Shagbark Hickory

Choosing the Right Spot:

Shagbark Hickory trees are majestic and can grow quite large, so they need plenty of space. Here’s what you need to know before planting:

• Location: Choose a spot that gets full sunlight or partial shade. These trees can grow up to 60–80 feet tall with a wide spread, so make sure there's enough room for it to thrive without bumping into buildings, power lines, or other trees.
• Soil: Shagbark Hickories aren’t too picky about soil but prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. If your soil feels heavy or clay-like, mix in some compost or sand to help with drainage.
• Timing: The best time to plant is in early spring after the last frost, giving the tree plenty of time to establish roots before winter.

What You’ll Need:

• Shagbark Hickory seedlings (or seeds if you're patient)
• A shovel
• Compost or organic matter (optional, for enriching the soil)
• Mulch (to keep moisture in and weeds out)
• Watering can or hose

Tip: If you're starting from seeds, keep in mind it will take several years before you see significant growth. Seedlings are a quicker way to get started!

If Using Seedlings:

1. Dig the Hole: Dig a hole that’s twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the seedling. This gives the roots plenty of room to spread out.
2. Position the Tree: Place the seedling in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. If the tree is buried too deeply, it might struggle to grow properly.
3. Fill the Hole: Backfill the hole with the soil you dug out, gently pressing down as you go to remove air pockets. Don’t compact the soil too much—just enough to hold the tree steady.
4. Water Thoroughly: After planting, give the tree a good drink of water. This helps settle the soil around the roots and starts the tree off on the right foot.
5. Mulch Around the Base: Spread a layer of mulch (about 2–3 inches thick) around the base of the tree, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

If Starting from Seeds:

1. Prepare the Seeds: Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to help them absorb moisture.
2. Plant the Seeds: Plant the seeds about 1–2 inches deep in a sunny spot where you want the tree to grow. Cover lightly with soil and water regularly to keep the soil moist.
3. Be Patient: It may take a few months for the seeds to germinate, and even longer for the tree to grow into a sapling.

Pro Tip: Shagbark Hickories have long taproots, so they don't like being moved once they've started growing. If you're planting from seed, try to plant them where you want the tree to stay.

Sunlight and Watering:

• Sunlight: Shagbark Hickories love sunlight, so make sure they get plenty of it—ideally 6 or more hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate partial shade, but full sun will give you the best results.
• Watering: Once established, these trees are pretty drought-tolerant, but while they’re young, they’ll need regular watering. Aim to water deeply once a week during dry spells. You can check the soil—if the top 2 inches feel dry, it’s time to water.

Fertilizing:

• These trees generally don’t need much fertilizer, especially if they’re planted in nutrient-rich soil. However, if you notice slow growth or yellowing leaves, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pruning:

• Shagbark Hickories don’t require heavy pruning, but you can trim back any dead or damaged branches in late winter or early spring. This helps the tree focus its energy on healthy growth.

Protecting from Pests:

• While Shagbark Hickories are fairly hardy, they can attract pests like aphids or borers. If you see signs of infestation (holes in the bark, wilting leaves), you can treat the tree with insecticidal soap or consult a local gardening expert for advice.

Tip: To protect young trees from wildlife like deer or rabbits, consider wrapping the trunk with a protective sleeve or fence.

When to Harvest Nuts:

• Shagbark Hickory trees produce edible nuts that are ready to harvest in the fall, usually between September and October. You'll know they're ready when the outer husks start to split open and the nuts fall to the ground.

How to Harvest:

1. Collect the Nuts: Simply gather the nuts from the ground. You can also gently shake the branches to dislodge any ripe nuts still hanging on the tree.
2. Remove the Husks: Once you’ve collected the nuts, remove the outer husks by hand or by lightly tapping them with a hammer. Be careful not to damage the nut inside.
3. Dry the Nuts: Spread the hickory nuts out in a cool, dry place for a few weeks to allow them to cure. This improves their flavor and makes them easier to crack open later.

Storing the Nuts:

• Once dried, store the nuts in a cool, dry location. You can keep them in mesh bags or containers with good airflow to prevent mold. Properly stored, hickory nuts can last for several months.

Tip: Cracking open hickory nuts can be a bit tricky due to their tough shells. Use a nutcracker or a hammer, and be patient!

Q: How long does it take for a Shagbark Hickory to produce nuts?

A: Patience is key! It can take anywhere from 10 to 20 years for a Shagbark Hickory to start producing nuts. But once it does, it will provide a bountiful harvest for many years.

Q: Can I grow a Shagbark Hickory in a small yard?

A: While possible, it’s not ideal. These trees grow quite large (up to 80 feet tall and wide), so they need plenty of space. If your yard is small, consider planting a smaller tree instead.

Q: Do Shagbark Hickories need another tree to produce nuts?

A: Yes, they benefit from cross-pollination. Planting more than one Shagbark Hickory or another type of hickory nearby can improve nut production. However, a single tree may still produce some nuts.

Q: What should I do if my tree’s leaves turn yellow?

A: Yellowing leaves could indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or a lack of nutrients. Check the soil moisture and consider adding some compost or fertilizer if needed.

Q: How do I protect my young Shagbark Hickory from animals?

A: Deer, rabbits, and squirrels can be a problem. You can use tree guards around the trunk or install fencing around the base of the tree to keep critters at bay.