Corylus avellana

Ideal placement of a Corylus avellana

Thriving in a variety of soil conditions, Corylus avellana exhibits a preference for well-drained substrates to support its healthy growth. While adaptable, the shrub achieves its full potential when situated in a location with access to full sun or partial shade, which encourages prolific growth and optimal fruit production. The plant's upright to bushy growth habit is complemented by its ability to attain an ultimate height of up to 5 meters, making it a striking addition to borders or as a solitary feature within a garden landscape.

How do I plant a Corylus avellana?

For successful establishment in the garden, Corylus avellana should be planted in well-drained soil, adaptable to various types but thriving best in fertile conditions. The ideal planting location is where the shrub can receive full sun to partial shade, fostering robust growth and ample fruit production. Upon planting, water the shrub to ensure a snug soil-to-root contact, which is crucial for root development. Regular watering during the initial growth phase is recommended, particularly if rainfall is scarce. Provide ample space for the shrub to reach its full height and spread, allowing its upright to bushy growth habit to grace the landscape.

Pruning a Corylus avellana

Corylus avellana thrives with minimal intervention, its natural charm emerging even without regular pruning. However, to encourage a robust structure and healthy growth, it is advisable to prune the shrub at the end of winter or in early spring. If pruning is necessary, focus on removing any dead or damaged wood, as well as any overcrowded branches to allow light and air to penetrate the canopy. When more substantial shaping is required, it can tolerate hard pruning to rejuvenate older specimens and stimulate vigorous new growth.

Watering a Corylus avellana

Corylus avellana thrives with consistent moisture, particularly when establishing itself in a new location. The shrub benefits from regular watering, ensuring the soil remains well-hydrated but not waterlogged. During the growing season, monitor soil conditions and provide water if the week has been dry—this species has average water needs. In the case of potted specimens, be mindful that they may require more frequent watering due to the limited soil volume. During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy and its water requirements diminish.

Fertilising a Corylus avellana

To support the vigorous growth and fruitful yield of Corylus avellana, an appropriate fertilization regime is recommended. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to the soil at the base of the shrub in early spring, just as the plant begins to break dormancy. This initial application will provide the necessary nutrients for the burgeoning spring growth and support the development of flowers and, subsequently, nuts.

A second application of fertilizer can be beneficial in late spring or early summer, to sustain the plant's needs throughout the growing season. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the quantity and frequency of fertilizer application to avoid over-fertilization, which could lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production. Well-timed and measured fertilization will ensure the hazel remains robust and productive.

The characteristics of a Corylus avellana

Corylus avellana thrives when planted in a well-drained, fertile soil, benefiting greatly from an annual mulch of well-rotted compost. Its natural, multi-stemmed growth habit can be a striking architectural feature in the landscape, particularly during the winter months when the intricate structure of its bare branches is most visible. Additionally, this species is known for producing an abundance of catkins in late winter to early spring, adding a touch of early interest to the garden.