The Plant Physiology division was created during 1963 to tackle problems of growth and development of coffee seedlings, flowering, and berry development. The Division studies the physiological processes that influence coffee growth under different climatic and soil conditions, developing practical strategies to address cultivation challenges emerging from climate change.

Its innovations include Single Super Phosphate (SSP) foliar sprays to improve flowering, herbal tonics and lime sprays for drought management, the CCPD (Cobalt Chloride Paper Disc) technique for irrigation scheduling, and shade management using LUX meters. The Division has developed nutrient foliar sprays, starch index assessments and plant growth regulator (PGR) applications to reduce premature berry drops, supporting more sustainable and climate-resilient coffee production.