At its core, shade grown coffee is exactly what it sounds like: coffee grown under the canopy of shade-providing trees rather than in open, full-sun fields. You may be thinking, ‘ok, so why does this matter and why is it a ‘thing’ now?’ The same questions I had when first hearing of shade grown coffee. You know how we do it, pour yourself a mug of your favorite brew (grab some here!) and let’s get ready to mix two of our favorite things, drinking coffee and learning about coffee! If you’re in a hurry or your mug is close to empty already, head to the FAQ’s at the end!
Fun fact – at the time of this writing, we are working through bird friendly certs for some of the coffees you already enjoy!
☕ What Is Shade Grown Coffee?
We’ve already covered what it is, one of those ‘the name explains it’ sort of scenarios. Coffee grown under the cover of trees. This is closer to how coffee was traditionally grown, but not how coffee has been farmed as of recently.
Traditionally, coffee—especially Arabica—was grown beneath natural forest cover. This natural environment full of life more closely resembled the coffee plant’s native environment in Ethiopia. However, with the rise of industrial farming, many growers switched to full-sun cultivation to boost short-term growth and production. While that seems to make sense, it came at a long-term cost; that being the destruction of habitat and the ripples through the environment.
🌳 The Shade Grown Ecosystem: A Home for Plants & Animals
Shade grown coffee farms are alive with biodiversity. Unlike coffee plant only farms, these farms include:
Native trees and fruit trees; a shade-grown coffee farm includes a diverse range of tree species, not just one or two types. Diversity is essential because it supports a wide array of wildlife, including pollinators, migratory birds, and beneficial insects that help manage pests naturally. Some certification bodies need a minimum number of native tree species per hectare (usually around 10–15 species). A diverse tree canopy improves soil quality, stabilizes microclimates (think the small changes in temperature like the cool spots in the forest floor beneath a large tree) and creates a more sustainable farming environment. In contrast, monoculture shade (planting only one tree species for shade) lacks many of these benefits.
· One of the core criteria for shade-grown coffee is the presence of a multi-layered canopy of shade trees. Not all species of trees grow to the same height, this layered approach helps ‘fill in the holes’ to create a dense cover. A healthy shade canopy typically consists of at least 40% cover, though the percentage can vary depending on certification standards.
This layered approach not only mimics natural ecosystems but also provides best conditions for coffee to grow slowly, which improves flavor complexity. A true shade-grown farm doesn’t just have a few scattered trees—it’s an intentionally preserved or restored forest environment.
Birds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators - Another important criterion is that the farm functions as a workable habitat for birds and other wildlife. This is why organizations like the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center created the “Bird-Friendly” certification—one of the most stringent shade-grown certifications. Their standards require organic certification plus specific shade requirements, such as a minimum of 11 native tree species and 40% canopy cover. Farms meeting these standards serve as important refuges for migratory birds, especially in Latin American countries where habitat loss is a growing issue.
Bonus -Due to the improved biodiversity, many predatory insects are able to help with pest control, helping to reduce the need to chemicals for pest control.
All of the above works together to create a ‘working forest’ of sorts. Almost like a balanced ecosystem.
In fact, many shade grown coffee farms are considered (if you need a new word for the day, this maybe it!) “Agroforestry systems,” where agriculture and forestry coexist. These ecosystems preserve habitats for countless species, including migratory birds that travel thousands of miles to overwinter in the canopy. Challenge (sorry, this is no prize for this), work the word ‘agroforestry’ into a conversation today. The only reward being an expanded vocabulary!
🌎 Why Shade Grown Coffee Matters
Let’s look at the major benefits of shade grown coffee—both for the planet and your morning routine.
1. Biodiversity Preservation
Sun-grown coffee plantations often require clear-cutting of forests, leading to massive biodiversity loss. In contrast, shade grown coffee farms keep or even restore natural habitats.
A Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center study found that shade coffee farms can support over 150 species of birds—compared to as few as 5 in sun-grown systems.
2. Soil Health & Erosion Control
The root systems of shade trees help stabilize soil, preventing erosion. The fallen leaves and organic matter enrich the soil with nutrients, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
3. Water Conservation
Tree canopies help keep soil moisture and reduce runoff. This means less water is needed for irrigation, and nearby streams and rivers stay healthier.
4. Pest Control and Reduced Need for Chemicals
Biodiverse ecosystems keep pests in check. Natural predators thrive, reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. Many shade grown coffees are also Organic-certified, minimizing chemical inputs entirely.
✅ How to Identify Shade Grown Coffee
Unlike Organic or Fairtrade certifications, “shade grown” isn’t always regulated—so how can you be sure your coffee truly supports forest-friendly practices? Bird Friendly® (Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center): The gold standard. Requires Organic certification + strict shade criteria. As mentioned, at the time of this writing, we’re currently working through our bird friendly cert with the Smithsonian for some of the coffees you already enjoy!
💡 Quick FAQ: What You Should Know About Shade Grown Coffee
Q: Is all Organic coffee shade grown?
Not necessarily. While many Organic farms do use shade, it’s not required by Organic certification.
Q: Does shade grown coffee cost more?
It can, but for good reason. Shade grown coffee often has lower yields and more labor-intensive practices. The extra few cents support fair wages, biodiversity, and better coffee quality.
Q: Is it really better for the environment?
Yes. Shade grown coffee protects forests, birds, water systems, and soil—making it one of the most eco-friendly ways to grow coffee.
🤔 Shade Grown vs. Sun-Grown Coffee: What’s the Difference?
|
Feature |
Shade Grown Coffee |
Sun-Grown Coffee |
|
Environment |
Grown under trees in forest-like conditions |
Grown in full sun, often on cleared land |
|
Biodiversity |
High – supports birds, insects, and native flora |
Low – monocultures dominate |
|
Yield |
Lower but more sustainable |
Higher in the short term |
|
Chemical Use |
Typically, Organic or low-input |
Often dependent on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides |
|
Sustainability |
High – supports ecosystems and carbon sequestration |
Low – contributes to deforestation and erosion |
☕ Final Sips on Shade Grown Coffee
Choosing shade grown coffee isn’t just about the beans—it’s about a better way of doing things for sustainability, the environment and in some cases, the farmers too!
Every time you drink shade grown coffee, you're helping preserve tropical forests, empower small farmers, and enjoy a richer, more vibrant cup.
Good coffee that’s good for you and good for others. Truly, a good day to have a good day!
