How to grow Cobnut / Hazelnut in the UK
Corylus avellana
Cobnut / Hazelnut (Corylus avellana) is a fruit that grows well in UK gardens. Native UK nut. Plant 2 different varieties for pollination. Squirrels will steal everything if you let them. This guide covers when and how to sow Cobnut / Hazelnut, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Cobnut / Hazelnut
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb Plant | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Plant | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Deep, fertile, well-drained soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.0
- Position
- Sun or light shade
- Sowing depth
- Plant to the original soil mark; stake bare-root trees
- Spacing
- 4–5 m
- Sowing
- Plant bare-root Nov–Mar; plant two for pollination
- Growing
- Water well for the first 3 years; mulch and feed in spring
- Harvest & upkeep
- Prune in late winter and "brut" (break) side-shoots in summer; net from squirrels
- Watch for
- Squirrels, nut weevil
Companion planting for Cobnut / Hazelnut
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Add Cobnut / Hazelnut to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Cobnut / Hazelnut FAQs
How much sun does Cobnut / Hazelnut need?
Cobnut / Hazelnut prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When is Cobnut / Hazelnut ready to harvest?
Cobnut / Hazelnut is typically ready to harvest in September, October in the UK.
Is Cobnut / Hazelnut easy to grow?
Moderate. Native UK nut. Plant 2 different varieties for pollination. Squirrels will steal everything if you let them.