Native to the lowland rainforests of South America, Theobroma Cacao is a fairly particular tree when it comes to growing requirements and soil science. Cacao thrives in climates with high humidity and requires an annual rainfall of at least 1500 mm. The tree will not survive outside of the 10-20 degree belt around the equator, where the conditions for cultivation are ideal. Cacao grows best in loose, coarse material (for good drainage and root growth) with high nutrient levels and organic matter content to at least a depth of 1.5 meters. The best soils are roughly 50% sand, 30-40% clay, and 10-20% silt sized particles (Mommer, 15) It is not a drought tolerant plant and needs consistent moisture for the roots; the tree will be at risk of death if it goes longer than three months without at least 100mm rain. Adversely, the tree is also sensitive to too much water, and requires proper drainage, otherwise problems such as fungus can develop. The nutrient requirements are mainly that of the three big micronutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium) in high quantities and slightly smaller amounts of magnesium and calcium.  Cacao will tolerate soil ranging from 4.0 to 7.5 in pH, but prefers just slight acidity, with an ideal pH level of 6.5.