Farmer preference for macadamia varieties and constraints to production in Malawi

Abstract

Macadamia nuts constitute a vital component of both nutrition and livelihoods for smallholder producers in Malawi. We conducted a comprehensive mixed-methods study, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses, to explore varietal preferences and production challenges among these farmers. Leveraging cross-sectional data from 144 members of the Highlands Macadamia Cooperative Union Limited, our study underscores several significant findings. Our findings reveal that the majority of smallholder macadamia farmers (62%) are aged over 50, with farming as their primary occupation. Varied preferences are driven by yield-related traits, including high yield potential (38%), nut quality (29%), and extended flowering patterns (15%). Among the macadamia varieties, the top five choices, grown by over half of the farmers, include HAES 660 (18%), 800 (10%), 791 (9%), 816 (8%), and 246 (7%). Additionally, our study identifies five primary constraints faced by smallholder macadamia farmers: insect pests (81%), diseases (34%), limited market access (33%), wind damage (25%), and inadequate agricultural advisory services (17%). Based on these findings, we propose two policy recommendations to enhance smallholder macadamia production and productivity in Malawi and other regions. Specifically, we advocate for informed breeding programs that align with farmer preferences to promote greater adoption of macadamia varieties. Additionally, we emphasize the crucial role of the Malawian government in the macadamia value chain, suggesting active participation in providing extension services and marketing support, akin to its support for other cash crops.

Effects of Substrate Composition on the Growth Traits of Grafting Seedling in Macadamia Nuts

“…There were significant differences in the growth and development of different varieties of macadamia nut [17,18]. For instance, compared with Guire No.1, the plant height of H2 was higher, the diameter of the underground part of HAES695 was thicker, the taproot of A16, O.C and OV was longer, and the fresh weight of H2 was larger [19]. The HAES741 [20] genome analysis provides a good basis for yield component traits in macadamia [21].…”

Effects of Substrate Composition on the Growth Traits of Grafted Seedling in Macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia) Nuts

“…For instance, compared with Guire No. 1, the plant height of H2 was higher, the diameter of the underground part of HAES695 was thicker, the taproot of A16, O.C, and O.V was longer, and the fresh weight of H2 was larger [ 28 ]. When determining differences in nut size and quality, it was found that small kernels had higher concentrations of many essential nutrients [ 29 ].…”