Some Observations on the Germination and Grading of Cashew Nuts

Abstract

~(J\1MARY A samule of unselected cashew nuts harvested in 1955 at Namanga Farm, Nachingwea, was separated into five density grades usingsugar solutions of different specific gravities. A study was made of the relationship of density to germination behaviour, and output of kernels after roasting. The results may be summarised as follows: (1) Nuts of greater density germinated more quickly than nuts of lower density. (2) Total viability was generally greater with grades of higher specific gravity. (3) Very large nuts were all of relatively low density. Their viability and rate of germination were poor. (4) Output of roasted kernels from grades of higher density was significantly better than from grades of lower density. (5) The percentage of sound kernels progressively increased with increasing specific gravity. The results suggest that a system of grading according to density may be of value in seed selection. and in preparing grades of uniform (wality for sale.