Growing and Caring for Hazelnut Trees: A Comprehensive Guide

by Jasmine August 24, 2024

written by Jasmine August 24, 2024

Growing and Caring for Hazelnut Trees

Introduction

Hazelnut trees (Corylus avellana), also known as filberts, are attractive small trees or shrubs that produce delicious nuts. In addition to their culinary value, hazelnuts are prized for their ornamental appeal.

Planting

When to Plant: Plant hazelnut trees during their dormancy period, preferably in late winter or early spring.
Selecting a Planting Site: Choose a location that receives at least 8 hours of full sunlight daily. The soil should be rich, well-drained, and slightly acidic (pH 6.3-6.8).
Spacing, Depth, and Support: Space trees 15 to 18 feet apart. Dig a hole wide and deep enough to accommodate the J-shaped root system. Place a small amount of soil in the hole and spread out the roots. Cover the top root with 2 to 3 inches of soil. Tamp down the soil and water deeply.

Care

Light: For optimal flower and nut production, place hazelnuts in a location that receives full sun most of the day. They will tolerate partial shade, but flower production will decrease.
Soil: Hazelnut trees are adaptable to various soil types, but they prefer well-drained sandy loams. Avoid densely packed soils, clays, or rocky soils.
Water: Water hazelnuts regularly, especially during dry periods. Established trees require approximately 10 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter each week.
Temperature and Humidity: Hazelnuts thrive in temperate climates (USDA zones 4-8). They do not tolerate extreme cold, heat, or high humidity.
Fertilizer: For best results, fertilize hazelnuts in the fall with an organic slow-release fruiting tree fertilizer. Follow the product label instructions for application rates.

Pollination

If you intend to grow European hazelnuts for their nuts, you need at least two different varieties of Corylus avellana to ensure cross-pollination. Popular varieties include ‘Jefferson’, ‘McDonald’, ‘PollyO’, ‘Wepster’, and ‘Yamhill’. Nursery catalogs typically indicate which varieties pollinate best with each other.

Harvesting

Ripe Nuts: Ripe hazelnuts drop on their own over the course of a few weeks.
Collecting Nuts: Collect nuts regularly before wildlife snaps them up. Alternatively, place a tarp or old sheet below the hazelnut bush and gently shake it to loosen the nuts.

Growing in Pots

Due to their extensive root system, hazelnut trees are not suitable for container gardening.

Pruning

Suckers: Cut away the suckers that all hazelnuts develop. Remove any suckers that interfere with the main branches.
Lateral Branches: Avoid removing lateral branches that shield the trunk from sun exposure. Excessive pruning can lead to prolific sprouting.

Propagating

Hazelnut trees are typically propagated by layering or grafting, techniques best left to nursery professionals. Growing them from seed is not recommended.

Overwintering

European hazelnut trees can survive winters as low as Zone 4. However, they bloom earlier than their American counterparts, so they may be damaged by unseasonably cold early spring weather. Select varieties that are hardy for your geographical area.

Common Pests and Diseases

Eastern Filbert Blight (EFB): This fungus causes cankers and kills the tree within a few years. Select cultivars that have been bred for resistance.
Pests: Pests that can affect hazelnuts include scale and Japanese beetles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a hazelnut tree to bear fruit?
- It takes about four years until the first light harvest. Starting in the sixth and seventh years, you can expect a heavier yield.
Can you plant just one hazelnut tree?
- If you are only interested in the ornamental value of hazelnuts, one specimen is sufficient. For nut production, you need two or more varieties that cross-pollinate.
Are there different types of hazelnuts?
- There are several types of hazelnuts. The most significant types for nut production in North America are European hazelnuts, American hazelnuts (Corylus americana), and beaked hazelnuts (Corylus cornuta).

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.