ABSTRACT
Cocoa can potentially be grown over a vast area of the tropics. A lowerstorey tree of the equatorial forest in its natural habitat, it requires abundant heat and moisture throughout the year, and shelter from strong winds. Shade prolongs the life of the tree, although it is not absolutely essential. Cocoa tolerates many different soils, as long as they are well drained. It is sensitive to cold, only thriving over about 600 metres in particular microcli-mates.
