Coffee Bean Plant Harvesting:
Optimal Time and Technique

Coffee bean harvesting is a crucial process in coffee production. The quality of coffee beans depends on the timing and technique used during harvesting. In this article, we will discuss the optimal time and technique for coffee bean plant harvesting.

Optimal Time for Harvesting

The optimal time for coffee bean harvesting depends on the variety of coffee grown, climate conditions, and altitude. Generally, coffee cherries are ready to be harvested when they are deep red in color. However, some varieties of coffee may be ready to be harvested when they are yellow or pink.

It is important to note that coffee cherries do not ripen at the same time on the same tree. Therefore, coffee farmers must selectively harvest the ripe cherries from the trees multiple times during the harvest season.

The harvest season typically lasts for several months, depending on the region and altitude. Coffee cherries at higher altitudes tend to ripen slower than those at lower altitudes. The harvest season can also vary based on climate conditions like rainfall patterns and temperature.

Harvesting Technique

There are two primary techniques used for coffee bean plant harvesting: handpicking and strip picking.

Handpicking

Handpicking is a traditional technique that involves selectively harvesting only ripe cherries from the trees. This method requires skilled laborers who can identify ripe cherries from unripe ones. Handpicking is more time-consuming than strip picking, but it results in higher-quality coffee beans.

Handpicking is commonly used in regions with steep terrain, where machines cannot access the coffee trees. It is also preferred by specialty coffee farmers who prioritize quality over quantity.

Strip Picking

Strip picking is a more modern technique that involves using machines to strip all the cherries from the trees regardless of their ripeness. This method is faster and more efficient than handpicking, but it can result in lower-quality coffee beans.

Strip picking is commonly used in regions where the terrain is flat, and the coffee trees are planted in rows. It is also preferred by commercial coffee farmers who prioritize quantity over quality.

Processing the Harvested Coffee Beans

Once the coffee cherries are harvested, they must be processed to extract the coffee beans. There are two primary methods used for processing coffee beans: the dry method and the wet method.

Dry Method

The dry method involves spreading the harvested coffee cherries on a flat surface to dry under the sun. The cherries are raked periodically to ensure even drying. Once the cherries are completely dried, they are hulled to remove the outer layer and reveal the coffee beans.

The dry method is commonly used in regions with low humidity, where the risk of mold growth is low. It results in a unique flavor profile that is associated with natural or dry-processed coffees.

Wet Method

The wet method involves removing the outer layer of the harvested coffee cherries using machines. The beans are then fermented in water tanks to remove any remaining fruit residue. After fermentation, the beans are washed and dried under the sun or using mechanical dryers.

The wet method is commonly used in regions with high humidity, where the risk of mold growth is high. It results in a cleaner and brighter flavor profile that is associated with washed or wet-processed coffees.

FAQ

How long does it take for coffee cherries to ripen?

The time it takes for coffee cherries to ripen depends on several factors like variety, altitude, and climate conditions. Generally, it takes 6-8 months for coffee cherries to ripen from flowering to harvest.

What happens if unripe cherries are harvested?

Unripe cherries can result in lower-quality coffee beans with a sour or bitter taste. They can also affect the overall yield of the coffee harvest.

Can coffee cherries be overripe?

Yes, coffee cherries can become overripe, which can result in a fermented taste in the coffee beans. Overripe cherries are also more susceptible to insect and fungal infestations.

What is the best method for harvesting coffee beans?

The best method for harvesting coffee beans depends on several factors like farm size, terrain, and desired quality. Handpicking is preferred by specialty coffee farmers who prioritize quality over quantity, while strip picking is preferred by commercial coffee farmers who prioritize quantity over quality.

What is the difference between natural and washed coffees?

Natural or dry-processed coffees are processed using the dry method, which involves drying the harvested coffee cherries under the sun. Washed or wet-processed coffees are processed using the wet method, which involves removing the outer layer of the harvested coffee cherries using machines and fermenting them in water tanks. Natural coffees tend to have a unique flavor profile with fruity and earthy notes, while washed coffees tend to have a cleaner and brighter flavor profile.