If you’ve ever cracked open a fresh walnut, you’ve probably marveled at its rich flavor and satisfying crunch. But have you ever wondered how that little nut made its way from a tree to your kitchen? It all begins in beautiful walnut orchards where farmers work hard to care for each tree.
Step 1: The Perfect Timing
Walnuts don’t just grow and ripen overnight. Months before they’re ready to be harvested, they start growing inside a thick green husk. Experienced walnut farmers wait until late summer or early fall and watch for when the walnuts are ready. When the time is right, the green husks start to split open to show the hard shell inside. This is nature’s sign that it’s time to start the harvest.
Step 2: Shaking Things Up
Once the walnuts are ready, the real action begins! Most farmers use a tool called a mechanical shaker, which attaches to the tree trunk and gently (but powerfully) shakes the walnuts from the tree. This method allows the walnuts to drop cleanly, minimizing damage and keeping them in top shape.
Step 3: Gathering the Harvest
Once the walnuts have dropped, sweepers brush the fallen nuts into rows. Then, harvesters scoop up the walnuts from the orchard floor.
Step 4: Hulling
Next, the outer green husks of the walnuts are removed in a process called hulling, revealing the hard-shelled walnuts inside. After hulling, the walnuts are washed to remove any dirt or residue. From there, they can be dried, stored, sorted, or prepared to be made into other products, like walnut milk or walnut flour.
Enjoying the Harvest
Knowing the journey of walnuts from the orchard to your table makes every bite a little more special. Whether you’re snacking on them raw, baking with them, or adding them to your favorite dishes, those walnuts have traveled a long way to be part of your kitchen. So next time you crack one open, take a moment to savor the rich, earthy flavor—and remember the hands, trees, and care that made it all possible.
Recent Comments