hazelnuts

[andyg]

was wondering at what stage do you pick hazelnuts? I'm sure they don't turn brown on the trees. What can be done to preserve them as well? Any answers before the squirrels get them would be nice. Many thanks.

[Millymollymandy]

Before the squirrels get them! I've just noticed I have some on my trees although I had none last year.

In the past (at another house) I just picked them all up off the ground where they had fallen, so I'm not 100% sure what I will do this year as there is a red squirrel around who will steal them.

[Andy Hamilton]

This picture might answer your question

Don't quote me on this but I am think that when they are still pale they are called cob nuts and are much smaller, when they ripen they become hazelnuts. Is that right???

[Millymollymandy]

I thought cob nuts were what they called hazelnuts in Kent! I don't know if they are different or are just a slightly different species of hazelnut - but don't think it is to do with their being less ripe.

[andyg]

Kentish cob is the most well known and widely grown variety, but is a filbert not a cob. A cob is a dumpy nut and a filbert is more elongated

[Millymollymandy]

How confusing!

[andyg]

i know its nuts!!!

[Chickpea]

<groan>!