tree

Black walnut

Juglans nigra

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Black walnut (Juglans nigra) — a tree, for Full sun, Medium water. Companions: Northern Red Oak, Black locust.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Watermedium

↑ Gives back

Shadedense
Mulch_biomasshigh

Companions

Keep apart from

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceSeedlings emerge after the last spring frost when soil temperatures consistently reach 10°C.
floweringFlowering occurs approximately 30 days after emergence, typically in late spring.
fruitingFruits develop over the summer, maturing about 90 days after flowering.
harvestNuts typically fall from the trees in September and October.
senescenceLeaves begin to change color and drop with the first autumn frosts and shortening days.
dormancyTrees enter dormancy after leaf drop, lasting through winter until chill requirements are met.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained to moist
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatespotassium, phosphorus
Soil textureloam, silt
Organic matterHigh
Compaction toleranceMedium

Propagation

Methodsseed, grafting
Difficulty3 / 5
Establishes in~3 yr
Stratificationrequires 90-120 days of cold stratification (0-5°C)
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionnot applicable

Wildlife & pests

Attractssquirrels, birds
Can host pestswalnut husk fly, codling moth
Can host diseasesanthracnose, bacterial blight