Chinese Chestnut

Chinese chestnut Castanea mollissima has generally better blight resistance than American chestnut.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

420 in

First harvest

Often 3–7 years after planting

Tips

• Plant distinct compatible trees 30–40 feet apart; refrigerate harvested moist nuts promptly.
• Choose nursery stock adapted to local hardiness, season length and disease pressure.
• Use cultivar- and rootstock-specific spacing rather than treating a planning value as universal.
• Water during establishment and avoid overcropping young plants.
• Plant two genetically different compatible trees within pollinating distance, allowing full mature canopy space.
• Water deeply during dry weather and keep mulch clear of the trunk.
• Use a soil test to guide nitrogen and avoid adding lime unless testing calls for it.
• Train a strong central framework and inspect for blight cankers and chestnut weevil damage.
• Wear gloves to collect opening burs, remove nuts promptly, and refrigerate them because chestnuts spoil quickly.

Use local perennial planting guidance; spacing and bearing age vary with cultivar, nursery stock and training system.