Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Macadamia
Macadamiaintegrifolia,
M.tetraphylla
It is so satisfying to know that the most
delicious of nuts is also the one requiring the
lowest maintenance. They have a huge
growing range from the sub-tropics to the
warm temperate regions tolerating frosts to
-4°C. The
M. integrifolia
hybrids are more
effective in warmer areas whereas
M. tetraphylla
copes well with cooler
conditions. All, however, need a good supply
of water; more than a lemon tree. Most
cultivars available are selections or
intraspecific hybrids of these species.
seedling stock can reach to 10 m, while the
use of quince rootstock produces a smaller
tree.
Fruitingwood
Loquats produce dense clusters of flowers on
the current season's growth generally towards
the end of the shoot. Although not all the
blossoms will be pollinated fruit thinning is
essential for good-sized fruit.
Pruningtime
After harvest and in late spring to early
summer is the best time to prune. Twiggy
shaded side shoots can be removed, saving on
fruit thinning next year. Any correction of the
desired shape can also be performed.
Pruning in summer also has the advantage of
dwarfing the tree.
Train your macadamia to a single trunk and
encourage wide branch angles by removing
any side growths growing too close to the
main stem (see Figure 4.3, page 50). Keep
the main branches about 50 cm apart and cut
back the central trunk if it needs some
stimulation to branch. Macadamias produce
nuts on old and new wood.
Maintenance
Once a framework has been established very
little pruning is required. Thinning the fruit
clusters in late winter to spring will prevent
the tree bearing biennially and improve the
quality of the fruit. Loquats do need to be fed
well if they are to fruit well so don't neglect
the manure or the blood and bone.
Apart from this, leave your macadamia to
look after itself!
Shortening long shoots and removing dead or
crowded growth is all that a loquat needs.
Harvest
When the fruit has reached its deepest colour
(experience is the only guide) and gives off a
pleasant loquat perfume, cut your fruit from
the tree. They are easily bruised so handle
them gently.
Figure 7.4
Macadamias.
