These hybrid cocoa seedlings come from varieties developed by the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN). CRIN hybrids bear much earlier than old local cocoa, often starting about 18 months after transplanting with good care. They give more pods per tree and good-quality beans. They also have better tolerance to black pod disease and cocoa swollen shoot virus. They suit farmers starting new cocoa farms or replacing old, low-yielding trees.
Product details
- Crop: Cocoa
- Variety: CRIN hybrid
- Type: Hybrid seedling in nursery bag
- Maturity: can start fruiting about 18 months after transplanting
- Disease tolerance: black pod, cocoa swollen shoot virus (better than local types)
- Pack size: sold per seedling
- Best for: humid southern and south-western Nigeria (Ondo, Osun, Ogun, Oyo, Cross River, etc.)
How to plant
- Plant at the start of the rainy season so roots establish before the dry season.
- Space seedlings 3 m x 3 m (about 1,100 trees per hectare).
- Dig holes about 30-45 cm deep and wide. Mix topsoil with well-rotted manure before refilling.
- Remove the nursery bag carefully, keep the soil ball whole and plant at the same depth as in the bag.
- Give young cocoa shade: plant plantain or banana between rows before or with the cocoa.
Care after planting
- Mulch around each seedling to hold moisture in the first dry season.
- Keep a weed-free ring around each young tree.
- Apply fertilizer as advised for cocoa in your area, starting in the second year.
- Reduce temporary shade gradually as the canopy closes.
- Remove black pods early and spray copper fungicide in the wet season.
Delivery of live plants
- Seedlings travel in their nursery bags with soil around the roots.
- On arrival, open the package, place the bags in shade and water them the same day.
- Plant within a few days. Do not leave them in a closed box or in full sun.
- If you cannot plant at once, keep them shaded and water every day until planting.
Frequently asked questions
How many cocoa seedlings do I need for one hectare?
At 3 m x 3 m spacing, about 1,100 seedlings per hectare. Order a few extra to replace any losses.
When will CRIN hybrid cocoa start fruiting?
With good shade, weeding and water, CRIN hybrids can start bearing about 18 months after transplanting. Full yield comes a few years later.
Does hybrid cocoa still need fungicide for black pod?
Yes. CRIN hybrids tolerate black pod better, but in wet months you should still remove infected pods and spray as needed.
Can hybrid cocoa grow in northern Nigeria?
Cocoa needs high rainfall and humidity. It does best in the south and south-west, not in dry northern areas.
Delivery
We deliver across Nigeria. Orders within Oyo State of ₦200,000 and above ship free, or you can pick up from our store. Need advice on the right product or quantity? WhatsApp us on 0810 845 2311.
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