The Ultimate Guide to Harvesting Hazelnuts: From Timing to Storage

Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are a delightful and nutritious nut enjoyed worldwide. Whether you have a few hazelnut trees in your backyard or a small orchard, harvesting these delectable treats can be a rewarding experience. However, knowing when and how to harvest them correctly is crucial for ensuring a bountiful and high-quality yield. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the hazelnut harvesting process, from identifying the perfect time to pick to proper storage techniques.

Understanding the Hazelnut Life Cycle

Before we dive into harvesting, it’s helpful to understand the hazelnut’s growth cycle. Hazelnuts are produced by hazelnut trees (Corylus spp.), which are deciduous trees or large shrubs. They typically bear fruit (the nuts) in late summer or early autumn. The following is a simplified overview of their annual cycle:

• Spring: Male catkins release pollen to fertilize female flowers (tiny red tufts), which will then develop into nuts.
• Summer: The fertilized flowers begin to develop into the familiar green husks encasing the nut.
• Late Summer/Early Autumn: The nuts mature, the husks turn from green to yellow or brown, and the nuts begin to fall.

This timeline can vary depending on the climate, hazelnut variety, and local weather conditions. However, this overview serves as a useful guide.

Knowing When to Harvest Hazelnuts

The most crucial aspect of hazelnut harvesting is timing. Picking them too early will result in underdeveloped, bland nuts. Picking them too late will mean you’ll be gathering spoiled or already harvested by critters! Here are several signs to help you determine the optimal harvest time:

1. The Color of the Husks

The green husks that surround the hazelnut will begin to change color as the nuts mature. They’ll shift from vibrant green to a yellow-brown or brown hue. The change in color signals that the nuts are reaching their peak ripeness. Note that the intensity and specific shade of the color change can vary slightly between different hazelnut varieties. Observe your trees closely in the weeks leading up to the expected harvest period to track the husk’s color change. This is one of the most reliable indicators of readiness.

2. Nut Fall

The most obvious sign that hazelnuts are ready for harvest is that they will begin to fall from the trees. A mature hazelnut will often separate from its husk and drop to the ground. This natural dropping process means the nut is fully ripe and ready to be harvested. However, avoid collecting nuts that have been on the ground for an extended period, as they may be moldy or damaged by pests or the weather. Regular checking of the ground around your trees will allow you to capture them at their peak.

3. Ease of Separation from Husk

As the nuts mature, they become easier to separate from their husks. A ripe hazelnut should come away from the husk with minimal effort. If you encounter significant resistance or find that the nuts are still firmly attached, they are likely not fully ripe and you should give them a bit more time. Test a few nuts from different areas of the tree for ease of removal to ascertain the state of readiness. Lightly squeezing a husk may be sufficient to tell if the nut is ready to pop out.

4. Checking the Nut

If you are unsure about visual cues, another approach is to crack open a few nuts to examine them. A fully mature nut will have a firm, brown shell, and the kernel inside will be plump, firm, and crisp. Immature nuts have soft shells, smaller kernels, and might have a milky appearance. If the kernel looks translucent or soft, it means the nut needs more time to mature. If you find a plump, firm kernel, it’s a signal that you’re ready to begin gathering in earnest. The kernel should also have the typical hazelnut taste and aroma, although don’t eat too many!

5. The Timeline

General timelines can provide a helpful idea of the harvesting season. In most temperate regions, hazelnut harvesting begins in late August or early September and can continue through October. However, this can vary based on your local climate and the specific variety of hazelnut you are growing. Pay attention to your trees from mid-summer onwards and document the progression of the nut’s development from year to year. Over time, you’ll become familiar with the signs and the usual harvest times in your specific location.

Tools You’ll Need for Hazelnut Harvesting

Having the right tools on hand will make your harvesting process more efficient and comfortable. Here is a list of essential tools you might need:

• Gloves: Hazelnut husks can be prickly or cause minor skin irritation to some, so wearing gloves while collecting is a wise idea. Choose a sturdy pair of gloves that offer protection and allow for good dexterity.
• Buckets or Baskets: Large buckets or baskets are perfect for collecting the fallen nuts. Having multiple containers will allow you to keep your collection organized and simplify the processing phase.
• Tarp or Ground Cover: If you want to make cleanup easier or to keep nuts away from direct contact with soil, you can spread a tarp beneath your tree to gather the falling nuts. This is particularly useful if you plan on shaking the tree (see later).
• A Lightweight Rake: A light rake can help you gather nuts that may have fallen into grass or under other ground cover. The rake can also help gently dislodge nuts that are almost ready to fall. A leaf rake will do, or a smaller hand rake can be helpful for areas with denser foliage.
• Ladder: If you have taller hazelnut trees, a step ladder may be necessary to reach nuts that are still clinging to the branches. Always use caution when using a ladder and ensure it is stable before you begin climbing.
• Nut Picker-Upper (Optional): There are specialized tools available that can help you pick up nuts without bending over. These tools are not essential but may be worth considering if you have a large area to harvest or have difficulty bending.
• Pruning Shears (Optional): If you find that branches are laden with nuts or making the picking process difficult, pruning shears can be useful for removing smaller branches. Make sure to only remove branches if it’s truly necessary.

Step-by-Step Guide to Harvesting Hazelnuts

Now that you know the signs of ripeness and have your tools ready, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you harvest your hazelnuts efficiently:

Step 1: Prepare the Harvest Area

Before you begin harvesting, take the time to prepare the area around your trees. Clear away any overgrown grass, weeds, or debris that might make it difficult to spot fallen nuts. If you are using a tarp, spread it beneath the trees, ensuring it reaches well beyond the drip line of the branches. Having a clean and clear area will make the harvesting process smoother.

Step 2: Collect Fallen Nuts

The easiest method for harvesting is gathering the fallen nuts from the ground. Walk slowly around the base of your hazelnut trees and carefully collect the ripe nuts. Be thorough, checking for nuts hidden beneath leaves or other foliage. Pick up only the nuts that are free from their husks. If husks are still present on the ground with a nut inside, they may not be completely ripe yet. Only pick the ones where the nut is mostly or entirely visible, ready to be picked up. Place the collected nuts in your buckets or baskets.

Step 3: Gently Shake the Branches

If you find that a substantial number of nuts are still on the trees, you can gently shake the branches to encourage them to fall. Be gentle, as too much force could damage the tree or unripe nuts that are still attached. A light shaking should be sufficient to release the ripe ones. You can use a long stick to tap the branches gently, or use your hands on branches that are within reach. This method works best when you have a tarp laid out to collect the falling nuts.

Step 4: Handpick Remaining Nuts (Optional)

After shaking the tree, some nuts may still remain attached. You can carefully handpick these if they appear ripe and ready. Take your time and use caution when working on branches that are higher off the ground. It’s possible to use a step stool or small ladder if necessary, but always prioritize your safety. Check that the nuts are easy to detach from the husk before you pick them. Only harvest those that appear fully mature and ready to be gathered. This step can be time-consuming but is beneficial for ensuring you get as many ripe hazelnuts as possible from your trees.

Step 5: Repeat as Necessary

Hazelnut harvest is not a one-time event. Depending on the weather and variety, nuts may ripen over a period of several weeks. It’s best to go out and harvest your trees several times during the harvest season, typically every few days. Regular harvesting will prevent nuts from being missed or being taken by squirrels or birds, and it will also ensure that any that have fallen aren’t sitting on the ground long enough to get damaged or moldy. Monitor your trees regularly, and repeat the collection process as needed.

Processing Your Harvested Hazelnuts

After collecting your hazelnuts, they require a bit more processing before they’re ready for consumption or storage. Here’s how to process your freshly harvested nuts:

1. Remove the Husks

If any husks are still clinging to the nuts, you will need to remove them. The process should be easy, as ripe nuts should detach with minimal effort. You can manually remove them by hand or use a gentle rubbing motion, perhaps using a colander to separate husks from nuts. If you encounter difficulty removing the husks, it might indicate the nuts were not fully ripe when you picked them. Remove the husks quickly, as they can be a host for pests or create mold if left on for too long.

2. Cleaning

After removing the husks, your hazelnuts may have some dirt or debris on them. Rinse the nuts gently in a colander under cool water. Make sure you use a gentle stream so you don’t damage the nuts. Remove any leaves or other organic matter that might be stuck to the shell. Once cleaned, spread them on a clean cloth or screen to air dry before moving to the next step.

3. Drying

Proper drying is critical to ensure the long-term storage of your hazelnuts. To dry them, spread the cleaned nuts in a single layer on a screen, tray, or clean cloth in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can damage the nuts. The drying process can take several days or even weeks, depending on humidity levels. You can test the dryness by shaking a few nuts together. If you hear a rattle, it means the kernel has shrunk away from the shell and the nuts are dry. Alternatively, crack open one or two to check if the kernel is crisp and dry inside. Avoid storing your hazelnuts in any containers or sacks until they are fully dry.

Storing Hazelnuts

Once your hazelnuts are fully dried, you can store them for later consumption. Here are some storage tips:

• In-Shell Storage: The best way to store hazelnuts is in their shells. This provides a natural barrier against moisture and pests and will help them retain their freshness for a long time. Store them in a cool, dry, and dark location, such as a pantry or cellar. Avoid areas with high temperatures or humidity, which can cause the nuts to spoil. An ideal temperature range is between 32 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 4 degrees Celsius).
• Airtight Containers: If storing in the shell, use airtight containers, such as jars, plastic containers, or resealable bags. This will keep them safe from humidity, insects, and rodents. Adding a desiccant packet to the container can further help absorb any residual moisture.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, you can freeze shelled or unshelled hazelnuts. To freeze them, place the dried nuts in freezer-safe containers or bags. This will extend their shelf life considerably. Frozen nuts will maintain quality for up to a year. Thaw them at room temperature when ready to eat.
• Shelled Storage: If you choose to shell the nuts before storage, ensure they are fully dry. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer. Shelled nuts are more prone to spoilage than in-shell nuts, so they are better used sooner rather than later.

Tips for a Successful Harvest

To ensure the best possible harvest, keep these tips in mind:

• Regular Monitoring: Keep a close watch on your hazelnut trees from mid-summer onward. This will help you identify the ideal time for harvest and allow you to adjust your schedule as necessary. Frequent observation and awareness of subtle changes will help you predict and react to the optimal time for harvesting.
• Harvest at the Right Time: The most crucial aspect of harvesting is to ensure the nuts are fully mature. Harvest them at their peak ripeness to achieve maximum flavor and quality. The right time is typically when they begin to fall from the tree naturally, with the husks being a yellow-brown colour.
• Protect from Pests: Squirrels, birds, and rodents are fond of hazelnuts. Take steps to protect your harvest, such as using netting around your trees, especially if they are accessible to pests. Regular collecting also makes a significant difference since the nuts don’t have as long to sit around. You can also use deterrents to protect your trees.
• Document Your Harvest: Keep a record of your harvest dates each year. This will help you learn the patterns and adjust your approach for future harvests. Documenting the date of first nutfall, how long the harvest season lasted, the color of husks in different years, etc, will greatly improve your knowledge of your trees and your local harvest window.
• Check Local Climate: Be aware of weather patterns, especially towards the end of the harvest season, as frost or rain can affect the quality of the nuts. Harvesting before severe weather will be helpful for ensuring the quality of your crop.

Enjoy Your Homegrown Hazelnuts

Harvesting hazelnuts can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this article, you can ensure a successful harvest and enjoy the delicious and nutritious bounty of your trees. Whether you eat them raw, roast them, or use them in your favorite recipes, homegrown hazelnuts are a treat worth waiting for. Happy harvesting!