Farmers’ perceptions and adoption of Coffea arabica F1 hybrids in Central America

Abstract

In the light of a changing climate, resilient coffee varieties and adoption of improved agricultural practices are needed. Agronomic studies have promoted the first generation of Coffea arabica hybrid cultivars (F1 hybrids) as resistant to pest and diseases and able to grow under shade. Thus, needing fewer pesticides and promoting afforestation and biodiversity, and at the same time ensuring the sustainable supply of quality coffee. This is the first study that examines how these cultivars perform when coffee farmers manage them, what they think about the cultivars, and what are their incentives and barriers to adoption. The study evaluates and discusses the acceptance of these cultivars and the possible dissemination to a wide range of farmer types, including smallholders, who are the most vulnerable to climate change. The results of 79 interviews with farmers ranging from micro-producers to managers of large commercial plantations in Costa Rica and Nicaragua revealed that farmers adopt the F1 hybrid varieties because they offer higher yields, fast fruiting, rapid plant growth, excellent cup quality and fewer risks than other coffee varieties, as they are more resistant to pest and diseases. These features make them a safer investment. Nevertheless, having access to the plantlets, both physically and financially, are the major barriers to adoption. Most of the farmers who have adopted the F1 hybrids are willing to continue growing them as the benefits outweigh the costs. This study reveals important agronomic and social aspects about multiple widely used coffee cultivars. This study is an important contribution to the development of a sustainable breeding strategy that is affordable for coffee growers.