Macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia)

A prized subtropical evergreen tree yielding world-renowned, rich, buttery nuts enclosed in hard woody shells. Grafted varieties adapt reasonably well to large 24×24 inch rooftop grow bags in Kerala.

They require slightly acidic, highly free-draining potting media (as proteoid root structures are sensitive to waterlogging during heavy monsoons), full sun exposure, and routine tip-pruning to manage canopy height, typically producing nuts within 3 to 4 years of planting.

Description

Macadamia is an evergreen tree grown for its delicious, nutrient-rich nuts. It grows best in warm climates with full sunlight and fertile, well-drained soil. Water regularly while young, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Protect young plants from strong winds and provide enough space for the tree to mature and produce nuts.

Recommended Planting Method for Best Results

For healthy growth and strong establishment, prepare a 2–3 ft deep pit. If available, place a layer of green leaves at the bottom. Mix 1.5 kg bone meal, 1 kg oil cake, 20 kg raw cow or goat dung, and 100 g urea with an equal quantity of soil, then fill the pit and cover it with soil.

Leave the pit for about one month, watering it daily so the mixture decomposes well. After one month, mix the contents again and add 100 g calcium or dolomite. Wait one more week, then plant the sapling.

If you need to plant immediately and cannot wait for the one-month decomposition period, do not add oil cake or calcium/dolomite; use only the soil, manure, bone meal, and urea mixture for planting.