How to Grow Turkish Hazelnut
Turkish Hazelnut
Corylus colurna
treeTurkish hazelnut is a large, ornamental deciduous tree native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, growing 40-60 feet tall with a pyramidal form. It produces edible nuts enclosed in decorative leafy husks and offers excellent fall foliage color. The tree is highly cold-hardy and drought-tolerant once established, making it valuable for urban landscaping and nut production.
When should you plant Turkish Hazelnut in your zone?
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Example Turkish Hazelnut timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Turkish 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 Turkish Hazelnut
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Turkish Hazelnut dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 4-7; tolerates up to zone 8
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Get my Turkish Hazelnut timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
1-2 yearsYoung sapling with developing root system and initial canopy formation
Water regularly (1-2 inches per week); stake if necessary for wind protection; prune to establish central leader
Juvenile Growth
2-4 yearsRapid height and branch development; pyramidal shape becomes apparent
Continue consistent watering; light pruning to maintain form; remove any crossing branches; apply mulch layer
Pre-flowering
1-2 yearsTree reaches 20-30 feet; branches mature enough to support catkins
Reduce watering frequency as tree establishes; light fertilization optional; minimal pruning unless needed for shape
Flowering & Pollination
3-4 weeks flowering, then 3-4 months until nut maturityMale catkins appear in late winter/early spring (yellow, 1-2 inches); small red female flowers followed by nut development
Plant at least 2 trees for cross-pollination if possible; ensure bees have access; avoid pesticide use during bloom
Nut Maturity & Harvest
Late September through OctoberHazelnuts ripen inside decorative leafy husks; husks turn brown and split; kernels harden
Shake branches to harvest mature nuts; allow fallen nuts to dry in sun or well-ventilated area for 2-4 weeks; store in cool, dry place
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove and destroy infested nuts; apply spinosad in early summer if populations are severe; maintain tree vigor
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Monitor for yellowing foliage; spray with insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators; rarely requires treatment on mature trees
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Prune affected branches; sulfur sprays before bud break; improve air circulation
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Prune out infected branches 12 inches below cankers; sterilize tools between cuts; plant disease-resistant cultivars where possible
Uses
Edible Nuts
CulinaryTurkish hazelnut produces sweet, flavorful nuts suitable for eating raw, roasting, or processing into hazelnut butter and oils. The kernels are approximately 60% fat with high nutritional value and are used extensively in confectionery and baking. [source]
Hazelnut Oil Production
CulinaryCold-pressed hazelnut oil is prized for cooking and salad dressings, offering a rich, nutty flavor and high content of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. [source]
Ornamental & Timber
CraftThe pyramidal form, attractive foliage, and catkins make Turkish hazelnut valuable as a specimen tree in landscapes. The dense wood has been historically used for tool handles and decorative purposes. [source]
Wildlife Habitat & Food
WildlifeHazelnuts are consumed by squirrels, jays, and other wildlife; catkins provide early pollen for bees; dense foliage offers nesting habitat. [source]
Traditional Health Uses
MedicinalHazelnut oil and kernels have been used in traditional medicine systems to support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and provide antioxidant benefits, though modern clinical evidence remains limited. [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 September to October. Shake branches to drop ripe nuts, or allow them to fall naturally. Collect nuts promptly to prevent mold and pest damage. Dry nuts in a well-ventilated area or dehydrator at 100-110°F for 2-4 weeks until moisture content drops to 8-10%. Store in airtight containers in cool conditions (32-50°F).
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Turkish hazelnut is one of the most cold-hardy hazelnut species, surviving temperatures to -40°F, making it valuable for northern climates where European hazelnuts struggle.
- 🌱 The decorative leafy husks surrounding the nuts resemble miniature lanterns and persist on the tree into fall, adding ornamental interest even after nuts have been harvested.
- 🌱 A single mature Turkish hazelnut tree can produce 50-100 pounds of nuts annually, though production varies with climate, cross-pollination availability, and pest pressure.
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