Cartilla Instructiva Nº 14: Podas de Mantenimiento, Sanitarias y de Rehabilitación

These activities are crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of cacao trees. Poda de mantenimiento serves to maintain the height and spacing of cacao trees, facilitating labor and harvest management. It also helps conserve the correct level of shade and prevents excessive or insufficient light from entering the tree. The first poda de mantenimiento of the year typically takes place between August and September, while the second occurs between April and May. In addition to poda de mantenimiento, podas de repase are performed every three months. These podas are essential for detecting pests and diseases in a timely manner. The steps for conducting poda de mantenimiento include despuntar high-growing branches, removing branches that grow inward, eliminating branches that are too close together, and separating damaged or dead branches. Poda sanitaria involves removing branches that are diseased, produce poor or few fruits, are dry, or harbor pests. This type of poda is performed when cacao trees are attacked by pests and helps improve the health and strength of the crop. It is recommended to conduct poda sanitaria at least four times a year, particularly during the harvest season. Poda de rehabilitación is a more drastic process that involves cutting branches, plants, and other debris from abandoned cacao plantations. This process helps restore the plantations and prepares the trees for a healthy harvest. The poda de rehabilitación typically takes place during the plant's dormant period and involves cutting branches to the first node, eliminating dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and allowing new growth to form. Effective poda de rehabilitación is crucial for preparing cacao trees for a healthy harvest. This process involves cutting affected branches with pruning shears to 20 cm before the infected area, removing dead or diseased branches, and allowing new growth to form. By performing regular poda de mantenimiento, sanitarias, and rehabilitación, cacao farmers can maintain the health and productivity of their trees, ultimately leading to a successful harvest.