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How often should I water a newly planted nut tree?
Young trees need consistent watering during dry periods for the first two growing seasons to establish their root systems. Apply water deeply to encourage roots to grow downwards rather than staying near the surface. Mulching around the base with wood chips or compost helps retain soil moisture.
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Can I grow nut trees in a small garden?
Hazelnuts and cobnuts can be grown as multi-stemmed bushes, making them suitable for smaller spaces or hedgerows. Larger species like walnuts and sweet chestnuts require significant space and are better suited to large gardens or paddocks. Choosing the right rootstock can also help restrict the final size of the tree.
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When should I prune my nut trees?
Most nut trees should be pruned in winter while dormant to remove dead wood and maintain an open shape. However, walnuts are an exception and must be pruned in late summer to avoid excessive sap bleeding. Proper pruning encourages better air circulation and light exposure for the developing nuts.
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How do I protect my nut harvest from grey squirrels?
Grey squirrels are a common pest that often take nuts before they are fully ripe. Installing metal collars or baffles on the trunk can prevent squirrels from climbing up to the canopy. Harvesting the crop promptly as soon as it matures is also essential to minimise losses.
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How long does it take for a nut tree to bear fruit?
Hazelnuts and filberts are relatively quick to crop, often producing nuts within three to four years. Larger trees like walnuts and sweet chestnuts may take five to seven years or longer to establish a harvest. Grafted trees typically begin producing sooner than those grown from seed.
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What type of soil conditions are best for growing nut trees?
Most nut trees thrive in well-draining, deep loam soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Avoid planting in waterlogged areas or heavy clay, as this can cause root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil before planting improves structure and nutrient availability.
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When is the best time to plant nut trees?
The ideal time to plant bare-root nut trees is during the dormant season, generally between November and March. Pot-grown trees can be planted at any time of year, provided the ground is not frozen or waterlogged. Ensuring the soil is well-prepared helps the roots establish quickly.
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How long does it take for a hazelnut tree to produce nuts?
Most hazelnut trees begin to produce a small number of nuts three to five years after planting. However, significant yields typically occur once the tree reaches six or seven years of age. Younger trees primarily focus their energy on root and branch development rather than nut production.
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Do I need to plant more than one hazelnut tree to get nuts?
Yes, most hazelnut trees are not self-fertile and rely on wind pollination to produce a crop. You should plant at least two different compatible varieties close to each other to ensure successful cross-pollination. Without a partner tree, you may see flowers but the tree will fail to set fruit.
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