Walnut trees add shade to your yard and provide fresh walnuts in the fall for use throughout the year. Before buying a walnut tree for your own yard, take some time and research prices. Prices often relate to the size and age of the tree. As the trees grow larger and the diameter increases, the trees become worth more money. Older walnut trees may be worth several thousand dollars or more.
Age and Price
Younger walnut trees or saplings are typically worth less money than fully mature trees. Nurseries often sell the trees based on the size and age. The Nursery at TyTy for example, sells a three-foot tall black walnut for less than $30 and a fully grown black walnut of eight feet or taller for more than $100. The taller trees are older and produce walnuts in the first season of growing, once you plant the tree.
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Expert Insight
According to K Laboratories International, the cost of a large walnut tree may be up to $15,000. Tree growers sometimes raise trees for several years, knowing that older trees bring a higher price on the secondary market. The site claims that a 20- or 25-year-old walnut tree may cost $3,000 to $15,000 depending on the size and shape of the tree.
Considerations
According to the North Central Forest Experiment Station, the more expensive black walnut trees are those of a large size. The site looks at walnut trees sold for timber purposes, rather than those sold for garden purposes. Trees without any defects on the bark or branches and those with a diameter of 16 inches or more are the highest prized ones. Some walnut trees are sold for wood veneer uses. Veneer trees have a smaller diameter. The inside of the tree must contain at least one log approximately 12 inches in diameter.
Warning
Be careful when buying walnut trees priced below market value. The trees may have diseases or sicknesses that not only shorten the life of the walnut, but may infect other trees in your yard. Before buying any tree, inspect the branches, leaves and barks for any signs of sickness, including discolorations on the leaves. Small holes or pockmarks on the branches and bark may indicate worms or another type of parasite. Ask the seller for a return policy, and if you shop online, ensure that the seller accepts refunds if the tree arrives diseased or different than described online.
