Cashew trees cultivation and management practices in Nigeria

Management practices are the key determinants of the quality and quantity of agricultural products. This article discusses the management practices undertaken by Nigerian cashew farmers in the production of raw cashew nuts (RCN). It aims to foster the development of RCN production in the country. The paper reported the background of cashew production quality and quantity in Nigeria States where cashew is being cultivated, and trends in cashew production in the country. It also examined seed selection and other agronomical practices that are being carried out by the farmers in the country. This is to proffer solutions to the challenges in the quality and quantity of Nigerian RCN. Also, challenges on the adoption of improved cashew varieties were discussed. It was concluded that the majority of smallholder farmers in Nigeria carried out cashew nuts seed recycling in the establishment of new plantations and/or gapping (resupplying), and basic management practices are implemented for the establishment of cashew farms. Therefore, to ensure the production of quality and internationally acceptable raw cashew nuts in Nigeria, rigorous awareness campaign must be conducted to promote the adoption of improved cashew varieties and the renovation of farms among farmers. Good agricultural practices (GAP) training should be organized by the stakeholders in the cashew value chain for the cashew farmers.