Marigoule Sweet Chestnut Tree
Marigoule is a vigorous, early-harvest sweet chestnut producing large to very large, glossy dark mahogany-brown nuts. Harvest normally begins in late September and can continue into October. The nuts store well, peel readily and have very little internal partitioning, so most kernels remain whole and are easier to prepare for roasting, boiling or cooking. [1] [2] The tree develops a broad, semi-upright and heavily branched crown and normally begins producing nuts after approximately four to six years in suitable conditions. [2]
Pollination: Marigoule is partially self-fertile and is a good chestnut for planting alone as it can produce some nuts by itself. For a fuller and more dependable crop, however, plant a different compatible sweet chestnut nearby. [1] [2]
The strongest pollinators recommended in the INRA cultivar record are Belle Epine, Marron de Chevanceaux, Marron de Goujounac and Portaloune. Bournette, Précoce Migoule, Maraval and Marsol are listed as secondary options. Within the Trees Online range, Belle Epine is therefore the clearest partner, with Maraval or Marsol as alternatives. [2]
Planting Marigoule Sweet Chestnut Tree
Marigoule is a large, very vigorous tree. The RHS records a mature height of more than 12m and a spread of more than 8m, so give it plenty of room away from buildings and neighbouring trees. Where space is more limited, consider the more compact Regal or Marron de Lyon. [3] [4] [5]
Choose a warm position in full sun with deep, freely draining, acid-to-neutral soil. Loam and sandy soils are suitable, but avoid chalky ground and anywhere that remains waterlogged. Marigoule starts growing early in spring and is sensitive to late frost, so avoid low-lying frost pockets and cold valley bottoms. [2] [3] [6]
Dig a planting hole no deeper than the root system but considerably wider. Position the first structural roots at approximately finished soil level, backfill carefully, firm gently and water thoroughly. Keep grass and weeds away from the root area, mulch without allowing the mulch to touch the trunk and water during dry periods while the tree establishes. [7]
Marigoule has useful tolerance to ink disease under normal growing conditions but is sensitive to waterlogged soil and root suffocation, so good drainage remains essential. [2] [3] [6]
Other Interesting Information About Marigoule Tree
Marigoule, also recorded as CA15, is a natural hybrid between Japanese chestnut, Castanea crenata, and European sweet chestnut, Castanea sativa. It was identified at Migoule near Brive in Corrèze, France.
The RHS rates Marigoule H6, meaning it is winter-hardy throughout the UK, and also records it as drought-resistant once established. However, its early spring growth remains vulnerable to late frost, and young trees still require watering during dry weather.
Gather the nuts promptly once they begin falling to reduce losses to squirrels and other wildlife. [1] [2]
