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Managing black walnut forests

Quick facts

  • Pure stands of black walnut trees are uncommon.
  • Black walnut grows best on lower north- and east-facing slopes with well-drained and fertile soils.
  • Plant seedlings to supplement natural regeneration.
  • Control weeds for at least three years in new black walnut plantations. 
  • The main pests of black walnut are walnut caterpillars, bud borers, anthracnose and fusarium canker.

Wood products from black walnut include sawlogs, veneer logs, gun stocks and smaller novelty pieces. Frequent nut crops make it an excellent tree to plant for wildlife, especially squirrels. In some areas, nuts are collected and sold for human consumption.

Growing conditions

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Regenerating black walnut

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Intermediate treatments

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Mel Baughman, emeritus Extension forester

Reviewed in 2019

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