The soils that jojoba is adapted to in the semiarid regions of Arizona, southern California and northwestern Mexico are generally slightly alkaline and have native high potassium levels. Based on this, one might assume that for best growth, soils should have a pH of 6 or more and available K levels of at least 100 ppm. Apply enough dolomitic lime according to soil test recommendations to raise soil pH to 6. Approximately 10 to 15 pounds of potash fertilizer should be applied if available K levels are less than 100 ppm. Yield trials conducted in California have not shown any improvement in vegetative growth with the addition of nitrogen or phosphorus, therefore no additional N or P 2 O 5 fertilizers are recommended.
Work is underway to select for desired traits and plants suitable for mechanical harvest.
Weeds must be controlled early in the establishment of the plantation. No herbicides are registered for use on jojoba in the midwestern United States. Infestations of spider mites, grasshoppers, and thrips may result in yield losses. Fences may be necessary to eliminate browsing by wild animals who find the plant very palatable. This has been a major factor in the distribution of jojoba.