Growing hazelnuts can be a rewarding venture, especially in Washington State, where the climate and soil conditions are generally favorable for these delicious nuts. Hazelnuts are not only nutritious but also have commercial value, making them an excellent choice for home gardeners and aspiring farmers alike. This article will guide you through the essential steps to successfully grow hazelnuts in Washington.
Before you start planting, it’s crucial to understand the different varieties of hazelnuts suitable for Washington. The two primary types of hazelnuts are:
In Washington, the European hazelnut is most commonly cultivated due to its superior flavor and texture. Varieties like ‘Jefferson,’ ‘Yamhill,’ and ‘Dynamo’ are particularly recommended for their adaptability to local growing conditions.
Hazelnuts thrive in temperate climates. Washington’s mild temperatures, particularly in the western part of the state, offer suitable conditions. The ideal temperature range for growing hazelnuts is between 20°F (-6°C) and 90°F (32°C). Ensure that your chosen location does not experience extreme cold or heat, which can affect nut production.
Hazelnuts prefer well-drained, loamy soils with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Conduct a soil test to determine your soil’s pH and nutrient levels before planting. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, amendments such as lime or sulfur can help adjust the pH.
Additionally, good drainage is crucial; hazelnut roots do not tolerate soggy soil well. If your site has heavy clay soil, consider planting on raised beds or mounds to improve drainage.
When selecting a site for your hazelnut trees, consider the following factors:
The best time to plant hazelnuts in Washington is during late winter or early spring when the danger of frost has passed, typically from March to May. This timing allows roots to establish before the hot summer months.
Preparation: Dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball of your young tree. The depth should be equal to the height of the root ball.
Positioning: Place the tree in the hole, ensuring that the root flare (where the roots meet the trunk) is at ground level.
Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, gently tamping down to eliminate air pockets while ensuring not to compact it too tightly.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting. This helps settle the soil around the roots.
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of each tree to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil quality as it decomposes.
Newly planted hazelnuts require consistent moisture until they establish themselves—typically for the first couple of years. Water deeply once a week during dry periods, ensuring that moisture reaches at least 12 inches deep into the soil.
Once established, hazelnuts are relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells or extreme heat.
Hazelnuts generally do not require heavy fertilization if planted in nutrient-rich soil. However, applying a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) in early spring can promote healthy growth.
Conduct a soil test every few years to identify any nutrient deficiencies and adjust your fertilization practices accordingly.
Pruning is essential for maintaining healthy trees and encouraging fruit production. The best time to prune hazelnut trees is during late winter when they are dormant.
Shape Development: Focus on developing an open center structure by removing vertical shoots and any weak branches.
Remove Suckers: Regularly remove suckers that grow from the base of the tree; these can divert energy away from nut production.
Thinning: Thin out overcrowded areas within the canopy to improve air circulation and light penetration.
While hazelnuts are relatively resilient plants, they can be susceptible to various pests and diseases:
Hazelnuts typically mature from late summer into fall—around September through October in Washington State. Knowing when to harvest is key:
Timing: Watch for nut husks turning from green to brown as a sign that they are ready.
Collection: Shake branches gently or use rakes beneath trees to collect fallen nuts.
Drying: After harvesting, dry nuts fully before storage; this helps prevent mold formation.
Growing hazelnuts in Washington can be both enjoyable and profitable if done correctly. By understanding varieties suited for your area, providing ideal growing conditions, practicing good maintenance habits such as watering and pruning, managing pests effectively, and knowing when to harvest will set you on the path toward success.
With patience and care, your hazelnut orchard can flourish over time—providing delicious nuts for personal use or market sale while contributing positively to your local environment. Happy planting!