During French colonial rule in Vietnam, the French cleared forests to create land for coffee plantations and export the coffee to France. Today, in a time of increasing environmental awareness and in light of the effects of climate change, the Vietnamese government is pursuing numerous initiatives to motivate the population to protect the environment and promote organic farming.
The forest garden model and its characteristics:
- No harmful chemicals: natural cultivation methods and techniques.
- Creating a green, clean environment.
- Produces clean, chemical-free agricultural products without pesticides, growth regulators or heavy metals.
- High biodiversity: mixed culture with a complex ecosystem.
- High resilience against natural disasters.
- Cultivation of site-adapted plants.
- Self-regulating and easy to maintain after 7–10 years.
Located in the south of Kon Plông District (Kon Tum Province), on the Măng Den Plateau at approximately 1,400 meters above sea level, Măng Den is surrounded by a vast, pristine forest landscape. With forest covering 93.31% of the natural area and over 75% primary forest, this region is a natural paradise. It is home to seven lakes and three waterfalls with crystal-clear, freshwater that flow year-round.
(Source: Photographer DoDo)
The soil in Măng Đen consists of fertile red basalt, which is loose, well-aerated, and rich in organic matter—ideal conditions for the vigorous growth of coffee plants. With the goal of growing coffee under the forest canopy without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides, the Măng Đen Million Tree Planting Project provides a sustainable source of income for the local community. It gives local people the confidence to support their own reforestation projects while creating higher-quality and more valuable Vietnamese coffee for the future.
The region is known for its Arabica coffee, which consistently scores over 85 CQI points.
To ensure optimal development of the Arabica plants and the excellent flavor of the coffee cherries, Arabica is cultivated in mixed crops with shade- and nitrogen-fed plants. The soil must be loose, permeable, and well-aerated, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Young plants initially require shade for healthy growth. Arabica thrives best in diffused light and temperatures between 18 and 25°C—ideal conditions that Măng Đen provides perfectly.
The Arabica plants are cared for with organic fertilizer, which not only provides essential nutrients but also improves soil fertility, promotes the soil microbiome, and controls harmful microorganisms such as fungi and nematodes. It also contributes to moisture retention and reduces erosion and soil loss.
The Arabica coffee from this region is always sold out as soon as the harvest is processed. With an annual production of a maximum of 3 tons, the coffee is only available by pre-order.
This exquisitely cultivated coffee has won over customers in the USA, Canada, and Japan. Coweli is proud to now introduce this exceptional product to its valued customers in Europe through direct trade. Every kilo of coffee you purchase is not only a delicious experience, but also a valuable contribution to supporting local farmers. Your purchase is a sign of hope for the local people and encourages them on their path to further advance the organic cultivation of Vietnamese specialty coffee.
Contact us for individual advice or learn more about our sustainable cultivation projects.
We look forward to hearing from you and accompanying you on the journey from bean to cup!
