Managing Common Pests and Diseases in Tropical Cacao Plantations

Preventative management of pests and diseases can save up to 40% of potential crop losses in cacao production. Black pod disease, witches’ broom, and frosty pod rot represent the most significant threats, while mirids and cocoa pod borers are the most damaging insects. Integrated pest management approaches—including proper pruning for airflow, regular harvesting of ripe pods, and maintaining farm hygiene—significantly reduce these risks. Biological controls like beneficial fungi and predatory insects offer effective alternatives to chemical treatments while maintaining ecological balance and meeting sustainability certification requirements.