Characteristics
Systematics
- Botanical name: Juglans regia
- Order: beech-like (Fagales)
- Family: Walnut family (Juglandaceae)
- Genus: Walnuts (Juglans)
- Type: Real walnut
Botanical
- Growth type: large tree, deciduous wood
- Height: up to 30 meters
- Spread: Up to 15 meters
- Main flowering time: April to May
- Flower shape: catkins
- Flower color: yellow
- Leaf: pinnate, strong green
- Fruits: Green drupes
origin
The natural occurrence of walnut trees extends from the Balkan countries across Central Asia to China. Because of its fine wood and tasty fruits, the tree was already cultivated by the ancient Romans in Central Europe.
also read
- Grow the walnut tree yourself - this is how it works
- "Black nuts": pickle green walnuts
- Pulling a walnut tree - step-by-step instructions
Location and substrate
Walnut trees prefer warm, sunny and sheltered locations. That is why they are mainly to be found in Germany in the wine-growing regions. The mighty nut trees thrive best on fertile, loamy, humus-rich and calcareous soils.
planting
When old, walnut trees form a very spreading crown and require a lot of space. Please note: There are hardly any plants growing in the immediate vicinity of these trees, as the coloring and tannins contained in the fruit shell inhibit the growth of roots in other plants.
care
A little fertilizer in spring and plenty of water in the dry phases allow the robust tree to sprout vigorously.
Cutbacks are not required. However, if the crown grows too large, you can bring it into shape from August to September.
Harvest nuts
A large walnut tree can produce up to 150 kilograms of nuts annually. You can harvest the walnuts, as soon as they fall from the tree and the green peel bursts open.
- If possible, pick up the ripe walnuts every day.
- Also collect rotten and moldy nuts and dispose of them in the organic waste bin. You could dated Codling moth or the Walnut fruit fly be infested.
- Remove the white skin before consuming fresh nuts.
- Peel off the soft, green outer shell of the nuts intended for storage and then brush off the shell.
- Under no circumstances wash it off, as this can cause moisture and fungal spores to get inside.
- Spread out and let dry at room temperature.
- Turn several times a day.
- After three to six weeks, the nuts are dry and can be hung up in sacks or nets and kept.
Tips
Walnuts are easy to freeze and retain their wonderful aroma when you sleep in the cold. To do this, crack the nuts and remove the kernels. Dry on a baking sheet, fill in freezer bags and place in the freezer.
