Growing filberts, commonly known as hazelnuts, can be a rewarding endeavor for both home gardeners and commercial growers. Hazelnuts are not only nutritious and delicious but also serve as an excellent crop for sustainable farming practices. In Tennessee, with its diverse climate and soil types, cultivating these nut trees can be highly successful if approached with the right techniques.
Before embarking on your hazelnut-growing journey, it’s essential to understand the different varieties of filberts available. The most common species cultivated for nuts is the European hazelnut (Corylus avellana). This variety is known for its high-quality nuts and is adaptable to various climatic conditions. Other notable species include the American hazelnut (Corylus americana), which is native to North America and well-suited for the region’s temperate climate.
When selecting a variety, consider factors such as disease resistance, yield potential, and flavor profile. Some popular cultivars that perform well in Tennessee include ‘Barcelona,’ ‘Tonda di Giffoni,’ and ‘Jefferson.’ Always check local extension services or agricultural resources for recommendations based on your specific location within Tennessee.
Hazelnuts thrive in a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers. Tennessee’s climate varies widely from the mountainous regions in the east to the rolling hills in the west. Fortunately, hazelnuts are adaptable and can grow successfully across most of Tennessee, provided certain conditions are met.
The ideal soil for hazelnuts is well-drained and loamy with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Conducting a soil test before planting will give you insight into nutrient levels and pH balance. If your soil tends to be heavy clay or very sandy, consider amending it with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and nutrient availability.
Hazelnut trees require full sun for optimal growth. Aim for at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. When selecting a planting location, choose an area that is free from excessive shade from surrounding trees or structures.
The best time to plant hazelnuts in Tennessee is during the spring after the last frost date has passed or in early fall when temperatures begin to cool down. Spring planting allows young trees to establish roots before facing the summer heat, while fall planting provides them with a head start before winter dormancy.
When planting hazelnut trees, proper spacing is crucial for healthy growth and maximizing yield. Space trees approximately 15 to 20 feet apart within rows and 20 feet apart between rows. This spacing allows adequate air circulation, light penetration, and access for maintenance activities.
Newly planted hazelnuts need consistent moisture during their first growing season. Water them deeply once a week during dry spells, especially if there hasn’t been substantial rainfall. Mature hazelnut trees can tolerate drought better but still benefit from regular watering during exceptionally dry periods.
A balanced fertilizer should be applied according to soil test results to address nutrient deficiencies. Typically, a 10-10-10 (N-P-K) fertilizer applied in early spring will promote healthy growth. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of nut production.
Pruning hazelnut trees helps maintain healthy growth and encourages higher yields. The best time to prune is during late winter when trees are dormant but before buds break dormancy:
Hazelnuts can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including filbertworm, aphids, leafhoppers, and fungal infections like powdery mildew or brown rot. Regular monitoring is crucial.
Hazelnuts typically begin producing nuts three to five years after planting but reach full production in seven to ten years. Harvest time usually occurs in late summer to early fall when nuts have matured and their husks turn from green to yellow-brown.
To harvest:
Growing filberts (hazelnuts) in Tennessee presents an excellent opportunity for agricultural diversification while providing delicious nuts packed with nutrients. With proper planning, selection of suitable varieties, attention to growing conditions, meticulous care practices, and efficient pest management strategies, hazelnut cultivation can become not just a hobby but potentially a profitable venture.
Whether you are looking to add unique crops to your homestead or aiming for commercial production, understanding these fundamental aspects will set you on a path toward success in growing this valuable tree nut crop in Tennessee’s diverse landscape.