A seedling cocoa plant refers to a cocoa tree (Theobroma cacao) that has been grown directly from a seed. This is the traditional method of propagating cocoa, but it comes with distinct characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages compared to vegetatively propagated plants like grafted or clonal cocoa.
Seedling Cocoa Plant
Genetic Variability: This is the most significant characteristic. Unlike clonal or grafted plants which are genetically identical to their parent (or scion), seedlings are the result of sexual reproduction. This means they inherit genes from two parents, leading to high genetic variability among the seedlings. You'll find a wide range in terms of:
Yield potential
Pod size, shape, and bean characteristics
Flavor profile of the beans
Growth habit (some might grow very tall and upright, others bushier)
Resistance/susceptibility to pests and diseases
Time to first fruiting.
Time to Fruiting: Seedling cocoa plants generally take longer to start bearing fruit. They typically begin flowering and producing pods around 4 to 6 years after planting. Economic yields usually start from the 5th year onwards.
