Why Great Coffee Grows in Quindío, Colombia

Many regions around the world are known for great coffee, and they are all located within the world’s Coffee Belt. Located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, this Coffee Belt covers the globe’s tropical regions. More than 125 countries are at least partially located in this region, but not all of these grow great coffee – there are other necessary conditions that must be met. Rainfall amounts, temperature consistency, elevation, and soil quality are all equally important to the quality of coffee before it is even harvested from the plant.

Botero is perfectly positioned in a region famous for producing Colombian specialty coffee – Quindío. Located in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, Quindío checks all the boxes for growing several Arabica varieties. Let’s take a look at why cafeteros have been growing specialty coffee here for generations.

Rainfall

Coffee needs an average annual rainfall of between 60 and 90 inches, distributed consistently throughout the year with a slightly drier period during flowering. Less than 60 inches can stress the coffee plants, and too much rain, or too much in a short period of time, can cause nutrient deficiencies or waterlogged roots.

In Quindío, annual rainfall totals average between 60 to 80 inches, depending on elevation – as altitude increases, rainfall decreases.

Elevation

Overall conditions vary greatly at varying elevations, creating drastically different flavor profiles for coffee beans. Coffee grown at higher altitudes – above 4,500 feet (1,500 meters) – tend to exhibit more complex, bright, and fruity notes. Mid-elevations – between 3,900 (1,300 meters) and 5,400 feet (1,800 meters) – typically produce coffee with sweet, round-bodied profiles.

While the elevation of the Quindío region varies significantly, the majority of the region’s fincas are located between 3,900 (1,300 meters) and 6,500 feet (2,000 meters) — perfect for growing several Arabica varieties. While coffee can grow at altitudes above 6,500 feet (2,000 meters), industrialized farms are typically below that threshold.

Temperature

At these high elevations, temperatures are cooler in comparison to the hot sea-level temperatures typically associated with tropical regions. This is great for growing coffee, as most Arabica varieties prefer temperatures between 64 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a nighttime drop of about 10 degrees. When mean temperatures rise to above 73 degrees, coffee cherries ripen faster, which lowers the beans’ quality. Slower ripening allows the coffee cherries to naturally develop more sugar, improving the flavor of the final product.

In Quindío, daytime temperatures average around 69.8 degrees, with a nighttime average of 54.5 degrees, right in the sweet spot where coffee plants thrive. Located near the equator, this region does not experience drastic seasonal variations, so temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year.

Soil Quality

Nutrient rich soil with a slightly acidic pH – ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 – offers good conditions for growing great coffee. Volcanic soil is especially favorable, and typically rich in minerals like potassium and phosphorus that are vital for coffee bean development. Loamy soil that contains high amounts of organic matter provides other essential nutrients; however, good drainage is essential to allowing coffee roots access to the oxygen they demand.

The dominant soil type found in Quindío is Andisols, formed from volcanic debris and characterized by a high water- and nutrient-holding capacity. These soils also have a crumbly texture and low density, which allows deep root penetration and is ideal for growing coffee.

Sun Exposure

Coffee is particular about the amount of sun exposure it receives. When the above ideal conditions are met, coffee grows best in the shade, with some direct sunlight – but not too much. Shade-grown coffee is also noted to produce a larger bean size and a higher beverage quality than coffee grown in full sun.

About 73% of Colombian coffee is grown in some degree of shade, allowing a slower ripening phase. This leads to the plant’s development of sugars and other compounds in the cherry, resulting in a rich, aromatic, higher-quality coffee.

Quindío’s Colombian Coffee

Clearly, Quindío exhibits the perfect conditions for growing great coffee. The region’s cafeteros understand how to harness the qualities of this unique ecosystem and produce some of the world’s best coffee. It’s no wonder the region is a major center of coffee cultivation and production, and that’s why the Botero team is proud to deliver exceptional specialty coffee directly to your door.

Ready to try Quindío’s coffee for yourself? Claim your farm-to-cup experience by pre-ordering your roasted whole-bean coffee or Colombian green coffee beans today.

Want to learn more about Botero or our partner cafeteros in Quindío? Reach out to us here.