In 2005, cocoa commodity in Flores suffered greatly due to a pest attack, which reduced 70% of its product capacity; this major loss would have been prevented if farmers were well informed on managing cocoa plantation. Seasonal calendar has been found to effectively help farmers design appropriate steps relating to product improvement of cocoa commodity.The Farmer Association of Wolosoko, Ende, Nusa Tenggara Timur has managed to design a cocoa seasonal calendar during the ‘Favorable Planting Methods’ training, held by LED NTT (Local Economic Development – Nusa Tenggara Timur Project) Swisscontact on 16th February to 20th February 2009. Seventy farmers participated and seven trainers from different skills background facilitated the training.
The topics discussed in the training were on pests and diseases, pruning, fertilization, harvesting, sanitation - collectively known as P3S - clone screening, various cultivation methods, seedling, seeds management and quality standard of wet seeds. LED NTT Project aims to improve the performance of three economic sectors (cashew, cocoa, seaweed) in selected districts of NTT (East Flores, Sikka, Ende and Alor). Collaboration with local governments on improving the business environment in the district will enhance business registration hence the project will indirectly contribute to increased government income.
