How to prune european hazel 'nottingham prolific'

Late winter, after catkins have shed pollen (February–March). Cut 1–2 of the oldest, most congested stems to ground level each year. Thin crossing branches to open the canopy. Remove suckers flush with the root as soon as they appear. Aim for a balanced open-centre bush with shoots of varied ages.

Annually. Hazel 'Nottingham Prolific' is a heavy-cropping cultivar that rewards annual renovation pruning. Remove the oldest stems at the base each late winter to keep the bush open and productive. Promptly cut all root suckers. This renewal cycle maintains vigour and prevents the centre from shading out nut-producing wood.

Cut 1–2 of the oldest, most congested stems to ground level each year. Thin crossing branches to open the canopy. Remove suckers flush with the root as soon as they appear. Aim for a balanced open-centre bush with shoots of varied ages.