When to plant Hazelnut?

Hazelnut thrives in full sun or partial shade and tolerates a wide range of soils, including loam, clay, and chalky ground. Choose an open site with good air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal disease, and avoid frost pockets if possible, as late frosts can damage the early spring flowers and reduce your nut crop. The ideal planting time is October or November, when the soil is still warm and roots can establish before winter, though March is also suitable if autumn planting isn't possible. Before planting, prepare the ground by digging in plenty of well-rotted compost or manure to improve soil structure and drainage, especially on heavy clay. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and deep enough so the soil mark on the stem sits level with the surrounding ground. Space plants at least 400 cm apart to allow for their mature spread of 3–5 metres; hazelnuts form large, multi-stemmed shrubs and need room to develop properly. Place the bare-root or container-grown plant in the hole, spread the roots out gently, and backfill with the excavated soil, firming as you go to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting, even in autumn, to settle the soil around the roots. Apply a 5–8 cm layer of well-rotted organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the stem itself to prevent rot. Stake young plants only if the site is very exposed. Hazelnuts are largely self-fertile but cropping improves significantly if you plant two or more different cultivars nearby for cross-pollination.