Propagated by spontaneously growing seedlings under mother tree or by seed (if seeds they should be pre-germinated and potted). Seedling growth is slow but gradually picks up under favorable conditions (a 60 cm tall seedling with one or two pairs of branches can be raised in about 2 years). Nursery conditions should include a freely draining growing medium with high moisture retention (mixtures including shredded coconut fiber, peat, sphagnum or pine bark) and high humidity and shade (cover the nursery beds with colored polythene tunnels). Plant young trees carefully to avoid root injury water heavily. Wide spacing is recommended as dense canopy may cause sunlight competition that impacts coffee. Fertilizer accelerates seedling growth. Trees should be irrigated almost daily during the dry season. Partial shading needed for 3-5 years. Can be regularly fertilized with "well-rotted" manure (45-90 kg) and peanut meal (4.5-6.8 kg/year). The most productive trees grow on the banks of streams, lakes, ponds or canals but before blooming and during flowering, dry weather induces a good fruit set.