Summary
This field trial examined how pruning affects cocoa yield and growth, accounting for tree size and competition effects. Pruning directly increased leaf flushing and modified light distribution in the canopy, but effects on flowering and pod production were mediated by interactions between pruning, tree size, and inter-tree competition. The predicted net effect of pruning on harvested pod number varied substantially (−58% to +150%) depending on tree size and competition conditions, highlighting the importance of individual-level analysis for pruning recommendations.
Regional applicability
The study was conducted in a cocoa cultivation system and does not specify United Kingdom location; cocoa production is not practised commercially in the UK. Findings may inform tropical and subtropical cocoa farming management practices where tree density and canopy structure influence yield, though direct application to UK horticulture is limited.
Key measures
Light interception, leaf flushing rate, flower number, developing pods, wilted pods, harvested pods, stem basal area (tree size proxy), neighbour tree basal area (competition proxy)
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated the impact of experimental pruning (removing 26.4% of aboveground biomass) on cocoa tree light interception, leaf flushing, flower production, and pod development and harvest. Effects were analysed as a function of tree size and competition using generalised linear mixed-effect models.
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