Filbert trees, also commonly known as hazelnut trees, are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners, small farmers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Valued for their flavorful nuts, attractive growth habit, and relatively early production compared to many nut trees, filberts can be grown successfully in a wide range of climates. Like all nut-bearing trees, however, planting at the correct time is essential for strong establishment and long-term productivity.

The best time to plant filbert trees varies by state because climate, soil temperature, frost timing, and seasonal rainfall patterns differ across the country. Filbert trees are deciduous and rely heavily on early root development during their first year. Planting at the wrong time can slow growth, increase stress, and delay nut production. Understanding when to plant filbert trees in your state gives your trees the best possible start.

Why Planting Time Matters for Filbert Trees

Filbert trees enter dormancy during the colder months, storing energy in their root systems. Planting during dormancy or early spring allows the tree to focus on root growth rather than supporting leaves or nuts. This significantly reduces transplant shock and improves survival.

Planting filbert trees at the proper time helps ensure:

• Strong and deep root establishment
• Reduced transplant stress
• Improved drought tolerance
• Better cold resistance during the first winter
• Earlier and more reliable nut production

Because filbert trees are a long-term investment that can produce for decades, proper planting timing is one of the most important factors in their success.

Best Time to Plant Filbert Trees in Northern States

States: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire

Best Planting Time: Late April through May

In northern states with long winters and late springs, filbert trees should be planted only after the soil has completely thawed and the risk of hard freezes has passed. Late April through May is the safest planting window. Planting earlier often exposes roots to cold, saturated soil, which slows establishment.

Fall planting is generally not recommended in these regions due to short growing seasons and early winter conditions.

Best Time to Plant Filbert Trees in the Northeast & Mid-Atlantic

States: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Delaware, Maryland

Best Planting Time: Late March through April

These regions offer excellent conditions for filbert trees when planted in early spring. Cooler temperatures and steady rainfall help roots establish before summer heat arrives. Spring planting gives filbert trees a full growing season to settle in.

Fall planting may work in some Mid-Atlantic areas, but spring remains the most reliable option for consistent success.

Best Time to Plant Filbert Trees in the Southeast

States: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Arkansas

Best Planting Time: December through February

The Southeast offers a long dormant planting window for filbert trees. Mild winters allow planting throughout the winter months. Winter planting gives roots time to establish before spring growth begins, resulting in stronger trees and reduced stress.

Late spring planting is discouraged, as rising temperatures can stress young filbert trees before their root systems are fully developed.

Best Time to Plant Filbert Trees in Texas, Oklahoma & the Gulf States

States: Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida

Best Planting Time: December through February

These regions warm quickly in spring, making winter planting ideal. Establishing roots early allows filbert trees to handle summer heat and periods of limited rainfall more effectively.

Best Time to Plant Filbert Trees in the Midwest

States: Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Kansas, Nebraska

Best Planting Time: March through April

The Midwest experiences variable spring weather, so timing is critical. Filbert trees should be planted once soil temperatures rise and extended freezes become unlikely. Early spring planting allows roots to establish before hot summer weather arrives.

Best Time to Plant Filbert Trees in the Upper South & Appalachian Regions

States: Virginia, West Virginia, Eastern Kentucky, Eastern Tennessee

Best Planting Time: February through April

These regions provide moderate winters and reliable rainfall, making them well suited for filbert trees. Planting in late winter or early spring supports strong early growth and healthy root development.

General Rule of Thumb for All States

If you are unsure about the best planting time in your area, follow this simple guideline:

Plant filbert trees while they are dormant or just before spring growth begins.

This timing minimizes stress and allows the root system to establish before the tree enters active growth.

Planting Tips for Filbert Trees

Sunlight

Filbert trees perform best in full sun but tolerate light shade. For maximum nut production, choose a site with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Soil

Well-draining soil is essential. Filbert trees prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil and do not tolerate standing water.

Spacing

Space filbert trees 12–20 feet apart depending on variety and growth habit to allow proper airflow and mature canopy development.

Watering

Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the first growing season.

Pollination

Most filbert trees require cross-pollination. Planting more than one compatible variety improves nut set and yield.

Why Starting With Quality Filbert Trees Matters

Filbert trees can begin producing nuts earlier than many other nut trees, making proper establishment especially important. Starting with healthy, vigorous trees leads to faster growth, earlier production, and fewer issues over time.

Why Customers Choose Ty Ty Nursery to Buy Filbert Trees

• Large selection of filbert trees for sale
• Best prices without sacrificing plant quality
• Fastest in-season shipping — plant in days the Ty Ty way
• Industry-leading guarantees included free
• Certified Google Quality Store: View Reviews
• Nearly 50 years in business with over 10 million plants shipped
• Tens of thousands of 5-star reviews: Read Customer Reviews
• Live plant experts located in Ty Ty, GA — call 888-758-2252
• Convenience of shopping online and having filbert trees delivered directly to your door

When you are ready to buy filbert trees online, choosing an experienced nursery helps ensure success from planting day forward.