How do you plant hazelnut trees

Hazelnut trees are a great addition to any garden or orchard. Their sweet and nutritious nuts can be used in many different culinary dishes or enjoyed as a healthy snack. Planting hazelnut trees can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. In this article, we will discuss the basic steps you need to follow to successfully plant and grow hazelnut trees.

Choosing the right location

The first thing you need to do is choose the right location for your hazelnut trees. Hazelnuts thrive in well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. They also require plenty of sunlight and protection from strong winds. Ideally, you should find a spot that gets plenty of morning sun, but is shaded from the intense afternoon heat. Hazelnut trees usually grow to be around 12-15 feet tall, so you should also make sure there is enough space for them to grow without being cramped.

Preparing the soil

Once you have chosen the location for your hazelnut trees, it's time to prepare the soil. Start by removing any weeds or debris from the area. Then, dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the hazelnut tree. Mix some organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure with the soil you removed from the hole. This will help to provide your hazelnut tree with the nutrients it needs to grow.

Planting the tree

Now it's time to plant the hazelnut tree. Place the tree in the center of the hole, making sure the root ball is level with the ground. Hold the trunk of the tree straight while you backfill the hole with the soil and organic matter mixture. Be careful not to damage the roots while you're doing this. Once you've filled in the hole, gently tamp down the soil around the base of the tree to remove any air pockets.

Caring for hazelnut trees

After you've planted your hazelnut tree, it's important to give it the care it needs to thrive. Make sure to water the tree regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. You should also fertilize the tree twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. This will help to promote healthy growth and ensure a good crop of nuts. Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring to remove any damaged, diseased or crossing branches.

Harvesting hazelnuts

It usually takes around 3-4 years for hazelnut trees to start producing nuts. When the time comes to harvest your hazelnuts, wait until the nuts have fallen from the tree naturally. Collect the nuts from the ground and remove any debris or leaves. Rinse the nuts with water and let them dry completely before storing them in a cool, dry place.

Conclusion

Planting hazelnut trees requires some careful planning and attention to detail, but the reward is definitely worth the effort. Follow the steps outlined in this article to successfully plant and grow your own hazelnut trees. With a little bit of care and patience, you'll soon be enjoying the sweet and nutritious nuts that these trees produce.