Walnut

Walnuts need deep, fertile, well-drained soil around pH 6.0–7.5 and enough room for a large mature tree. Select a locally adapted species and cultivar with suitable pollination, then prioritize root establishment and framework training for several years before substantial nut harvests.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

480 in

First harvest

5–10 years

Tips

• Plant away from buildings and allow generous space for roots and the mature canopy.
• Water deeply during dry periods, particularly while young trees establish and nuts fill.
• Base nitrogen applications on soil testing and growth rather than fertilizing routinely.
• Train a central leader with well-spaced limbs and monitor local walnut husk-fly or blight problems.
• Gather nuts as hulls split or fruit falls, remove hulls with gloves, and dry kernels thoroughly before storage.

Plant nursery stock in spring, or in fall where winters are mild, keeping the root flare at soil level and any graft above soil.