Hazelnut trees are the smooth operators of the nut world—sweet, earthy, and packed with flavor that can transform anything from chocolate to coffee into a gourmet experience. If you’re ready to grow a tree that’s not only a conversation starter but also a source of delicious, homegrown hazelnuts, then you’re in for a treat. Let’s get down to the nuts and bolts of growing hazelnuts that’ll make your garden the talk of the town.
Why Grow Hazelnuts?
Hazelnuts aren’t just for Nutella lovers—though that’s a damn good reason to grow them. These versatile nuts are used in everything from decadent desserts to savory dishes, and they’re packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. Plus, hazelnut trees are a sight to behold, especially in the fall when their leaves turn a gorgeous golden yellow. Growing hazelnuts is about more than just the nuts—it’s about adding a touch of elegance to your garden and enjoying the fruits (or nuts) of your labor.
Choose the Right Spot
Hazelnut trees are adaptable but thrive best in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0). They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. These trees are relatively compact, typically growing to about 15 to 20 feet tall, so they’re perfect for smaller spaces.
Soil Preparation
Hazelnuts aren’t too picky, but they do appreciate good drainage. If your soil is heavy or prone to waterlogging, consider amending it with organic matter like compost or planting in a raised bed. A little prep work goes a long way in ensuring your hazelnuts thrive.
Planting Your Tree
When planting a hazelnut sapling, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and water it in well. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep the mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Starting Hazelnuts from Seed
Want to take it up a notch and start your hazelnut tree from seed? It’s a bit more work, but the payoff is huge. Here’s how to do it:
1. Collecting and Preparing the Seeds
Harvest hazelnuts in the fall when they naturally drop from the tree. Remove the outer husks and let the nuts dry for a few days. For best results, stratify the seeds by placing them in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag and storing them in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 months.
2. Planting the Seeds
In the spring, plant the stratified hazelnut seeds about 1 inch deep in well-drained soil. Space them about 15 feet apart if you’re planting multiple trees. Water them in and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
Tips and Tricks for Growing Sweet, Earthy Hazelnuts
Growing hazelnuts isn’t just about planting a tree and walking away. You want nuts that are sweet, earthy, and oh-so-satisfying, right? Here’s how to make that happen:
1. Water Like a Pro
Hazelnuts need consistent moisture, especially in the first few years. Water deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry spells. Just don’t drown them—hazelnuts like moist soil, not soggy roots.
2. Feed the Need
Fertilize your hazelnut tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer or compost to promote strong growth and a healthy harvest. A little extra nutrition goes a long way in producing big, flavorful nuts.
3. Pruning for Production
Pruning isn’t just for show—it’s for productivity. Prune your hazelnut tree in late winter to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree. Focus on maintaining an open canopy to allow light and air to reach all parts of the tree.
4. Watch Out for Pests and Diseases
Hazelnuts can fall prey to pests like aphids, caterpillars, and hazelnut weevils. Keep an eye on your tree and tackle any infestations early. Diseases like Eastern Filbert Blight can also be an issue, so choose disease-resistant varieties if possible and keep your tree healthy with proper care.
5. Harvesting Your Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are ready to harvest in late summer to early fall when the nuts start to drop from the tree. Gather them up quickly—these nuts are too good to leave lying around. Once harvested, remove any remaining husks and let the nuts dry for a week or two before cracking and enjoying.
Final Thoughts: Get Nutty with Hazelnuts
Growing hazelnuts is a journey worth taking, from the first blooms in spring to the rich, sweet harvest in the fall. Whether you’re starting from seed or planting a sapling, with the right care and attention, your hazelnut tree will reward you with a bountiful harvest year after year. So, dig in, plant your hazelnuts, and prepare to enjoy some seriously sweet, earthy nuts that’ll make your garden—and your taste buds—the envy of the neighborhood.