Walnut Growers Education and Training
Develop a lucrative walnut growing business with the right information
In 2006, the United States consumed 61.9% of the world's production of walnuts, making the walnut industry a promising one for those with walnut growers education and training. Most of those walnuts (99%) were raised in California and made up the bulk of the trade in the world's walnut supply. Walnuts are grown not just for their edible fruit, but also for their shells (which are used in industrial abrasives or burned to create energy) and their oil. Non-fruiting walnut trees are also prized for their wood.But while Americans love to buy walnuts, it takes both business and science knowledge to manage successful walnut farms. In addition to a passion for growing, those who wish to sell walnuts wholesale should ideally:
1. Obtain a horticulture degree specializing in growing walnuts,
2. Participate in one or more walnut growers association,
3. And study periodicals for walnut growers.
Participate in organizations for walnut companies and growers
Professional organizations do much more than provide business advice and networking for those selling bulk walnuts. A good organization also provides learning opportunities in the way of journals, books, workshops and seminars.
Try: Northern Nut Growers Association is dedicated to nut tree growers, farmers, scientists and nut tree breeders. Many states have organizations specific to nut and walnut growing; for example, there's the California Walnut Grower association.
Continue your education through periodicals for walnut fruit growers
There is a myriad of publications for professional businesses selling wholesale walnuts; they include general nut growing publications, as well as periodicals focused entirely on growing walnuts. Find several publications targeting your field of interest in order to keep up with the latest news, trends and innovations.
Try: The Walnut News is a newsletter published three times a year, packed full of scientific and marketing information for walnut growers. Many state nut organizations also publish newsletters, including the Kentucky Nut Growers Association; click on the "sample of the Summer KNGA Newsletter" link, found in the left-hand menu to see an issue.
Secure a formal education suited to growing walnuts
A two-year college education in horticulture science is not essential but will greatly increase your chances of success. Also, don't neglect business courses--especially those targeting farmers.
Try: Throughout the United States, many colleges offer horticulture degrees; Eastern Kentucky University is one. The Science and Plants for Schools website can help you find colleges offering horticulture degrees elsewhere in the United States.
- As with all areas of farming, organic practices are increasingly popular. Therefore, don't neglect organic studies when paving the way for your career growing walnuts.
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