How to Grow English Walnut
Wikimedia Commons
English Walnut
Juglans regia
treeThe English walnut is a large, deciduous hardwood tree prized for its edible nuts and valuable timber. Native to Central Asia, it produces abundant crops of thin-shelled walnuts in late summer and fall. This long-lived tree can grow 40-60 feet tall and remains productive for 50+ years.
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Example English Walnut timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant English Walnut
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest English Walnut
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 5b-9a; most productive in zones 6-8 with moderate summers
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Establishment (Years 1-2)
1-2 yearsYoung sapling developing root system and branch structure; sparse foliage initially
Stake for wind protection; mulch 3-4 inches around base avoiding trunk contact; water deeply and consistently; prune to develop central leader; protect from walnut husk fly if present in region
Juvenile (Years 3-5)
2-3 yearsTree grows rapidly, reaching 15-25 feet; full canopy development; minimal flowering
Continue deep watering; prune lateral branches competing with leader; thin crowded branches for light penetration; begin light pruning to shape canopy; fertilize lightly with balanced NPK
Early Production (Years 5-10)
5 yearsMale catkins appear; female flowers develop; first small nut crops; tree reaches 30-40 feet
Maintain consistent watering; thin nut clusters if overcrowded; minimal pruning except dead wood removal; apply nitrogen in spring; monitor for pests
Peak Production (Years 15+)
Ongoing; can produce for 100+ yearsMature tree with full canopy; abundant flowering and nut set; heavily laden branches in late summer
Maintain soil moisture during nut development (July-September); prune dead/crossing branches; thin nut clusters for size (leave 6-8 inches apart); apply dormant oil in early spring for pest prevention
Harvest (Late August to October)
6-8 weeksOuter green hulls split and blacken; nuts mature inside; leaves begin yellowing
Spread tarps under tree to catch falling nuts; use mechanical nut harvester if available; hull promptly (within days) to prevent staining; dry nuts on screens in shade/ventilation for 2-3 weeks
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove dropped husks promptly; apply spinosad or malathion at egg-laying period (mid-July); use yellow sticky traps; maintain tree vigor to reduce susceptibility
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Apply dormant oil spray in early spring; use pheromone traps to monitor; thin nut clusters; remove infested nuts promptly
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Apply horticultural oil spray in dormant season; prune heavily infested branches; maintain tree health
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Copper fungicide sprays in spring as buds break; improve air circulation; rake and destroy fallen infected leaves; resistant varieties available
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Ensure adequate air circulation through pruning; apply sulfur sprays preventatively; avoid overhead watering
Uses
Nut consumption and baking
CulinaryEnglish walnut kernels are sweet, mild-flavored nuts ideal for eating raw, roasting, or incorporating into baked goods, salads, and sweet dishes. They are less bitter than black walnuts and widely preferred for culinary use. [source]
Walnut oil production
CulinaryCold-pressed walnut oil is extracted from the kernels and used as a premium salad oil and finishing oil with a rich, nutty flavor. It is also used in cooking and traditional cuisine. [source]
Cardiovascular and cognitive health
MedicinalWalnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote brain function. Regular consumption is associated with improved cholesterol profiles and cognitive performance. [source]
Furniture and timber
HouseholdEnglish walnut wood is highly valued for fine furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, and veneer due to its rich brown color, fine grain, and workability. It is one of the most prized hardwoods in woodworking. [source]
Natural dye production
CraftThe outer green husk contains juglone, a natural compound that produces rich brown and black dyes used in traditional textile dyeing and wood staining. Historically used for coloring fabrics and wood. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Nuts are ready to harvest when outer green hull splits and falls naturally, typically late August through October. Shake branches or use a mechanical harvester to collect nuts. Remove hulls immediately by rubbing in a concrete mixer or with a motorized huller to prevent dark staining. Cure/dry nuts on elevated screens in a shaded, well-ventilated area for 2-4 weeks (until kernel moisture drops to 7-10%) before storage. Store in a cool location at 32-50°F with 60-70% humidity for long-term keeping.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 English walnuts produce a natural allelopathic compound called juglone that inhibits the growth of many plants nearby, particularly tomatoes, potatoes, and blueberries—making plant selection critical in walnut orchards.
- 🌱 A mature English walnut tree can produce 50-100 pounds of nuts in shell per year at peak production, and individual trees have been known to remain productive for over 300 years.
- 🌱 Unlike black walnuts, English walnuts have thin shells that crack easily by hand, making them vastly more practical and popular for commercial nut production and home consumption worldwide.
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