Tropical Style

How to Care for a Contorted Filbert Tree

1 look at the twisted branches of this contorted filbert tree (Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’) in winter is all that it takes to understand how it got its name. A sort of European hazel, it is scientifically classified as a deciduous tree. Contorted filberts climb to 8 feet in height with an equal spread and perform best when climbed in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 9.

Boost the contorted filbert tree in full sun along the shore and in partial shade in the warmer inland regions.

Provide decent drainage for the contorted filbert tree. If you’ve got slow-draining dirt, add 3 to 4 inches of chunky compost to it in planting.

Water that the contorted filbert frequently enough to keep the soil consistently moist during its first two decades. After that, stick your finger into the ground to check for moisture and just water if the ground is dry.

Fertilize the contorted filbert twice a year, in spring, only once you notice new growth and again in early summer. Utilize an all-purpose fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, in accordance with label instructions. Set the fertilizer 1 foot outside the filbert’s dripline and spread it entirely around it. Water the area to soak up the fertilizer to the plant’s roots.

Snip off small bananas which appear around the foundation of this contorted filbert. All these are called suckers and ought to be cut to the ground or flush with the trunk of this tree.

Cut off any branches or twigs with bumps. All these are recognized as cankers and may be a indication that the tree is infected with blight. Dispose of all diseased wood.

Pick off Japanese beetles as you locate them. The best time to spot the metallic pests is early in the morning, on the tree’s leaves. Drop the beetles into a 4-quart bucket filled with water and 2 tablespoons of dishwashing soap.

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