How to Grow Hazelnuts in Idaho

Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are a delicious and nutritious nut that can be an excellent addition to gardens in Idaho. With the rise in popularity of local and sustainable food sources, growing hazelnuts not only provides a tasty snack but also contributes to biodiversity and soil health. This article will guide you through the process of growing hazelnuts in Idaho, from choosing the right varieties to harvesting and maintaining your trees.

Understanding Hazelnut Varieties

When considering growing hazelnuts in Idaho, it’s essential to select the right varieties that thrive in the local climate. The most common species cultivated for nuts are:

• Corylus avellana: Common hazel, preferred for its high-quality nuts.
• Corylus americana: American hazel is hardier and native to North America but produces smaller nuts.

In Idaho, the Corylus avellana varieties tend to perform best. Look for cultivars such as ‘Barcelona’, ‘Ennis’, and ‘Tonda di Giffoni’, which are known for their productivity and nut quality.

Site Selection and Preparation

Choosing the Right Location

Hazelnuts thrive in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. For optimal growth:

• Sunlight: Aim for at least 6 hours of full sun daily.
• Soil type: Loamy or sandy soils are ideal; avoid heavy clay which retains water.
• pH Levels: Hazelnuts prefer a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Conduct a soil test to determine existing pH levels and amend as necessary.

Soil Preparation

Before planting, prepare your soil by:

1. Clearing Debris: Remove weeds, rocks, and old plant material.
2. Amending the Soil: Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
3. Tilling: Till the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches to enhance aeration.

Planting Hazelnuts

Timing

The best time to plant hazelnut trees in Idaho is early spring after the frost has passed or late fall when trees are dormant.

Spacing

Plant hazelnut trees approximately 10 to 15 feet apart. This spacing allows for good air circulation and access to sunlight while minimizing competition for nutrients.

Planting Process

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball of your sapling.
2. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring that the graft union (if applicable) is above the soil line.
3. Backfill with soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
4. Water thoroughly after planting.

Care and Maintenance

Watering

Hazelnut trees require consistent moisture, particularly during their first few years of growth. During dry spells:

• Water deeply every 1-2 weeks rather than frequent shallow watering.
• Mulch around the base with organic materials like wood chips or straw to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilization

Fertilize your hazelnut trees annually in early spring with a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) according to package instructions based on soil test results. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of nut production.

Pruning

Pruning is essential for maintaining tree health and encouraging nut production:

• In early spring, remove any dead or diseased branches.
• Shape young trees into an open-center structure by removing competing central leaders.
• Thin out crowded branches annually to improve light penetration.

Pest and Disease Management

Hazelnuts can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:

• Eastern Filbert Blight: A fungus that affects hazelnut trees; ensure you plant resistant varieties like ‘Barcelona’.
• Pests: Monitor for aphids, weevils, and mites. Use integrated pest management techniques like introducing beneficial insects or using insecticidal soaps if necessary.

Regularly inspect your trees for signs of disease or pest infestations. Early intervention can mitigate damage.

Pollination Requirements

Hazelnuts are typically self-pollinating but benefit from cross-pollination from different cultivars, leading to higher yields. When planting, consider having at least two different varieties in close proximity (within 100 feet) to ensure effective pollination during blooming periods.

Flowering Season

Hazelnut trees produce catkins—male flowers—during late winter or early spring before leaf emergence. Female flowers appear shortly thereafter but are often inconspicuous.

Harvesting Hazelnuts

Harvesting occurs in late summer to early fall when the husks begin turning brown and start separating from the shells:

1. Timing: The nuts should fall easily from their husks when ripe.
2. Collection: Gather nuts as they fall or shake branches gently if needed.
3. Drying: After collection, spread nuts out on a clean surface for a few days to dry completely before storing.

Storing Hazelnuts

Proper storage is crucial for preserving nut quality:

• Store shelled hazelnuts in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
• For longer storage, consider freezing them; this can extend shelf life up to two years without significant loss of quality.

Conclusion

Growing hazelnuts in Idaho can be a rewarding endeavor that provides delicious nuts while enhancing your garden’s diversity. With proper site selection, care, and maintenance, you can enjoy bountiful harvests year after year. By investing time into understanding varietals suited for Idaho’s climate and implementing best practices in cultivation, you will be well on your way to becoming a successful hazelnut grower. Whether consumed fresh, roasted, or used in a variety of recipes, homegrown hazelnuts offer numerous benefits—making this an agricultural pursuit worth exploring!