Site Selection

Walnuts will grow in many different soils and situations. In general they require a freely draining but moist soil profile, the deeper the better.

While windbreaks and shelterbelts are useful to the establishment and general speedy development of new plantings, these must not be allowed to overshadow the walnuts. Nuts will not ripen properly on darkened or shaded trees.

Planting

The best times for planting are November or February, when the ground is unfrozen. If it is not practical to plant the tree on delivery it can, without detriment, be 'heeled in', for example into a border or vegetable garden. Care must be taken not to bury the graft union which must always remain above ground level. Young walnuts are particularly thick and sturdy and seldom need staking after the first couple of years.

A generous hole should be dug to comfortably accommodate the root in depth and spread. Compost may be added to the spoil as the hole is filled but this can sometimes lead to poor root growth in the areas of soil that are not enhanced. Deep mulches of bark peelings or similar organic matter are greatly appreciated and serve the plant well in case of dry springs.

Aftercare

Fertilizers are not obligatory in the first couple of years but can be a useful supplement as the plants become reestablished.

In very dry seasons young walnuts must be watered, especially in the first year prior to the onset of leaf. Root development may begin as early as February and so it is important that the trees need for water is met through April and May.

See here for more information on soil types
See here for more information on planting distances

24 foot spacing of trees
Broadview at 24 foot spacing

"Now am I Content, for I have planted Walnuts"