Plant Talk |
CAUTION:The information and recommendations in this article are applicable to Harnett County, NC and may not apply in other areas.
GROWING PECANS
Pecans are a favorite tree for North Carolinians. I have fond memories of climbing my grandmother's trees to "shake down" the harvest. We would pick up grocery bags full of the delicious nut to take home and enjoy for months to come.
My grandmother did little to her pecan trees besides enjoy the shade and harvest, which suggests that they are relatively easy to grow. But with a little knowledge and effort, you should be able to maximize the benefits.
When planting pecan trees, the first step is variety selection. This should be based on adaptability to our climate, and resistance to scab disease. Good possibilities include Stuart, Cape Fear, Elliot, Gloria Grande, and Sumner. At least two trees should be planted for cross pollination, preferably Cape Fear plus one other variety.
The next step is to select a planting site. They will do best in well-drained soil, in a high location, and in full sunlight. Keep in mind that pecan trees grow very large, up to 70 feet across. Make sure the tree has plenty of room to grow, and avoid planting in a site where the tree would threaten powerlines or structures.
The best time to plant pecans (and most other deciduous trees and shrubs) is late winter to early spring when the plant is dormant. However, with proper care and plenty of water, they can also be planted in late spring or summer.
Pecan trees do suffer from a number of insect and disease problems, but the best defense is to promote the overall health of the tree. Start by taking a soil sample to be sure it has the soil conditions and nutrients it needs. A healthy tree will be more resistant to insect and disease problems, just as people who exercise and eat right stay healthier.
As much as I advocate soil sampling, I don't think I've ever explained the details. In the planting site, or around an established tree, collect soil to a depth of 6 inches from 6 or 8 different locations. Mix all this together in a plastic bucket, then pour out enough to fill one of the small sample boxes (available from my office and some garden centers). Then fill out the form and mail it to the NC Department of Agriculture (address is listed on the form). This is a free service, and you should receive your results in about three weeks.
Sanitation is also important for reducing insect and disease problems. Collect and destroy fallen leaves, twigs, and damaged nuts. As an example, the twig girdler cuts off the tips of branches. It lays its eggs in these branches, so by destroying them you are reducing the population.
Two pests, the hickory shuckworm and pecan weevil, can be controlled by spraying Sevin in August. But spraying a large pecan tree is difficult without the proper equipment. A garden hose attachment may be the best option to reach up into tall trees, but even then it is difficult to get complete coverage. If spraying is impractical, stick to proper fertilizer applications and good sanitation. Give me a call for more information.
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