Oreti Estate

Belco first got to know the Harries family a few years ago.

Boyce Harries is the 5th generation of the family to manage the two Chania and Oreti plantations. These two farms are the last remaining medium-sized farms in Kenya.

Both Chania and Oreti Estates specialize in washed coffee processing, Coffee cherries undergo a carefully monitored process of fermentation (18:00 hours), washing, and drying. The estates categorize beans based on size and quality, with primary classifications being AA (screen size 18+), AB (screen size 17+), C(screen size 16+) and PB (Peaberry, screen size 15+).

Water management is another key factor in coffee production. With an average annual rainfall of 700-750mm, the farms also implement sprinkler irrigation during dry periods, often irrigating overnight to optimize efficiency. The estates are part of a broader river system that includes the Karimenu River and Chania Rivers, providing a vital water source for coffee cultivation.

Boyce manages a seedling nursery that cultivates both coffee and commercial exotic trees. They use their own timber and actively plant eucalyptus. Additionally, they practice re-grafting for certain coffee varieties. The nursery includes a selection of coffee varieties such as SL, French Mission, Ruiru 11, Gesha, and Pacamara.

Over a century of farming has impacted soil fertility, so both estates focus on soil management and fertilization techniques. Pruning is done twice a year which helps control how the coffee grows for the next few months.