How to Grow Macadamia

Updated June 2026

A warm-season fruit for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Macadamia is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Macadamia in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the macadamia page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Beaumont, Reliable, productive cultivar (Florida nurseries)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 23 ft between plants.
• Sowing: sow about 16 in deep.
• Water: roughly 4 gal per plant every 4 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Nut borer and Stink bug. In humid regions, Husk spot and Phytophthora can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Macadamia is usually ready to harvest within roughly 49 months once established. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant macadamia where you garden.

See also: Macadamia in the plant library →

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