Ask and Expert

Question from Anderson, Twin Falls, ID (received 5/23/20) -

I am interested in planting some chestnut trees in Twin Falls, Idaho. I know they need to be in a place with good drainage but I am wondering if there are particular varieties of edible chestnut that may fair better than others.

Answer from Gabrielle Harden, USU Forestry Extension Educator (sent 5/27/20) -

As you may know, a big issue with chestnut trees is chestnut blight. This decimated the American Chestnut populations years ago. Science has taken us a long way, and some trees have been improved to be resistant. Just move forward knowing that chestnut blight could potentially cause problems at some point. 

Chinese chestnut (Castanea chinensis) would likely do fine. They are highly resistant to chestnut blight. Cold hardiness should not be an issue as Twin Falls is 6b and the Chinese chestnut does well down to zone 4. They also do well in dry, hot climates so there is no need to worry about that. As you know, they need to be planted in pairs or large groups to ensure pollination. Along with well-draining soil, chestnuts prefer acidic soil.

The Northern Nut Growers website has a significant amount of information and tips about growing nut trees. They even have a list of chestnut experts you can email with questions.

Best of luck!