Manihot esculenta – Cassava / Manioc / Yuca

Growing Conditions in New Zealand

Cassava can be successfully grown in warmer regions of New Zealand, such as Northland, Auckland, Bay of Plenty, and other frost-free areas. It prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils and full sun. In cooler climates, cassava can be grown in containers or greenhouses.

Growing Requirements:

• Climate: Warm, frost-free regions
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy to loamy soil
• Sun: Full sun
• Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Propagation: Stem cuttings planted directly into the ground
• Harvesting: 8-12 months after planting; tubers can be left in the ground until needed

Uses & Benefits

• Edible Tubers: Used for making flour, starch, and traditional dishes like cassava chips, tapioca, and fermented foods.
• Leaf Consumption: Young leaves are rich in protein and can be cooked similarly to spinach.
• Resilience: Drought-resistant and adaptable to poor soils, making it ideal for regenerative agriculture.
• Animal Feed: Leaves and tubers can be processed as livestock feed.
• Carbon Sequestration: Helps improve soil health and biodiversity.

How to Plant & Care

1. Propagation: Take 20-30 cm stem cuttings and plant them directly in well-drained soil.
2. Spacing: Allow at least 1 meter between plants.
3. Fertilization: Minimal; organic compost or potassium-rich amendments enhance growth.
4. Pest & Disease Management: Generally pest-resistant but may be affected by spider mites in dry conditions.
5. Harvesting: When stems start to mature (8-12 months), carefully dig out tubers without damaging them.

Availability & Shipping

We offer cassava cuttings and rooted plants for sale, available for shipping within New Zealand. Contact us for bulk orders and growing advice.

🌿 Order Your Cassava Plants Today! 🌿

📍 Location: Grown in New Zealand

⚠ Caution: In cold, wet areas, cassava is prone to root rot and poor growth. Ensure well-draining soil and consider container or greenhouse growing in such conditions.