| Will Black Walnut Trees grow in Central Maine for timber purposes? If so how long would it take and where can I buy seedlings? |
| Two types of walnuts, Juglans cinerea (Butternut) and Juglans nigra (Black Walnut), will both grow (and bear nuts) in the northest U.S. Butternut trees can grow to about 60 feet. Black Walnut is native to the eastern U.S., can grow to about 100 feet tall. Both trees are described in one reference as "fast-growing" but this is relative--offhand, I might guess that they would grow to a height of 20' in ten to fifteen years, much longer to reach timber size. This is just a guess, however. I recommend you contact the state or county forester in Maine to get further recommendations. This tree prefers deep, well-drained but moist soil. Be aware that walnut roots release a toxin that is known to kill other plants growing above them, so keep them seperate from other plantings. You'll find different varieties offered by Stark Brother's Nursery (PO Box 10, Louisiana, MO 63353-0010; ph# 800/325-4180). The county forester should be able to direct you to wholesale sources. |
