VRI 3 Kaju Cashew Nut Anacardium Fruit Plant

The VRI 3 cashew is a high-yielding, improved variety developed by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) at the Regional Research Station in Vridhachalam. It is a popular choice for both commercial plantations and home gardens due to its reliable productivity and export-quality nuts.
The VRI 3 cashew is a high-yielding, improved variety developed by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) at the Regional Research Station in Vridhachalam. It is a popular choice for both commercial plantations and home gardens due to its reliable productivity and export-quality nuts.Key CharacteristicsFeatureDescriptionOriginSelection from a seedling progeny (Tree No. 1668) from Kattupalli, Tamil Nadu.Growth HabitCompact canopy with moderate tree height; ideal for high-density planting.Nut WeightMedium-sized, averaging 7.18g per nut.Kernel GradeHigh quality, typically falling into the W210 export grade.Shelling %Approximately 29.1% (a measure of usable kernel to total nut weight).Apple ColorPinkish-yellow to red at maturity; pear-shaped with high juice content.Yield and PerformanceAverage Yield: Approximately 11.68 kg to 18.10 kg per tree per year under optimal conditions.Early Bearing: It is an early-maturing variety, often starting to yield fruits within 3 to 4 years after planting.Harvest Season: Flowering typically occurs between January and May, with harvesting taking place from April to June.Adaptability: It is highly hardy and thrives in red loam, laterite, and sandy soils. It is particularly well-suited for tropical and semi-tropical regions with well-defined dry seasons.Management HighlightsDensity: While traditionally planted at 7m x 7m, it is now frequently used in High-Density (HDP) and Ultra-High-Density (U-HDP) systems (up to 1,600 plants/ha) to maximize yield per unit area.Pruning: Regular canopy management is recommended to maintain its compact shape and encourage the growth of new flowering shoots.Pest Resistance: Shows moderate tolerance to the Tea Mosquito Bug (a common cashew pest) and is notably drought-resistant.