Hazelnut ‘Red Cracker’

When growing Cobnuts, choose a sheltered position on moist, slightly acid, well drained soil in sun or semi shade. Prior to planting Hazelnut trees, incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost into the soil. Plant Cobnut trees at the same soil level as they were growing at the nursery, and water well to settle the soil.

These plants are lifted from the nursery field when dormant, and sent to you in late autumn or spring for planting. They often look dead on arrival, but they are just resting in the dormant period and will establish quickly for a strong start in the garden come spring. Set out in prepared soil in holes wide enough and deep enough to lay out the roots. Tread down the planting soil to knock out air pockets. Water well to settle. Apply a mulch to protect roots from cold temperatures. If conditions prevent immediate planting, set roughly into loose soil or a pot of compost (‘heeling in’) to protect the roots.
Set these at the same level as they were in the nursery field – you should see a soil line at the base of the stem. Stake trees, taller shrubs and roses to prevent root disturbance.

Nut trees do not suffer weed competition well, so keep weeds and grass clear from within a 30cm radius of base of the tree. Water young trees during particularly dry periods until fully established. In spring, apply a mulch of well rotted manure or garden compost to the base of the tree. This will help to retain moisture throughout the summer.

Hazelnuts are usually grown as open centred bushes on a short main stem of about 45cm (18″). Prune Hazelnut stems back by half immediately after planting. Select 3 or 4 laterals to form a main framework and remove all other laterals that are not required. In following years repeat this process each February until an open framework of 6 to 8 strong branches has been achieved. Once the main framework has been created Hazelnuts can be pruned each February while the plant is in flower to help disperse pollen for an improved crop. Prune the strongest leaders back by half and reduce the strongest laterals to 3 or 4 buds.