🌱 European hazelnut planting

1. Introduction

A fruit orchard can last more than 50 years, but its real productivity and effective lifespan depend on what happens from day one. The planting stage is one of the most decisive for the success of a European hazelnut orchard (Corylus avellana).

Decisions made at this stage—variety selection, plant quality, soil preparation, and initial plant health management—make the difference between a productive orchard and one that never reaches its potential.

At Vivero El Avellano we know the foundation of a successful project is the plant material. That’s why we produce plants with genetic traceability, vigorous roots, and verified plant health, ensuring maximum orchard performance in maturity.

2. Importance of nursery quality for European hazelnuts

Plant quality largely defines orchard lifespan and productivity. A healthy plant with well-formed roots and free of disease adapts more easily to the soil and withstands adverse conditions better.

At Vivero El Avellano we apply strict quality controls and plant health protocols at every stage of development. Our lots are individually selected to ensure uniformity and vigor from transplant onward.

A quality plant:

• Has an active, fibrous root system
• Has well-lignified, balanced stems
• Is free of damage, pests, and deformities
• Shows a structure ready to begin training in the orchard

Starting with a superior-quality plant not only reduces risk, it also ensures uniform growth and an early entry into production, which is essential for return on investment.

3. Site selection and soil preparation for hazelnuts

The place where the orchard will be established is as important as the plant itself. Before planting, we recommend:

• Avoid soils with poor drainage or that retain water for long periods
• Analyze the soil to know its structure, pH, salinity, and pathogen presence
• In volcanic soils (typical in southern Chile), consider the moisture management typical of Andisols
• Subsoil if compacted layers exist and correct unevenness that could cause water accumulation
• Implement raised beds and drainage ditches in areas at risk of water saturation

Proper preparation ensures good root system oxygenation and prevents later problems such as collar or root rot, one of the main causes of young plant loss.

4. Choosing European hazelnut varieties and pollinators

The variety should be chosen based on the climate and specific conditions of the area. In Chile, varieties such as Tonda di Giffoni, Lewis, and Ennis have performed excellently, alongside compatible pollinators such as Barcelona, Willamette, and Hall's Giant.

A key factor is flowering synchronization between the main variety and pollinators, which ensures good fertilization and a uniform harvest.

At Vivero El Avellano we advise you to define the ideal varietal combination for your zone and production goals.

5. Planting technique and calendar for European hazelnut

Bare-root planting should be done in autumn or winter, ideally from May to July, when the soil is moist but not saturated. It is important that the soil is loose and well-structured.

During planting:

• Keep roots moist before placing them in the hole
• Do not bury the collar; it should remain at soil level
• Lightly firm the soil around the roots to avoid air pockets
• Protect plants from rabbits

At Vivero El Avellano we recommend planting with trained personnel, supervising the planting stage, and ensuring the irrigation system is ready to begin watering in September if needed. Good planting combined with timely irrigation ensures uniformity and reduces early mortality.

6. Early management of a young European hazelnut orchard

During the first year, the goal is to form the structure and develop the root system. Basic tasks include:

• Keep soil weed-free around the base of the plant
• Apply short, frequent irrigations without causing waterlogging
• Carry out balanced fertilizations based on soil and foliar analyses
• Continuously monitor for pests or diseases
• Perform training pruning to define a strong, balanced structure

At this early stage, any stress (water, nutritional, or health) can affect tree formation and future yields.

7. Common mistakes when planting European hazelnut

The most costly mistakes happen in the first months and are often difficult to correct:

• Planting in poorly drained soils or without proper preparation
• Using damaged plants or without traceability
• Burying the collar too deep or leaving roots exposed
• Excessive irrigation or poorly distributed watering
• Not controlling weeds or pests in the first year

Avoiding these mistakes is far easier than correcting them. That’s why Vivero El Avellano supports each grower throughout the planting process with recommendations adapted to their climate and soil type.

Conclusion

European hazelnut planting is the moment when the orchard’s future is defined. Every detail matters—from site selection to plant quality.

At Vivero El Avellano, we take this stage seriously. Our commitment is to deliver quality plants, healthy, vigorous, and ready to develop in any productive zone of Chile.

A good planting not only ensures better establishment, but also translates into higher yields, longevity, and orchard profitability.