Hazelnuts are a delicious and versatile nut that can be used in a variety of dishes, from baked goods to savory dishes.
But if you’re considering growing your own hazelnut tree, you may be wondering just how many pounds of nuts you can expect to harvest.
The answer is not a simple one, as there are many factors that can affect the yield of a hazelnut tree.
In this article, we’ll explore the different variables that can impact the amount of nuts produced per tree, as well as some tips for maximizing your hazelnut harvest.
So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
How Many Pounds Of Hazelnuts Per Tree
The amount of hazelnuts produced by a single tree can vary widely depending on a number of factors. One of the most important factors is the age of the tree. A newly planted hazelnut tree will not produce a significant crop until it becomes established, which can take up to five years. Once established, a mature hazelnut tree can produce up to 25 pounds of nuts in a single year.
Another important factor that can impact the yield of a hazelnut tree is the variety of tree. Some varieties, such as the Yamhill and Jefferson, have been shown to deliver twice the yield of other hazelnut trees. These varieties are also blight and cold resistant, making them a great choice for growers in colder climates.
Pollination is another key factor in determining the amount of nuts produced per tree. Hazelnuts are wind-pollinated, so it’s important to plant multiple trees in close proximity to ensure cross-pollination. Two pollen-compatible strains of hybrid trees should be planted in an orchard to ensure successful pollination.
The amount of nuts produced per plant can also vary depending on whether the plant is seed-grown or a hybrid variety selected for nut production. Preliminary research from Minnesota shows that between 4 and 12 pounds can be produced per plant annually, with an average near 7 pounds.
Factors That Affect Hazelnut Yield
Several factors can impact the yield of hazelnut trees. One of the most significant factors is the climatic conditions in which the tree is grown. Hazelnut trees thrive in well-drained, loamy soil and do best in frost-protected areas. Soil type, nutrient content, and traditional practices such as trimming and weeding can also impact the yield of hazelnut trees.
Another factor that can impact hazelnut yield is disease resistance. Eastern filbert blight is a common disease that affects European hazelnut trees, leading to reduced yields. Planting blight-resistant varieties such as Yamhill and Jefferson can help to mitigate this issue.
The timing of pollination is also important for hazelnut yield. Hazelnuts are wind-pollinated, so planting multiple trees in close proximity can increase the likelihood of successful cross-pollination. Additionally, planting pollen-compatible strains of hybrid trees can also help to ensure successful pollination.
Finally, the age of the tree can impact its yield. Newly planted hazelnut trees will not produce a significant crop until they become established, which can take up to five years. Once established, a mature hazelnut tree can produce up to 25 pounds of nuts in a single year. Regular pruning and maintenance can help to ensure that the tree remains healthy and productive over time.
Climate And Soil Conditions
In addition to the factors mentioned above, the climate and soil conditions in which a hazelnut tree is planted can also have a significant impact on its yield. Hazelnuts are best suited for moderate climates with well-drained soil. They cannot tolerate excessive heat or a long dry season, and are especially sensitive to drying in windy conditions.
Hazelnut trees are quite hardy, but satisfactory crops are produced only under moderate climatic conditions. Commercial hazelnut production in North America is limited to areas with moderate climates, such as the Willamette Valley of Oregon and the western regions of Washington and British Columbia. Catkins, which are the pollen-producing organs of the tree, become less cold hardy as they elongate and can freeze at 15°F (-9.4°C) when fully elongated. However, because not all catkins elongate at the same time, crop damage usually is minimal if there is a brief cold spell.
Soil type is also an important consideration when planting hazelnut trees. Hazelnuts thrive in well-drained, loamy soil but can grow in many soil types as long as the soil is well-drained. Nut production is best when hazelnut trees are planted in frost-protected areas to increase the likelihood of consistent nut production.
Hazelnut Tree Cultivars
There are many different cultivars of hazelnut trees available to growers, each with their own unique characteristics and yields. One of the most popular cultivars is the Yamhill, which has been shown to deliver twice the yield of other hazelnut trees. This variety is also known for its resistance to blight and cold temperatures, making it a great choice for growers in colder climates.
Another popular cultivar is the Jefferson, which is also known for its high yields and resistance to blight and cold temperatures. This variety produces a superior nut for roasting, making it a favorite among commercial growers.
Other popular hazelnut tree cultivars include the Barcelona, which is known for its large nuts and high yields, and the Tonda di Giffoni, which is a popular variety in Italy and is known for its sweet flavor.
When choosing a hazelnut tree cultivar, it’s important to consider factors such as yield, disease resistance, and flavor. Growers should also consider the climate in which they will be growing the trees, as some varieties are better suited to colder temperatures than others.
Proper Tree Care And Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of hazelnut trees are essential for ensuring a healthy and productive crop. Here are some tips to help you maintain your hazelnut trees:
– Pruning: Pruning is essential for the proper growth and development of hazelnut trees. It is recommended to prune young trees lightly and old trees more heavily, especially if they have shown little growth. Prune during winter, spring, or summer, depending on the desired outcome.
– Fertilization: Fertilizing young shrubs can increase both the size and the amount of flowers on the plant. Granular, liquid or stake type fertilizers can be used in a balanced mix like 20-20-20 or 20-30-20 or 18-24-16. Organic fertilizers, like manure, can also be used with good results.
– Soil Moisture: Hazelnut trees need adequate moisture throughout the growing season but can tolerate wet soils better than overly dry ones. Mulching the tree can help to retain soil moisture and prevent weeds from competing for resources.
– Protection from Wind: Hazelnut trees should be protected from strong winds as this can damage the branches.
– Pest Control: Hazelnut trees are susceptible to pests such as filbertworms, filbert weevils, and aphids. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides when necessary can help control these pests.
By following these tips for proper tree care and maintenance, you can ensure a healthy and productive crop of hazelnuts from your trees. Remember that hazelnuts are small enough for easy management and start bearing after 3-5 years, which is much sooner than other nuts.
Harvesting And Processing Hazelnuts
Once hazelnuts are ready to be harvested, it’s important to do so quickly before they fall to the ground and become damaged. The best time to harvest is when the nuts have turned brown and have started to drop from the tree. This usually occurs in late summer through early fall, depending on your climate.
To harvest hazelnuts, you can either shake the branches or use a mechanical harvester. Mechanical harvesters are more efficient, but they can be expensive and are not practical for smaller orchards. If you choose to shake the branches, be sure to place a tarp or net underneath the tree to catch the falling nuts.
After harvesting, the nuts should be dried as soon as possible to prevent mold and spoilage. Spread them out in a single layer on a flat surface, such as a screen or tray, and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated area for several weeks until the moisture content is below 10%.
Once dried, the nuts can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months. To remove the shells, you can use a nutcracker or a specialized machine called a dehuller. After removing the shells, the nuts can be roasted or used in a variety of recipes.
Tips For Maximizing Your Hazelnut Harvest
If you want to maximize your hazelnut harvest, there are several tips that you can follow:
1. Plant multiple trees: As mentioned above, hazelnuts are wind-pollinated, so planting multiple trees in close proximity is essential for successful pollination. Plant two or more pollen-compatible strains of hybrid trees in an orchard to ensure a good harvest.
2. Choose the right variety: Some varieties of hazelnut trees produce more nuts than others. Choose varieties that are known for their high yield, such as the Yamhill and Jefferson varieties.
3. Proper fertilization: Hazelnut trees require regular fertilization to produce a good crop. Fertilize the plants in spring with well-rotted organic matter or a well-balanced fertilizer sprinkled into the drip line of the tree. Granular fertilizer should be worked into the earth surrounding the tree. Use 2 pounds of fertilizer per 100 square feet of soil.
4. Adequate watering: Hazelnut trees require ample water throughout the year, especially during the vegetative stage from April to September. Water weekly during dry spells, allowing as much water as possible to penetrate deep into the soil.
5. Pruning: Hazelnut trees require little or no pruning except to remove suckers from the roots. To shape the tree, select six strong upper branches to form the central scaffold and remove the lower branches and any overhanging branches.
By following these tips, you can help ensure a bountiful harvest of delicious hazelnuts from your trees.
