Cashew Tree: It's importance in Africa

The environmental benefits of planting cashew trees are numerous. The presence of cashew orchards allows farmers to harvest large amounts of firewood from yearly pruning which greatly reduces stress on local forests by eliminating the need to cut down indigenous trees. Since Cashew trees grow well in harsh environments where other trees can't grow, cashew orchards allow farmers to reclaim unusable land. These orchards also serve as habitats for birds, bees, and wild animals that encourage biodiversity.

Cashew trees also help combat malnutrition since their apples have a higher vitamin C than oranges. Since this fruit does not have a long shelf life, it is always consumed locally ensuring that local people benefit from its consumption. Cashew trees also serve as great windbreaks which allow farmers to protect their crops from harsh winds which ultimately lead to higher crop yields. This in turn helps ensure that the farmer can feed his family.

Cashew trees also serve as a great shade structure for families living in the tropics. Underneath their dense crowns, people relax and hold social gatherings with protection from the hot sun.

Senegal and Gambia News | Cashew Information Vault |Green Caravan.com

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