Pinyon pine trees are the only pine trees that produce nuts large enough to harvest.
If some of the pine cones on the tree are open and some are closed, it’s ready to harvest. [3] X Research source
Each pine cone provides about 2 nuts per scale, with the total amount varying based on the pine cone’s size. [5] X Research source Wear gardening gloves while picking up the pine cones to protect your hands from sap and scratches.
Do not stack the pine cones any higher than 2 cones deep while the bag is sideways. Any deeper and the pine cones may start molding. Tie the bag shut to prevent animals from eating your pine cone harvest.
After heating the pine cones, remove them from the oven and let them cool before you shell the nuts. Do not microwave the pine cones, as microwaving will insufficiently dry the pine cones and ruin your microwave.
Choose a pair of gloves that you don’t mind staining, as pine cone sap can permanently color cloth. If you get any sap on your hands, use an oil-based soap to wash it off.
You should expect about half of the nuts to float per pine cone.
If you have short fingernails or can’t seem to open the pine nuts, you can also try pliers using a similar technique. After shelling the pine nuts, store them immediately to prevent them from spoiling.
Mark the container with the date you shelled the pine nuts so you know how long you have before they expire.
Write the date that you shelled the pine nuts on the container so you can use them before they expire.
Pine nuts make a delicious addition to soup, salad, pesto, and other dishes. [16] X Research source One traditional way to eat pine nuts is by roasting them.
