2026 Planting Guide
Summer cropWhen to Plant Coffee in India
Complete guide to growing coffee in India with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from national agricultural research organizations and FAO.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the coffee growing season in India.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
18°C (64°F) minimum
Growing Period
730-1095 days (first harvest year 3)
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
N/A
Tropical climate
First Fall Frost
N/A
No frost risk
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing coffee in India.
January - February
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
March - May
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
June - August
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
September - October
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
November - December
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
Best Coffee Varieties for India
These varieties have proven performance in India's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Selection 795 | India climate |
| 2 | Chandragiri | India climate |
| 3 | Cauvery (Catimor) | India climate |
| 4 | SLN 9 | India climate |
| 5 | CxR | India climate |
Growing Tips for India
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced India farmers.
Karnataka (Coorg, Chikmagalur, Hassan) produces 70%+ of Indian coffee
Shade-grown under native trees is traditional system
Plant at onset of SW monsoon (June-July)
White stem borer is #1 pest — use cultural control + Chlorpyriphos
India produces both Arabica and Robusta (60% Robusta)
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Coffee berry borer
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Coffee leaf rust
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Stem borer
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Root-knot nematode
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Antestia bug
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside coffee, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
No Frost Risk
India has a tropical or subtropical climate. Frost is generally not a concern, but altitude-dependent cold spells can occur in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant coffee in India?
The optimal planting window for coffee in India is June 1 to August 31. Soil temperature should reach at least 18°C (64°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 730-1095 days (first harvest year 3).
What varieties of coffee grow best in India?
The best varieties for India include Selection 795, Chandragiri, Cauvery (Catimor), SLN 9, CxR. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest coffee in India?
The harvest window for coffee in India is typically November 1 to February 28. The crop takes 730-1095 days (first harvest year 3) from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), state agricultural universities, and FAO India. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.