Walnut
Can I Grow Chandler?
Chandler is California's walnut king — producing more walnuts per acre than any other variety with large, light-colored kernels that command premium prices. It's the variety that dominates 40% of California's walnut acreage.
Growing Requirements
Chill Hours
700
Hardiness Zones
5-6-7-8
Harvest
Late September to October
Results
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About Chandler
Chandler is California's walnut king — producing more walnuts per acre than any other variety with large, light-colored kernels that command premium prices. It's the variety that dominates 40% of California's walnut acreage.
Chandler requires 700 chill hours — the number of hours between 32°F and 45°F during winter dormancy. Without enough chill, the tree may fail to flower properly or produce poor fruit.
Common Challenges
Late leafing helps avoid walnut blight but still susceptible; needs deep, well-drained soil; large tree requires significant space.
Common Misconception
Can I grow Chandler in Zone 9 or warmer?
No. While Chandler is listed for zones 5-8, it requires 700 chill hours to produce fruit. Warm zones like 9+ typically receive only 200-400 chill hours. The tree may survive but will not fruit reliably. Consider low-chill alternatives like Anna apple (200h) or Tropic Snow peach (200h) instead.
Other Walnut Varieties
Chill hour data from ERA5 reanalysis (Copernicus/ECMWF). Variety information compiled from university extension services.