Black walnut harvest extended through Nov. 30
Published 11:30 am Wednesday, November 4, 2026
Stockton, MO – Recent weeks of above-normal temperatures, plus the lack of rain, is affecting one traditional fall activity – picking up wild Black Walnuts.
The annual Black Walnut Harvest across the Midwest has been slow as most nuts stayed on the trees, according to Brian Hammons, CEO of Hammons Products in Stockton, Missouri. “Now, with shorter days and cooler air, the wild Black Walnuts are finally falling and local people have ‘money on the ground’ – literally” according to Hammons.
The company announced that its network of hullers will continue buying well into November, with most going through Monday, November 30. Plus, the buying price has increased to $16 per 100 pounds (after hulling) to individuals or groups who bring their freshly fallen Black Walnuts to one of about 170 hulling sites in 12 states. There is no minimum amount – hullers will take nuts in one bucket, three sacks, or a trailer load.
“The crop looks to be decent in much of Missouri, so activity should increase now that nuts are coming down” says Jacob Basecke, President of Hammons Products. “We hope and pray that the weather cooperates so folks can get them in. There’s still time through the next 3-4 weeks, and a lot of people who love the ‘Bold Taste of the Ozarks’ in local Black Walnuts are counting on the harvest coming in.”
Basecke added, ”The Midwest is the only place in the world where Black Walnuts are collected and sold, so it’s something that is very unique and special to these rural communities. Truly part of our Ozarks heritage.”
Harvesters are encouraged to pick up the wild nuts while still green (not black and mushy or dried) and get them to a hulling station 1-2 days after picking them up. This helps ensure the nuts weigh the most with better quality.
To find a hulling station near you, visit www.black-walnuts.com.
