Integrated production and protection practices of cashew (Anacardium occidentale) in Nigeria

The history of cashew in Nigeria dates back to 15th century. Then, it was mainly used in afforestation schemes for the control of erosion in the former Eastern Nigeria. However, commercial cashew plantations started in Nigeria in the early 1950s with the establishment of first commercial plantations at Oghe, Oji and Mbala by the defunct Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation (ENDC) and Iwo, Eruwa and Upper Ogun by the defunct Western Nigeria Development Corporation (WNDC). From these locations, the planting of the crop spread to other parts of Nigeria particularly the Central and Northern States of Nigeria. Cashew is an emerging commodity crop whose cultivation cuts across the seven agro-ecologies in Nigeria. In each of the 27 cashew producing states in Nigeria, the numerical strength of the farmers is astronomically increasing, while the crop’s hectarage is correspondingly on the increase. Cashew was generally believed to be almost free from serious pest problems, until recently when large plantations were established, resulting in the discovery of many insect pest and diseases attacking different parts of the plant. This therefore, necessitated a comprehensive evaluation of cashew production and protection packages so as to ensure sustained interests in the crop’s cultivation and to encourage the prospecting cashew farmers.