Hickory Seeds - Bitternut
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Due to the large size of seeds, they must be sent EXPEDITED. Only orders over $150.00 qualify for 'Free Expedited Shipping'** Thank You.
(Carya cordiformis) Deciduous. Zones 4-9.
Bitternut Hickory is a majestic giant that can live up to 200 years! Plant it now and future generations will enjoy sitting in its shade and foraging for nuts.
As the Bitternut Hickory matures, its smooth gray and green bark becomes beautifully textured in a loose diamond pattern - a striking presence year-round. The greenish yellow Spring flowers of the Bitternut give way to oval-rounded nuts, encased in a thick green husk that splits when ripe. Bitternuts are not edible - they are much too bitter for humans and most wildlife.
Cross-pollination generally produces a more abundant crop of better quality nuts so it's best to plant two trees. It can take 8-10 years for trees to begin producing.
Hickory wood is widely used to cure and smoke meats. It is extremely strong and makes heirloom quality tool handles, ladders, and furniture.
** Please note that all members of the Juglans family (Butternuts, walnuts, heartnuts, etc.) create a protective substance in their roots called Juglone. This can kill certain other plant species within the root zone. Juglone from Hickories and Pecans is very mild.
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Cold Hardiness: Zones 4 - 9
Edible: No
Size: Large Tree 50-80 feet
Growth Rate: Medium
Nitrogen Fixer: No
Native Plant: Yes
Germination: 70 - 90%
Sun Requirements: Full Sun for maximum harvest, but shade tolerant.
Soil Preference: Rich, moist, well draining. Tolerant of clay and sand.
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GROWING INSTRUCTIONS
SEED PRETREATMENT: Soak seeds in water for 4 days, replace water every 24 hours. Mix seeds with a moistened grow medium equal to 3-4 times seed volume. Place in a plastic bag or container.
STRATIFICATION: 90 days cold/moist (5°C). Place plastic bag with seeds and soil in your refrigerator, preferably in a veggie crisper. Inspect periodically for even moisture and early germination.
POST-STRATIFICATION: Sow stratified seeds on the soils surface, push down gently. Alternating soil temperatures during the day (30°C) and night (20°C) aids germination. Water evenly and regularly.
GERMINATION: When all previously mentioned requirements are fulfilled, germination generally occurs in 60 days.
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Available direct from Incredible Seeds, a Canadian Heirloom and Heritage Seed Company, offering only the best natural, non-GMO, open pollinated and untreated seeds, located in Mi'kma'ki / Nova Scotia.
