How to Grow Filbert
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Filbert
Corylus avellana
shrubFilbert, also known as hazelnut, is a deciduous woody shrub or small tree that produces nutritious nuts enclosed in a leafy husk. It's valued for both its culinary nuts and ornamental foliage, growing 12-20 feet tall depending on variety and pruning.
When should you plant Filbert in your zone?
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Example Filbert timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Filbert
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 Filbert
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Filbert dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8, with best nut production in zones 5-7
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Get my Filbert timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
1-2 yearsYoung sapling establishing root system and initial branching structure; minimal nut production if any
Water regularly during first growing season, stake if needed for wind protection, minimal pruning beyond removing dead wood
Vegetative Growth
2-3 yearsShrub develops full canopy with distinctive oval leaves and catkin flower buds form in late summer/fall
Train to desired form (open vase or multi-stem), thin crowded branches to improve air circulation, apply balanced fertilizer in spring
Flowering
3-4 weeks (February-April depending on region)Male catkins elongate in late winter/early spring; female flowers are small red stigmas; blooms appear before leaves
Plant at least 2 compatible varieties for cross-pollination and adequate nut set, avoid frost damage to catkins by avoiding low-lying frost pockets
Nut Development & Ripening
5-7 months (May-September)Fertilized flowers develop into clusters of nuts enclosed in papery husks; husks turn brown and nuts fill with kernel
Monitor for pests and diseases, maintain consistent moisture, remove any diseased or misshapen nuts, apply mulch to retain soil moisture
Harvest & Dormancy
2-3 months (September-November)Ripe nuts drop from husks; leaves turn yellow and fall; plant enters winter dormancy
Collect nuts after they naturally drop, cure in well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks, prune in late winter while dormant to remove dead wood and shape plant
Common Pests
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Remove infested nuts, apply spinosad in early season, practice sanitation by removing fallen nuts promptly
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Dormant oil spray in late fall/winter, remove and destroy heavily infested buds
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Hand-pick early morning, use traps away from plants, apply neem oil in evening
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Pheromone traps for monitoring, spinosad applications, remove and destroy fallen nuts regularly
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Strong water spray to dislodge, insecticidal soap, encourage natural predators
Uses
Hazelnut oil and roasted nuts
CulinaryFilbert nuts are prized for their rich, buttery flavor and can be eaten raw, roasted, or pressed into hazelnut oil. They are essential ingredients in chocolates, spreads, baked goods, and gourmet cuisine worldwide. [source]
Flour and baking
CulinaryFilbert kernels can be ground into nutritious flour for gluten-free baking, adding protein and a distinctive nutty flavor to cakes, cookies, and pastries. [source]
Nutritional and cardiovascular benefits
MedicinalFilberts are rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants that may support heart health and reduce inflammation. They've been used traditionally in Mediterranean and European herbal practices. [source]
Coppicing and timber
HouseholdFilbert branches have historically been harvested for coppicing (sustainable multi-year harvesting of straight rods) for baskets, fencing, and tool handles. The wood is flexible and long-lasting. [source]
Wildlife habitat and food source
WildlifeFilbert trees provide early catkins as nectar and pollen source for pollinators, and nuts feed squirrels, jays, and other wildlife. The dense growth offers nesting and shelter habitat. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest filberts in late August through October when husks are brown and nuts drop naturally from the tree. Collect daily or every few days as nuts mature. Cure freshly harvested nuts in a warm, well-ventilated area (80-90°F) for 2-3 weeks until shells harden and moisture content reduces to about 10%. Store in cool, dry location in sealed containers; properly cured nuts keep for several months.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Oregon produces 99% of the U.S. filbert crop and is the world's leading hazelnut producer, growing over 40,000 acres primarily of the 'Barcelona' variety.
- 🌱 Filberts have a long history in European folklore and were traditionally used as divining rods ('witching sticks') for finding water and precious metals.
- 🌱 A single mature filbert shrub can produce 20-40 pounds of nuts per year at full productivity, with some commercial orchards reaching 3,000+ pounds per acre.
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