C.A.P.E. Australia's 'state of the art' nursery with computer controlled watering system where thousands of coffee trees are grown each year.

Each seedling starts life in the propagating nursery and is grown originally from one carefully selected coffee seed.

When at the 'butterfly' stage, the little seedlings are carefully taken from their beds of sand and rigorously examined for defects before being planted in the special cells. They are enclosed with a potting mix, which is scientifically mixed and selected to provide maximum growth power for the little trees.

Depending on the time of year, (usually within 6 months) the seedlings are ready for planting out into the field.

From the firm root system end, up to the strong centre stem top, the prime length for planting out is around 30cm.

Because of the exclusive cell system used by C.A.P.E. for the seedlings, the roots go straight down and are 'air pruned' to maximise their strength. As soon as these trees are planted into the ground they grow rapidly.

C.A.P.E. concentrates on growing two varieties of seedlings. The biggest seller by far is the K 7. Resistant to both ' Berry Disease' and 'Coffee Rust' this tree was developed and recommended for growing in the Northern Rivers Area by NSW Agriculture Department after extensive trials at Alstonville NSW.

An open spreading variety, it is a reliable cropper, producing large flavour-filled beans; it is also the recommended variety for those who intend to harvest mechanically.

The other variety grown is the Catui. This is a 'dwarf' variety suitable for handpicking because it does not grow as tall as the K7.

A densely packed tree and heavy cropper it is a beautiful tree which can also be grown successfully in pots for aesthetic purposes rather than just for its crop. Ideal as a sample tree in cafe's.

C.A.P.E. will supply guaranteed, first class seedling for up to three months after planting, providing C.A.P.E. is contracted to supply the trees and is involved with the planting.

C.A.P.E. also provides a consultancy service whereby advice is given on all aspects of coffee growing; from choosing the right area for planting, best direction for rows, and preparing the soil. This service can save thousands of dollars and thousands of wasted hours.

Contact C.A.P.E. Australia for the most experienced people in coffee growing on the North Coast of New South Wales.

For more information email: cape@zentvelds.com.au