Growing hazelnuts in New Hampshire can be a rewarding venture for both home gardeners and commercial farmers. With the right conditions and care, these trees can produce delicious nuts while contributing to the local ecosystem. This guide will walk you through the best practices for successfully growing hazelnuts in New Hampshire.
Before planting, it’s crucial to choose the right variety of hazelnut for New Hampshire’s climate. The most commonly grown species in North America is Corylus americana, the American hazelnut. It is well-suited to the northeastern United States due to its hardiness and adaptability.
Consider also the hybrid varieties such as Corylus avellana x Corylus americana. These hybrids often produce larger nuts and have improved disease resistance. When selecting a variety, look for those that have demonstrated success in New England climates, such as ‘Jefferson’ or ‘Yamhill’.
Hazelnuts thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 8. New Hampshire fits comfortably within this range, particularly in its southern and central regions. Hazelnuts require a period of winter chill for proper flowering and nut production, which is available in New Hampshire’s cold winters.
Hazelnuts prefer well-drained soils with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Conduct a soil test before planting to determine pH and nutrient levels. If your soil is heavy clay or too acidic, consider amending it with lime or organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient availability.
These trees require full sun to produce abundantly; aim for at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Select a location on your property that provides ample sunlight while being shielded from harsh winds, as young hazelnut plants can be susceptible to wind damage.
Choose a site that protects young plants from harsh winds while ensuring good air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Areas with good drainage are essential as hazelnut roots do not tolerate standing water.
The best time to plant hazelnuts is in late fall or early spring when the ground is workable but before the buds begin to break dormancy. This timing allows plants to establish roots before facing summer heat.
Young hazelnut trees require regular watering, particularly during dry spells. Ensure that they receive about one inch of water per week during their first growing season. Once established, hazelnuts are relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods.
Fertilize your hazelnut trees each spring with a balanced fertilizer suitable for fruit-bearing plants. Follow package instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excess leaf growth at the expense of nut production.
Regular pruning is essential for maintaining healthy growth and maximizing nut yield:
Hazelnuts can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including Eastern filbert blight (EFB) – a significant threat in humid climates like New Hampshire’s.
Hazelnuts are typically wind-pollinated, meaning multiple trees are required for effective pollination and nut production. Plant at least two different cultivars within proximity (ideally within 100 yards) to enhance cross-pollination chances.
Hazelnuts typically mature in mid-to-late summer (August through September). Watch for changes in color; when they turn from greenish to brown and begin dropping from the tree, it’s time to harvest. Nuts harvested too early may not be fully developed.
To harvest:
After harvesting, remove husks immediately and lay nuts out in a single layer in a cool, dry area for curing.
Once cured, store hazelnuts in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight in airtight containers. Properly stored nuts can last up to a year; freezing them can extend their shelf life even longer while preserving flavor integrity.
Growing hazelnuts in New Hampshire offers numerous benefits—from delicious homegrown snacks to an additional income source for farmers. By understanding ideal growing conditions, selecting appropriate varieties, providing necessary care, managing pests effectively, enhancing pollination through diverse plantings, and properly harvesting and storing your crop, you can successfully cultivate this rewarding nut-bearing tree in your own backyard or farmstead. Embrace this agricultural adventure and enjoy all that hazelnuts have to offer!