How Far Apart Do You Plant Hazelnut Trees?
If you are considering planting hazelnut trees, one of the questions you may be asking is how far apart to plant them. The answer depends on several factors, including the specific variety of hazelnut tree you choose, the size of your planting area, and your goals for your hazelnut orchard. Here is some information to help guide you in making the best decisions for planting your hazelnut trees.
Consider Your Hazelnut Tree Variety
The first factor to consider when determining how far apart to plant your hazelnut trees is the specific variety you have chosen. Some hazelnut trees, such as the Barcelona variety, can grow up to 5 meters tall and can have a spread of 4 meters. Other varieties, such as the Wepster variety, are smaller and may only grow to 3 meters tall with a smaller spread.
Knowing the size of the tree will help you determine how much space to leave between each tree. Trees that will grow larger will need more space than smaller ones. A general rule is to plant hazelnut trees 4 to 6 meters apart. This spacing will allow for the trees to grow and develop without their branches touching or crowding each other.
Consider Your Planting Area
The size of your planting area will also impact how far apart you should plant your hazelnut trees. If you have a smaller area, such as a home garden or small orchard, you may need to plant your trees closer together to maximize space. In this case, planting trees 3 to 4 meters apart may be appropriate. In a larger orchard setting, where space is less of a concern, you can space trees farther apart, which will reduce competition for resources such as water and nutrients.
Consider Your Goals For Your Hazelnut Orchard
Finally, your goals for your hazelnut orchard will also play a role in determining your planting distance. If you are hoping to create a commercial orchard where you will be harvesting nuts, you will need to plant your trees far enough apart to accommodate machinery used for harvest. In this case, it may be appropriate to plant trees 5 to 6 meters apart in rows that are 1 to 1.5 meters apart.
If you are planting trees with the goal of creating a beautiful landscape, you may want to plant them closer together to create a more densely planted look. This will depend on your personal style and preferences.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the distance you should plant your hazelnut trees depends on several factors, including your chosen variety, the size of your planting area, and your goals for your orchard. Generally, hazelnut trees should be planted 4 to 6 meters apart, but this can be adjusted based on your specific situation. Remember to keep in mind the eventual size of your trees, the space your planting area allows for, and your ultimate goals for your hazelnut orchard. By considering these factors, you can create a beautiful and productive hazelnut orchard that meets your specific needs.