Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are a nutritious and versatile nut that can be grown successfully in Illinois. With the increasing interest in sustainable agriculture and local food production, growing hazelnuts is becoming an attractive option for farmers and home gardeners alike. In this article, we will explore the best practices for cultivating hazelnuts in Illinois, including site selection, soil preparation, planting techniques, care and maintenance, pest management, and harvesting.
Hazelnuts offer numerous benefits for growers and consumers. They are high in healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a popular choice for health-conscious individuals. Additionally, hazelnuts are versatile ingredients used in various products ranging from nut butters to confections.
From an agricultural perspective, hazelnuts contribute to biodiversity and can enhance soil health through their deep root systems. Furthermore, they have a relatively low input cost compared to traditional crops, making them a financially viable option for many growers.
Choosing the right variety of hazelnut is essential for success in Illinois. Two species commonly grown are the European hazelnut (Corylus avellana) and the American hazelnut (Corylus americana).
European Hazelnut: This species produces larger nuts with better flavor but may require cross-pollination from other varieties to set fruit effectively.
American Hazelnut: While the nuts are smaller and less flavorful than their European counterparts, American hazelnuts have better disease resistance and adapt well to various growing conditions.
It’s important to select cultivars suited for Illinois’ climate. Some recommended varieties include ‘Jefferson’, ‘Yamhill’, and ‘Delta’ for their excellent nut quality and vigor.
Hazelnuts thrive in well-drained loamy soils that provide sufficient fertility. When choosing a site for planting:
Sunlight: Hazelnuts prefer full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Drainage: Avoid areas with standing water. Well-drained soil is crucial for preventing root rot and other moisture-related diseases.
Wind Protection: Hazelnuts are susceptible to wind damage, especially when young. If possible, plant them near windbreaks or other structures that provide shelter.
Soil pH: The optimal pH range for hazelnut trees is between 5.5 and 7.0. Conduct a soil test to determine if amendments are needed before planting.
Preparing the soil before planting is crucial for establishing healthy hazelnut trees. Here’s how to prepare your site:
Clearing Debris: Remove any existing vegetation or debris from the planting area to reduce competition for nutrients.
Tilling: Till or plow the soil to a depth of about 12-15 inches to aerate it and improve drainage.
Soil Amendments: Based on your soil test results, incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and soil structure.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer according to soil test recommendations before planting to ensure that young trees have access to necessary nutrients.
Timing is critical when it comes to planting hazelnut trees. The best time to plant in Illinois is in early spring after the last frost or in late fall when trees enter dormancy.
Digging Holes: Prepare holes that are 2-3 times wider than the root ball of the tree but no deeper than the root ball itself.
Spacing: Space trees approximately 15-20 feet apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation; this spacing will vary depending on whether you’re planting for commercial production or home use.
Planting Depth: Place the root ball into the hole so that it sits at the same depth as it was in its nursery container; avoid burying the trunk.
Backfilling: Gently backfill the hole with soil while ensuring no air pockets remain around the roots.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture levels during the establishment phase.
Once planted, hazelnut trees require ongoing care to thrive:
Keep young trees adequately watered during dry spells—especially during their first two years after planting—as they establish their root systems. However, avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of each tree to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature.
Pruning is essential for maintaining tree health and productivity:
Initial Pruning: In the first few years after planting, shape young trees by removing any dead or damaged branches.
Mature Trees: Regularly prune established trees every late winter or early spring before new growth begins; focus on removing crossing branches and promoting an open canopy structure.
After establishing your trees (usually after two years), apply fertilizer annually based on soil tests to support continued growth and nut production.
Like any crop, hazelnuts can face challenges from pests and diseases:
Filbertworm: This pest can damage nuts by feeding on them; monitor your plants regularly and consider using organic insecticides if infestations occur.
Aphids: These small insects can weaken plants by sucking sap; promote beneficial insects like ladybugs that feed on aphids as a natural control method.
Hazelnuts are susceptible to certain diseases such as Eastern Filbert Blight (EFB):
Hazelnut harvesting typically occurs in late summer to early fall when nuts begin falling from trees or turn brown on the branches:
Timing: Harvest when nuts start dropping naturally or when husks turn yellow-brown.
Collecting Nuts: Use tarps placed under trees to catch fallen nuts; gathering nuts promptly helps prevent insect damage.
Cleaning: Remove husks from harvested nuts immediately and dry them thoroughly before storage; this helps maintain quality during storage periods.
Growing hazelnuts in Illinois is an endeavor that not only yields delicious nuts but also contributes positively to local ecosystems and agriculture practices. By selecting appropriate varieties, preparing your site effectively, caring for your trees diligently, managing pests wisely, and harvesting at peak times, you can enjoy bountiful harvests year after year. Whether you’re looking into commercial farming or simply wanting to enhance your home garden with these beneficial trees, following these guidelines will set you up for success in growing hazelnuts in Illinois!