Complete Guide on How to Plant a Hazelnut Tree from Seed

Introduction to planting hazelnut trees

El hazel (Corylus avellana) is a fruit tree highly appreciated not only for its delicious fruits, but also for its beauty and the shade it provides. If you're wondering How to plant a hazel tree from seed, you've come to the right place. This article will guide you through the entire process, from choosing seeds to caring for your tree once it's germinated. For more information on how long it takes to bear fruit, you can check out this article on How long does it take for a hazel tree to bear fruit?.

Choosing hazelnut seeds

To begin, it is essential to select the suitable seedsHazelnut seeds are actually hazelnuts, so you can collect them from a mature, healthy tree during the fall. Make sure to choose good quality, well-developed nuts. Store-bought hazelnuts can also be used, but it's advisable to choose varieties that are autochthonous of your region to ensure better adaptation. If you want to know more about how to grow a hazelnut tree, I invite you to read our Complete guide to growing a hazelnut tree.

Seed preparation

Once you have obtained the hazelnuts, it is necessary prepare them properly before sowing. This includes:

• Cleaning: Remove any pulp or residue that may remain on the seed.
• Stratification: This process simulates winter. You should place the seeds in a slightly moist plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator for approximately 60 days.

Planting hazelnut trees

After stratification, you can proceed to sowing. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose the right place: Hazelnut prefers rich, well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Find a spot in your garden that meets these conditions.
2. Preparing the terrain: Make sure the soil is loose and weed-free. You can enrich it with compost to improve its fertility. For more details on general care, please consult our hazelnut care guide.
3. Plant the seeds: Dig a hole about 5 cm deep and place 1 to 2 hazelnuts in each hole. Cover with soil and water lightly.

Caring for Sprouted Hazelnuts

Once the seeds germinate, which can take between 2 to 4 months, it is crucial to provide the necessary care to young plants:

• Irrigation: Keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging. Regular watering is essential, especially during the warmer months.
• Fertilization: Three months after planting, you can apply a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
• Control of pests and diseases: Be alert for any signs of pests or diseases and act immediately to protect your plants.

Additional tips

If you want to ensure the success of your hazelnut trees, consider the following:

1. Spacing: If you plant more than one hazel tree, make sure you leave enough space between them so they can grow properly.
2. Wooded: Eventually, if your hazelnut trees grow and produce fruit, you may need to perform pruning to maintain the tree's shape and productivity. To better understand how hazelnut flowering works, you can check out this link about The characteristics of hazel tree flowering.

When to expect hazelnut fruits

Hazelnut trees can take 3 to 5 years to begin producing fruit after planting. It's important to be patient and properly care for the trees during this time. Once they begin to bear fruit, production can be increased over the years, making them an excellent source of fresh walnuts to enjoy in various culinary preparations.