In the topical region cashew farming is indeed a successful one. Due to its wide popularity and use in multi-cuisine ‘caju badam’ or nuts are always ahead in the list. As nuts farming is not a very common practice in our society a beginner might find some difficulties while starting a farm of own. Basic guidelines which might ease the journey are shared:
Climate:
The cashew grows well in the area with 1000 to 2000 mm and temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The temperature exceeding 36 degrees Celsius might harm the crop while fruiting.
Selection of the Variety:
Cultivating cashews offers a wide range of varieties to choose from. Selecting dwarf variety can be always a good option as it is highly productive and fruits faster than others.
Land Preparation:
Cashews can be grown in almost any type of soil due to their capability to adapt without harming the production. Still, the fertile soil, and deep, well-drained sandy loams without a hard pan are the best. The pH of the soil is to be maintained maximum of 8.0 for optimal productivity. The land should be prepared before the arrival of the monsoon in a square pattern with a distance of 7 to 9 meters. 7.5 x 7.5 m is suggestive.
Fertilizing:
Application of 10-15 kg of farmyard manure per plant is recommended to ensure adequate organic matter in the soil. Chemical fertilizers recommended for a mature cashew tree are 1.1 kg urea, 750 grams single super phosphate and 200 grams muriate of potash.
Harvesting:
Cashew plants start bearing after 3 years of planting, and they reach full bearing stage during the 10th year. Additionally, counting gives remunerative yields for another 20 years. The cashew nuts are generally harvested from February to May. Harvesting generally consists of picking nuts that have dropped to the ground after maturing.
