Size does matter when it comes to your nuts; in Queensland smaller is better.

Scientists are going to look at ways to make macadamia, mango and avocado trees smaller while producing bigger yields.

The Queensland government is spending $800,000 on the Small Tree High Productivity research and says it's all about doing more with less.

Agriculture Minister John McVeigh says smaller trees are easier to harvest and farmers will save money while producing larger crops.

"Its a win-win for producers of subtropical and tropical tree crops," he said in a statement on Wednesday.

Researchers will look at number of horticultural techniques and take their cue from apple farmers, who successfully more than doubled their yields per hectare in the 1980s.

But mango, macadamia and avocado growers shouldn't hold their breath, as the project is expected to continue for more than 20 years.

However, Mr McVeigh says some benefits could be realised sooner and the findings could be applied to other crops, such as lychees and custard apples.