Hello John,
Thank you for your hazelnut question. Hazelnuts are sensitive to extreme cold and extreme hot, dry conditions, and therefore, not recommended in our Central Oregon climate.

Nik Wiman, Orchard Crop Specialist with Oregon State University, and the lead Extension Faculty for Hazelnuts, provided the following information:

“It is a very risky enterprise to grow European hazelnuts in your climate in eastern OR. The main problem is that pollination occurs in the winter. The Willamette Valley has an ideal climate as it is nice and mild during the pollination period (normally) to allow wind pollination in Dec-Feb. With European hazelnuts in your climate, in some years you may get nuts, others you may not, and you risk freeze damage annually.”

Following are OSU hazelnut resources that provide more information:

Growing Hazelnuts in the Pacific Northwest: Introduction | OSU Extension Catalog | Oregon State University

Hazelnut Production | OSU Extension Catalog | Oregon State University

If you need additional information, I recommend you call the Deschutes County OSU Extension office in Redmond at<personal data hidden>. Ask to speak with Amy Jo Detweiler (oregonstate.edu), a member of the Horticulture Staff. Amy Jo welcomes your home garden questions and is a great resource. 

Hello John,

I encourage you to contact Amy Jo Detweiler at the Deschutes County OSU Extension office. Amy Jo is very familiar with our Central Oregon climate and plant varieties that grow well in our geographic area. She may be able to provide additional ideas for you. Amy Jo can be reached at<personal data hidden>, ex. 79510.