Walnut - Alsoszentivaner 117 grafted – Juglans

### Description of the Alsószentiváni 117 Walnut Variety

The Alsószentiváni 117 walnut variety plays a significant role in Hungarian walnut cultivation due to its natural origin and excellent properties. This variety is popular in its native environment not only for its fruits but also for the benefits that growing and caring for the tree brings to gardeners and fruit growers. Below, I will introduce this variety in more detail.

### 1. Appearance and Characteristics

The Alsószentiváni 117 walnut tree is robustly growing, medium to large-sized, typically reaching a height of 8-10 meters. The crown of the tree is round and lush, enhanced by its dense foliage, making it aesthetically appealing for gardens and orchards. The leaves are large, elongated, and dark green, turning a beautiful golden yellow in the fall, providing a lovely sight in the garden.

The flowering occurs in April and May. The walnut trees are monoecious, meaning that both female and male flowers are present on the same tree. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and with proper pollination, they yield a rich harvest.

### 2. Fruits

The fruits of the Alsószentiváni 117 walnut are medium-sized, the shell is thick but easy to remove, which is advantageous during processing. The kernel is light brown, sweet, aromatic, and oily, and it is extremely nutrient-rich, making the walnut not only delicious but also healthy. The ripening period of the fruits can be from late September to early October, which is favorable for local growing conditions.

Beneficial properties of the Alsószentiváni walnut include its good taste and high fatty acid content, especially omega-3 fatty acids, which have positive effects on heart and vascular health.

### 3. Cultivation and Care

The Alsószentiváni 117 walnut tree is a light-loving plant, so it is best to plant it in a sunny location where it receives sufficient light and warmth. The soil should have a loose structure and be well-drained. A nutrient-rich soil contributes to the optimal growth of the tree, so it is advisable to use compost or organic fertilizer when preparing the soil.

Irrigation is particularly important, especially during the fruit ripening period, to avoid stress from drought. Young trees should be watered regularly, while the water requirements of mature plants vary depending on the amount of rainfall.

Pruning also plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the tree and increasing yield. A spring pruning is recommended to make the crown of the tree more airy, improving airflow and allowing for an even distribution of fruits on the tree.

### 4. Diseases and Pests

Although the Alsószentiváni 117 walnut tree is generally resistant to the most common diseases, it can be susceptible to fungal infections, such as the bark fungus disease.

To maintain the health of the trees, mulching the soil and maintaining an airy branch structure can be useful, as this reduces the risk of fungal infections.

Controlling pests is also important, and organic materials such as neem oil or other biological plant protection methods can be effectively used. Professional spraying and appropriate plant protection programs help sustain the health of walnut trees and achieve high yields.

### 5. Harvesting

The harvest of the Alsószentiváni 117 walnut fruits typically begins in late September or early October. The ripeness of the nuts can be assessed by the color of the shell and the consistency of the kernel. Ripe nuts have a shell that easily cracks, and the kernel becomes lighter.

Harvesting is done by hand, and it is performed carefully to avoid damaging the fruits. After harvesting, the nuts should be stored in a ventilated, dry, and cool place to preserve their freshness and prevent mold formation. Proper storage conditions also help extend the shelf life of the nuts.

### 6. Uses

The Alsószentiváni 117 walnut offers a variety of uses:

- **Fresh Consumption:** The nuts can be eaten fresh, either alone as a snack or as an ingredient in various dishes.

- **Cooking:** They are excellent for preparing cakes, salads, and other culinary delights. Due to their delicious flavor and high nutrient content, walnuts are frequently used in both sweet and savory recipes.

- **Oil Production:** Fine walnut oil can be obtained from the Alsószentiváni 117 walnut, which is ideal for salad dressings, frying, and enhancing dishes due to its rich flavor.

- **Walnut Cream:** The nuts are an excellent base for making walnut creams, which are popular options for baked goods or as spreads for breakfast.

- **Food Industry:** In the food industry, walnuts are often used in bakeries and confectioneries to impart a rich, natural flavor and nutrient content to products.

### 7. Economic Importance

The economic significance of the Alsószentiváni 117 walnut should not be underestimated, as its cultivation can contribute to the development of the local economy. Walnut cultivation not only increases the employment of local workers