How to Grow Filbert (Hazelnut)
Filbert (Hazelnut)
Corylus avellana
shrubFilberts, also called hazelnuts, are deciduous shrubs that produce clusters of hard-shelled nuts enclosed in leafy husks. They are grown commercially and home gardeners alike for their delicious, oil-rich nuts and ornamental fall foliage. Most cultivars require cross-pollination from compatible varieties to set a reliable nut crop.
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Example Filbert (Hazelnut) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Filbert (Hazelnut)
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 (Hazelnut)
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 4-8; some cultivars extend into zone 9
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Establishment (Year 1-2)
2 yearsYoung shrub focuses on root development and structural growth; little to no nut production expected
Water consistently, stake if needed, prune to develop open, multi-stem structure. Remove weak or crossing branches.
Maturation (Year 2-4)
2-3 yearsPlant reaches mature size, develops strong branch framework, begins producing flowers and setting small nut crops
Continue structural pruning, thin flowering catkins if overcrowded, ensure cross-pollinator is nearby and compatible
Flowering (Late Winter-Early Spring)
4-6 weeksMale catkins elongate and shed pollen; female flowers appear as small reddish styles on branch tips
Do not prune heavily during flowering; ensure compatible pollen source is flowering at same time. Avoid hard frosts that may damage catkins.
Nut Development (Spring-Early Fall)
5-6 monthsFertilized ovaries develop into nuts enclosed in leafy husks; husk green initially, turning brown and papery as nuts mature
Monitor for pests and diseases; maintain consistent moisture. Do not over-fertilize with nitrogen, which reduces nut set.
Harvest (Late August-October)
4-8 weeksHusks brown and loosen; nuts drop naturally or can be knocked from branches. Shells harden as nuts dry.
Collect dropped nuts promptly. Cure in dry location for 2-4 weeks before consuming. Remove any remaining nuts from tree to prevent pest carryover.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil in spring; encourage natural predators like ladybugs; water-spray infested foliage
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Remove and destroy fallen nuts promptly; use pheromone traps to monitor populations; apply spinosad or carbaryl at proper timing
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Collect and destroy infested nuts; prune out infested branch tips; apply insecticide at petal fall stage if populations are high
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging; plant on slight mounds if drainage is poor; remove and destroy severely infected plants
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Prune out infected branches below visible canker; sterilize tools between cuts; remove entire plant if severely infected; plant resistant cultivars
Uses
Nut butter and oil extraction
CulinaryHazelnuts are pressed into rich, flavorful butter and hazelnut oil used in cooking, baking, and salad dressings. The nuts are also eaten roasted as a snack or ground into flour for baking. [source]
Chocolate pairing and confections
CulinaryHazelnuts are a classic pairing with chocolate, featuring prominently in products like Nutella and chocolate-hazelnut spreads worldwide. They also enhance traditional European pastries and desserts. [source]
Biomass and sustainable fuel
HouseholdHazelnut shells and coppiced wood are used as biofuel and renewable energy sources. The fast-growing coppice regrows after harvest, making it a sustainable resource. [source]
Woven baskets and traditional crafts
CraftHazelnut coppice wood and flexible branches have been traditionally used to weave baskets, fencing, and decorative items for centuries across Europe. [source]
Traditional herbal remedies
MedicinalHazelnut leaves have been used in traditional European herbalism as a mild astringent and are sometimes prepared as a tea. The nuts themselves are nutrient-dense, containing beneficial oils and minerals. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Hazelnuts mature in late summer to early fall when husks brown and nuts drop naturally. Shake branches over tarps to collect nuts, or gather fallen nuts daily. Cure harvested nuts in a warm, dry, well-ventilated location for 2-4 weeks to harden shells and reduce moisture. Store in cool, dry conditions; properly cured hazelnuts keep for several months.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Filberts are one of the world's oldest cultivated nut crops, with evidence of hazelnut consumption dating back 9,000 years to Mesolithic times.
- 🌱 Oregon produces 99% of America's commercial hazelnuts, making the state the world's leading hazelnut producer by a large margin.
- 🌱 Hazelnut bushes can live for 50-100+ years and improve with age; some European specimens are centuries old and still productive.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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