Fruitfulness

The most important factors that determine whether nut trees will grow and bear satisfactorily are climate and effective pollination. Winter cold, spring frosts, early fall freezes, droughts, wet and humid weather, and length of frost-free growing season affect nut production and, hence, the selection of species and varieties for various parts of the state. Resistance to disease is another criterion for stock selection. The suggested species and variety list is based on observations and studies of tree and nut adaptability in Illinois.

Most varieties of nut trees are partially or completely self-unfruitful and require cross-pollination by another variety for adequate nut set. Failure to provide for adequate cross-pollination usually results in disappointing yields. See the following list of suggested varieties for pollinating requirements.