Late flowering has not diminished India’s raw cashew nut crop, with growers expecting a 15 per cent year-on-year rise in production volume, according to the Business Standard.
Indian cashew nuts are generally harvested from February to May, however early-season rain has meant harvesting in east coast states is not likely to commence until the end of March or early April.
Directorate of Cashew and Cocoa Development director Venkatesh Hubballi said the delayed start to the season was a blessing in disguise.
“There was a delay in flowering for the current year's crop due to rains till November in many growing regions in the country,” Hubballi told the Business Standard.
“However, the continuous rains have only helped in the fruit setting. Overall, the crop is positive for the current year.”
Harvesting of early varieties has begun in parts of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala and will continue till the end of May.
