How do I harvest, dry and store walnut (akhrot) to get light coloured kernels?

Kernel colour and price depend a lot on timely harvest and proper drying. Harvest when the green hull splits and the nut is mature, and remove the hull promptly, because hull left on too long stains the shell and darkens the kernel. Wash the nuts and dry them properly, in shade or with gentle drying rather than harsh direct sun that can shrivel them, until well dried for storage. Avoid delayed harvest, wet heaps and slow drying, which cause dark and mouldy kernels that fetch a low rate. Store the dried in shell nuts in a cool dry place to prevent rancidity. Light coloured, well dried kernels grade highest. Get the specific harvesting maturity signs and drying method for your variety from your KVK or the temperate horticulture station.