The European Hazelnut Tree (Corylus avellana), also known as the Common Filbert, is a hardy and productive tree that yields delicious hazelnuts. With its easy-growing nature and the nutritional value of its nuts, this tree is a must-have for any garden or orchard. The tree is also attractive, with beautiful green foliage, catkin flowers, and a compact growth habit, making it perfect for both edible landscapes and traditional orchards. Hazelnuts are perfect for snacking, baking, or making nut butter, and this tree provides years of harvest.
Key Features:
- Edible Hazelnuts: The European Hazelnut tree produces round, delicious nuts that are perfect for fresh eating, baking, or roasting. The rich, sweet flavor is loved in a variety of dishes from pies and cookies to chocolates and spreadable nut butter.
- Hardy and Long-Lived: These trees are hardy in USDA Zones 4-8, making them suitable for most temperate climates. Once established, they can produce bountiful harvests for many years.
- Compact and Attractive: Hazelnut trees typically grow to about 10-15 feet tall, making them perfect for smaller yards or orchards. The lush green foliage and catkin flowers provide beauty throughout the seasons, especially in the early spring.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Hazelnut trees are wind-pollinated, so planting at least two trees is recommended to ensure good nut production. They can also attract bees and other pollinators to your garden.
- Nutritious and Versatile: Hazelnuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. Use them in savory and sweet dishes or enjoy them as a snack.
- Drought-Tolerant: Once established, the European Hazelnut tree is relatively drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens.
Growing Information:
Planting Instructions:
- Start Seeds Indoors: For the best results, start the hazelnut seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Soak seeds in water for 24 hours before planting.
- Direct Sowing: You can also sow the seeds directly in the soil after the last frost. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space the trees 10-15 feet apart to give them enough room to grow and produce nuts.
- Soil and Light Requirements: Hazelnut trees prefer well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. They thrive in full sun or partial shade.
- Watering: Regular watering is important while the tree is young. Once established, the tree is more drought-tolerant but benefits from watering during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Hazelnut trees benefit from compost or organic fertilizer applied in early spring before the growing season.
Harvesting:
- Hazelnut trees typically begin producing nuts in 4-6 years after planting. Harvest the nuts in late summer or early fall when the husk begins to split, revealing the hard-shelled nut.
- After harvesting, the nuts must be dried and cracked to remove the edible kernel.
Benefits:
- Edible and Nutritious Hazelnuts: The tree yields delicious and nutrient-packed hazelnuts, which are great for snacking, baking, and using in a variety of recipes.
- Attractive Garden Tree: The tree’s catkin flowers and green foliage add beauty to your landscape, making it a lovely addition to any garden or orchard.
- Easy to Grow and Maintain: Once established, the European Hazelnut Tree is relatively low-maintenance and provides years of nut production with minimal care.
- Pollinator Support: Hazelnut trees are wind-pollinated but can also attract bees and other beneficial insects, making them an excellent addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.
- Sustainable Nut Production: Growing your own hazelnuts can be a sustainable way to produce fresh, organic nuts for your family or local market.
How to Use in the Garden:
- Edible Landscape: Incorporate the European Hazelnut Tree into your edible landscape design. This tree provides both aesthetic beauty and nut production all year long.
- Orchard Planting: For larger spaces or orchards, plant several hazelnut trees to create a nut orchard that provides plenty of hazelnuts for harvest.
- Wildlife-Friendly: The hazelnut tree provides shelter and food for various wildlife species, including birds and small mammals, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardening.
Growing Zones:
USDA Zones 4-8 – Suitable for a wide range of temperate climates.
Conclusion:
The European Hazelnut Tree is an excellent addition to any garden or orchard. Offering nutritious, delicious hazelnuts, this tree is perfect for home gardeners looking to grow their own nuts. Its attractive flowers, compact size, and ability to thrive in various climates make it a versatile and low-maintenance choice. Order your 5 European Hazelnut Tree seeds today and start growing your own supply of fresh, delicious hazelnuts!