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NEWS RELEASE
By: Tim Baker
Northwest Region Horticulture Specialist
University of
Missouri Extension
102 Main, Suite 1
Gallatin, MO 64640
660-663-3232
BakerT@missouri.edu
Release Date: December 7, 2006
Title: “Chestnuts”
Nut crops are always popular in the fall, since they have been freshly harvested and are at their prime. One that is often found during holiday celebrations is the chestnut. This uniquely flavored nut can be grown in Missouri, so if you like them and have the space and appropriate site for at least two trees, you might consider planting some this coming year.
The American chestnut used to be a major species in eastern America. It provided lumber and food for humans, livestock and wildlife. Unfortunately a fungal disease that affects chestnuts was introduced to this country in the early part of the twentieth century, and the American chestnut was virtually eliminated from our forests.
Only a few isolated trees remain. I remember seeing some in Nebraska a number of years ago, and they are indeed magnificent trees. There are a few individuals and groups who are trying to find strains of the American chestnut that are resistant to the disease, and some progress may eventually be made in this area.
In the mean time, if you are interested in planting a chestnut, there is one good option available to you. You can plant a species commonly called the Chinese chestnut. These trees are resistant to the disease which has eliminated our native chestnut.
Chestnuts grow rapidly, and under the right conditions, may start bearing nuts after two or three years. When planting, you will need to choose at least two different varieties to insure good cross pollination. This is because chestnuts are self-sterile. A single chestnut tree is unlikely to bear nuts. The different varieties should be planted within 200 feet of each other for best results.
Chestnuts prefer a well-drained, sandy loam soil. They will adapt to other soil types, but do not do well in poorly drained soils. A moderately acid soil with a pH around 6.0 is best for them.
While it is true that Chinese chestnuts can be grown in Missouri, northwest Missouri will present some potential challenges. The main problem is winter hardiness. Chinese chestnuts can withstand temperatures down to -20 F. if they are properly hardened off. But lower temperatures could cause significant damage to the trees. Looking at historical records, I see that much of northwest Missouri can go lower than -20 degrees, and for that reason, I would not suggest planting Chinese chestnuts in northwest Missouri on a commercial basis. However, homeowners may want to try them, with the understanding that a significant cold snap could foil their plans for home-grown chestnuts roasting on their open fire.
If you do decide to plant Chinese chestnuts, site selection will be critical. Plant on hill tops to avoid frost pockets. Although they flower fairly late, they are still subject to frost damage as soon as the buds begin to swell. Sloping ground, where cold air can drain downward, is the best site for them.
You also should be careful of where you buy your trees. Some strains are hardier than others, and may be better adapted to our winters.
When harvesting chestnuts, you may need a good pair of leather gloves. Chestnuts grow inside burs which can be rough. The burs should open as they dry out, releasing the nut. It’s best to collect them before freezing weather, since chestnuts that freeze may start to ferment.
The flavor of new chestnuts may not be fully developed right after harvesting them, so a curing procedure is recommended. Letting them slowly dry for a few days at temperatures from 50 to 65 degrees will accomplish this. During this process, starches change to sugars, and the flavor improves.
Chestnuts are higher in starch and lower in oil than other nuts, often running about five percent oil. In comparison, pecans and walnuts may run as high as 65 percent oil. Proper storage conditions for chestnuts are critical. Because of the high starch content, they lose water rapidly at room temperature. Keep them in ventilated cans in a cool area, or in polyethylene bags in the refrigerator. Be sure they are dry before storing them. But not too dry. If chestnuts dry too much, they can be soaked in water before using. Remember that chestnuts will not store as long as walnuts or pecans, so plan to use them up before they deteriorate in quality.
If you are interested in planting chestnuts, please give me a call at 660-663-3232. We have a guide sheet which goes into great detail on cultivar selection, planting, pests, and other details of chestnut growing. You can also download your own copy at: Growing Chinese Chestnuts In Missouri
University Extension programs are open to all
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