Published Apr 04, 2024
Cashew nuts, introduced to India from Brazil, are now a top crop globally and a major foreign exchange earner. They're a popular snack in social gatherings, particularly in Western countries.
Cashew cultivation thrives in eight states along India's coasts. India ranks third globally in production and export. About two million people, mostly women, are involved in cultivation, processing, and marketing.
Cashews love warm tropical climates below 700m altitude. They need temperatures above 20°C and rainfall between 1000-2000mm yearly. A distinct dry season of four months is best for good yields,
Prepare land by plowing and leveling for agriculture clearing forests ahead of time. Terrace or make bunds on slopes and dig soil trenches for moisture retention. Complete before monsoon, ideally in May-June.
Plant fresh seeds that sink in water upright in loose, sterilised soil in planting bags. Plant 3-4 seeds per hole, thinning out weak ones later. Use deep bags (350-400mm) to accommodate rapid tap-root growth.