Hazel Tree Growing Guide UK: Planting, Pruning, Cobnuts and Harvesting

Growing a hazel tree in your garden or allotment is a fantastic way to produce your own nuts while creating an attractive feature that supports British wildlife.

Hazel trees are native to the UK and have been grown and managed for centuries.

They are particularly well known for producing hazelnuts, although cultivated varieties such as cobnuts and filberts are often chosen when growing nuts for eating.

Hazel trees are also extremely useful in wildlife gardens because they provide shelter, food and habitat for numerous insects, birds and mammals.

During late winter and early spring, hazel produces beautiful yellow catkins that hang from the branches.

These are often among the first noticeable signs that spring is approaching.

Later in the year, fresh green leaves develop, followed by nuts that gradually mature during late summer and autumn.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I love growing plants that provide more than one benefit.

Hazel is a fantastic example because it combines edible crops, wildlife value and attractive seasonal interest.

Whether you’re planning to grow a hazel tree in your garden, plant a productive cobnut variety or create a small coppiced hazel area on your allotment, understanding how to care for these trees will help you get the best results.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore how to grow hazel trees in the UK, including planting, watering, feeding, pruning, pollination and harvesting.

We’ll also explain the difference between hazelnuts, cobnuts and filberts, how to encourage better nut production and when to coppice hazel trees.

What Is a Hazel Tree?

The common hazel tree is known botanically as Corylus avellana.

It is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to Britain and other parts of Europe.

Hazel often develops several stems from its base, giving it a naturally bushy appearance.

However, it can also be trained as a small single-stemmed tree.

Main Features of Hazel Trees

• Native British tree
• Edible hazelnuts
• Yellow winter and spring catkins
• Attractive rounded green leaves
• Excellent wildlife value
• Suitable for hedgerows
• Can be coppiced
• Productive cultivated varieties available
• Hardy in UK gardens

Hazel trees are particularly popular in woodland gardens, wildlife areas, hedgerows and productive gardens.

Are Hazel Trees Native to the UK?

Yes.

Common hazel is a native British species.

It grows naturally in woodland, hedgerows and other suitable habitats.

Hazel has been managed through coppicing for centuries.

Traditionally, the flexible stems were harvested for uses such as:

• Garden supports
• Bean poles
• Pea sticks
• Fencing
• Hurdles
• Basket-making
• Woodland crafts

Gardening with Ben Tip

If you enjoy growing your own vegetables, coppiced hazel can provide useful natural supports for climbing beans, peas and other garden plants.

What Is the Difference Between Hazelnuts, Cobnuts and Filberts?

Hazelnuts, cobnuts and filberts are closely related.

All belong to the genus Corylus.

Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts is the general name used for edible nuts produced by hazel species and their cultivated varieties.

Cobnuts

Cobnuts are cultivated forms of hazel grown for their larger, attractive nuts.

They have a long history of cultivation in Britain, particularly in Kent.

Filberts

Filberts are generally associated with hazels that have longer husks surrounding the nuts.

The names can overlap in commercial and gardening use.

Which Is Best for Growing?

If your main aim is producing a reliable crop of nuts, a named cobnut or filbert cultivar is often a better choice than an unknown seed-grown hazel.

Best Hazel and Cobnut Varieties for UK Gardens

There are several excellent varieties to consider.

1. Corylus avellana

Common hazel is a native British species.

Best features:

• Excellent wildlife value
• Hardy
• Suitable for hedgerows
• Can be coppiced
• Produces edible nuts

Nut size and productivity vary between individual plants.

2. Corylus avellana ‘Kentish Cob’

‘Kentish Cob’ is a traditional cultivated variety.

Best features:

• Large edible nuts
• Traditional British cobnut
• Attractive growth
• Suitable for productive gardens

It is a popular choice for gardeners wanting to grow cobnuts.

3. Corylus avellana ‘Cosford’

‘Cosford’ is a well-known hazelnut cultivar.

Best features:

• Good-quality nuts
• Attractive growth
• Useful in mixed plantings
• Potential pollination partner for compatible varieties

4. Corylus avellana ‘Webb’s Prize Cob’

This is another traditional cobnut cultivar.

Best features:

• Large nuts
• Attractive productive growth
• Suitable for gardens and orchards
• Traditional cobnut character

5. Corylus avellana ‘Red Majestic’

‘Red Majestic’ is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage and twisted branches.

Best features:

• Purple-red foliage
• Unusual branch structure
• Attractive winter appearance
• Excellent ornamental value

It is generally chosen for appearance rather than maximum nut production.

6. Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’

Commonly known as corkscrew hazel, this variety has beautifully twisted branches.

Best features:

• Unusual architectural shape
• Attractive winter stems
• Yellow catkins
• Excellent ornamental value

It is not normally the best choice for gardeners wanting a large nut harvest.

How Big Does a Hazel Tree Grow?

Common hazel can grow into a large shrub or small tree.

Mature specimens commonly reach approximately 4–8 metres, although size varies with conditions and management.

Natural Growth

Hazel often develops several stems from its base.

Coppiced Hazel

Regular coppicing keeps the plant in a managed cycle of regrowth.

Cultivated Cobnuts

These are often maintained as productive bushes through pruning.

Gardening with Ben Tip

If you’re growing hazel primarily for nuts, allow enough space for a productive crown rather than planting several bushes too closely together.

How Quickly Do Hazel Trees Grow?

Hazel is generally a reasonably vigorous grower.

Growth depends on:

• Soil quality
• Moisture
• Sunlight
• Plant age
• Variety
• Pruning

Young trees can establish relatively quickly when planted in suitable conditions.

Where Is the Best Place to Plant a Hazel Tree?

Hazel is adaptable and grows in a range of garden conditions.

Sunlight

Full sun is best for strong nut production.

Partial Shade

Common hazel can tolerate partial shade, although crops may be reduced.

Soil

Fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil is ideal.

Shelter

Sheltered conditions can be beneficial for productive cobnut varieties.

Space

Allow sufficient room for mature growth.

What Soil Do Hazel Trees Prefer?

Hazel grows in a variety of soil types.

Loamy Soil

Fertile loam provides excellent growing conditions.

Clay Soil

Hazel can grow in clay soil if drainage is adequate.

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil may require additional watering during establishment.

Chalky Soil

Hazel can tolerate moderately alkaline conditions.

Waterlogged Soil

Persistently waterlogged ground is best avoided.

When Is the Best Time to Plant Hazel Trees?

Autumn and winter are excellent times to plant hazel.

Bare Root Hazel Trees

Plant during dormancy, generally between November and March.

Container-Grown Hazel Trees

These can be planted at other suitable times, provided the ground isn’t frozen, waterlogged or excessively dry.

Gardening with Ben Tip

Bare root hazel plants are often an economical option if you’re planning to create a hedge or wildlife planting area.

How to Plant a Hazel Tree

Step 1: Choose the Position

Select a suitable location with enough growing space.

Step 2: Remove Weeds

Clear grass and competing weeds.

Step 3: Dig the Planting Hole

Make the hole wide enough to accommodate the roots.

Step 4: Check the Roots

Inspect the root system and gently loosen tightly circling roots where appropriate.

Step 5: Position the Tree

Keep the root flare near soil level.

Step 6: Backfill

Return the excavated soil and gently firm it.

Step 7: Water Thoroughly

Water after planting.

Step 8: Apply Mulch

Add a suitable organic mulch, keeping it away from the stems.

Step 9: Protect Young Trees

Use guards where rabbits or other animals may damage young growth.

How Often Should You Water Hazel Trees?

Newly Planted Hazel

Water thoroughly after planting.

First Growing Season

Check soil moisture during dry periods.

Young Trees

Continue watering during prolonged drought while the roots establish.

Established Trees

Established hazel trees usually tolerate normal UK rainfall, although extended drought may affect nut development.

Important Advice

Avoid allowing the roots to remain permanently waterlogged.

Do Hazel Trees Need Fertiliser?

Hazel trees growing in reasonably fertile soil often need little additional feeding.

Spring Feeding

A suitable balanced fertiliser may be useful where nutrient deficiency is identified.

Organic Mulch

Well-rotted compost can help maintain soil condition.

Avoid Excessive Nitrogen

Too much nitrogen may encourage vigorous leafy growth rather than balanced nut production.

Gardening with Ben Tip

Healthy soil, good sunlight and suitable pollination are often more important for nut production than applying large quantities of fertiliser.

When Do Hazel Trees Produce Catkins?

Hazel catkins usually appear during winter and early spring.

In the UK, they are commonly visible between January and March, although timing varies with the weather.

The long yellow catkins are male flowers.

Female flowers are much smaller and can be identified by their tiny red styles emerging from buds.

How Are Hazel Trees Pollinated?

Hazel trees are wind-pollinated.

They produce both male and female flowers on the same plant.

However, many cultivated varieties are self-incompatible or produce better crops when suitable pollen from another variety is available.

Why Pollination Matters

A hazel tree may produce plenty of catkins but very few nuts if compatible pollen is unavailable.

How to Improve Pollination

• Plant more than one compatible variety
• Choose varieties with overlapping flowering periods
• Avoid relying on one isolated tree
• Check nursery pollination advice

Important Advice

Not every hazel variety is compatible with every other variety.

Check compatibility rather than assuming any two trees will pollinate each other.

How Long Does a Hazel Tree Take to Produce Nuts?

Hazel trees grown from seed may take several years before producing significant crops.

Named cultivated varieties can begin cropping sooner, depending on age and growing conditions.

A small initial harvest may develop into larger crops as the plant matures.

Factors Affecting Fruiting

• Plant age
• Variety
• Pollination
• Sunlight
• Soil moisture
• Pruning
• Weather

When Are Hazelnuts Ready to Harvest in the UK?

Hazelnuts generally ripen during late summer and autumn.

In the UK, harvesting commonly takes place between August and October.

The exact timing depends on variety and weather.

Early Harvest

Some cobnuts can be harvested while still green for fresh eating.

Fully Ripe Nuts

Mature nuts generally develop a brown shell and may loosen from their husks.

Gardening with Ben Tip

Check your hazel trees regularly as the nuts approach maturity. Squirrels and other wildlife can be very quick to collect them.

How to Harvest Hazelnuts and Cobnuts

Step 1: Check the Nuts

Look for developing brown shells and signs of maturity.

Step 2: Inspect the Husks

Mature nuts may begin loosening from their surrounding husks.

Step 3: Pick Carefully

Harvest suitable clusters by hand.

Step 4: Remove Damaged Nuts

Discard nuts showing obvious rot or insect damage.

Step 5: Sort the Harvest

Separate green cobnuts intended for immediate use from fully mature nuts intended for drying.

Step 6: Dry Mature Nuts

Spread them in a dry, airy location.

Step 7: Store Properly

Once fully dry, store in suitable conditions.

How to Dry and Store Hazelnuts

Proper drying helps reduce spoilage.

Drying Hazelnuts

Spread mature nuts in a single layer in a dry, well-ventilated location.

Avoid damp conditions.

Checking the Nuts

Inspect regularly and remove any showing signs of mould.

Storage

Store thoroughly dried nuts in a cool, dry place.

Important Advice

Do not eat nuts showing mould or signs of spoilage.

Why Is My Hazel Tree Not Producing Nuts?

There are several possible reasons.

1. Poor Pollination

A compatible pollination partner may be missing.

2. Tree Immaturity

Young trees may not yet be productive.

3. Too Much Shade

Insufficient sunlight can reduce crops.

4. Incorrect Pruning

Removing too much flowering wood may reduce production.

5. Frost Damage

Unfavourable weather can affect flowering.

6. Drought

Dry conditions may reduce nut development.

7. Wildlife

Squirrels and other animals may remove nuts before you notice them.

When Should You Prune Hazel Trees?

Hazel trees are generally pruned during their dormant period.

In the UK, this is usually during winter.

However, pruning depends on whether you’re growing hazel for nuts, wildlife or coppiced stems.

Productive Cobnut Bushes

Winter pruning can help maintain an open, manageable framework.

Ornamental Hazel

Remove dead, damaged or crossing growth as required.

Coppiced Hazel

Cut back on a planned rotation during dormancy.

Important Wildlife Advice

Avoid disturbing active bird nests. Wild birds and their active nests are protected by law.

How to Prune a Hazel Tree for Nuts

Step 1: Inspect the Bush

Look for dead, damaged or crossing branches.

Step 2: Remove Dead Growth

Cut away dead branches.

Step 3: Open the Centre

Remove selected overcrowded stems.

Step 4: Maintain Productive Growth

Retain a balanced framework with good light penetration.

Step 5: Remove Unwanted Suckers

Cut back unnecessary shoots emerging from the base.

Step 6: Avoid Heavy Pruning

Excessive cutting may reduce the following crop.

Gardening with Ben Tip

If you’re growing cobnuts, the aim is to create a healthy, open bush that receives plenty of sunlight rather than allowing the centre to become overcrowded.

What Is Hazel Coppicing?

Coppicing is a traditional woodland management technique.

It involves cutting established hazel stems close to the ground to encourage new shoots.

These shoots can be harvested after several years.

Benefits of Coppicing

• Produces useful straight stems
• Encourages vigorous regrowth
• Helps manage woodland structure
• Creates varied wildlife habitats
• Provides natural garden materials

When Should You Coppice Hazel?

Hazel is generally coppiced during winter dormancy.

The exact cutting cycle depends on the intended use of the stems.

For example, material for pea sticks may be harvested younger than larger poles used for fencing.

Important Advice

Coppicing an established hazel bush may reduce or prevent nut production for several years while new stems develop.

If your main aim is harvesting hazelnuts, maintain a productive framework rather than repeatedly cutting the whole bush to ground level.

How to Coppice Hazel

Step 1: Choose an Established Plant

Select healthy hazel suitable for coppicing.

Step 2: Work During Dormancy

Winter is generally preferred.

Step 3: Cut the Stems

Use suitable sharp tools to cut stems close to the stool.

Step 4: Avoid Damaging the Stool

Make clean cuts and avoid unnecessary damage.

Step 5: Remove Harvested Material

Sort stems for garden use.

Step 6: Allow Regrowth

New shoots should develop from the base.

Step 7: Manage the Coppice

Allow stems to grow until the next planned harvest.

Can You Grow Hazel Trees in Pots?

Young hazel plants can be grown in large containers.

However, standard hazel trees are generally better suited to growing in the ground.

Container Requirements

• Large sturdy container
• Suitable peat-free compost
• Good drainage
• Regular watering
• Appropriate feeding
• Root management

For reliable nut production, planting in the ground is usually preferable.

Are Hazel Trees Good for Wildlife?

Yes.

Hazel is an extremely valuable native British tree.

Insects

Hazel supports a range of insects and caterpillars.

Birds

Birds may use hazel for shelter and nesting.

Mammals

Hazelnuts provide food for squirrels, mice and other wildlife.

Dormice

Hazel is associated with habitats used by hazel dormice.

Coppiced Woodland

Traditional coppicing can create varied habitats that benefit numerous species.

Gardening with Ben Tip

If you’re creating a wildlife-friendly garden, native hazel is an excellent choice because it provides food, shelter and seasonal interest.

Common Hazel Tree Problems

1. Poor Nut Production

Often associated with pollination, shade or immaturity.

2. Squirrel Damage

Squirrels may remove developing nuts.

3. Nut Weevils

Larvae can develop inside nuts and cause damage.

4. Aphids

Aphids may feed on young growth.

5. Powdery Mildew

Can cause white fungal growth on leaves.

6. Drought Stress

Dry weather may reduce growth and nut development.

7. Waterlogging

Poor drainage can damage roots.

8. Overcrowded Growth

Dense bushes may produce fewer accessible nuts.

Why Are My Hazel Leaves Turning Yellow?

Yellow leaves may result from:

• Normal autumn colour
• Drought
• Waterlogging
• Nutrient problems
• Root stress
• Disease

Hazel is deciduous, so yellow autumn foliage is normal.

Why Are My Hazelnuts Empty?

Empty nuts can occur when nut development is unsuccessful.

Possible causes include:

• Poor pollination
• Unfavourable weather
• Drought
• Nutrient stress
• Insect damage

If empty nuts are a recurring problem, investigate pollination compatibility and growing conditions.

Hazel Tree Care Throughout the Year

Spring

Enjoy the catkins.

Watch for emerging leaves.

Monitor soil moisture.

Summer

Water young plants during dry periods.

Check developing nuts.

Monitor pests.

Autumn

Harvest ripe hazelnuts and cobnuts.

Plant new trees when conditions are suitable.

Winter

Prune productive bushes.

Carry out planned coppicing.

Plant bare root hazel.

Common Mistakes When Growing Hazel Trees

1. Planting in Deep Shade

Nut production is usually better in sun.

2. Ignoring Pollination

Compatible varieties may be needed.

3. Planting Too Close Together

Allow adequate growing space.

4. Allowing Young Trees to Dry Out

Water during establishment.

5. Pruning Too Heavily

Excessive pruning can reduce crops.

6. Coppicing When Nuts Are the Main Goal

Regular coppicing interrupts nut production.

7. Harvesting Too Early

Immature nuts may not store well.

8. Storing Nuts Before Drying

Damp nuts can develop mould.

9. Ignoring Wildlife Competition

Squirrels may harvest nuts before you do.

10. Expecting Immediate Crops

Young trees need time to establish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hazel Trees

Are Hazel Trees Native to the UK?

Yes. Common hazel is a native British species.

How Tall Does a Hazel Tree Grow?

Common hazel often reaches approximately 4–8 metres.

How Quickly Do Hazel Trees Grow?

Hazel is generally a reasonably vigorous grower.

Do Hazel Trees Produce Edible Nuts?

Yes. Common hazel and cultivated cobnut varieties produce edible nuts.

What Is the Difference Between Hazelnuts and Cobnuts?

Cobnuts are cultivated hazelnuts traditionally grown for their larger nuts.

When Should You Plant Hazel Trees?

Autumn and winter are excellent planting times.

Do Hazel Trees Need Full Sun?

They tolerate partial shade, but full sun generally improves nut production.

Can Hazel Trees Grow in Clay Soil?

Yes, provided drainage is adequate.

When Do Hazel Trees Produce Catkins?

Usually during winter and early spring.

Do You Need Two Hazel Trees for Nuts?

Many varieties crop better with a compatible pollination partner.

When Do Hazel Trees Start Producing Nuts?

They generally begin cropping after several years, depending on variety and growing conditions.

When Are Hazelnuts Ready to Harvest?

Usually between August and October in the UK.

How Do You Store Hazelnuts?

Dry mature nuts thoroughly before storing them in suitable cool, dry conditions.

When Should You Prune Hazel Trees?

Usually during winter dormancy.

Can You Coppice Hazel Trees?

Yes. Hazel responds well to traditional coppicing.

Does Coppicing Stop Hazel Producing Nuts?

It temporarily reduces nut production while new stems develop.

Can You Grow Hazel in Pots?

Young plants can be grown in large containers, but growing in the ground is usually preferable.

Why Is My Hazel Tree Not Producing Nuts?

Poor pollination, immaturity, shade or environmental stress may be responsible.

Why Are My Hazelnuts Empty?

Poor pollination, weather conditions or failed nut development may be responsible.

Are Hazel Trees Good for Wildlife?

Yes. They provide valuable food and habitat for British wildlife.

Final Thoughts: Growing Hazel Trees in the UK

Hazel trees are a fantastic addition to UK gardens and allotments, offering edible nuts, attractive catkins and excellent wildlife benefits.

They are particularly useful for gardeners wanting to grow their own food while supporting native wildlife.

If your main aim is producing hazelnuts or cobnuts, choose suitable cultivated varieties and make sure compatible pollen is available.

Plant in a sunny position with reasonably fertile, well-drained soil.

Water during establishment and maintain an open, productive framework through careful winter pruning.

If you’re growing hazel for wildlife or natural garden materials, traditional coppicing can be a rewarding way to manage the plant.

Whether you’re harvesting homegrown cobnuts or using hazel stems to support climbing beans, this versatile native tree has plenty to offer.

With the correct planting position and care, hazel can become a productive and attractive feature in your garden for many years.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!