Corylus Avellana Pontica

Overview

Corylus avellana pontica, commonly known as the Pontic hazelnut or Turkish hazelnut, is a deciduous shrub or tree that belongs to the Betulaceae family. It is a close relative of the common hazelnut (Corylus avellana) and is indigenous to the western Caucasus, northern Iran, and eastern Turkey.

Description

The Pontic hazelnut is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5 meters tall. It has a dense canopy of leaves that are rounded, green, and have a serrated edge. The leaves are around 10 cm long and 8 cm wide and have a slightly rough texture. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown.

The male and female flowers of the Pontic hazelnut grow on separate trees. The male flowers are yellow, pendulous catkins, while the female flowers are small and reddish and grow in clusters on the branches. The tree produces edible nuts that are enclosed in a hard, woody shell and are surrounded by a leafy husk that splits open when ripe.

Uses

The nuts of the Pontic hazelnut are highly valued for their rich, sweet flavor and are used in a wide range of culinary applications. They are commonly used in confectionery, baking, and as a garnish in desserts. The nuts are also a popular ingredient in savory dishes, such as salads, risottos, and meat dishes. In addition, the oil extracted from the nuts is used in cooking and as a skincare ingredient.

The Pontic hazelnut also has some medicinal uses. The leaves and bark of the tree contain tannins, which have astringent properties and can be used to treat diarrhea and other digestive problems. The nuts are also high in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Cultivation

Pontic hazelnuts are easy to grow and adapt well to a wide range of soil types and climates. They prefer well-draining soil and full sunlight for optimum growth. The tree thrives in mild to warm climates and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. The nuts are harvested in late summer or early fall when the husks split open and the nuts are fully ripe.

Overall, the Pontic hazelnut is a versatile plant with many culinary and medicinal uses. Its attractive appearance and ease of cultivation make it a popular choice for home gardeners and commercial growers alike.

Light Conditions

The Corylus avellana pontica plant grows best in areas with bright, direct sunlight for at least six hours per day. Insufficient sunlight can result in poor growth and lower-quality produce. Therefore, it's best to plant them in open fields or gardens where they can receive ample sunlight.

Temperature Requirements

The optimum temperature for the Corylus avellana pontica plant is between 15°C and 22°C. These plants can withstand cold temperatures well below the freezing point with no damage. They can, however, sustain harm if exposed to very hot temperatures for an extended period. Therefore, it's best to plant them in areas with moderate temperatures.

Soil Requirements

These plants require well-drained and nutrient-rich soil that is slightly acidic to thrive. A soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 is recommended. The Corylus avellana pontica plants will not do well in poorly drained soils, so it's essential to plant them in areas with sufficient drainage. For better growth, it's advisable to mix some organic matter into the soil, such as compost, before planting. Additionally, the soil should be kept moist at all times but not overwatered, as the roots can rot quickly.

Cultivation Methods

To cultivate Corylus avellana pontica, you need to consider planting in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. It's vital to ensure the plant receives enough sunlight. The optimal temperature is between 10°C and 20°C. When planting, ensure that the holes are at least twice the size of the root system. The plant should be adequately spaced for their growth.

Watering Needs

The Corylus avellana pontica plant requires lots of water, especially during the summer months. Water your plants at least once a week when there is no rainfall. It's important to water your plant deeply, ensuring that water reaches the entire root system. Avoid waterlogging your plant because this can significantly damage the roots.

Fertilization

The Corylus avellana pontica plant requires regular fertilization to grow healthy and produce an abundant crop. The fertilization should be done twice a year, during the spring and autumn seasons. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus.

Pruning

Corylus avellana pontica plant requires pruning every year to encourage branching, remove old branches and improve air circulation. The best time to prune is either during the very early spring or late winter. Ensure that you remove weak or diseased branches and store it in containers lined with landscape fabric to protect the roots. You may also choose to prune in the summer to harvest nuts quickly, but this will result in fewer nuts from the tree.

Propagation of Corylus Avellana Pontica

Corylus avellana pontica, also known as Pontic hazelnut, is propagated by both sexual and asexual methods. The choice of propagation method depends on the desired outcome and the available resources.

Sexual Propagation

Sexual propagation of Corylus avellana pontica involves the use of seeds. The seeds are extracted from the mature fruits of the plant. The fruits are collected when fully matured, typically in the fall, and left to dry before extracting the seeds. The seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until ready for planting.

The seeds should be stratified before sowing to break their dormancy. This process involves exposing the seeds to cool, moist conditions, simulating the natural winter conditions that trigger germination. Stratification can take place in the refrigerator for about three to four months.

The stratified seeds can then be sown in pots or seedbeds in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Adequate watering and good light are necessary for successful germination. Seedlings can be transplanted when they are strong enough to survive in their permanent location.

Asexual Propagation

Asexual propagation is more common for Corylus avellana pontica, and the most popular method is by layering. Layering involves the bending down of a low hanging branch and planting it in the ground. The branch is held in place with a wooden peg. Roots will eventually grow from the buried stem and will develop into a separate plant. Once rooted, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and planted in its permanent location.

Another asexual propagation method is through cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the current year’s growth when the plant is dormant. They should be approximately 10 to 15cm long and taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings are dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Adequate watering and good light are necessary for successful rooting, and the new plants can be transplanted when they are strong enough to survive in their permanent location.

Disease and Pest Management for Corylus avellana pontica

Corylus avellana pontica, commonly known as Turkish hazelnut or Turkish filbert, is a hardy shrub native to Turkey, Georgia, and Armenia. This plant is widely cultivated for its delicious nuts and ornamental value. However, like any other plant, Corylus avellana pontica is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can significantly reduce crop yields and quality. To maintain a healthy and productive crop, it is crucial to identify and manage these pests and diseases promptly.

Common Diseases

Corylus avellana pontica is prone to various fungal diseases, including:

1. Eastern Filbert Blight: This disease is caused by the fungus Anisogramma anomala and can cause branch dieback, leaf discoloration, and reduced nut production. To manage this disease, prune infected branches, avoid overcrowding, and plant resistant cultivars.
2. Phytophthora Crown Rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora spp. and can cause tissue discoloration, wilting, and plant death. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and remove infected plants promptly.
3. Nut Rot: This disease is caused by various fungal species and can cause nut discoloration, rotting, and reduced quality. To manage this disease, practice good orchard sanitation, avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, and apply fungicides as needed.

Common Pests

Corylus avellana pontica is also susceptible to various pests, including:

1. Filbert Weevil: This insect can cause nut damage and stunting of new growth. To manage this pest, spray insecticides before nut development and prune infected branches.
2. Filbertworm: This insect can cause nut damage and defoliation of the plant. To manage this pest, remove infected nuts promptly, apply insecticides as needed, and encourage natural predators such as birds and wasps.
3. Aphids: These insects can cause leaf curling, deformation, and reduced plant growth. To manage this pest, remove infected leaves, apply insecticidal soap or oil, and encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.

By implementing good cultural practices, such as proper pruning, fertilization, and irrigation, and using appropriate pest and disease management strategies, growers can maintain a healthy and productive Corylus avellana pontica orchard.