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Decaffeinating farms

Coffee lovers are drinking more flat whites, vanilla lattes and cold brews than ever.  Yet a wave of farmers like Luis Fernando Bernal Medina in Colombia, the world’s third largest coffee grower, have either fully or partially abandoned coffee cultivation in recent years amid market disruptions, higher production costs and the effects of climate change. Where fields of coffee once spread into the distance on Luis’ farm – rows of citrus and avocado trees have appeared in their place. 

Winds of change 

Luis is an agricultural business administrator and agro-industrial engineer. He’s managed the Córcega farm for 15 years, overseeing its shift in crop production. “Currently, we produce coffee, citrus and avocado, as well as livestock and poultry, and we’ve even turned some of our land to tourism,” he says. “Due to several external factors, the company went from focussing on coffee to other projects that have allowed us to increase profitability.”

While making a living is paramount, so too is protecting and enhancing the environment. “We have adopted a crop management system that is friendly to the ecosystem and takes into account the diverse species that contribute to biological control crop protection and the stimulation of plant growth,” says Luis.

Harvesting prosperity 

In addition to investing in sustainable water, fauna and vegetation management, Luis has incorporated UPL’s inputs into his sustainability practices for almost three years. He tells us that with the help of solutions such as Safari, Silwet, Biozyme and Fitobolic, coupled with UPL’s “commitment and technical advice,” he’s seen significant improvements on his farm. “I’ve increased harvests in almost every month of the year, as well as the quality of fruit for export, resulting in higher margins,” explains Luis.

A win-win for all

The careful management of his farm has proven to be a win-win for both Luis and his consumers. “The coffee we produce guarantees a different experience, and we have invested significantly in our lemons to ensure that we offer the best of Colombian agriculture,” says Luis. “Thanks to the altitude, topography and management of our farm, the colours, flavours and quality of our products have high market appeal.” But more than premium coffee and fruit, Luis wants to be known as a responsible employer and community partner. “What I enjoy most about farming is producing high-quality products while improving the sustainability of our farm and ensuring the well-being and welfare of our team.”