Growing Guide: Cashew

Plant Type:
Evergreen Fruit Tree

Harvest Season:
Winter 

Mature Size:
Up to 10-30 ft. tall

Soil & Moisture:
Rich, moist well draining-soil

Be careful not to over-water

Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade

Self-Fertile:
Yes

Growth Rate:
Fast

Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+

Propagation:
Our Cashew Trees are grown from seed and are capable of producing fruit within 3 years. 

 

Growing Guide for the Red Cashew Tree

Climate and Location

  • Ideal Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical regions with temperatures above 50°F. Protect from frost and cold snaps in cooler zones by planting in a container and moving indoors during winter.
  • Sunlight: Prefers full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
  • Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.

Planting Tips

  • In-Ground Planting: Choose a sunny, sheltered location with good airflow. Space trees 20-25 feet apart.
  • Container Growing: Use a large, well-draining pot with quality potting soil mixed with sand or perlite.

Care and Maintenance

  • Watering: Regular deep watering during establishment (first year). Reduce frequency once the tree is mature, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
  • Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during the growing season and supplement with micronutrients like zinc and magnesium for healthy growth.
  • Pruning: Trim annually to remove dead wood and shape the canopy for air circulation and light penetration.
  • Pollination: Flowers are self-pollinating but benefit from cross-pollination by bees and other pollinators.

Harvesting

  • Nuts: Cashews ripen on the tree. Harvest when the cashew apple is fully colored and the attached nut shell is hard.
  • Apples: Pick ripe cashew apples to enjoy fresh, juiced, or fermented into tropical beverages.

Propagation and Time to Harvest

  • Propagation: Grown from seeds or grafted saplings for faster fruiting. Our Red Cashew Trees are grafted for reliable performance.
  • Time to Fruit: Trees start producing nuts and apples in 2-3 years when grown under optimal conditions.

Add a tropical centerpiece to your food forest with the Red Cashew Tree and experience the joy of growing your own nuts and fruit. Whether you're a seasoned grower or starting your edible garden, this versatile tree is sure to become a favorite.

Shop Now to bring the Red Cashew Tree to your backyard and transform your landscape into a thriving oasis!