How to Plant American Hazelnut Trees

American hazelnut trees are a popular choice for home gardeners due to their tasty and nutritious nuts. These trees are also attractive, making them a great addition to any landscape. If you're interested in planting an American hazelnut tree in your yard, follow the steps below to ensure success.

Choose the Right Location

The first step in planting an American hazelnut tree is selecting the right location. Hazelnut trees require well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight to thrive. Look for a spot in your yard that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day and has soil that drains well.

It's also important to consider how much space your hazelnut tree will need. These trees can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, so make sure you choose a location that allows them to spread out without overcrowding other plants or structures.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting your hazelnut tree, you'll need to prepare the soil. Start by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris from the area where you plan to plant. Then, use a shovel to loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches. This will help the roots of your hazelnut tree to penetrate deeply and establish a strong foundation.

If your soil is particularly sandy or clay-like, consider adding compost or other organic matter to improve its structure and fertility.

Plant the Tree

The next step is to plant your hazelnut tree. Start by digging a hole that is twice as wide as the tree's root ball and just as deep. Then, gently set the tree in the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.

Fill in the hole with soil, gently firming the soil around the tree as you go. Water the tree thoroughly to help settle the soil and remove any air pockets.

Care for Your Tree

Once your hazelnut tree is planted, it's important to care for it properly to ensure its health and longevity. Here are some tips to get you started:

Water your tree regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Hazelnut trees prefer moist soil but don't like to be waterlogged.

Fertilize your tree once a year, ideally in the spring before new growth begins. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Prune your tree regularly to promote good branch structure and fruit production. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and prune back any growth that exceeds your desired size.

Protect your tree from pests and diseases by keeping the area around it clean and using natural pest control methods as needed.

Harvest Your Nuts

After a few years of growth, your hazelnut tree should start producing nuts. The nuts will start to ripen in late summer or early fall, depending on your location.

To harvest your nuts, simply wait until they start to fall from the tree. You can also shake the branches gently to encourage the nuts to drop. Collect them in a basket and remove any debris or shells before eating or storing.

Conclusion

Planting an American hazelnut tree can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. With the right care and attention, your tree will provide you with delicious nuts for years to come. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your tree grows strong and healthy in your yard.