Hazelnut Filling: Two Interventions to Help Increase Yield
A hazelnut fertilization strategy that boosts the productive potential of orchards
In the modern hazelnut supply chain, where quality standards and uniformity are increasingly important, the quantity of harvested nuts alone is no longer enough to ensure profitability for the grower.
The true economic factor is the percentage of well-filled nuts, with fully developed, heavy kernels and a uniform, high commercial size.
Improving hazelnut filling is, therefore, a key agronomic objective for those aiming to maximize orchard profitability. Let’s see how to achieve this.
The Problem: Empty Shells and Compromised Yields
Even well-managed orchards can sometimes see part of their hazelnuts remain empty or only partially filled. The causes are varied and – unfortunately – not always controllable.
These may include insect and pathogen attacks, poor flower pollination, water and heat stress, as well as physiological and nutritional imbalances during critical stages of fruit development.
The Result? Lower yields, more waste, reduced quality, lower prices. For some of these factors, farmers can take action by supporting the plant during key moments to promote kernel filling and overcome environmental stress.
Stimulating Hazelnut Differentiation and Growth
As the hazelnut begins to differentiate and develop, the plant enters a phase of high energy and nutritional demand.
During this stage, it’s essential to accelerate and support physiological mechanisms connected to kernel growth.
Biolchim recommends the combined use of three products: RIZAMMINA® 42 (fertilizer), FOLICIST® (biostimulant), and NITROCAM® (fertilizer).
Three foliar treatments should be carried out, spaced 7–10 days apart, starting from mid-May, when the fruit begins active growth.
- RIZAMMINA® 42, thanks to the synergy between amino acids and seaweed extracts, stimulates the plant’s endogenous hormonal activity, promoting uniform nut growth. Its NPK + micronutrient formula, specific for enlargement, contributes to the plant’s photosynthetic efficiency.
- FOLICIST® contains a special combination of amino acids, vitamins, and natural growth promoters that stimulate plant metabolism and cell division. Providing energy and anti-stress compounds, it supports nut growth even under adverse conditions, such as cold snaps, heat stress, or water stress.
- NITROCAM® supplies nitrate nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, and molybdenum—key elements for plant metabolic activity and amino acid synthesis. Its high calcium content helps strengthen fruit tissues, improving final consistency and quality.
Countering Environmental Stress
Environmental stress is a major limiting factor in the productive potential of hazelnut orchards. The frequency and severity of adverse events make it essential to adopt strategies that increase plant resilience.
A must-have product in every grower’s fertilizer stock is BIO-HELP PLUS™, a bio-promoter of resistance to environmental stress.
It helps maintain osmotic balance in tissues and supports hazelnut plants facing adverse conditions. This keeps photosynthesis and nutrient transfer to the fruit active.
Biolchim recommends using BIO-HELP PLUS™ in anticipation of unfavorable weather and monthly throughout the summer to help support hazelnut growth.
Conclusion: Fewer Empty Nuts, More Value
Those in the supply chain know it: the market doesn’t pay just for quantity. Hazelnuts with high specific weight, full kernels, and uniform size are the ones that enter the premium processing circuit — and are the ones that yield the best economic returns.
Biolchim’s foliar fertilization program for hazelnuts, partially analyzed in this article, is designed with this in mind, offering an effective strategy to help increase kernel size and yield in hazelnut orchards, even under unfavorable environmental conditions.
To discover all the details of Biolchim’s hazelnut enlargement strategy, contact our technical support team.
