Cashew Nuts Farming in Kenya - Safi Sarvi Organic Fertilizer

Cashew nut farming

Cashew nuts (Anacardium occidentale) are increasingly being recognized as a high-value crop in Kenya. Beyond their rich taste, cashew nuts offer numerous benefits, including being a source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Similarly, they help reduce cholesterol, support heart health, and may assist in managing diabetes.

Both economic and nutritional demand drive Kenya’s growing interest in cashew nut farming. The coastal regions of Kilifi, Kwale, and Lamu are particularly well-suited for this crop, offering farmers a profitable agribusiness venture that meets both local and export market demands.

What are Cashew Nuts?

Cashew nuts are the edible seeds of the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale), a tropical evergreen tree native to South America but now widely grown in Africa, including Kenya.

Cashew nuts are attached to a pear-shaped fruit called the cashew apple, which is also edible and rich in vitamin C. The nut itself is encased in a hard shell containing a toxic resin called anacardic acid, which is removed during processing.

Nutritional Value: Cashew nuts are a powerhouse of nutrients, providing healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins (E, K, B6), and minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron.

Uses: Cashew nuts are consumed raw, roasted, or processed into products like cashew butter, cashew oil, and cashew-based snacks. The cashew apple can be used to make juices, jams, and alcoholic beverages.

Cashew Nut Farming Varieties Grown in Kenya

Kenya’s coastal region offers favorable climatic conditions for cashew production, with varieties specifically adapted to withstand local challenges, including drought, pests, and soil variability.

The choice of cashew nut variety directly influences not only yields but also the quality of kernels and their market value in both domestic and export markets. The main varieties grown in Kenya include:

Katcham Variety

Resilience: Highly tolerant to common pests and diseases such as powdery mildew and cashew nut pests, reducing the need for frequent chemical control.
Nut Characteristics: Produces medium-sized nuts with an average kernel weight that is well-accepted in local and regional markets.
Adaptability: Thrives in diverse soils along the Kenyan coast, primarily sandy and loamy soils.
Market Suitability: More popular in local consumption and small-scale processing due to its consistency and reliability.

Vanuatu Variety

Yield & Nut Size: This is one of the most commercially attractive varieties due to its production of large nuts with high kernel weight.
Shelling Percentage: Has a higher recovery rate of kernels (sometimes above 28%), which significantly increases profitability in processing and export markets.
Profitability: Preferred by exporters because large, whole kernels fetch premium prices internationally.
Requirements: Performs best in well-drained soils and areas with good farm management practices, as it is slightly more demanding in terms of care.

Mara Variety

Adaptation: Well-suited to the semi-arid coastal regions of Kenya, especially areas with limited rainfall.
Drought Tolerance: Known for strong resistance to dry conditions, making it a sustainable option for farmers in water-scarce areas.
Yield: Produces moderate yields compared to Vanuatu but is more reliable under challenging conditions.
Farmer Benefit: Ideal for smallholder farmers seeking a low-maintenance, climate-resilient crop.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cashew Nut Variety

The performance and profitability of cashew farming in Kenya depend heavily on the variety chosen. Farmers should evaluate:

Soil Type: Vanuatu performs better in fertile, well-drained soils, while Katcham and Mara adapt well to sandy coastal soils.
Climate: Mara is recommended for areas prone to drought, while Vanuatu thrives in regions with consistent rainfall.
Market Orientation: Farmers targeting export markets benefit more from Vanuatu due to its larger nut size and higher shelling percentage. For local consumption and reliable production, Katcham and Mara are the most suitable options.
Disease & Pest Pressure: Where pest outbreaks are common, Katcham offers a safer and more resilient option.

Climate and Soil Requirements

Cashew trees are hardy and adaptable, but for maximum yield and nut quality, they require specific climatic and soil conditions. Understanding these factors helps farmers reduce risks and improve profitability.

Climate Requirements

Temperature: Cashew trees thrive best in warm, tropical climates with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. They are sensitive to frost and extreme cold, which can damage flowers and young shoots.
Rainfall: An annual rainfall of 800–1200 mm is optimal. Adequate rain during the vegetative growth stage promotes healthy tree development. However:
- Excessive Rainfall: Excessive rainfall during the flowering and fruiting stages can wash away pollen, cause flower drop, and increase the incidence of fungal diseases such as anthracnose.
- Prolonged Drought: Extended dry periods reduce nut formation and kernel quality. Severe drought stress can also weaken trees, making them more vulnerable to pests.
Sunlight: Cashews are sun-loving plants. They require full sunlight exposure throughout the year for optimal growth and fruiting. Shaded areas significantly reduce yield potential.

Soil Requirements

Type: Cashews prefer well-drained sandy loam soils rich in organic matter. They can tolerate light soils but do not perform well in heavy clay or waterlogged soils.
pH Range: The ideal soil pH is between 5.5 and 7.0. Acidic soils (below 5.0) can limit nutrient availability, while alkaline soils (above 7.5) may hinder growth and nut development.
Drainage: Poorly drained soils increase the risk of root rot and fungal infections. Sloping land or raised beds can help improve natural drainage in areas with high rainfall.

Soil and Water Management Practices
To optimize conditions for cashew growth, farmers are encouraged to:

Conduct Soil Tests: Before planting, farmers should test soil fertility, texture, and pH. This helps identify nutrient deficiencies and determine the correct type of soil amendments.
Add Organic Matter: Incorporating compost, manure, or Safi Biochar improves soil fertility, enhances microbial activity, and increases water retention in sandy soils.
Mulching: Applying organic mulch around cashew trees helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed competition.
Irrigation Management: While cashew trees are drought-tolerant, supplemental irrigation during dry spells, especially at flowering and nut development stages, significantly boosts yield and nut quality. Drip irrigation is highly recommended for efficient water use.
Erosion Control: In sloped areas, planting cover crops or constructing terraces prevents soil erosion and nutrient loss.

How to Grow Cashew Nuts

Step-by-step guide on how to grow cashew nuts:

Growing cashew nuts successfully requires careful planning, proper land preparation, and consistent management practices. Below is a comprehensive guide that farmers in Kenya and other tropical regions can follow:

Land Preparation

Clearing the Field: Remove all shrubs, weeds, stones, and debris to reduce competition for nutrients and sunlight.
Tillage: Plow or harrow the land to loosen the soil, which improves aeration and promotes deeper root penetration.
Marking the Land: Lay out the field in a grid pattern to ensure proper spacing of trees. This allows for easy orchard management, irrigation, and harvesting.
Soil Enrichment: Before planting, incorporate organic matter such as compost, well-decomposed manure, or Safi Biochar into the soil to improve fertility and water-holding capacity.

2. Planting

Seedlings or Grafting: Farmers can use either grafted seedlings (which mature faster and ensure uniform nut quality) or seeds. Grafted seedlings are highly recommended for commercial farming.
Spacing: Maintain a spacing of 10 meters x 10 meters to accommodate the wide cashew canopy and reduce overcrowding. In high-density planting systems, 8m x 8m spacing may be used with later thinning.
Planting Pits: Dig pits measuring 60 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm. Fill them with a mixture of topsoil, compost, or manure to provide nutrients for initial growth.
Transplanting: Place the seedling upright in the center of the pit and cover the roots with soil, gently pressing to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.

3. Irrigation

Establishment Phase: Young seedlings require regular watering, particularly during the first 6–12 months, to develop strong root systems. Water twice a week during dry periods.
Mature Trees: Cashew trees are drought-tolerant but respond well to supplementary irrigation during flowering and nut development. Drip irrigation is ideal as it conserves water and delivers moisture directly to the root zone.
Waterlogging Warning: Avoid stagnant water around the trees as this may cause root rot and fungal diseases.

4. Fertilization

Organic Options: Apply organic fertilizers such as compost, farmyard manure, or Safi Biochar to improve soil structure and long-term fertility.
Inorganic Fertilizers: Use cashew-specific fertilizers, such as Topper or foliar feeds, to boost nutrient uptake and enhance flowering and nut setting.
Application Timing:
- Early Growth Stage: Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizers to encourage vegetative growth.
- Flowering & Fruiting Stage: Supplement with phosphorus and potassium to improve flower retention, nut filling, and kernel quality.
Soil Testing: Always conduct soil analysis before fertilization to avoid over- or under-application of nutrients.

5. Maintenance and Orchard Management

Pruning: Regularly prune cashew trees to remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches. This improves air circulation, reduces pest infestations, and shapes the tree for easier harvesting.
Weed Control: Keep the area around the base of the trees free from weeds, which compete for nutrients and water. Mulching with organic material also helps suppress weeds.
Pest and Disease Management: Monitor regularly for common cashew pests (e.g., cashew nut borer, tea mosquito bug) and diseases (e.g., powdery mildew, anthracnose). Use integrated pest management (IPM) practices, such as pruning, neem-based sprays, or recommended pesticides, to control outbreaks.
Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of young trees to retain soil moisture, reduce temperature fluctuations, and add organic matter as it decomposes.
Thinning: In high-density orchards, thin out weak or poorly performing trees after a few years to maintain optimal spacing.

Fertilization and Tree Care

Proper fertilization is crucial for the vigorous growth of cashew trees, strong flowering, and high nut yields. Farmers are encouraged to prioritize organic fertilizers such as those from Safi Organics, which improve soil structure, increase water retention, and boost microbial activity.

These fertilizers also enhance nutrient uptake by releasing nutrients slowly, supporting balanced root, canopy, and nut development. In addition, they promote sustainable farming by reducing reliance on chemical inputs, lowering production costs over time, and preserving soil fertility for future harvests.

Tree care goes hand in hand with fertilization. Cashew trees are vulnerable to pests such as aphids, stem borers, and leaf miners, making regular monitoring crucial to prevent severe damage.

Organic pest control methods, including neem oil sprays, pheromone traps, and pruning of infected branches, are effective in maintaining healthy orchards without compromising environmental safety.

Furthermore, consistent maintenance practices such as mulching, weeding, and pruning help conserve soil moisture, reduce competition for nutrients, and improve airflow within the canopy, thereby lowering the risk of diseases. A well-nourished and properly maintained cashew tree not only produces higher yields but also remains resilient against pests, diseases, and environmental stress.

Harvesting Cashew Nuts

Harvesting occurs when the cashew apple turns yellow or red and the nut naturally detaches from the apple.

Yield: On average, a mature tree can produce 3-10 kg of nuts per year, depending on the variety, care, and climate.
Techniques: Nuts are collected by hand or using nets to catch fallen nuts. Avoid picking green nuts as they are immature.
Post-harvest: Nuts should be sun-dried for several days to reduce moisture content before processing or storage. Proper handling prevents mold and spoilage.

Processing and Value Addition

Cashew nuts require careful processing before they are ready for consumption or sale. The process is labor-intensive and requires attention to detail to preserve the quality and flavor of the kernels. Proper processing not only ensures food safety but also opens opportunities for value addition, which significantly increases profitability for farmers and processors.

Shelling

The first step in processing cashews is shelling, where the hard outer shell is removed to access the edible kernel. This can be done manually using hand tools or through mechanized shelling machines, depending on the scale of production.

Manual shelling, though common among small-scale farmers, is time-consuming and poses risks from the caustic cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL), which can cause skin burns.

Mechanical shelling is faster, safer, and more efficient, but it requires higher investment costs. Ensuring minimal kernel breakage during shelling is critical because whole kernels fetch a premium price in the market.

Roasting

After shelling, the kernels undergo roasting to enhance flavor, reduce moisture content, and improve shelf life. Traditional roasting methods utilize open pans or drum roasters, whereas modern processors employ steam roasting systems that maintain consistency and minimize contamination.

Roasting also makes it easier to remove the thin testa (the brown skin covering the kernel), which improves the appearance and quality of the final product. The degree of roasting is carefully controlled to balance flavor, color, and nutritional value.

Value-Added Products

Beyond raw and roasted nuts, cashews can be processed into a wide range of value-added products. Cashew nut oil, extracted from the kernel, is valued for its nutritional benefits and use in cooking, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Roasted and flavored cashew snacks are popular in both local and export markets, offering farmers direct access to consumer-ready products. Cashew butter is a growing niche product, often used as a healthy alternative to peanut butter.

In addition, cashews are widely used in confectionery items such as chocolate-coated nuts, bakery goods, and dairy alternatives. Developing these value-added products allows farmers and processors to diversify income streams and tap into high-demand consumer markets.

Importance of Value Addition

Value addition is a key strategy in modern cashew farming because it shifts income from raw nut sales to processed and consumer-ready products. Exporting raw cashews typically generates lower returns compared to exporting processed kernels or finished products.

By investing in processing facilities, farmer cooperatives and agribusinesses can capture more value along the supply chain, create local jobs, and strengthen competitiveness in both domestic and global markets.

Meeting consumer demand for processed cashew products not only boosts profitability but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of the cashew industry.

Profitability of Cashew Nut Farming in Kenya

How profitable is cashew nut farming in Kenya? Cashew farming is considered highly profitable:

Yield potential: A well-maintained hectare of trees can produce up to 1,000 kg annually.
Revenue: With current market prices, farmers can earn a significant return on investment.
Factors influencing profitability: Tree variety, farm management practices, pest control, and market access.

Investing in high-quality seedlings and fertilizers, such as Safi Biochar, Topper, and Foliar, maximizes productivity and profitability.

Cashew nut farming in Kenya can be highly profitable, but factors such as variety, farm management, and pest control significantly influence productivity. According to research from the University of Hawaii’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, low yields and pest challenges are key constraints that modern farming techniques can help overcome.

Where to Sell Cashew Nuts in Kenya

Farmers have several options:

Local markets: Sell directly to consumers or retailers for immediate income.
Processing companies: Partner with companies such as Safi Organics for bulk sales and processing contracts.
Export markets: Kenya exports cashew nuts to India, Vietnam, and other international buyers.

Building relationships with reliable buyers ensures consistent demand and competitive prices.

Government Support and Resources

The Kenyan government and organizations provide support to cashew farmers through:

Training programs: Educating farmers on modern cashew farming techniques.
Subsidies and inputs: Access to seedlings, fertilizers, and irrigation tools.
Extension services: Expert advice on pest management, fertilization, and harvesting.

Organizations like Farm Africa also work with farmers to enhance production and market access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the current price of cashew nuts in Kenya?

As of 2025, the retail price for cashew nuts in Kenya ranges between KSh 1,115 and KSh 1,150 per kilogram. This price can vary based on factors such as quality, processing, and packaging. For instance, raw cashew nuts are available at KSh 2,249-2500 per kilogram at major retailers like Carrefour Kenya.

2. How much is a kilogram of cashew nuts in Kenya?

The price for a kilogram of cashew nuts in Kenya typically falls within the range of KSh 1,115 to KSh 1,150, depending on the quality and level of processing. For example, Simply Gourmet Raw Cashew Nuts are priced at KSh 2,249-2500 per kilogram at Carrefour Kenya.

3. How are cashew nuts grown in Kenya?

Cashew nuts are primarily grown in the coastal regions of Kenya, including Kilifi, Kwale, Tana River, Mombasa, and Lamu counties. The cultivation process involves:

Land Preparation: Clearing and tilling the soil to ensure proper drainage.
Planting: Spacing seedlings appropriately to allow for growth.
Irrigation: Providing adequate water, especially during dry spells.
Fertilisation: Applying organic fertilisers like Safi Biochar, Topper, and Foliar to enhance soil fertility.
Maintenance: Regular pruning and pest management are essential to ensure the health of trees.

The industry directly employs approximately 4,000 people and indirectly supports about 50,000 individuals.

4. What are the common cashew nut varieties grown in Kenya?

Kenya cultivates several cashew nut varieties, each with unique characteristics:

Katcham: Known for its resilience to pests and diseases, it is suitable for local markets.
Vanuatu: Produces large nuts with a high shelling percentage, making them ideal for export.
Mara: Adapted to the coastal environment with moderate yields and strong resistance to drought conditions.

Selecting the appropriate variety is crucial for maximizing yield and profitability.

5. Where can I sell cashew nuts in Kenya?

Farmers have several avenues to sell their cashew nuts:

Local Markets: Direct sales to consumers in nearby towns and villages.
Processing Companies: Partnerships with companies that purchase cashew nuts for bulk sales and processing contracts.
Export Markets: Kenya exports cashew nuts to countries such as India, Vietnam, and other international buyers.