The Investment that Grows as It Grows

1. What are genetically-superior black walnut trees?

They are produced by grafting scion wood from superior second and third generation genetically-selected trees onto black walnut root stock.

The genetic characteristics of these trees are superior in several ways to those of the original cultivars developed and patented by Purdue University. These characteristics have been enhanced through two and in some cases three successive generations of genetic selection. The results are trees with increased growth rate and improved vigor and vitality. The form is equal to that of the patented cultivars, Purdue Number One and Tippecanoe Number One which are also available in grafted form.

2. What are the main differences between the improved seedlings and the grafted trees? 

The grafts 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 # One cultivar. As such, the seedlings will vary somewhat from their parent trees.

Grafted Black Walnut trees at 9 Years old Note excellent, straight form & Size

3. 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 in the North to Texas and Alabama in the South and from Nebraska in the West to the Atlantic Ocean in the East. However, genetically-superior walnut trees have been planted in Florida, New England, Michigan's upper peninsula, Idaho and even on the West Coast.

4. Is the genetically-superior walnut tree cultivar really that much better than common seedlings? 

A leading university forest geneticist estimates that only one in ten thousand common black walnut trees will have the same growth and form characteristics as the genetically-superior black walnut trees. Even if common seedlings are given the best care, on the average, only one in ten will produce veneer-quality wood. Even then it could take over 50 years before the tree could be harvested.

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 (e.g., lightning) all of the grafted trees should be veneer grade if given proper care.

5. 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.

6. At what age will the trees reach maturity? 

Under ideal conditions, genetically-superior black walnut tree grafts can be harvested as early as just 25 to 30 years, depending on the soil, weed and pest control, weather and other variables. Seedling take about five to ten years longer. The age of the tree at harvest is actually determined by the size of the log you wish to sell.

7. Are they just as hardy as other walnut trees? 

In our experience, they are extremely hardy. Their resistance to disease is high and, with proper care, should pose no major disease problem.

8. Are there special requirements to grow this tree?

Caring for trees is an easy way to protect your investment. We recommend the use of tree shelters to protect the trees and enhance growth.

9. How are the trees shipped? 

Grafts are foliated and in pots and are difficult to ship. Most planters pick up their trees; however, if that's not possible, we can arrange shipping by truck freight lines. Seedlings can be shipped dormant, bare-root.

10. When can I plant... how soon after I receive my trees? 

You can and should plant immediately upon receiving your trees.

11. When is the best time to plant? 

We prefer spring-planting. For foliated trees, that ranges from late April in the deep South to late June in the far North. Plant dormant trees about a month earlier in those areas. In Southern states, fall planting is also acceptable.

12. Is there any guarantee? 

What if the trees die? If you pick up your graft foliated trees, you'll be able to examine them on the spot. That's the best way to be sure you're getting healthy trees. Nonetheless, any that die in the first two years will be replaces at our cost, about half the retail price.

Dormant trees that don't leaf out the following spring will be replaced free of charge, (except for shipping charges).

13. Why are genetically-superior black walnut tree grafts so expensive? 

The genetically-superior black walnut trees are the culmination of almost three decades of research and development. Thousands of trees had to be planted and genetically-selected before the product could be produced. Collecting scion wood, grafting, operating greenhouses in winter, and so forth are very costly. Besides, the cost is negligible compared to the likely payback.

Advanced Tree Technology is continuing this research in our own research plots. We are constantly upgrading to the best reproduction methods available. We are also consulting with the U.S. Forest Service and various universities on tree improvement programs.

14. What is the expected average height and diameter of the genetically-superior black walnut trees? 

At the present rate of growth, according to periodic measurements, we estimate that in 35 years, the grafts will reach 60 to 90 feet in height and about 18 to 25 inches in diameter. Genetically-superior black walnut seedlings should attain that size five to ten years later.

15. What are the best soil types for the genetically-superior black walnut trees? 

There are hundreds of soil types in which these trees will grow well. Generally, any well-drained, rich soil will suffice. Check the soil map for your area.

You can send us the soil book for your county and the soil map of your site. We will give you recommendations based on our experience. There is no charge for this service.

16. What type of root system do they have? 

They have a deep tap root system.

17. How far apart should they be planted? 

The old strategy was to overplant and then thin out the inferior trees. With the genetically-superior black walnut trees, this is unnecessary. Also, planting fewer trees allows you to interplant with other crops. We recommend planting no closer than 20' by 15' for the grafts and 15' by 15' for the seedlings.

18. If the trees grow too fast, will the quality of veneer suffer? 

This is a common misconception, according to a study by USDA Forest Service's Forest Products Laboratory. They found increased lignin, higher specific gravity, darker color and better tooling characteristics in faster-growing black walnut. Besides, it's not the closeness of the grain but the variation that makes for a beautiful veneer. Therefore, speed of growth has little to do with how attractive it is. Moreover, many veneer and furniture companies prefer the more uniform quality of plantation-grown hardwoods to provide consistency throughout their product lines.

19. How can I prevent deer from feeding on the trees? 

The best way to prevent damage from deer and rabbits is to use tree shelters. Also, refer to the instruction manual for additional methods. A mixture of two dozens eggs and a gallon of milk sprayed on the foliage has worked well.

20. What are tree shelters? 

Tree shelters are the ideal way to protect your trees and speed their growth at the same time. Statistics reported in the August 1988 issue of the Journal of Forestry show that tree shelters can boost tree height more than six times above normal in the first two years alone. They protect young trees from wind, hail and even drought as well as from deer, rabbits and other animals.

Note: A leading Midwestern university has reported a 53 percent mortality rate with the older tube-type shelters. Given the hundreds of shelters they use, this is a significant number.

The cause appears to be the retention of heat inside the tube well beyond the time when unprotected trees become dormant. This made the trees vulnerable to sharp drops in temperature.

We recommend that in the fall (August early September) of the year the trees be exposed to ambient temperatures.

21. What kind of return can I expect when the trees are harvested? 

According to a major Midwestern university, prices have increased over 1,000 percent in the past 35 years. If they continue to increase at only half that rate over the next 35 years, we estimate that the trees could be worth between about $2,000 and $15,000 apiece at harvest in 30 to 35 years.

22. What government programs are available to help me? 

Numerous programs on both the local and national level are available. Check with your district forester, your county extension agent and your local ASCS office for more information. Ask your dealer for Tax Tips. You may be eligible for 10% tax credit and have your plantation tax deductible as well.