The hazelnut is an attractive small tree or shrub that produces delicious nuts.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
The Europeanhazelnutis the common source of hazelnuts, also called filberts.
In addition to producing delicious nuts, they are valued for their ornamental value.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
The moderately fast-growing plant forms a multi-trunked shrub or small tree with a suckering growth habit.
For the pollination to take place, two different varieties of European hazelnuts are needed.
The nuts ripen in late August and September.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
European hazelnuts should be planted during theirdormancy period, preferably in the late winter or early spring.
Spacing, Depth, and Support
Space the trees 15 to 18 feet apart.
For planting, dig a hole wide and deep enough to accommodate the J-shaped root system.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Place a small amount of soil in the hole and spread out the roots.
Tamp down the soil and water deeply.
Because hazelnut trees develop multiple stems, staking is not needed.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
It will tolerate part shade as well, but you will see a decrease in flower production.
Its preference would be to grow in sandy loams that drain rather well.
Water
Keeping your hazel tree watered is important to ensure profuse flower and nut production.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Using this method will keep your hazel green and blossoming in even the driest of weather.
Temperature and Humidity
Hazels thrive in temperate climates inUSDA zones 4-8.
They dont do well when exposed to extremes, either winter old, summer heat, or high humidity.
But that is the only extreme they resist well.
For the amount to use, follow product label instructions.
There are many different varieties, popular ones include Jefferson, McDonald, PollyO, Wepster, and Yamhill.
Nursery catalogs usually indicate which varieties pollinate best with each other.
Harvesting Hazelnuts
Ripe nuts drop on their own over the course of a few weeks.
You may actually want this dense growth if you are using your hazel to attract wildlife and birds.
The cuttings are fantastic for all kinds of crafts, from basketry to wreath-making.
Be careful not to confuse suckers with lateral branches.
As they are propagated by vegetative methods, growing them from seed is not recommended.
Select cultivars that have been bred for resistance against the diseases.
Pests include scale and Japanese beetles which may defoliate the plant.
It takes about four years until the first light harvest.
Starting in the sixth and seventh years, you could expect a heavier yield.
There are several types of hazelnuts.
Plant breeders often cross the different species for the best nut quality and improved disease resistance.
