Fertilizers - Hammond Farms Investment

Our Dedicated Workforce

Enhancing Cocoa Productivity Through Strategic Fertilization

At Hammond Farms Investment, we recognize that balanced soil nutrition is the foundation of high-yielding, sustainable cocoa production. Our science-based fertilization program maximizes cocoa productivity while maintaining soil health, environmental safety, and cost efficiency.

1. Our Fertilization Strategy
We follow an Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) approach, combining:
Organic fertilizers (long-term soil health)
Mineral fertilizers (targeted nutrient boosts)
Soil amendments (pH correction, microbial support)

Key Principles:
Soil Testing – Regular analysis to tailor fertilizer blends to each farm’s needs.
Precision Application: Right dose, right time, right placement (e.g., root zone).
Sustainability Minimizing leaching & runoff to protect waterways.

–2. Types of Fertilizers Used

A. Organic Fertilizers

Type: Compost

Benefits: Improves soil structure, slow-release NPK

Application Method: Basal application (3–5 tons/ha/year)

Type: Poultry Manure

Benefits: High nitrogen, boosts microbial activity

Application Method: Incorporated at planting

Type: Cocoa Pod Husk Ash

Benefits: Rich in potassium, repels pests naturally

Application Method: Mixed into topsoil

Type: Vermicompost

Benefits: Enhances water retention, disease resistance

Application Method: Applied around root zone

B. Mineral (Inorganic) Fertilizers
We use granular and liquid formulations based on soil test results:

Nutrient Needed: Nitrogen (N)

Fertilizer Needed: Urea, NPK 15-15-15

Benefits To Cocoa: Leaf growth, pod development

Nutrient Needed: Phosphorus (P)

Fertilizer Needed: Single Superphosphate (SSP), DAP

Benefits To Cocoa: Root strength, flowering

Nutrient Needed: Potassium (K)

Fertilizer Needed: Muriate of Potash (KCl), Sulphate of Potash (K₂SO₄)

Benefits To Cocoa: Pod filling, drought resistance

Nutrient Needed: Magnesium (Mg)

Fertilizer Needed: Kieserite (MgSO₄)

Benefits To Cocoa: Prevents yellowing leaves

Nutrient Needed: Calcium (Ca)

Fertilizer Needed: Gypsum (CaSO₄), Lime (CaCO₃)

Benefits To Cocoa: Strengthens cell walls, adjusts pH

Note: We avoid excessive KCl (Muriate of Potash) in acidic soils to prevent chlorine toxicity.

C. Specialty Fertilizers & Supplements
Foliar Sprays (e.g., Calcium nitrate to prevent pod rot)
– Slow-Release Fertilizers (e.g.,Polymer-coated urea for drip-irrigated farms)
-Biofertilizers (e.g., *Azospirillum for nitrogen fixation)

3. Fertilization Schedule for Cocoa at Hammond Farms

4. Sustainable Practices
Intercropping with Legumes – Natural nitrogen fixation (e.g., *Pueraria* cover crops).
Mulching – Retains moisture, reduces fertilizer leaching.
Precision Tech – Drip irrigation with fertigation for efficient uptake.

Why Our Approach Works
20–30% Higher Yields vs. traditional methods.
Soil Carbon Sequestration – Our organic-inorganic balance improves long-term fertility.
Certification-Ready – Complies with Rainforest Alliance & Organic standards.