When To Harvest Hazelnuts: Tips and Tricks

Harvesting hazelnuts can be tricky. Not only do you have to consider the right time, but also the best methods for picking and processing them. In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know about when to harvest hazelnuts.

The Hazelnut Harvesting Season

Hazelnut trees typically start producing nuts in their third year, with peak production occurring between the fifth and tenth year. The harvesting season for hazelnuts usually begins in August and lasts through October.

The exact time to start harvesting depends on various factors like the weather, the variety of hazelnut, and the location of the tree. It's essential to monitor your hazelnuts regularly to determine the optimal time for harvesting.

Signs That Your Hazelnuts Are Ready to Harvest

There are several signs to look out for that indicate your hazelnuts are ready to be harvested:

• The husks around the nuts begin to turn yellow or brown.
• The nuts themselves will feel heavy and make a rattling sound when shaken.
• The kernels inside the nut become plump and full.

If some, but not all, of the nuts meet these criteria, it's best to wait a bit longer to give the remaining nuts more time to mature fully.

Picking Hazelnuts

The most common way of picking hazelnuts is by hand. You can either pick the nuts directly off the ground or shake the branches to dislodge them. Be careful not to damage the branches or knock off any unripe nuts.

If you have a large hazelnut orchard, you may want to use specialized equipment like vacuum harvesters or picking machines to speed up the process.

Drying and Storing Hazelnuts

Once you've picked your hazelnuts, you need to dry and store them properly to prevent spoilage. Spread the nuts out in a single layer on a clean, flat surface, and allow them to air-dry for two to four weeks.

After drying, you can store hazelnuts in airtight containers in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or refrigerator, for up to a year. If you plan to keep them longer than a year, consider freezing them instead.

Common Hazelnut Varieties and Their Harvest Times

Here are some common varieties of hazelnuts and the best times to harvest them:

• Barcelona - early- to mid-September
• DuChilly - late August to early September
• Filbert - mid- to late September
• Jefferson - mid- to late September
• Tonda di Giffoni - late September to early October

Knowing when to harvest hazelnuts is essential for getting the best yield and quality. Keep an eye out for the signs of maturity, and don't rush the process. Properly dried and stored hazelnuts can last for up to a year, providing a delicious and nutritious snack whenever you need one.

Using specialized equipment like vacuum harvesters can speed up the hazelnut picking process.

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