Cashews
Premium export crop with exceptional long-term returns and growing global demand for healthy nuts and organic products.
Growing Requirements
climate
- Tropical coastal climate
- Distinct dry season required
- Temperature 25-35°C
Task Timeline
Total cycle duration: 36 months to first commercial harvest
Investment & Returns
Costs Breakdown
| Category | Amount (KSh) |
|---|---|
Land Preparation Per acre | 50,000 |
Seedlings Per acre | 60,000 |
Planting Per acre | 40,000 |
Tree Care Per acre | 80,000 |
Fertilizers Per acre | 90,000 |
Pest Control Per acre | 70,000 |
Tools Per acre | 40,000 |
Processing Per acre | 100,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 530,000 |
* Costs may vary based on location, season, and market conditions.
Expected Returns
Yield
800-1,200 kg nuts per acre at maturity
Price Range
KSh 800 - 1,200
Seasonality
Single harvest season per year
Common Challenges
Long Maturation Period
Takes 3 years to start producing, requiring patient capital investment
SOLUTIONS
- •Intercropping
- •Phased planting
- •Alternative income sources
Processing Requirements
Raw cashews require specialized processing to remove caustic shell liquid
SOLUTIONS
- •Processing partnerships
- •Equipment investment
- •Training programs
Market Access
Need to establish connections with processors and export markets
SOLUTIONS
- •Farmer cooperatives
- •Market linkages
- •Contract farming
Market Information
Potential Buyers
Export Companies
Price: KSh 900-1200 per kg
Requirements: Large volumes, Quality standards, Consistent supply
Processing Plants
Price: KSh 800-1100 per kg
Requirements: Raw cashews, Regular supply, Competitive pricing
Specialty Stores
Price: KSh 1000-1200 per kg
Requirements: Premium quality, Small volumes, Value-added products
Value Addition Opportunities
Roasted Cashew Products
Potential Return: 300-400% markup
Investment: Medium
Cashew Butter Production
Potential Return: 500-600% markup
Investment: Medium
Plan Your Cashews Project
Transform your knowledge into action with these practical next steps
Step 1: Assess Resources
Evaluate your land, water access, initial capital, and labor availability before starting your cashews farm.
Step 2: Create Business Plan
Develop a detailed plan covering costs, expected returns, market strategy, and risk management for your cashews farm.
Step 3: Implementation Timeline
Create a schedule for land preparation, planting, maintenance, and harvesting to align with optimal growing seasons.
Unlock Your Farm's Potential
Take the next step. Get expert guidance tailored to your specific needs and goals for growing Cashews.