Pecan trees are only found in the U.S.A., where they are most successful in warm climates with extended growing seasons such as the south. Even just one tree can give enough nuts for a big family and enough shade to make the long, hot summers in the south a little more pleasant.
Nut trees are native to the southern United States. However, due to the size of pecan trees and the absence of miniature types, it is not possible to cultivate pecan trees in yards that are too small for this. Pecan trees reach heights of approximately 150 feet (45.5 meters) in their mature states and have canopies that spread outward. Although they require multiple trees and a lot of space, it is no wonder why any gardener would want to add a pecan tree to their own yard.
Types of Pecan Trees
Numerous pecan tree species exist, each with its own size and flavor profile for nuts. There's certain to be a variety that matches your demands, whether it's a big shade tree that will grow to over 100 feet (30.5 m) in height or a tree that reliably produces plump and tasty nuts. Take into account the severity of winters and the prevalence of diseases in your area to make a good decision. The following are a handful of the most well-liked options:
- Caddo - has the potential to produce one of the largest yields of any pecan tree. It is a type 1 pollinator and can tolerate extremes of temperature. An adaptable tree that thrives in domestic settings.
- Unlike several other nut trees, Cape Fear begins producing its prized nuts at an early age. displays vigorous, upright growth and a high level of disease resistance. An example of a pollinator type 1.
- In terms of size, Elliot's nut is great quality but very little, and it only produces fruit every other year. Northern regions shouldn't grow it since spring freezes can kill it, but it thrives in Georgia.
- Pecan trees are susceptible to scab, however the Gloria Grande variety is immune to this disease and consistently produces huge nuts with thick shells. Black aphids can easily attack this plant.
- Amling is a disease-resistant variety that is ready to pick early. Nuts produced are of a high quality and are modest in size.
- Sumner is fragile, yet reliable in terms of output.
- Gafford is well-liked in the state of Alabama due to its high nut quality and resistance to pests.
- The McMillan method is well-liked in Alabama since it is both effective and low-maintenance.
- Attractive: a strong challenger in the South, where heat resistance and independence are valued. However, this type 1 pollinator isn't without its flaws, as it is the cultivar most vulnerable to scab (fungicides are necessary). When a tree reaches maturity, the harvest improves.
Optimal Growing Conditions For Pecan Trees
Pecan trees have extensive root systems and can reach heights of over one hundred feet. Whether you've been planting them in your backyard or in an orchard, make sure they have enough of room to grow! Consider the following factors when you make your selection:
Verify if there are no neighboring structures or trees. In time, a pecan tree's heavy branches may collapse and cause structural damage to nearby structures or other trees.
The recommended spacing for trees in an orchard is 60 feet (18.3 m). Space your pecan trees at a distance of between 65 and 80 feet (19.81 and 24.38 m). If two trees are planted too closely together, the faster-growing tree will eventually cast its shadow on the slower-growing tree, causing the latter's growth to slow to a halt and, in extreme cases, causing it to die.
It takes 20–25 years for a pecan tree to reach maturity. Some farmers would plant trees at a distance of 30 feet apart, and then cut down half of them after they've been in the ground for 15 years due to crowding.
To ensure your pecan tree grows at the expected rate (1-3 feet per year for non-bearing and 5-12 inches for existing bearing trees) and produces nuts, the two most critical parts of pecan tree care are consistent watering and fertilizing.
A pecan tree purchased from a nursery will reach its full height of four to six feet in 8 to 10 years if planted in the right spot. However, keep in mind that the crop production varies from year to year. A strong crop year is followed by a modest crop year in pecan trees.
How To Grow Pecan Trees
Light, Temperature, & Humidity
Pecan trees require 6-8 hours of daily direct sunlight. Pecans thrive in hot, humid conditions. The tree can only survive in areas with warm winter nights, which severely restricts its distribution. While pecan trees may survive in lower climates, they won't yield nuts if the overnight temperatures are too low.
Soil
Although pecan trees are adaptable, they are at their most fruitful when planted in sandy loam over a clay subsoil. If the soil isn't rich, well-drained, and able to retain water, the tree will need to be watered more frequently. Roots need space to spread out as much as they need the correct soil texture. Pecan tree roots, which develop mostly in the top 6–18 inches of soil, reach two times as far as the tree's branches.
Water
Pecan trees require a lot of water both while they are establishing themselves as young trees and later on when they are producing their nuts. A young tree need 10–15 gallons of water weekly for the first 2-3 years. There's a good chance rain won't bring in that much, so you'll need to make a plan for watering.
During dry periods, the bud-breaking period in the spring, and the nut-filling period in the middle to late summer, a nut tree requires a lot of water.
Harvesting Your Pecan Tree
Pecans are sold in Southern plant nurseries and online. Late winter to springtime is the best time to plant trees. Instead of a huge container, use an air-pruning Air Pot. Summer is too hot and will burn the roots. For bare-root planting, position plants 60 feet apart and dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Provide tree-specific well-drained soil. Plant trees. Allow top soil to pile above the planting hole. Check for bound roots while removing the tree from the seedling pot. If the bottom of the plant is bound up, use a hand saw to cut a cross in the dirt to ensure the taproot may be planted straight.
Water the roots until the planting hole is half full. Add dirt. Young pecans need water. Unbind the roots and straighten the tap root of a container-grown pecan. Large enough to hold taproot and feeding roots. White latex paint helps container and open root trees develop properly.
This keeps away squirrels, birds, and cold, which can diminish nut yield. Add 3 inches of pine needle or mulch with wood shavings around the trunk.
Common Pests & Diseases
Different types of fungi, such as pecan scab, brown spot, leaf spot, and anthracnose, can cause damage to pecan trees. In contrast to professional producers, most homes lack the specialized equipment and chemical fungicides necessary to effectively treat these problems.
You should focus on planting pecan cultivars that are resistant to diseases. Aphids, namely black and yellow aphids, are another potential issue for pecan plants. The same effect can be achieved by hosing them off as is achieved by heavy rain, which helps to diminish their populations.
Try non-chemical means of control first, as chemical insecticides are typically ineffective because aphid re-infestation happens so rapidly.