I have a four year old contorted filbert tree that does NOT contort. What have I done wrong?

Question:My filbert tree is about 11 feet tall and all the limbs are straight. And yes it is a contorted variety. Are you suppose to cut them back or do something when they are young as I see them at the nurseries at about 2 feet tall and they are all twisted like they are suppose to be. Any suggestions?

Answers:
You have a grafted plant, meaning the curly part was joined to a stronger, non-twisted rootstock by the grower. The upright sprouts originate below the graft and must be removed vigilantly and continually. There's no other way. They are sapping energy from the curly part. Some are grafted on Turkish hazel. This produces quite erect shoots that poke up through the contorted scion until cut off. Do some trimming - especially below the graft - cut everything below the graft union off and see if your new growth above the graft begins to contort.

Hope this helps! Good Luck!