Process Flowchart

From the moment a coffee tree is planted, it requires patience and care before it begins to produce its first fruits. Typically, it takes about three to four years for a young coffee tree to mature and start bearing cherries. These cherries, which contain the coffee beans we know and love, undergo several stages of growth and ripening. At first, they are small and green, gradually turning a deep, bright red when they are fully ripe and ready for harvest — a sign that the beans inside have reached their ideal quality.

The method of harvesting largely depends on the geography of the coffee-growing region. Where many coffee plantations are located on wide, flat stretches of land, harvesting has become highly mechanized. Large machines are used to efficiently collect ripe cherries, allowing farmers to manage vast plantations and maintain consistent yields.

In contrast, in most other coffee-producing countries such as Ethiopia, Colombia, and Kenya, the terrain is far more rugged, with plantations often spread across hilly or mountainous areas. In these regions, coffee is still primarily harvested by hand. Skilled pickers carefully select only the ripest cherries, ensuring high quality and flavor consistency. Though this process is more time-consuming and labor-intensive, it reflects the dedication and craftsmanship of the farmers who take great pride in their work.

Whether mechanized or manual, harvesting marks a crucial stage in the long journey from seedling to cup — a process that depends on both the natural environment and the expertise of those who nurture the trees through each stage of growth.