What To Know
- Planting a hazel tree is a rewarding endeavor that brings beauty, wildlife benefits, and delicious nuts to your property.
- The first step in planting a hazel tree is choosing the right location.
- Place the hazel tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare (where the roots branch out) is at or slightly above soil level.
Are you looking to add a touch of nature’s magic to your garden? Planting a hazel tree is a rewarding endeavor that brings beauty, wildlife benefits, and delicious nuts to your property. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to plant a hazel tree, from selecting the right location to nurturing its growth.
Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Hazel Tree
The first step in planting a hazel tree is choosing the right location. Hazels thrive in a variety of conditions, but understanding their preferences will ensure your tree flourishes.
- Sunlight: Hazel trees prefer full sun to partial shade. Aim for a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for hazel trees. They don’t tolerate waterlogged conditions, so avoid planting in low-lying areas.
- Space: Allow adequate space for your hazel tree to grow. Mature trees can reach heights of 15-30 feet, with a spread of 10-20 feet.
- Wind Protection: While hazel trees are relatively wind-tolerant, a sheltered location will encourage better growth.
Selecting the Right Hazel Tree
With the location decided, it’s time to choose the type of hazel tree that suits your needs.
- Species: Consider the native hazel (Corylus americana) or the European hazel (Corylus avellana). Both species produce delicious nuts, but the European hazel is known for its larger nut size.
- Cultivars: Numerous cultivars offer various qualities, such as disease resistance, nut size, and growth habits. Research cultivars like ‘Cosford’ or ‘Butler’ for their exceptional nut production.
- Pollination: Hazel trees are wind-pollinated, so ensure you have at least two different varieties for successful nut production.
Planting Your Hazel Tree
Once you’ve chosen your hazel tree, it’s time to plant it. Follow these steps for a successful planting:
1. Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Amend the Soil: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the bottom of the hole to improve drainage and add nutrients.
3. Position the Tree: Place the hazel tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare (where the roots branch out) is at or slightly above soil level.
4. Backfill the Hole: Carefully backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the roots.
5. Water Thoroughly: Give the newly planted hazel tree a good watering to settle the soil and encourage root growth.
Post-Planting Care: Nurturing Your Hazel Tree
After planting, there are a few essential steps to ensure your hazel tree thrives:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilizing: Hazel trees are light feeders. Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Pruning: Prune hazel trees in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
Harvesting the Bounty: Hazelnut Time
The reward for your efforts comes in the form of delicious hazelnuts. Hazel trees typically begin producing nuts after 3-5 years. Here’s how to harvest your bounty:
- Watch for Ripeness: Hazelnuts ripen in late summer or early fall. The husks will turn brown and begin to split.
- Harvest Carefully: Gently shake the branches to dislodge the nuts. Collect the nuts from the ground and remove any remaining husks.
- Storing Hazelnuts: Dry the nuts thoroughly before storing them in a cool, dry place.
A Legacy of Beauty and Bounty: The Benefits of Planting a Hazel Tree
Planting a hazel tree offers a multitude of benefits, enhancing your garden and enriching your life:
- Wildlife Habitat: Hazel trees provide shelter and food for a variety of birds, squirrels, and other wildlife.
- Erosion Control: Their extensive root systems help stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.
- Aesthetics: Hazel trees add beauty and interest to your landscape with their graceful branches and vibrant foliage.
- Nut Production: Enjoy the delicious and nutritious hazelnuts for snacking, baking, or crafting.
Farewell, Not Goodbye: A Look Ahead
Planting a hazel tree is not just about nurturing a plant; it’s about cultivating a legacy of nature’s bounty. As your hazel tree grows and matures, it will become a focal point of your garden, attracting wildlife, providing shade, and offering a constant source of delicious nuts.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How long does it take for a hazel tree to produce nuts?
A: Hazel trees typically begin producing nuts after 3-5 years.
Q: Can I grow a hazel tree from a nut?
A: Yes, you can grow a hazel tree from a nut. However, it’s important to choose a fresh, healthy nut for the best chance of success.
Q: How often should I prune my hazel tree?
A: Prune hazel trees in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
Q: Are hazelnuts good for you?
A: Yes, hazelnuts are a nutritious snack packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
