Caring for the Next Generation of Coffee Trees

This season at Finca San Francisco in Chinameca, El Salvador, we have been preparing the land for the next generation of coffee trees.

During the previous month, we focused on clearing tree branches and preparing the soil holes for the new coffee plants. This year, we are planting two varieties: Geisha and Cuscatleco.

After weeks of strong rains, the soil has become rich, dark, and full of organic matter created naturally over many years by leaves, branches, shade trees, rain, and decomposition. Healthy soil is one of the most important parts of growing coffee in a sustainable way.

Some of the older shade trees at the finca were affected by the recent rains and strong winds. One large tree fell naturally, and instead of removing everything from the land, the branches and organic material are being chopped and left to slowly decompose. This process helps return nutrients back into the soil, protect moisture, and support the ecosystem of the finca.

The rains have now slowed, but many of the young coffee trees planted under the shade canopy continue surviving thanks to the protection provided by the trees above them. Shade helps regulate temperature, conserve moisture, and reduce stress on young plants during changing weather conditions.

We are also continuing to water around 50 young coffee trees to help them establish themselves during this transition period. Coffee farming requires patience, observation, and constant care, especially as weather patterns become more unpredictable.

At Café San Francisco, we believe coffee can grow while still respecting the land around it. Our finca is not only a place where coffee is produced — it is also part of a living ecosystem that we hope to protect for future generations.

We thank our clients for supporting our coffee and our work. We hope that one day you will also be able to visit the finca and experience firsthand the work and care that goes into every coffee tree.