What type of soil is best for cashew cultivation?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Cashews require sandy, well-drained soil with a pH of 4.5-6.5, since I lost a batch of saplings when I used dirt full of clay after my area flooded. After struggling with our Florida orchard, we had success by putting in 60% coarse sand and compost in the soil. Make sure to test the soil every year and add lime or sulfur to keep the pH levels in check.
Acidity Management
- pH testing kits: Check every 3 months
- Sulfur application: 1lb/100sq ft to lower alkalinity
- Coffee grounds: Organic pH balancer for containers
- Avoid fresh manure: Raises pH dangerously
Drainage Hacks
- Raised beds: 12in height prevents root rot
- Gravel layers: 4in base under container soil
- Sloped planting: Redirects monsoon rains in tropical zones
- Terracotta pots: Wicks excess moisture naturally
The process of rehabilitating heavy clay soils works quite well. A client of mine who operates a farm in Mumbai, India, was successful with his heavy clay soil by mixing in 6 inches of river sand into his beds. In containers, I usually put a layer of coconut coir underneath the soil, it slowly degrades but helps to enhance the texture of the soil. Just be sure to not allow roots to be situated in standing water.
Located in coastal India, the laterite soil is a natural fit for cashew trees. For those growing cashews outside the tropical region, there will be some improvising. For example, a project in Arizona used volcanic pumice to replace sand because of the porosity resembling its ideal sandy conditions. Monitor the leaves for color: yellowing could signal a drift in pH or a failure in draining.
Micronutrients are often neglected by urban gardeners. I experienced stunted growth in my earlier trials, due to a zinc deficiency. Presently I mix chelated zinc granules into the soil at the time of planting. With container plants, I administer foliar sprays every three months because roots confined into a small area often have mild deficiency issues.
Read the full article: How to Grow Cashews: Expert Tips for Home Cultivation
