When to Plant Macadamia in Melbourne — Cool Temperate Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Australia's only commercially significant native food plant. Large evergreen tree native to QLD/NSW rainforest. Two species: M. integrifolia (smooth shell, commercial) and M. tetraphylla (rough shell, smaller tree, more cold-tolerant). Grafted trees begin producing in 5-7 years but don't reach full production until 12-15 years. Long-lived (100+ years). Beautiful ornamental shade tree with glossy leaves and pendulous white/pink flower racemes. The nuts have the hardest shell of any commercial nut.
How to Grow Macadamia in Cool Temperate Australia
When to Plant
Only warmest microclimates. Plant November.
- Soil
- Well-drained, slightly acidic, volcanic or basaltic soils ideal (reflecting native habitat). Can grow in sandy soils with organic amendment. Cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions.
- pH Range
- 5.0-6.5
- Sunlight
- Full sun for best production. Tolerates light shade.
Companion plants: Native understorey plants, Coffee (traditional intercrop in Hawaii)
Avoid planting near: Buildings too close (large tree)
Cool Temperate Growing Tips for Macadamia
Recommended Varieties
- M. tetraphylla only
Key Challenges
- Frost damage to flowers
- Slow growth
- May not produce commercially viable crops
Pro Tips
- Marginal for Melbourne. M. tetraphylla may grow as an ornamental but nut production will be limited.
- Inner city heat islands might succeed.
Harvesting Macadamia
When ready: Nuts fall from tree when mature (natural abscission). Husk splits or starts to brown. Harvest from ground - do not pick from tree. Harvest every 2-3 weeks during drop season.
How to harvest: Collect fallen nuts from ground. Remove husk within 24 hours (prevents mould). Dry in-shell nuts in single layer in shade for 2-3 weeks.
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