The tropical Andes play a fundamental role for the food security of communities in the region. In the past, Andean agriculture could maintain a diversity of crops; however, the effects of climate change added to socio economic pressures have severely degraded these fragile ecosystems, with impacts not only on the communities located above 3 000 meter above sea level (masl), but also in lower surrounding areas. High-plateau agriculture faces severe climate conditions. In the Bolivian province of Omasuyos, located more than 3 800 masl, climatic phenomena such as drought spells, cold waves and hail are frequent during winter, putting at stake crop production. In response to these conditions, communities have developed a practice to ensure crops are more resistant to climate hazards. The bocachi fertilizer is an organic fertilizer based on natural ingredients widely available in the area. Its preparation is easy and relatively quick, it is effective in case of cold waves or hail, considerably securing yields even in extreme conditions.