American chestnut seed is needed for research, education and mineland reclamation programs. If you know of an American chestnut tree that is producing burs, it may be producing seed that could be harvested. Harvest season generally begins about the third week in September, but may be earlier or later depending on weather, elevation and other conditions. Seed should be collected and processed for storage promptly. Photo above shows American chestnut burs not quite ready for harvest. Note the wave-like shape of teeth on the leaves, and the very thin, sharp spines on the burs. Dried remains of bisexual catkins are still attached to the burs.

1. Is the tree an American chestnut tree?

Click on the link above for information to help distinguish between American chestnut and other types of chestnut. If you think the tree is American, please collect a sample of a small branch with twigs and leaves, following the instructions on the above link.

2. Do the burs contain viable seed?

American chestnut trees produce both male and female flowers, but generally are not self-fertile. The tree will produce burs even if there is no nearby tree to fertilize the flowers, but the nuts inside the burs will small and flat, whereas fertilized nuts fill out with stored food.

3. Is the seed ready to be gathered?

Click on the link above for information about harvesting.
See also: Penn State Harvest & Storage

4. Please contact the Virginia Chapter at vachestnut@verizon.net or
(540) 364-1922.

Thanks for your help!