Allergy sufferers know a thing or two about them. They are not very happy when the hazelnut is in full bloom and spreads its numerous pollen around them. But when exactly does the flowering period begin and what makes the flowers of this plant special?
When does the hazelnut blossom?
The hazelnut flowering period begins between February and March, before the leaves emerge. Male flowers appear first, followed by inconspicuous female flowers that are fertilized by wind pollination. Careful pruning is important so as not to affect the harvest.
When does the flowering period begin and end?
The flowers of the hazelnut, unlike those of other plants, do not immediately catch the eye. Depending on the variety, they appear early in the year. This is usually the case before the leaves emerge - between February and March.
The male flowers
Both male and female flowers are found on every hazelnut. The male flowers reveal themselves before the female flowers. They usually emerge in the autumn of the previous year and overwinter naked in the leaf axils and at the tips of older shoots.
The male flowers have the following characteristics:
- two to four people stand together
- are designed like kittens
- are between 8 and 10 cm long
- hanging from the branches
- have yellowish-green pollen (moderate supply)
The female flowers
The female flowers of the hazelnut are extremely inconspicuous. They are bud-shaped and appear after the male flowers. Enclosed by the bud, only its red scars are visible. Since they have no nectar, they are of no interest to the insect world. During their flowering phase they are pollinated by the male flowers with the help of the wind.
Tips & Tricks
Since the flowers of the hazelnut appear on the older shoots, care should be taken when cutting the plant. Too much pruning will result in the flower failing and therefore the nut harvest in autumn.
