The News

06 August 2025

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August is the most critical period when the hazelnut harvest begins and the quality and yield of the product are determined.

Things to be done in August:

1.Harvesting Procedures

• Harvest time is when the hazelnuts easily separate from their shells and begin to fall to the ground.
• Early harvesting reduces crop yield; late harvesting can lead to grain loss and mold.
• Harvesting is done by hand or by shaking. Hazelnuts that fall to the ground should be collected within 1-2 days at the latest.

2.Drying

• The harvested hazelnuts are spread on 2-3 cm thick concrete floors or net-covered drying areas.
• They are stirred several times a day and dried in direct sunlight for 3-7 days.
• Drying time may vary depending on temperature and humidity.
• Hazelnuts that are not properly dried carry the risk of mold and aflatoxin.

3.Transportation and Storage

• Dried hazelnuts are placed in jute bags and stored in a cool, dry place.
• Ventilation is recommended.

4.Pest Control (Post-Harvest)

• After harvest, orchards should be monitored for pests such as twig borers, boll mites, thrips, and hazelnut borers.
• If necessary, chemical or biotechnical control measures may be applied as recommended by the Provincial/District Directorates of Agriculture.

5.Orchard Cleaning and Soil Care

• After harvest, hazelnuts, leaves, and branches remaining in the orchard are cleaned.
• Samples may be taken for soil analysis.
• Fertilization is planned for the fall.

6.Record Keeping

• Notes should be kept regarding the harvest date, the amount of harvested produce, its quality, and any problems.
• This is important for traceability and yield monitoring.

Important Notes:

• Harvesting should not be done during rainy weather; hazelnuts can easily mold if harvested wet.
• Workers' safety should be ensured, and prolonged sun exposure should be prevented.
• During the harvest period, child labor should be taken with caution and legal and ethical principles should be adhered to.

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