Frequently asked questions.

Can my trees be uniquely identified in the field?

Yes. Your trees are individually marked on your land and recorded in our database.

How do you choose where to plant your trees?

Before buying any new land, soil reports and bore-hole tests are taken by qualified professionals and the results studied to see the suitability of the soil for the trees we are planting. Different species require different soil conditions and we will always select the most suitable species of tree for the land purchased.

Who owns the trees?

As the tree owner, you do.

What reports will I receive?

Once a year, you will receive a foresters report detailing the growth of your trees with appropriate, individual recommendation that may need to be taken. You will also receive a report on the planned no of trees to be harvested – which you can amend at any time. After each harvest you will receive a record of the number of trees harvested, the processing and management fees taken and your net proceeds from the harvest. You may request as many foresters reports as required.

Can I see my trees?

Yes, you are welcome to come and see your trees at any time. Costa Rica is a fantastic location for a holiday with a very diverse range of actiities avaliable to all ages of traveler. Please contact us for more information.

Is there a minimum order?

Yes, please speak to your advisor before ordering.

When are the trees planted?

Normally early June to September, (once the rains are more regular).

When will the first harvest be?

This depends on your chosen species. Teaks first commercial harvest is normally in the 5–7th year after field-planting, but will depend on the growth of your trees as well as your own personal preference. Formaleta is a faster growing timber with it’s first commercial harvest after just 3 years.

Can I redeem my investment?

Yes, there are two main methods - you can sell your investment as an appreciating asset. – In this instance you would be selling your remaining trees to another investor. The market for mature hardwood trees is very strong as the trees are that much nearer to harvest. You are more likely to get higher returns choosing this option than to harvest your trees. Or, you can choose to harvest your trees. – You are free to harvest some or all of your trees at any time you choose. If you wish us to harvest your trees early, simply inform us of your requirements and we will take the necessary action.

Are you cutting down existing forests to plant trees?

No. We plant trees only in areas which have been previously deforested - primarily former pasture land. We are carefully preserving existing natural rainforest on our plantations.

Why can it take 6 months to get my ownership documents?

Cropping contracts are issued almost immediately, however saplings can only be transferred to the field at certain times of the year, so the delay is due to seasonal fluctuations and to ensure any losses in the first 6 months are borne by us.

How politically stable is Costa Rica?

The World Bank has given Costa Rica an excellent bill of overall political and economic health. At its annual conference in El Salvador, the bank lauded the country as possessing “one of the most stable and robust” democracies in Latin America. It went on to praise Costa Rica’s “healthy economic growth rate” and “some of the best social indicators” on the continent. One thing that adds tremendously to Costa Rica’s stability is its lack of an army. Back in 1948, the country abolished their military in favour of spending on universal health care.

Do you offer any guarantees?

Yes, we guarantee to replant any tree that is not growing in a satisfactory condition for the first year after planting. This ensures no losses whilst transferring saplings from the nursery to the field.

Does Costa Rica suffer from hurricanes?

Hurricanes have occasionally hit the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica; however, our plantations are over 80 kilometres inland. According to records, no hurricane has ever struck this area.

Are forest fires a problem?

Forest fires are not normally a problem in the humid tropics due to the moisture content in the air. Appropriate measures are taken to prevent forest fire; weeds and vegetation on ground level are removed before the dry season, firebreaks are built between fields and 24 hour surveillance is provided by our resident foresters.

Is flooding a problem?

Flash flooding from storms may occasionally occur, but is not generally detrimental to the growth of the trees. Your trees are not planted in areas susceptible to long term flooding.

Will too many plantations reduce the value of the hardwood?

Plantations today produce less than 1% of the tropical hardwoods consumed in the world. Every year 50 million acres of rainforest are felled. It is unlikely that enough plantations can ever be established to hardwood prices from spiralling out of control.

Are there any diseases to be aware of?

There are no known problems with pests or disease within Teak generally. However, be reassured that your trees are constantly monitored and any appropriate action would be taken quickly.