In Malawi macadamia nuts ripen during the main rains in January and February.
When ripe, the nuts turn brown within the husk, and drop naturally to the ground.
Harvesting or gathering the fallen nuts takes place frequently to avoid pest damage.
The harvested nuts can be spread out in the shade to air dry and during this drying time the nuts are dehusked.
When the kernel has dried it rattles within its shell when shaken. Only when dry can macadamia nuts be offered for sale.
Pictured are a smallholder family sorting a harvest of macadamia nuts and baskets of the beautiful fruit of their labours!
