Filbert trees (also known as hazelnuts) are hardy and productive nut trees, but to get the best yield, they need a solid start in early spring. Whether you’re growing them for home harvest, wildlife, or commercial use, here are the Top 5 spring prep tasks to ensure strong growth and a successful nut crop.

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1. Prune for Structure and Light

Before your filbert tree breaks dormancy, prune to:

• Remove dead, diseased, or broken branches,
• Thin crowded areas to improve airflow and light,
• Shape the tree for easy harvest and balanced structure.

Open canopies help reduce disease pressure and improve nut development.

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2. Control Eastern Filbert Blight Early

If you’re in a region where Eastern Filbert Blight (EFB) is a concern, early spring is the time to act. Remove any cankers or infected branches, and consider applying a fungicide if your tree is not resistant.

Proper spacing and pruning also help prevent blight from taking hold.

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3. Fertilize with a Nitrogen-Rich Blend

Filberts are moderately heavy feeders. Apply a fertilizer high in nitrogen (like 20-10-10 or blood meal) in early spring to fuel strong leaf and stem growth.

Distribute it around the drip line and water thoroughly to activate the nutrients.

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4. Mulch to Protect Roots and Conserve Water

Remove any old mulch and apply a fresh 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch like wood chips or pine bark. Benefits include:

• Moisture retention,
• Soil temperature regulation,
• Weed suppression,
• Organic matter enrichment.

Keep mulch several inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

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5. Inspect for Suckers and Wildlife Damage

Check for:

• Suckers emerging from the base or root system—remove them to conserve energy,
• Rodent or deer damage from winter months—apply protective trunk wraps or guards if needed,
• Graft health (if applicable), ensuring no unwanted shoots below the graft union.

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