Growing hazelnuts can be an enriching endeavor, offering a combination of gardening satisfaction and the delight of a homegrown harvest. Start by selecting a variety of hazelnut tree suited to your local climate and soil conditions. As the seasons turn, keep an eye out for falling hazelnuts, and remember — patience is essential as it can take several years before you see your first harvest!

Choosing the Right Variety of Hazelnut Trees

When it comes to selecting the right hazelnut tree for your specific conditions, it’s crucial to consider the adaptability of different varieties to various climates and soil types.

For example, the American hazelnut (Corylus americana) is known to thrive in zones 4 through 9, making it a versatile choice for wide-ranging climates. This variety prefers well-drained, loamy soil, but can adapt to different soil conditions. Size of Corylus americana can also be a consideration, as it can grow up to 12 feet tall and spread wide if left unpruned. How soon after planting before you can expect a harvest? American hazelnut typically takes 5-7 years to start producing nuts, but it can take up to 10 years for a full harvest.

The European hazelnut (Corylus avellana) is another commonly cultivated variety, which grows best in zones 4 through 8. It is particularly suited to a mild and wet climate with well-drained soil. Size of Corylus avellana: 10-20’ tall, 8-12′ wide. Time to harvest: 3-4 years.

The Turkish hazelnut (Corylus colurna) is a hardy tree ideal for urban environments or poor soil conditions, as it is highly resistant to drought and pollution. This variety flourishes in zones 5 through 7. Size of Corylus colurna: 30-40’ tall, 20-30′ wide. Time to harvest: 4-5 years.

Lastly, the Beaked hazelnut (Corylus cornuta) grows well in zones 4 through 8, and is particularly adept at thriving in heavy clay soils. Size of Corylus cornuta: 8-15’ tall, 6-12′ wide. Time to harvest: 5-6 years.

Selection should also be based on your personal preferences for taste, yield, and resistance to common diseases in your region. Remember, while these varieties may thrive in certain conditions, success will also hinge upon proper care and management of your hazelnut trees.

Preparation of the Planting Site

Before planting your hazelnut tree, the site preparation is a critical step that you cannot afford to neglect. Choose a site that receives ample sunlight, as hazelnuts require full sun to produce a good crop. The site should also have well-draining soil to prevent water pooling, which can lead to root rot and other plant diseases. If your soil is heavy clay, consider amending it with organic matter to improve its texture and drainage. As for spacing, remember that hazelnut trees can grow quite large, up to 15-20 feet in height and width, so ensure you provide enough space for the tree to grow and spread without hindrance. Keep in mind that planting too closely can result in competition for resources and reduced yield.

Pollination of Hazelnuts

An essential factor to remember in the successful cultivation of hazelnut trees is the process of pollination. Hazelnuts are wind-pollinated and require a compatible pollinizer variety in close proximity for successful pollination. The trees are monoecious, meaning they produce both male (catkins) and female (tiny red flowers) reproductive organs. However, most hazelnut varieties are not self-fertile and will require a different variety nearby to ensure cross-pollination. The timing of pollen shed and female flower receptivity also needs to match for successful pollination to take place. It is recommended to have at least two different hazelnut varieties in your garden or orchard to enhance the chances of effective pollination. For larger plantings, strategic layout planning can ensure pollen is well-dispersed by the wind across the entire plantation. Remember, good pollination is a key factor in achieving a high-yielding and healthy hazelnut crop.

Hazelnut Cultivars for Cross-Pollination

When selecting hazelnut varieties for cross-pollination, it’s important to choose cultivars that bloom at the same time to maximize the success rate. Here are a few cultivar pairs that are known for being effective pollinizers for each other:

1. ‘Barcelona’ and ‘Butler’ – ‘Barcelona’ is a traditional cultivar known for its large nuts and high yields. ‘Butler’ blooms around the same time and contributes to a higher yield in ‘Barcelona’ trees.
2. ‘Ennis’ and ‘Hall’s Giant’ – Both these cultivars are known for their large, high-quality nuts. ‘Ennis’ is a late bloomer, and ‘Hall’s Giant’ also blooms late, making them an effective pair for cross-pollination.
3. ‘Daviana’ and ‘Webb’ – ‘Daviana’ is an early bloomer with smaller nuts, and ‘Webb’ blooms early to mid-season. These two varieties can provide a good cross-pollination match.
4. ‘Tonda di Giffoni’ and ‘Nutcracker’ – Both these varieties are self-unfruitful and require cross-pollination. ‘Tonda di Giffoni’ is a late bloomer, while ‘Nutcracker’ blooms mid-season, making them an ideal pair for effective pollination.
5. ‘Gunslebert’ and ‘Whiteheart’ – These two varieties are both known for their high yields and quality nuts. ‘Gunslebert’ blooms early to mid-season, and ‘Whiteheart’ blooms late, making them a good match for cross-pollination.
6. ‘Wepster’ and ‘Cosford’ – These two cultivars are self-incompatible, meaning they require cross-pollination to produce a crop. ‘Wepster’ is an early bloomer, while ‘Cosford’ blooms mid-season, making them a suitable pair for pollination.

It’s important to note that these are just a few examples of effective pollinators for different hazelnut varieties

Remember, the key to successful cross-pollination in hazelnuts is ensuring that selected cultivars bloom at the same time and are planted in close proximity. Consulting a local extension service or nursery can provide additional guidance tailored to specific regions and climates.

Planting Hazelnut Saplings

Planting hazelnut saplings should ideally be done in early spring, when the conditions for growth are optimal. The soil should be prepared beforehand, ensuring it is loose and free of weeds. Dig a hole that is deep and wide enough to accommodate the root system of the sapling. The hole should be about two times wider than the root ball and just as deep. Place the sapling in the hole, making sure it is straight, then backfill with the excavated soil. It’s crucial to leave sufficient space between each tree to allow for robust root expansion and canopy growth. Remember, hazelnut trees can grow quite large and the spacing should reflect this. Each tree should have enough space to grow without being crowded by its neighbors. After planting, water the saplings thoroughly and mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture. This early spring planting will give your hazelnut saplings a good start, setting the foundation for a healthy and productive orchard.

Watering and Fertilizing Hazelnut Trees

Hazelnut trees need consistent watering, particularly during periods of dry weather. The aim is to keep the soil moist but not water-logged, as overwatering can lead to root rot or other diseases. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable to light, frequent watering because it encourages the development of deeper root systems. Additionally, annual fertilization is essential to ensure your hazelnut trees have the nutrients they need to grow and produce nuts. Use a balanced tree fertilizer, applying it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, this should be done in early spring to provide the trees with nutrients for the growing season. Remember, healthy trees are more likely to produce a plentiful crop.

Pruning and Training Hazelnut Trees

Pruning and training hazelnut trees is a crucial part of their care. This should ideally be done in late winter or early spring, when the trees are still dormant. This allows you to clearly see the tree’s structure and effectively remove any branches that may be dead, diseased, or otherwise obstructing healthy growth. Start by removing any branches that cross or rub against each other, as these can cause damage to the tree’s bark. Next, prune any branches that are growing vertically or against the tree’s natural shape. This will help maintain the shape of the tree, promote more productive growth, and improve air circulation, which can prevent the occurrence of diseases. Always make your cuts at a 45-degree angle and just above a bud to encourage new growth. Be careful not to remove too much at once; a good rule of thumb is to prune no more than one-third of the tree’s total branches in a single year. After pruning, clean your tools to avoid the potential spread of disease to other trees. Remember, a well-pruned hazelnut tree is more likely to be healthy and produce a bountiful harvest.

Pest and Disease Management

Regular monitoring of your hazelnut trees for signs of pests or disease is a fundamental aspect of their care. Keep an eye out for any changes in leaf color, growth rate, or the presence of insects. If you notice signs of infestation or disease, such as yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or visible pests, it’s important to act swiftly.

In such instances, consider using organic pesticides or fungicides to mitigate the problem. Always make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for their use. Organic pesticides are generally non-toxic to humans and pets, but they can be highly effective against a variety of insects. Similarly, organic fungicides can help manage a wide range of tree diseases. However, prevention is always the best approach. By providing optimal growing conditions – the right amount of light, well-drained soil, and proper nutrition – you can often prevent many common tree pests and diseases in the first place. Remember, a healthy tree is a productive tree.

Harvesting

Harvesting your hazelnuts typically occurs in late summer or early fall, when the outer husks of the nuts begin to dry and crack open. This is a telltale sign that the nuts have reached maturity. When harvesting, it’s important to collect the nuts promptly to prevent them from falling to the ground and becoming a potential feast for squirrels, birds, or other wildlife. Once harvested, the nuts require a period of drying before they are ready for consumption or storage. Dry them in a cool, well-ventilated area for a few weeks until the inner nut rattles within the shell. At this point, they are ready to be cracked open and eaten, or stored in a cool, dry place for later use. Remember, properly harvested and stored hazelnuts can provide a delicious and nutritious treat for months to come.

How many years does it take hazelnuts to grow its first crop of nuts?

It takes approximately 3-4 years for hazelnut trees to produce their first crop of nuts. However, the yield may vary depending on the growing conditions and care provided for the tree during its early years. It is important to regularly monitor and maintain the health of hazelnut trees in order to ensure a productive harvest in future years. With patience and proper care

Post-Harvest Care

After the harvest, your duties aren’t over; consistent post-harvest care is essential to ensure the health and productivity of your hazelnut trees for the next season. Continue to water the trees regularly, especially if the weather is dry. However, avoid over-watering as it could lead to root rot. The aim is to keep the soil evenly moist. Regularly check the trees for any signs of disease or pests and treat any problems promptly. If the leaves fall, consider raking them up and composting them to prevent any potential disease spread. As winter approaches, you may want to consider applying a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. By taking these steps, you can help ensure your hazelnut trees are well prepared for the next growing season.

Conclusion

Growing hazelnuts can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience that yields delicious and nutritious nuts for many years. With proper planning, planting, and care throughout the growing season, you can produce healthy and productive trees that will provide an abundant harvest. Remember to choose the right variety of hazelnut tree for your climate, properly prepare the soil, and protect your trees from pests and diseases. By following these tips, you can successfully grow your own hazelnuts and enjoy this tasty nut for years to come. Happy harvesting! So go ahead and start your journey towards growing delicious hazelnuts in your own backyard. Remember to have patience and enjoy the process of nurturing these trees as they provide you with a bountiful harvest each year. Happy