Both are derived from the species of Corylus and are very similar in growth and habit. The nuts of the filbert are slightly longer and narrower. Both types are very easy to grow and make a medium sized bush that is pruned rather like apples.
The best way to grow them is as cup-shaped bushes on a 15″ stem. In the first few years the leaders are cut back by half, to an outward pointing bud. Keep the tree to a maximum height of 6-7′ and always try to prune in February, during the latter part of flowering. When the tree is established and fruiting, try not to prune the laterals that bear the nut producing tiny red flowers. Cob nuts and filberts are easy to grow on most soils, but try not to make your soil too rich, as very good soil tends to encourage growth at the expense of the nuts.
They prefer a sheltered position as the flowers open very early and, although they tolerate shade, a sunny position is ideal. Pick the nuts when the husks are quite hard, dry on a warm windowsill or on a tray in the greenhouse and like the squirrels, store and eat the nuts by Christmas. Plant 15′ apart.
