Learn everything you need to know about growing Walnuts in your garden, from sun requirements to planting tips to harvesting and more.

Soil

What soil is good for Walnuts?

Walnut trees require deep, well draining soil, with plenty of well rotted compost mixed in.

Like most nut trees, Walnuts will not tolerate waterlogged soil and will develop root rot as a result. Avoid planting in heavy clay unless the soil has been amended. Heavy soils can be improved by incorporating gypsum and organic matter and mounding the soil before planting to improve drainage. 

Position

How much sun do Walnuts need?

Plant Walnut trees in a full sun position. 

Frost Tolerant

Are Walnuts frost tolerant?

 Yes, Walnut trees are frost tolerant but Walnut blossoms can be damaged by spring frosts.

Spacing

How much space do Walnuts need?

Plant Walnut trees roughly 20m apart. 

Planting

When should I plant Walnuts?

Late autumn or early spring is the best time to transplant most dormant plants. Plants, with the exception of bare-root, can be transplanted at anytime between when the ground thaws and when it freezes (so anytime if you are in a frost free climate). However, if transplanting in the heat of summer, you'll need to be diligent in watering and provide extra shade for your plant in the first few weeks after transplanting.

Dig a hole 2-3 times the width of the root ball. The hole should allow the plant to sit at the same level in the soil as it was previously. Fill the hole with soil ensuring that the crown of the plant, where the roots and stem meet, is level with the soil surface.

Plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn. 

Feeding

What do I feed Walnuts?

Top-dress the soil around your Walnut tree with well-rotted organic matter in spring, along with a balanced organic fertiliser. Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the tree up to the drip line to retain moisture (be careful not to pile mulch against the tree trunk as this may lead to trunk rot and disease). 

Harvesting

When can I harvest Walnuts?

Walnuts can be harvested straight from the tree, you can also shake or knock them down when the husks begin cracking. Gather nuts as they fall to the ground. 

Pests

What pests do Walnuts get?

 Pests that can affect Walnut trees include: Black Pecan Aphid, Pecan Nut Casebearer, Pecan Weevil. 

Diseases

What diseases do Walnuts get?

Diseases that can affect Walnut trees include: Anthracnose, Downy Spot, Powdery Mildew, Vein Spot, Zonate Leaf Spot, Bacterial Leaf Scorch, Crown Gall, Scab, Shuck and Kernel Rot. 

Notes

Is there anything else I need to know about Walnuts?

Walnut trees will generally produce their first proper crop 5 years after planting.  

Troubleshooting

How do I troubleshoot my growing problems?

While Walnut trees are self fertile, it's best to plant trees from two or more varieties to ensure adequate pollination and to achieve the best possible fruit set. 

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