The climate factors (temperature, rainfall, etc.) plays a major role in determine the flavor of the cocoa bean produced.

 

Temperature
The ideal range is 20 - 31°C / 64 - 88°F.  Temperatures over 32°C or below 10°C will influence bean characteristics and often results in reduce the yield of the plant. For flowering temperature must be over 60°F.

 

Rainfall
Cocoa needs constant watering and can handle 45 to 200 inches a range rain a year. Irrigation is need if there is period longer than three month of less than 4 in of rainfall per month. If the average rainfall is over 100 inches per year there is an increased fungal disease pressure.

 

Humidity
Relative humidity of cocoa is higher, must be at least 60%.  

 

Soil type
Cocoa can handle a range of soil types. The fertility of the soil should be moderate to high for there are low fertilizer inputs. The soil pH should be around 6.5 but can range from 4.5 to 7.0. Since cocoa has a high water requirement, the soil should have good moisture holding capacity and free draining to a depth of 1.5 meters.

 

Shelter
Cocoa tree need shelter from wind and direct sun. Wind can cause tree to Banana, rubber, coconut, and plantain tree species are used as canopy shade for cocoa plantations of young trees. Too much direct sun result in increases disease and pest troubles due to stress. Being bent over and broken leaves are common wind damage in cocoa trees.

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