Found some info on the Cocoa Shells;
"Cocoa shell is a natural fertiliser, containing 3 percent nitrogen, 1 percent phosphorous and 3 percent potassium, commonly referred to as an NPK fertiliser. The pH factor of the mulch is 5.8. Bark and wood mulches contain much lower levels of these nutrients. It also contains 0.5 percent magnesium which is a key nutrient for plants. It is 100 percent natural organic matter, which carries no health risk or fire hazard. It contains no dyes, and exudes a rich natural colour."
"Cocoa Shell Mulch is general purpose mulch for gardeners, both professional and amateur. It is used for horticultural & landscaping purposes, being ideal decorative mulch with it's deep attractive copper colour, and rich in nutrients. The rich colour contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green of plants and foliage, setting them off very well."
"Cocoa Shell Mulch is perfect for suppressing weeds and retaining moisture in garden beds and borders. It will also protect the ground from frost. Bark mulch and other variations only cost a fraction less than Cocoa Shell Mulch according to ************
.co.uk, and they lack many key benefits. Cocoa Shell Mulch contains natural slow release plant fertiliser and trace elements, which are very beneficial to your plants."
"The Cocoa Shell Mulch breaks down over time, rotting into the soil. This improves the structure of the soil and simply topping it up every few years will maintain the benefits."
"Also called Sunshine of Africa, Cocoa Shell Mulch is actually a by product of the chocolate industry, the shells being from the cocoa bean. This effective mulch will not only suppress weeds and retain moisture, but will also repel slugs and snails. Once the Cocoa Shell Mulch has been spread over the ground and has been watered or rained on once or twice, a crust will form which binds the mulch together. This crust helps to keep out the slugs and snails. Cocoa Shell Mulch gels into a sticky mat just below its surface and forms a highly protective layer if left undisturbed."