How to Pick Hazelnuts: A Complete Guide to Harvesting Fresh, High-Quality Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are one of the most nutritious and versatile nuts in the world. Rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants, they are prized in culinary applications—from chocolate spreads to baked goods and savory dishes. But before hazelnuts can be roasted, ground, or turned into oil, they must be harvested at the right time and in the right way. Picking hazelnuts properly ensures maximum flavor, nutritional value, and yield while minimizing waste and contamination.

Whether you’re harvesting from a backyard tree, a small orchard, or a wild grove, understanding how to pick hazelnuts is essential. This guide walks you through every phase of the process—from recognizing ripeness to post-harvest handling—with clear, actionable steps and expert insights. By following these methods, you’ll not only improve the quality of your harvest but also protect your trees for future seasons.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Identify the Right Time to Harvest

The single most critical factor in picking hazelnuts is timing. Harvesting too early results in underdeveloped kernels with low oil content and poor flavor. Harvesting too late means nuts fall to the ground, where they’re vulnerable to mold, pests, and rot.

Hazelnuts typically ripen between late August and mid-October, depending on your climate zone and variety. In warmer regions like Oregon’s Willamette Valley, harvest may begin in late August. In cooler areas like the Pacific Northwest or parts of Europe, it may extend into October.

To determine ripeness, observe these key indicators:

• Color change: The outer husk (involucre) turns from green to yellow-brown and begins to split open.
• Ease of removal: Ripe nuts detach easily from the branch when gently tugged.
• Kernel appearance: If you open a sample nut, the kernel should be full, plump, and brown—not pale or shriveled.
• Ground litter: A small number of nuts falling naturally is a sign that the majority are nearing readiness.

Do not rely solely on calendar dates. Weather patterns vary yearly. Monitor your trees weekly during the expected harvest window to catch peak ripeness.

2. Prepare Your Harvesting Area

Before you begin picking, prepare the ground beneath your hazelnut trees. This step is often overlooked but dramatically improves efficiency and nut quality.

Clear away tall grass, weeds, and debris within a 10–15 foot radius of the tree trunk. Mow or rake the area to create a clean surface. If you’re harvesting from multiple trees, lay down tarps or breathable fabric between rows to catch falling nuts.

Why does this matter? Hazelnuts that land on damp soil or leaf litter are prone to mold and fungal contamination. A clean, dry surface allows for easier collection and reduces the need for intensive cleaning later.

For commercial growers, some use mechanical shakers to loosen nuts from branches. However, for home harvesters, manual collection remains the most effective and gentle method.

3. Collect Nuts from the Tree

Not all hazelnuts fall naturally when ripe. Many remain attached to branches, especially on younger or well-pruned trees. Hand-picking from the tree ensures you don’t miss high-quality nuts and prevents over-reliance on ground collection.

Use the following technique:

1. Wear gloves to protect your hands from rough bark and husks.
2. Start at the bottom of the tree and work upward.
3. Grasp each cluster of nuts gently and twist or pull downward. Ripe nuts will detach with minimal force.
4. Place collected nuts directly into a breathable basket or cloth bag—avoid plastic containers, which trap moisture.
5. Check the husks: If they’re still tightly closed or green, leave them on the tree for another few days.

Focus on nuts that are fully exposed by splitting husks. These are the most mature and easiest to harvest. Avoid nuts with visible insect holes, mold, or discoloration—these should be discarded on-site.

4. Gather Fallen Nuts from the Ground

Once you’ve harvested from the branches, turn your attention to the ground. Fallen nuts are often the majority of your yield, especially on mature trees.

Use a leaf rake with flexible tines to gently gather nuts without damaging them. Avoid metal rakes—they can crack shells. A wide, soft-tined rake allows you to cover more ground efficiently.

Work in a systematic pattern: start at the outer edge of the tree’s drip line and move inward. This ensures you don’t miss any areas. If you’ve laid down tarps, simply gather the tarp edges and pour the contents into your collection bin.

Be vigilant for hidden nuts under leaves or grass clippings. Hazelnuts are small and can easily be overlooked. Spend extra time in dense underbrush or near the trunk, where nuts often accumulate.

5. Sort and Clean Immediately

Do not delay sorting and cleaning. Hazelnuts left in piles for hours—even in cool weather—can begin to ferment or attract insects.

Set up a sorting station with three containers:

• Container 1: Good nuts (full, intact shells, no visible damage)
• Container 2: Damaged nuts (cracked shells, mold, insect holes)
• Container 3: Husks, leaves, twigs, and debris

Use a sieve or colander with 1/2-inch holes to separate nuts from small debris. Then, perform a float test: place nuts in a bucket of water. Healthy nuts sink; hollow, moldy, or insect-damaged nuts float. Discard floating nuts immediately.

Wash only if necessary. Most hazelnuts can be dry-cleaned with a brush or cloth. If soil is heavily embedded, rinse briefly under cool running water and dry thoroughly before storage.

6. Dry the Hazelnuts Properly

Drying is non-negotiable. Freshly harvested hazelnuts contain 15–25% moisture. Without proper drying, they’ll spoil within days.

Spread nuts in a single layer on a screen or tray in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area. A garage, shed, or screened porch works well. Avoid direct sunlight—UV exposure can degrade oils and cause rancidity.

Turn nuts daily to ensure even drying. Use a fan to circulate air if humidity is high. Drying typically takes 7–14 days, depending on temperature and humidity.

Test for dryness: A properly dried hazelnut shell will feel hard and lightweight. When you shake it, the kernel should rattle slightly. Crack open a sample—kernels should be crisp, not rubbery or oily.

Once dry, store in breathable mesh bags or paper bags in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to shell or roast them.

7. Shell and Store

Shelling can be done immediately after drying or stored for later. For small quantities, use a nutcracker designed for hazelnuts—these have a narrow, focused jaw that minimizes shell fragments.

For larger harvests, consider a manual or electric hazelnut sheller. These machines crack shells efficiently while preserving kernel integrity.

After shelling, store kernels in airtight containers in the refrigerator (up to 6 months) or freezer (up to 2 years). Vacuum sealing extends shelf life even further. Always label containers with the harvest date.

Best Practices

Harvest in the Morning

Early morning is the ideal time to pick hazelnuts. Dew has evaporated, reducing moisture on the ground. Temperatures are cooler, which helps preserve nut oils. Plus, wildlife—such as squirrels and birds—are less active in the morning, reducing competition for your harvest.

Protect Against Wildlife

Hazelnuts are a favorite food for squirrels, deer, raccoons, and birds. If you notice significant losses, consider using netting over low-hanging branches or installing motion-activated sprinklers or reflective tape around the tree perimeter. Never use poison or traps—these can harm non-target species and violate local wildlife regulations.

Practice Tree Health Maintenance

Healthy trees produce better yields. Prune hazelnut trees annually in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches. This improves air circulation and sunlight penetration, which reduces disease and encourages larger, more uniform nuts.

Apply organic compost or balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote leaf growth at the expense of nut development.

Rotate Harvest Zones

If you have multiple trees, rotate which ones you harvest first each year. This prevents over-stressing any single tree and allows others to recover. It also helps you track which trees produce the highest yields and best quality nuts—valuable data for future planning.

Record Your Harvest

Keep a simple log: date, weather conditions, number of nuts collected, yield per tree, and any issues (pests, mold, etc.). Over time, this data helps you refine your technique and anticipate harvest windows more accurately.

Never Rush the Drying Process

One of the most common mistakes is trying to speed up drying with heat. Do not use ovens, dehydrators, or direct sunlight. These methods cook the oils inside the nut, leading to bitterness and rancidity. Patience yields superior flavor and shelf life.

Wear Protective Gear

Hazelnut husks can be irritating to skin and eyes. Always wear gloves, long sleeves, and safety glasses when handling large quantities. Wash your hands thoroughly after harvesting, especially before eating or preparing food.

Tools and Resources

Essential Tools for Picking Hazelnuts

While you can harvest hazelnuts with your hands, having the right tools makes the job faster, safer, and more efficient.

• Soft-tined rake: For gathering fallen nuts without damaging shells.
• Breathable collection bags: Cotton or mesh bags prevent moisture buildup.
• Hand nutcracker: Designed for hazelnuts, with a narrow jaw to avoid shell fragments.
• Screen or colander: For sifting out debris.
• Trays or drying racks: Made of wood or plastic with mesh bottoms to allow airflow.
• Bucket of water: For the float test to separate good nuts from bad.
• Protective gloves and eyewear: Essential for handling husks and debris.

Optional Tools for Larger Harvests

If you’re harvesting from more than 5–10 trees, consider these upgrades:

• Manual hazelnut sheller: Cracks nuts with a lever system—ideal for 5–20 lbs per hour.
• Electric nut cracker: For commercial-scale operations; can process 50+ lbs per hour.
• Harvest tarp: Heavy-duty, UV-resistant fabric laid under trees to catch falling nuts.
• Soil moisture meter: Helps determine if ground conditions are too damp for optimal collection.

Recommended Resources

For deeper knowledge, consult these trusted sources:

• Oregon State University Extension Service – Hazelnut Production Guide: Comprehensive research on cultivation, pests, and harvest timing in North America.
• University of Georgia Cooperative Extension – Nut Crop Management: Excellent resource for Southern U.S. growers.
• The Nut Growers Society: A global network of growers offering forums, webinars, and seedling sourcing.
• “The Book of Nuts” by Richard Mabey: A cultural and botanical history of nut harvesting, including hazelnuts.

Where to Buy Equipment

Many tools can be purchased through agricultural supply stores, online retailers like Amazon or Johnny’s Selected Seeds, or specialty nut equipment vendors such as NutriTech or HarvestPro Tools. Look for equipment rated for small-scale or home orchard use to avoid over-investment.

Real Examples

Example 1: Backyard Harvest in Western Oregon

Marla, a retired gardener in Eugene, has two hazelnut trees in her backyard. She began harvesting in early September after noticing husks turning brown and nuts falling in small numbers.

She laid down a 10x10 ft tarp under each tree and spent two mornings collecting nuts. She hand-picked any remaining nuts from branches, then sorted them on her kitchen table. After the float test, she discarded 12% of her harvest as hollow or moldy.

She dried the nuts on wire racks in her garage for 10 days, turning them daily. Once dry, she stored them in paper bags in her pantry. After two months, she shelled them and made homemade hazelnut butter. Her yield: 18 pounds of in-shell nuts from two trees—enough for personal use and gifts.

Example 2: Small Orchard in Northern California

Diego runs a 1-acre organic hazelnut orchard in the Sacramento Valley. He harvests 1,200 pounds of nuts annually. His method is more systematic:

• He uses a tractor-mounted sweeper to collect nuts from between rows.
• He employs two workers to hand-pick nuts from the upper branches.
• All nuts are sorted on a conveyor belt with a vibrating screen.
• He dries nuts in a commercial air dryer set at 95°F for 72 hours.
• He sells 70% in-shell to local farmers’ markets and 30% as roasted, salted kernels to gourmet shops.

Diego keeps detailed records and has increased his yield by 22% over five years by adjusting harvest timing based on weather data and soil moisture readings.

Example 3: Wild Hazelnut Foraging in the Pacific Northwest

Leo, a forager in Washington State, collects hazelnuts from wild shrubs in forested areas. He follows strict ethical guidelines: never over-harvesting from one bush, leaving at least half the nuts for wildlife, and avoiding protected lands.

He harvests in October, after the first light frost, which he believes improves flavor. He uses a small basket and picks only nuts that have fallen naturally. He dries them over a wood stove in a metal tray, then stores them in glass jars.

Leo’s yield is modest—about 5 pounds per season—but he values the connection to nature and the superior flavor of wild nuts, which he says have a more intense, earthy taste than cultivated varieties.

FAQs

Can I pick hazelnuts before they’re ripe?

No. Unripe hazelnuts have underdeveloped kernels that are bitter, rubbery, and lack oil. They will not improve after picking. Wait until husks split and nuts detach easily.

Why do some hazelnuts float in water?

Floating nuts are typically hollow, moldy, or infested with insects. The air pockets inside make them buoyant. These nuts are not safe to eat and should be discarded.

How long do hazelnuts last after harvesting?

In-shell, properly dried hazelnuts can last 6–12 months in a cool, dark pantry. In the refrigerator, they last up to a year. In the freezer, they can remain fresh for up to two years. Shelled kernels have a shorter shelf life—3–6 months in the fridge, 1–2 years frozen.

Do I need to wash hazelnuts after picking?

Only if they’re covered in soil or debris. Otherwise, dry brushing is sufficient. Washing introduces moisture, which can lead to mold if not dried thoroughly. Always dry completely before storage.

Why are my hazelnuts turning black inside?

Black kernels indicate mold or fungal infection—often caused by damp storage or late harvest. Discard them immediately. To prevent this, harvest on time, dry thoroughly, and store in dry, ventilated conditions.

Can I eat hazelnuts straight from the tree?

Technically yes—but they’re not at their best. Freshly picked nuts have high moisture content and a slightly bitter taste. Drying enhances flavor and texture. Roasting after drying brings out the full nutty aroma.

What’s the difference between hazelnuts and filberts?

They’re the same nut. “Filbert” is a historical term used in Europe, particularly France and Spain. In the U.S., “hazelnut” is the preferred term. Some varieties are called filberts due to their longer shape, but botanically, they’re all Corylus avellana.

How do I know if my hazelnut tree is healthy?

Look for full, green foliage, consistent annual nut production, and minimal leaf spots or dieback. Healthy trees produce clusters of 2–5 nuts per husk. If your tree produces few nuts or has yellowing leaves, it may need pruning, fertilizer, or pest treatment.

Is it safe to harvest hazelnuts after rain?

Wait at least 24–48 hours after heavy rain. Wet ground increases the risk of mold on fallen nuts. If you must harvest after rain, pick nuts off branches first, then collect ground nuts only after the soil has dried.

Can I grow hazelnuts from the nuts I harvest?

Yes, but with caveats. Hazelnuts grown from seed are genetically variable and may not produce the same quality as the parent tree. For reliable results, purchase grafted saplings from a reputable nursery. Seeds are best used for rootstock or experimental planting.

Conclusion

Picking hazelnuts is more than a chore—it’s a rewarding ritual that connects you to the rhythms of nature and the bounty of the earth. Whether you’re harvesting from a single tree in your yard or managing a small orchard, the principles remain the same: timing, care, and patience are the keys to success.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—from recognizing ripeness to proper drying and storage—you’ll maximize your yield and ensure that every hazelnut you collect is of the highest quality. The effort you invest in harvesting directly translates to the flavor, nutrition, and longevity of your final product.

Hazelnuts are not just a food—they’re a legacy. Trees planted today can produce for decades, feeding generations. Treat them with respect, harvest them wisely, and you’ll enjoy the rich, earthy rewards for years to come.

Remember: the best hazelnuts aren’t the ones you collect the fastest—they’re the ones you collect with attention, care, and an understanding of the tree’s natural cycle. Now that you know how to pick hazelnuts properly, go out and harvest with confidence.