Attracts navel orangeworm and squirrels near harvest. If planted, best as an understory tree or in partial shade. Does well in most soils if they are well drained. Water regularly in summer. Requires winter and spring disease control.
Most varieties require a pollinizer.
Late season varieties are preferred to avoid spring frost and walnut blight. Trees are wind-pollinated and pollinizer varieties are not required in Lake County. Several deep summer irrigations are desirable but avoid planting in lawns because shallow irrigations cause crown and root rot. Paradox hybrid rootstock is preferred over Northern California Black due to its vigor and resistance to root disease and drought. Prune by thinning out branches rather than topping.