Growing hazelnuts in Oklahoma can be a rewarding endeavor, both for the novice gardener and the seasoned farmer. With the right knowledge about climate, soil, and proper care techniques, anyone can cultivate these delicious and nutritious nuts. This article will guide you through the steps necessary to successfully grow hazelnuts, from selecting the right variety to pest management.
Before you begin planting, it’s essential to understand that not all hazelnut varieties thrive in every environment. In Oklahoma, the climate can be somewhat variable, so choosing the right type of hazelnut is crucial. The most common types grown for their edible nuts include:
European Hazelnut (Corylus avellana): Better suited for northern climates but can be grown in southern areas of Oklahoma with protection from extreme heat.
American Hazelnut (Corylus americana): More adaptable to varying climates and more resistant to diseases, making it a good choice for Oklahoma.
Hybrid Varieties: Crossbreeds that combine traits from both European and American hazelnuts can offer benefits such as improved hardiness and yield.
When selecting a variety, consider factors like local climate conditions, disease resistance, and desired yield.
Hazelnuts thrive in well-drained soil and require full sunlight for optimal growth. Selecting a suitable location involves considering:
Choose a site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Hazelnut trees benefit from being planted on south-facing slopes if available, as this helps retain warmth and supports faster growth.
The preferred soil pH for hazelnuts is between 6.0 and 7.5. Conduct a soil test before planting to ascertain your soil’s composition. Well-drained sandy or loamy soils are ideal, although hazelnuts can tolerate clay soils if drainage is adequate.
Hazelnuts are susceptible to wind damage, particularly when young. Planting near natural windbreaks such as trees or shrubs can help protect them from harsh winds commonly experienced in Oklahoma.
Once you have chosen your planting site, it’s time to prepare the soil:
Tilling the Soil: Turn the soil to a depth of about 12 inches using a rototiller or spade. This process aerates the soil and allows nutrients to mix effectively.
Amending the Soil: If your soil test indicates nutrient deficiencies or pH imbalances, amend the soil accordingly. Adding organic matter like compost or aged manure can improve fertility and drainage.
Weed Control: Clear away any existing weeds or grass in the area where you plan to plant your hazelnut trees to reduce competition for nutrients.
The best time to plant hazelnuts in Oklahoma is in early spring after the last frost has passed.
Digging Holes: Dig holes that are twice as wide as the root ball of your hazelnut saplings and deep enough to accommodate their roots comfortably.
Spacing: Space your plants at least 10-15 feet apart to allow for ample growth and air circulation, which helps prevent diseases.
Planting Depth: Place each sapling in its hole and ensure that it sits at the same depth it was growing at in its nursery container. Backfill with native soil while gently tamping down to eliminate air pockets.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.
Taking proper care of your hazelnut trees will be crucial for their long-term health and productivity:
Newly planted hazelnut trees require consistent moisture during their first few years of growth. Regularly check the soil moisture level; watering deeply once a week is generally sufficient unless there are heavy rainfall events.
Fertilizing your hazelnuts should occur annually in early spring before new growth begins. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is often recommended, applied at a rate suggested by your soil test.
Regular pruning is necessary for maintaining an open canopy that promotes airflow and sunlight penetration. Remove any dead or crossed branches, focusing on shaping a central leader structure while allowing several lateral branches to develop.
Pests can pose threats to young hazelnut trees if not managed properly:
Insects: Common pests include aphids and leafhoppers. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed, following label instructions closely.
Diseases: Hazelnuts can be affected by diseases such as Eastern Filbert Blight (EFB). To combat EFB, select resistant varieties during planting and maintain good air circulation through proper pruning practices.
Rodents: In winter months, rodents may chew on young trunks or roots; consider using protective wraps around young plants during this season.
Typically, hazelnuts mature in late summer to early fall, usually between September and October in Oklahoma. Knowing when to harvest is critical:
When the husk surrounding the nut begins turning from green to brown and starts peeling back from the nut itself, it’s time to harvest. Gently shake branches or use tarps beneath trees to catch nuts as they fall.
After harvesting, remove husks and allow nuts to dry under cool conditions with good air circulation for several days before storing them in airtight containers in a cool place away from direct sunlight.
Growing hazelnuts in Oklahoma offers an opportunity not only for personal enjoyment but also potential financial gain through nut production. By understanding local conditions and following best practices for planting, caring for, and harvesting these trees, you can establish a productive hazelnut grove that thrives over the years. With patience and dedication, you’ll enjoy bountiful harvests of delicious nuts while contributing positively to local biodiversity!