How to Plant Your Own Hazelnut Tree from Seed

If you are a lover of hazelnuts, why not consider planting your own hazelnut tree from seed? It’s easy, fun, and can be quite rewarding when you finally get to enjoy a homemade hazelnut harvest. In this article, we’ll discuss the steps involved in planting your own hazelnut tree from seed.

Step 1: Collecting Seeds

The first step to planting your own hazelnut tree from seed is to collect the seeds. You can collect the seeds in the fall after the hazelnut trees have dropped them, or you can buy them from a reputable source online.

Step 2: Preparing the Seeds

Once you have collected the seeds, soak them in water for around 24 hours to help remove any pulp that may be sticking to them. You can then rinse the seeds and let them dry on a towel for a few hours.

Step 3: Planting the Seeds

You can plant hazelnut seeds in the fall or early spring. Fill a pot with soil up to 2 inches from the top and water it well. Then, plant the hazelnut seed around 2 inches deep into the soil, with the pointy end pointing down. Cover the seed with soil, but don’t pack it down too tightly.

Step 4: Caring for Your Seedling

Once you’ve planted the hazelnut seed, you’ll need to care for the seedling. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and make sure the plant gets plenty of sunlight. You may want to keep the seedling in a partially shaded area for the first few weeks to help it acclimate to its new environment. If your seedling has two or more leaves, you can transplant it into a larger pot or plant it outside.

Step 5: Transplanting Your Hazelnut Tree

When transplanting your hazelnut tree, choose a spot with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball, and gently loosen the soil around the roots. Place the tree in the hole, making sure it is straight and upright. Fill in the hole with soil and water the tree well.

Step 6: Caring for Your Hazelnut Tree

Once your hazelnut tree is planted, you’ll need to care for it to help it grow strong and healthy. Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. You may want to fertilize the tree once or twice a year with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.

Conclusion

Planting your own hazelnut tree from seed can be a great way to enjoy fresh hazelnuts right from your own backyard. By following these simple steps, you can grow a beautiful and productive hazelnut tree that will provide you with years of delicious hazelnuts.