Cacao shells

Natural Structure and Nutrition with Cacao Shells

In summary

  • Suitable as an additive component (5?15%) in organic fertilizer formulations
  • Improves pellet formation and mechanical stability of fertilizer granules
  • Delivers NPK 3-1-3 with increased potassium content up to 6%
  • Relatively high protein content (14.1%) for extra nutrient value
  • Improves soil structure, aeration, and water buffering capacity
  • Available in coarse or ground form for flexible application
Cacao shells are a versatile organic raw material from the cocoa industry. Due to their structure and nutritional value, they are suitable for soil application, substrate mixes, and as an additive component in organic fertilizer formulations. Both whole and ground cacao shells are used within professional cultivation systems.

Cacao shells: what are they for?

Cacao shells are ideal as a natural ground cover and soil improver. With an average NPK value of 3-1-3, with potassium content up to 6, this moisture-regulating product also has a considerable fertilizing value. Cacao shells can absorb a lot of water, hold it for a while, and then release it very gradually to the soil. This prevents dehydration. And because water cannot evaporate under the cacao shells, the soil remains wet and nutritious for longer.

The cacao shell contains a lot of plant nutrients, which are released gradually. As a result, plants receive nutrients over a longer period. And the beneficial fungi that form after a while on and below the cacao shells also serve as nourishment for the plants. The special structure of the cacao shells ensures that soils never need to crave for air again. The cacao shells contribute to making the soil more airy.

Cacao shells integrated into the soil

A cocoa bean is a naturally grown, untreated product. This means the shell is a biodegradable biological and organic product. Cacao shells are not affected by the sun and do not discolor. Over time, they are naturally incorporated into the soil.

Ground cacao shells

Besides regular cacao shells, we also supply ground cacao shells as a raw material for fertilizer producers. These are mixed with other substrates. In mushroom cultivation, the use of cacao shells as organic matter is frequently seen.

Storing cacao shells

To prevent mold formation, we advise storing cacao shells in a dry and covered manner.

Delivery of cacao shells

  • Available in two types: whole cacao shells or ground cacao shells;
  • Delivered in bulk, loose;
  • Minimum order: ten tons of whole cacao shells (approximately 70 m3), 20 tons of ground cacao shells;
  • Delivery is subject to the general terms and conditions of Cropenta.

Disclaimer: the mentioned values are average guidelines and may vary per producer, origin, and batch. For product-specific analyses, a specification is available upon request.

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