Dwarf cashew tree resists drought and guarantees over 1,000 kg of cashew nuts per hectare in the semi-arid region

The dwarf cashew tree, developed by Embrapa Tropical Agroindustry, is establishing itself as an economical alternative for family farmers in the northeastern semi-arid region. Besides resisting drought, it is resistant to pests and diseases, ensuring productivity even in adverse conditions. Modern cultivation allows farmers to transform small properties into organized productive units, increasing the use of the fruit and generating income. According to the general chief researcher of Embrapa Tropical Agroindustry, Gustavo Saavedra, the dwarf cashew tree is the result of over 40 years of genetic improvement, with 13 clones currently launched. According to Saavedra, while extractive farming allows a maximum of 200 to 300 kg of cashew nuts, clonal material and proper management of the dwarf trees can exceed 1,000 kg per hectare, utilizing up to 50% of the fruit's peduncle. In some cases, producers in completely dry areas already reach 2,000 kg per hectare, without irrigation. The ...