bitternut hickory

Bitternut hickory (Carya cordiformis) should be watered once a week, or when the soil is dry to a depth of about 1 to 2 inches. The best way to check the soil is to insert your finger into the soil about an inch deep. You should water the hickory deeply until the soil is thoroughly soggy but not saturated. Too much or too little water can cause damage to the tree, and may result in stunted growth or even death. Overwatering and soggy soils can even cause root rot.

Bitternut hickory trees prefer full sun, with at least 8 hours of direct light each day for best growth. However, they can tolerate partial shade, too. During the warmer months, bitternut hickory trees should receive direct morning and afternoon sunlight. During the winter months, the tree should still receive some sunlight, but the amount should be decreased to as little as 4 hours per day. In addition, the tree can benefit from light reflected off of any nearby objects. This can help increase the total light received each day.

Bitternut hickory (Carya cordiformis) should be pruned minimally and carefully. It should only be pruned if a branch is dead, damaged, diseased, or rubbing against another branch. Prune any dead, broken, or cracked branches at any time of year, as well as any diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against another branch. For aesthetic purposes, pruning can also be done during the dormant season, from late fall to early spring. Rejuvenation pruning can be beneficial as the tree matures; selectively remove some large branches that are crossing or too close together. It is also important to thin out any competing branches that are too close to the dominant leader so the tree can grow straight and tall. Prune inner and lower branches, keeping the lower part of the tree open, as this can help reduce disease. Avoid large-scale pruning of this tree as too much can make it susceptible to shock and drought.