Macadamia Farming: Tree Price, Nuts Price, Benefits, Seedlings & Yield
- BeyondForest
- Jun 23
- 7 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Aerial view of vast green macadamia Tree orchards by Macadamias Australia
3.)Macadamia Nuts Price in Kenya per KG
4.)Macadamia Nutrition and Health Benefits
8.)Common Pests & Diseases Affecting Macadamia
9.)Macadamia FAQs
processing costs — combined with limited processing capacity, labour/technology constraints, and government bans on raw exports — do put many Kenyan macadamia farmers under pressure.
Image of a Macadamia Seedling costing 300Ksh by Sow n Harvest Enterprise
Native to Australia, the macadamia tree (Macadamia integrifolia and Macadamia tetraphylla) has adapted extremely well to tropical and highland climates, making Kenya one of the top global producers today.
Image of Macadamia nuts, both shelled and unshelled by Sow n Harvest Enterprise
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Macadamia tree is evergreen, slow-growing, and long-lived, capable of producing nuts for over 40–60 years when properly managed. Macadamia trees thrive in deep, well-drained soils with adequate rainfall and cool temperatures, especially in Kenya’s highland regions such as Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Kirinyaga.
When the nut appreciated people developed new ways of selling them before maturity putting a chemical n hardening the nut then the buyer lost trust with the Kenyan product.The market is there.-Muthoni wa kariuki
Macadamia is one of the world’s most premium nut species, highly valued for its rich, buttery flavor and exceptional nutritional content.
The macadamia nut itself grows inside a hard, woody shell encased further in a fleshy green husk. Once harvested and dried, the nuts reveal an oil-rich kernel with up to 78% monounsaturated fats—considered some of the healthiest oils in the world. This high oil content gives macadamia its creamy taste and makes it valuable for premium cooking oil, cosmetics, skincare, confectionery, and snacks.
the government of Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) in Kenya has recently banned the export (and transit) of raw/in-shell Macadamia nuts.-The Star
AFA’s rule now prohibits exporting raw/in-shell macadamia nuts out of Kenya under the laws governing nuts and oil crops.
The ban is part of a larger push for local value-addition: nuts must be processed (e.g. kernels, oil, roasted nuts) before export to protect local processing industry and farmers’ incomes.
The government claims the move will safeguard quality, ensure better returns from processed kernels (rather than raw nuts), and support job creation in processing.
Globally, macadamia is also prized due to its low production rate; the tree takes 4–7 years to begin producing meaningful yields and requires careful harvesting and processing. This limited supply, combined with rising export demand, is what makes macadamia one of the most profitable nuts in the world today.
Macadamia Tree Price in Kenya
Image of Rows of young Macadamia green plants by Sow n Harvest Enterprise
The price of macadamia tree seedlings in Kenya varies widely depending on the variety, age, and source of the planting material. On average, grafted macadamia seedlings—the preferred option for commercial farming—cost between 250Ksh and 500Ksh per seedling in most certified nurseries. Premium varieties such as Murang’a 20, EMB 1, KRG 15, and Kirinyaga 1 may range slightly higher due to their superior nut quality, high yields, and better drought tolerance.
I would strongly advise any farmer who is into fruit trees(and nuts and berries) farming to always be patient. Even if markets get unkind sometimes, at one time the produce gets scarce and you reap well. Imagine the effort you put to get that tree to maturity. Be PATIENT.-Muriungi
Image of Rows of young Macadamia green plants by Sow n Harvest Enterprise
Non-grafted or seedling-grown macadamia trees are cheaper, often selling for 80Ksh–150Ksh, but they take longer to mature and produce inconsistent yields, making them less ideal for large-scale farming. Most reputable suppliers, including government-registered nurseries and private propagators, offer hardened seedlings aged 6–12 months, ready for transplanting.
On the retail side, Carrefour Kenya lists roasted macadamia nuts at KES 3,500 per kg (including VAT).
Another pack (150 g) of a branded macadamia on Carrefour goes for KES 505, which scales roughly to KES 3,366 per kg
According to wholesale data for raw macadamia nut in Kenya (2025), price is around KES 968 per kg.
Bulk buyers / wholesalers get raw nuts for considerably less (around KES ~968/kg), leaving room for value addition (roasting, oil extraction, export).
Macadamia Nutrition and Health Benefits
78% monounsaturated fats – the healthiest fat for the heart
7–8g protein
13–14g carbohydrates
Fiber: 8–9g
Rich in vitamins: Vitamin B1 (thiamine), B6, niacin
Minerals: Magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, iron, copper
Improves heart health – lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and supports healthy arteries.
Boosts brain function – due to high omega-9 fats and antioxidants.
Supports weight management – healthy fats keep you full longer.
Anti-inflammatory – reduces inflammation linked to chronic diseases.
Enhances skin health – macadamia oil nourishes skin and slows aging.
Regulates blood sugar – low glycemic index and high healthy fats.
Promotes good digestion – thanks to its high dietary fiber.
Strengthens bones – rich in manganese and magnesium.
Macadamia trees produce long, beautiful pink or white flower racemes that hang in clusters, each holding hundreds of tiny flowers. Flowering typically occurs once or twice a year depending on the variety and climate, with peak blooming seen in cool, high-altitude regions. Successful nut production depends on good pollination, mainly through bees, making beekeeping highly beneficial for macadamia farms.
After flowering, macadamia tree sets small green nutlets which gradually enlarge over several months. As the nuts mature, the outer husk becomes firmer and eventually splits open, revealing the hard brown shell that protects the kernel inside. The full development from flowering to harvest generally takes 6–7 months. Mature nuts naturally fall to the ground when ready, signalling the ideal harvest time. Consistent irrigation, proper nutrients, and pest control during this stage greatly improve nut size, oil content, and overall yield.
1.)Choose the Right Variety
Select grafted varieties like Murang’a 20, KRG 15, EMB 1, Kirinyaga 1 for high yields.
Ensure seedlings are certified by KEFRI or reputable nurseries.
2. Prepare the Planting Site
Choose deep, well-drained, fertile soils (loamy or red volcanic).
Avoid waterlogged or clay-heavy soils.
Ensure the area receives 1,000–2,000 mm rainfall or supplement with irrigation.
3. Dig Proper Planting Holes
Dig holes 2 ft × 2 ft × 2 ft.
Separate topsoil and subsoil for later use.
Mix topsoil with well-decomposed manure (1–2 debes).
4. Planting the Seedling
Place a stake in the center to guide straight growth.
Gently remove the seedling from the polythene sleeve.
Position it upright in the hole and refill using enriched topsoil.
Lightly press soil to remove air pockets.
5. Water Generously
Water immediately after planting.
Maintain regular watering for the first 3–6 months to encourage strong root establishment.
6. Mulching
Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Keep mulch 6 inches away from the stem to avoid rot.
7. Spacing
Use 7 m × 7 m spacing for commercial orchards.
This accommodates about 80–100 trees per acre.
8. Early Maintenance
Weed regularly to reduce competition.
Protect young seedlings from strong winds and livestock.
Apply organic fertilizer or compost after 3 months.
9. Pest & Disease Management
Monitor for stink bugs, thrips, and fungal diseases.
Use integrated pest control methods where necessary.
10. Pruning & Training
Remove low branches and suckers early.
Maintain a strong central leader for healthy canopy development.
It's an African problem where nobody want to go an extra mile ,we just want a few notes for the raw materials and also love complaining everytime, we as farmers we have also proved we are lazy to some extent, we just want to plant and be making good money...we lack a vision and mission hence ending up being just gamblers...-Murathe Kanyenje
The nuts contain up to 78% healthy monounsaturated oils, making macadamia oil one of the finest edible and skincare oils in the world. Cold-pressed macadamia oil is used in cooking, hair products, lotions, soaps, anti-aging creams, and high-end cosmetics. This makes oil extraction a highly profitable venture for small processors.
value addition significantly increases income for farmers, processors, and agri-entrepreneurs.
Beyond oil, macadamia kernels are graded and sold as raw nuts, roasted snacks, flavored nuts, nut butter, and premium confectionery ingredients. Broken kernels, which fetch lower export prices, can be turned into macadamia flour, cookies, chocolates, and bakery products—maximizing profits. Even the shells and husks have value: shells are used for fuel briquettes, activated charcoal, and mulching, while the husk is ideal for composting.
Common Pests & Diseases Affecting Macadamia
Good sanitation, proper drainage, pruning, and integrated pest management greatly reduce these threats.
Phytophthora root rot-Ochola
Trunk canker affects MRG-20 variety.Introduce KMB-3, KRG-15, or even KMB-9 varieties -Mugi
Macadamia trees are generally hardy, but several pests and diseases can affect nut quality and yield. The most common pests include stink bugs, which pierce developing nuts causing premature drop, and thrips, which damage young leaves and flowers. Nut borers and false codling moths also attack kernels during development.
Major diseases include root rot caused by Phytophthora, anthracnose, and botrytis blight, which affect flowers and young shoots.
How much does a macadamia tree seedling cost in Kenya?
Grafted macadamia seedlings cost 250Ksh–500Ksh, while non-grafted ones range from 80Ksh–150Ksh depending on the nursery and variety.
How long does a macadamia tree take to mature?
Macadamia trees start producing small harvests in 3–4 years, with full commercial production achieved at 7–10 years.
What is the price of macadamia nuts per kg in Kenya?
Macadamia nuts sell between 100Ksh–180Ksh per kg at farm gate, and higher when purchased by processors depending on the season and variety.
Which macadamia variety is best for Kenyan farmers?
Top-performing varieties include Murang’a 20, KRG 15, EMB 1, Kirinyaga 1, and other KEFRI-certified selections due to high yields and good nut quality.
Where do macadamia trees grow best in Kenya?
They thrive in highland areas such as Kiambu, Murang’a, Embu, Kirinyaga, Meru, Nyeri, and other regions with deep, well-drained soils and cool temperatures.
How many macadamia trees can fit on one acre?
Using 7 m × 7 m spacing, an acre accommodates 80–100 trees, ensuring good canopy development and easy harvesting.
Why are macadamia nuts so expensive?
Macadamia is costly because the tree takes years to mature, yields are limited globally, and demand for oil, kernels, and export products is very high.
What are the major pests affecting macadamia trees?
The main pests include stink bugs, thrips, nut borers, and false codling moths. Regular monitoring and integrated pest control help reduce damage.
Do macadamia trees need irrigation?
Yes. Young trees require regular watering for the first 6 months. Mature trees benefit from supplemental irrigation during dry periods to boost yields.
Yes. Farmers often intercrop with beans, vegetables, or legumes during the first 2–3 years before the macadamia canopy closes.
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