Walnut

Walnuts

Walnuts (Juglans spp.) are large, deciduous trees that produce edible nuts. They are native to various regions, including North America, Europe, and Asia.

Growing Walnuts

Walnuts can be grown from seeds (nuts), but most growers purchase grafted trees from nurseries. They prefer deep, well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Walnut trees can grow quite large, reaching heights of 50-100 feet and a spread of 50-70 feet. They are hardy in USDA zones 4-9, depending on the species and variety.

Harvesting and Uses

Walnut trees typically begin producing nuts 4-7 years after planting, with significant production starting after 10-12 years. Nuts are ready for harvest in the fall when the outer husks have turned from green to yellowish-brown and begin to split open. Trees can continue producing nuts for 50-100 years or more with proper care.

Some popular walnut species and varieties include:

• English Walnut (Juglans regia): The most widely cultivated species, with thin-shelled nuts.
• Black Walnut (Juglans nigra): Native to North America, with hard, thick-shelled nuts.
• Chandler: A popular English walnut variety with large, high-quality nuts.

Walnuts are often consumed fresh or used in various culinary applications such as baking, confectionery, and savory dishes. They are also pressed for their oil, which is used in cooking and cosmetics. Walnut shells have industrial uses, such as in abrasives and filtration media.