MURALI KUMAR K

Coffee planters are a confused lot this year. On the one hand, coffee prices have hit a record high. On the other, vagaries of the weather through 2023 and 2024 have resulted in erratic ripening and a dip in yield this season. The Coffee Board is estimating an average 15% loss this season due to this.

Coffee is harvested between December and February. 

Rain pattern

“We are estimating more than 15% loss in yield, mostly in Karnataka, because in other coffee growing regions such as Andhra Pradesh and the North East, they receive the northeast monsoon. This time, the southwest monsoon, which covers Karnataka, was heavier and not uniform,” said K.G. Jagadeesha, CEO and Secretary, Coffee Board, adding that the exact figures will be clearer after the post blossom survey in March-April. 

The heavy rain was localised. Some regions received rain well into November. Yield is expected to be hit in the three main coffee districts — Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru and Hassan.

Explaining further, he said, “Last year, there was rain during November-December. Then this year again in January there was rain. Blossom showers during February-March is ideal. If it rains earlier, then uneven berry formation and ripening are observed. We expect a modest production of 3.5 lakh metric tonnes compared to 3.6 lakh metric tonnes last year.”

Naj Chengappa, a planter from Devarapura, south Kodagu, said, “Many planters are seeing uneven ripening because of multiple rains and multiple blossoms. In one coffee tree, we are seeing ripe, green and dried ones. Droppings (of berries) were also observed in high rainfall areas.”

This comes as bad news for planters as coffee prices have hit record highs owing to supply side disruptions in Brazil and Vietnam. “We get no clear information from them on restoration. So, the price may be high till that is restored,” Mr. Jagadeesha said.

Climate resilience

The Coffee Board has urged planters to adhere to best practices to shield themselves from weather variations.

“This year, there was heavy rain. Those who have invested in water conservation will have stored this water and used it for better yield. We have also started the research on climate resilient varieties. We recommend maintaining high carbon content, organic mulching, mixing organic and chemical fertilisers, good shade management and water conservation,” Mr. Jagadeesha said.