Nut Growing Systems

At Nut Case we want to make it easy for folks to grow nut trees.  That is why we have been developing nut growing systems that maximize tree growth and minimize labour inputs without sacrificing our ecological values.  These systems are evolving as we learn from our experience and trial new products and techniques. Our goal is to support people in creating resilient, productive nut plantings that leave a legacy for future generations.

Here are the basic aspects of our nut growing systems.  We will add links to relevant blog posts, resources and products as we develop them.  As you will see the actual details will depend on your local climatic and soil conditions, your desires and your values.

Choose the right trees for the soil and microclimate.  (only hazels and walnuts should be considered for heavy wet soils)

Amend the soil for maximum short and long term growth.  Check out our nut fertilizers to get your trees off to a good start.

Install tree tubes to maximize vertical growth, protect from wind and cold, minimize pruning and protect from deer if needed.  See our tree shelter options here.

Mulch around the trees.  We offer a simple easy solution of 12" and 18” hemp mulch mats.  However, there are many options for mulching.  Ideally, each tree receives a 4 foot diameter donut of hardwood chips 6” thick with an inner 1 foot diameter circle of pea gravel around the trunk.  Read more on our Mulch Musings Page.

Plant a beneficial ground cover around the mulched areas to fix nitrogen, cycle nutrients and suppress weeds.  Check out our ground cover options here

Irrigate your trees in the dry season.  How much depends on soil type, water supply and what kind of water delivery system you have.  Generally, it is best to water every couple of days when your trees are starting out and less often as they get older.  Drip irrigation works great for getting nut trees established.  If you just have a few trees, you could use a hose that gets turned on low for a few hours and then moved to the next tree or you could just use a 5 gallon bucket.