How are Walnuts Produced in Chile?

Walnuts are grown in cool climatic conditions. Temperatures above 38° C can lead to lower yields and shriveled kernels. However, trees also do not do well in areas prone to frost, and temperatures below -2° C can damage trees. Walnuts prefer sandy-loam soils.

Walnut seedlings are produced through seeds or grafted onto rootstocks. When grafting walnuts, rootstocks that are adapted to the region where walnuts will be planted are important.

Once seedlings are ready to be transplanted the soil is prepared and seedlings are planted at 200-300 trees per hectare.

Trees are irrigated under drip irrigation. Orchards are kept clean and weed-free to reduce the instance of pests and diseases. Trees are fumigated periodically against insects, especially moths and mites.

Walnut trees that were grafted can start bearing fruit in as little as two years after planting, however, trees only start producing on a commercial level at 5 years or older. Trees grown from seeds will take longer to produce.

The walnut harvest takes place between March and May. It is crucial to harvest walnuts at the right time. If walnuts are harvested too late, the quality will deteriorate and there is an increased risk of fungal infections. From a technical point of view, the best way to harvest nuts is through the use of a mechanical shaker.