Cartilla Instructiva Nº 4: Instalación de Sombras Temporales y Permanentes para el Cultivo de Cacao

Sombra is crucial for the development of cacao plants, particularly during the first three years, as it protects them from excessive sunlight and promotes healthy growth. The ideal amount of sombra for cacao cultivation is 50%. There are two types of sombra: sombra temporal and sombra permanente. Sombra temporal is a temporary shade that is used to protect cacao plants during the first two to three years after planting. This type of sombra is typically provided by trees such as plátano, frijol de palo, and leucaena. These trees are recommended because they grow quickly, do not compete with the cacao plants for resources, and are available with ease. The ideal time to plant sombra temporal is four months before installing the vivero, or nursery, and it should accompany the cacao plants for two to three years. The characteristics of sombra temporal include growing quickly, not competing with the cacao plants, being available with ease, and having commercial or alimentary value. Additionally, sombra temporal should provide good shade and protect the cacao plants from excessive sunlight. The system and density of siembra, or planting, for sombra temporal vary depending on the type of tree used. For plátanos, the recommended systems are the Sistema Cuadrado, or Square System, with spacings of 3 m x 3 m, 4 m x 4 m, or 5 m x 5 m, and the Sistema Tresbolillos, or Three-Point System, with spacings of 3 m x 3 m or 4 m x 4 m. For frijol de palo and leucaena, the recommended spacings are 3 m x 3 m or 3 m x 2 m. The procedure for installing sombra temporal involves several steps. First, the terreno, or land, is prepared by cuadrating it with the Sistema de Triangulación, or Triangulation System, at least in two angles. Once the system of siembra and the density are chosen, the next step is to dig holes with dimensions of 40 cm x 40 cm x 40 cm. The hijuelo, or seedling, is then placed in the hole, and the soil is added, along with organic matter or fertilizer. The soil is then compacted lightly, and the lines and rows are verified to ensure they are correctly aligned. Finally, the jalones, or stakes, are placed using a wincha or soguilla, or a rope and pulley system. The benefits of sombra temporal include protecting the cacao plants from excessive sunlight, promoting healthy growth, and providing a source of income and food for the farmer's family. By using sombra temporal, farmers can ensure the optimal development of their cacao plants and increase their chances of success in the agricultural industry.