Problems associated with durian in its intercropping with cocoa

Cocoa is compatible with durian, growing and fruiting well under durian shade. Many farmers who have the cocoa and durian intercropping system enjoyed good returns. However some problems surfaced recently which were related to the durian trees. They include pest and diseases such as Phytopthora canker and Rhizoctonia leaf blight as well as changes in fruit quality. It was claimed that these problems were due to the presence of the cocoa trees. This has resulted in some farmers removing their cocoa trees completely. This hasty action is incorrect because many of the problems were not entirely due to the presence of the cocoa trees. It has been observed that monocrop durian trees were also affected by similar problems. Although some of these problems may be slightly more severe under this mixed system, they can be rectified quite successfully with improved cultural and management practices.