Introduction
Corylus americana Walt. is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree that belongs to the birch family. The plant is commonly referred to as the American hazelnut, wild hazel, or the hazelnut tree.
Origin
The plant is native to North America, particularly the eastern region of the United States and Canada. The plant grows in abundance in woodlands, riverbanks, and rocky slopes. American hazel prefers well-drained soils that are moderately moist.
General Appearance
The American hazel is a multi-stemmed plant that grows up to 20 feet tall. The plant has a broad, spreading canopy that provides a dense cover. The tree's features include a grayish-brown bark with prominent lenticels and a yellow-green deciduous foliage. The tree also produces edible nuts that are enclosed in a bristly husk.
Uses
The American hazel is a highly valued plant in the landscape and has several uses. Some of its uses include:
- The plant is popularly used as a hedgerow plant in North America.
- The wood obtained from the tree is used to make fence posts, handles, and walking sticks.
- The nuts produced by the plant are edible and are used to make candy, pastries, and snacks.
- The plant is also used in the production of cosmetics and beauty products.
Light requirements
Corylus americana Walt. typically prefers full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth and productivity. The plant can tolerate moderate shade; however, it will produce smaller nuts in such conditions.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for Corylus americana Walt. is between 45°F and 80°F. The plant is hardy and can withstand cold winter temperatures below 0°F, making it an ideal crop for northern climates.
Soil requirements
Corylus americana Walt. thrives best in well-drained soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant requires soils that are rich in humus and organic matter, with good water retention capacity. Sandy loam soils with adequate fertility and irrigation are suitable for its growth and nut production.
Cultivation Methods
Corylus americana Walt. is a deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern regions of North America. It is typically grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and unique fruiting characteristics. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and is best grown in areas that receive full to partial sunlight.
When planting Corylus americana Walt., it is recommended to space the shrubs at least 10 feet apart to provide enough room for growth. The plant can be grown by seed or propagated through cuttings or layering. However, it is essential to ensure that the plant is well-watered during the establishment period to promote root growth and prevent moisture stress.
Watering Needs
Corylus americana Walt. requires regular watering to remain healthy and productive. The plant prefers moist soil, but it is essential to avoid overwatering, which may result in root rot and other moisture-related diseases. It is recommended to water the plant deeply at least once a week, especially during dry periods.
Furthermore, watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize water loss due to evaporation. It is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which may lead to stagnation and root damage.
Fertilization
Corylus americana Walt. benefits from regular fertilization to promote growth, vigor, and fruiting. A balanced fertilizer with equal nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K) is recommended for the plant. Fertilization should be done in early spring before the onset of new growth and again in midsummer to support fruiting.
It is also recommended to incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-decomposed manure into the soil to improve soil fertility and structure. However, it is essential to avoid over-fertilization, which may result in excessive vegetative growth, poor fruit quality, and reduced plant health.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of Corylus americana Walt. cultivation as it promotes plant health, shape, and productivity. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth.
It is recommended to remove any damaged, diseased, or dead branches using sharp and sanitized tools. Also, pruning can be used to remove old wood and promote new growth by cutting back the plant's branches by up to one-third of their length.
Finally, pruning can be used to shape the plant to desired form and size by selectively cutting back branches that are growing in undesirable directions. Overall, proper pruning can lead to healthier and more productive Corylus americana Walt. plants.
Propagation of Corylus americana Walt.
Corylus americana Walt., or American hazelnut, can be propagated through three methods: seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and root sucker transplantation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Corylus americana. Seeds are collected from the plant in the fall when they have fully matured and have begun to fall from the tree. These seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until early spring when they can be planted in a prepared bed. The soil for the bed should be well-draining and have good fertility. Seeds should be planted about 1-2 inches deep and spaced about 4-6 inches apart. The bed should be watered regularly and kept moist. Seeds will usually germinate within 3-4 weeks. Seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent locations in the fall or the following spring.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Corylus americana involves taking cuttings from the parent plant. The best time to take cuttings is in the winter or early spring while the plant is still dormant. Cuttings should be about 8-10 inches long with at least 3-4 buds. Cuttings can be treated with a rooting hormone before being planted in a sterile, well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist and the cuttings should be in a warm, humid environment. Roots will usually form within 4-6 weeks. Once rooted, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Root Sucker Transplantation
Root sucker transplantation involves removing a sucker, or a shoot that has grown from the plant's root system, and transplanting it to a new location. Suckers should be removed in the spring or early fall and transplanted into a prepared bed. The soil should be well-draining and have good fertility. The sucker should be planted at the same depth it was growing before and watered regularly. The plant will typically establish itself quickly and will require little care.
Disease and Pest Management for Corylus americana Walt.
Corylus americana Walt. is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It is commonly known as American hazelnut and is grown for its edible nuts. Although the plant is relatively disease-resistant and pest-free, it may suffer from a few diseases and pests that could affect its growth and yield.
Common diseases
Some common diseases that may affect Corylus americana Walt. are:
- Eastern Filbert Blight: This fungal disease affects the branches of the plant and causes them to wilt and die. It can cause significant damage to the plant and reduce its yield. The disease spreads through infected pruning tools, rain, or wind. Pruning and burning the infected branches is the best way to manage this disease.
- Crown Gall: This bacterial disease affects the roots of the plant and causes galls or tumors to form. It can stunt the growth of the plant and reduce its yield. The disease can spread through the soil, water, or infected planting material. Planting disease-resistant varieties and avoiding wounded plants can help manage Crown gall.
- Phytophthora Root Rot: This fungal disease affects the roots of the plant and causes them to rot and die. It can weaken the plant and reduce its yield. The disease spreads through soil and water. Providing good drainage and avoiding over-watering can help manage Phytophthora root rot.
Common pests
Some common pests that may affect Corylus americana Walt. are:
- Japanese Beetle: This beetle feeds on the leaves of the plant and can cause significant damage. Handpicking the beetles off the plant or using insecticidal sprays can help manage them.
- Hazelnut Weevil: This insect feeds on the nuts of the plant and can reduce its yield. Inspecting the nuts for holes and discarding damaged nuts can help manage Hazelnut weevil.
- Stem Girdler: This insect girdles the stem of the plant and causes wilting and death. Removing and destroying the infected parts of the plant can help manage Stem girdler.
By monitoring the plant for any signs of diseases and pests, and taking appropriate management strategies, it is possible to maintain a healthy and productive Corylus americana Walt. plant.
