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Black Walnut Questions & Answers
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9 Year old genetically
superior
black walnut in Central Illinois |
1. What are genetically superior black walnut trees?
These trees are the result of decades of research by a forest geneticist
from a
leading Midwestern university. Originally, scion wood, or bud wood, was
collected from over 400 black walnut trees throughout the Midwest that had superior form. Through a
selection process using form and growth rate as criteria, the geneticist
determined the most superior trees. Over the years, through genetic selection of
successive generations, trees with increased growth rate, vigor and vitality
have been developed while maintaining superior form. The two most famous
cultivars patented by the university are Purdue Number One and Tippecanoe Number
One.
2. What are the main differences between the improved seedlings and the
grafted trees?
The grafted trees are genetically identical clones of the parent cultivars
described above. The superior seedlings are grown from the nuts of these trees
as well as the original Purdue Number One cultivars. As such, the seedlings will
vary somewhat from their parent trees but will still possess better genetics
than common seedlings.
3. Is the genetically superior walnut tree cultivar really that
much better than common seedlings?
The forest geneticist who developed the genetically superior trees estimates
that only a fraction of 1% of common black walnut seedlings will have the same
growth and form characteristics as the genetically superior trees. Even when
given the best care, maybe 10% will produce veneer-quality wood, but only after
a period of 50-60 years or more. Results from our planting of superior seedlings
show that at least 60% should make veneer grade with proper care. Except for
those damaged by outside forces (lightning, wind), virtually all of the grafted
trees should be veneer grade if given proper care.
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Genetically superior
black
walnut trees at 8 years
in Northern Indiana. |
4. How big are the genetically superior black walnut trees?
Grafts range from about 12” to 24” above the root collar, and 1/4” to 1/2”
in diameter at the base. Seedlings are 8” to 18” in height.
5. Will the genetically superior black walnut trees grow in my area and
survive?
The natural range of the eastern black walnut tree (Juglans nigra) is from
southern Ontario to Texas and Alabama and from Nebraska to the Atlantic Ocean.
However, genetically superior walnut trees have been planted in Florida, New
England, Michigan’s upper peninsula, Idaho and even on the west coast.
6. What type of root system do they have?
They have a deep tap root system.
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