Growing hazelnuts in Minnesota can be a rewarding endeavor, as these delightful nuts are not only delicious but also nutritious. With the increasing popularity of hazelnuts for their culinary uses and health benefits, more farmers and gardeners are looking to incorporate them into their landscape. In this article, we will explore the essential steps needed to successfully grow hazelnuts in Minnesota.
Hazelnuts (Corylus avellana) are deciduous shrubs that produce small, round nuts encased in a hard shell. They thrive in temperate climates and are known for their adaptability. The nuts are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making them a popular choice for snacks, baking, and cooking.
Minnesota’s climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, can be suitable for growing hazelnuts if proper care is taken. The key is choosing the right variety and providing the right conditions for growth.
When selecting hazelnut varieties for Minnesota, it is crucial to choose those that are hardy and can withstand the local climate conditions. Some recommended varieties include:
It’s advisable to plant more than one variety to ensure cross-pollination, which can significantly improve nut yields.
Hazelnuts require full sun for optimal growth. Select a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. This will encourage healthy growth and robust nut production.
Hazelnuts prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Before planting, test your soil to ensure it meets these criteria. If your soil is too acidic, you may need to add lime to raise the pH.
If your soil is compacted or poorly drained, consider raising the planting beds or adding organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Given that hazelnut bushes can be susceptible to wind damage—especially when they are young—select a site that offers some natural windbreaks like trees or shrubs. Alternatively, you can create artificial barriers using fences or screens.
Before planting, clear the area of any weeds or debris that may compete with your young plants for nutrients and water. This will also help prevent pests that might thrive among tall grasses or weeds.
Amend your soil based on the results of your soil test. Adding organic matter will improve soil structure and provide essential nutrients. Incorporate mulch around the planting area to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
The best time to plant hazelnut seedlings in Minnesota is in early spring after the danger of frost has passed or in the fall before the ground freezes. Be mindful of local weather patterns when scheduling your planting.
Young hazelnut plants require consistent moisture during their initial growth phase (the first two years). Water deeply once a week during dry spells to encourage deep root development. As they mature, hazelnuts become more drought tolerant but still benefit from regular watering during prolonged dry periods.
In general, hazelnuts do not require excessive fertilization if grown in well-amended soil. However, you may apply a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) in early spring according to package instructions—typically at rates of about one pound per 100 square feet—to promote healthy growth.
Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of your hazelnut plants. Here are some tips on how to approach pruning:
Regular pruning not only maximizes nut production but also helps reduce disease susceptibility.
Hazelnut trees can be affected by several pests such as filbert worms and aphids as well as diseases like Eastern Filbert Blight (EFB).
Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pest invasion or disease symptoms such as wilting leaves or unusual spots on foliage:
Choose disease-resistant varieties where possible—most notably ones resistant to EFB since it is prevalent in many areas where hazelnuts grow.
Hazelnuts typically begin producing nuts 3-5 years after planting, reaching full production at around 8 years old.
Monitor your hazelnuts closely as they mature during late summer into early fall (typically September into October). When the husks turn brown and start curling away from the nut shell, it’s time for harvesting.
To harvest:
1. Gently shake bushes or use special harvesting equipment designed for nuts.
2. Collect fallen nuts promptly before animals eat them or they rot on the ground.
3. Dry harvested nuts in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight before storing them.
Growing hazelnuts in Minnesota offers an opportunity not only for personal enjoyment but also potential economic benefits if pursued commercially. By choosing hardy varieties adapted to local climate conditions, ensuring proper site selection and care practices—including watering, fertilizing, pruning, pest control—any gardener can cultivate this rewarding crop successfully.
As interest grows around sustainable farming practices and locally sourced foods continues to rise, now has never been a better time to embark on your journey toward growing hazelnuts in Minnesota!