Anacardium occidentale (cashew) is a tropical evergreen tree producing valuable cashew nuts and cashew apples. Native to South America, it now grows worldwide in tropical regions
Before sowing
Scarification
agua_quente Soaking in hot water for 10 minutes or cold water soaking for 24-48 hours recommended
Soak
24 h Soak seeds in water for 24 hours, change water once to keep fresh
Seed has hard impervious coat requiring pre-treatment. Soaking 24 hours in water most effective treatment
Sowing
Substrate
Well-draining soil, sandy loam, seed starting mix with vermiculite
Depth
1cm
Temperature
27°C
Moisture
media
Container
Pots with drainage holes, seed trays
What to expect
Step 1
Pre-treat the seed
Step 2
Sow at 1cm · 27°C
Day 4–21
Seedlings emerge (~81%)
Tips
Seeds lose viability rapidly after harvest; use fresh seeds within 4 months for best results. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent rot. Germination ranges 4-21 days depending on conditions. Avoid direct sunlight during germination to prevent seedling leaf burn. Maintain warm temperatures above 20°C minimum
Sources: tropical.theferns.info, The Seed Vine, Agri Farming, Sheffield's Seed, global scientific journal, UF/IFAS
