Growing Walnuts at the Allotment

Growing Walnuts at the Allotment

Walnut trees will crop well with an accompanying pollinator and fruits can be expected to form after approximately 4 years. The Walnut tree produces male and female flowers that grow on the same tree, bloom at different times.

Bareroot dormant trees can be planted during late autumn to early spring and pot grown trees can be planted any time. Walnut trees like full sun and shelter from frost. Plant in well-drained, deep soil. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the bareroot and water in well, ensuring the soil line on the tree is above the soil level.

Remove any vegetation at the base of the tree and mulch to retain moisture and supress the weeds. Young trees require watering during dry spells until they become established. Ensure they do not become water-logged.

You can prune the Walnut tree mid-winter or mid-summer. Be mindful of squirrels and other wildlife.

Immature nuts can be harvested during the summer for pickling or wait until autumn when the nuts have ripened in the autumn. 

Walnuts can be stored in their shells, once removed from their husks. 

It is important to note that Walnuts produce a permanent dye and therefore, when you are harvesting and handling the Walnuts, wear protective gloves and clothing as it is almost impossible to remove from your skin.

 

english walnut 3750018_1920
fruit 222042_1920

Growing Walnuts in Summary

Planting Walnuts

  • Plant dormant bareroot trees late autumn - early spring
  • Plant in full sun
  • Plant in well-drained, deep soil

Growing Walnuts

  • Water during dry spells untl the tree is established
  • Prune during mid-winter or mid-summer
  • Do not allow it to become water-logged

Harvesting Walnuts

  • Harvest young nuts during summer for picking
  • Harvest matured nuts in autumn
  • Wear protective gloves when harvesting and handling Walnuts