We are about to begin trialling named cultivars of heartnut (Juglans ailantifolia var cordiformis), buartnut (Juglans x bixbyi), and northern pecan (Carya illinoinensis), obtained from a specialist grower in Ontario province, Canada.

The heartnut, which is closely related to the walnut, is native to Japan and China. It has performed exceeedingly well in trials at Dartington, Devon, England. The heartnut is more vigorous than the walnut and far less prone to disease. Six different cultivars are to be trialled.

The buartnut is a cross between the butternut (Juglans cinnera) and heartnut. Trials are due to begin as soon as the stock arrives from Canada. Two cultivars, both Canadian, are to be trialled.

The northern pecan is a small, very hardy form of the North American pecan, of pecan pie fame. Four cultivars, all chosen for their ability to ripen nuts in a very short summer season (known colloquially as the 'ultras'), are to be trialled.

Further work is being carried out with seed-grown heartnuts, buartnuts and northern pecans.