Four Ways to Improve Pecan Production

When you are planting and pruning in your garden this spring, don’t forget to do a little maintenance to your pecan trees.

Dr. Bill Goff, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System horticulturist, says you can take four steps this spring to improve pecan production this fall.

"The first step is to fertilize properly, preferably according to soil and leaf sample

recommendations," Goff says.

If you have not taken samples, Goff recommends the following: One pound of 13-13-13 per tree per year of age up to 25 pounds per tree, or 300 pounds an acre. Plus, 1 pound of ammonium nitrate per tree per year of age up to 20 pounds per tree, or 240 pounds an acre. Plus, one-tenth of a pound of zinc sulfate per tree per year of age up to 2 pounds per tree, or 24 pounds an acre. Plus, 5 pounds of dolomitic lime per tree per year of age up to 100 pounds per tree, or 1,200 pounds per acre.

"Apply all fertilizers in April on large trees," Goff says. "For young trees, fertilize in March with 13-13-13, lime and zinc. Apply one-half ammonium nitrate in April and half in June. Broad-cast fertilizer on the surface in a circle twice the branch spread of the tree."

When the crop is large, Goff says to apply a supplemental application in August, using

one-half the rates above, but omitting the lime.

The second step is to choose established pest-resistant cultivars, he says. Goff recommends Elliott, or new cultivars like McMillan, Syrup Mill, Carter, Jenkins and Gafford.

The third step, Goff says, is to make sure the trees have enough room for good sunlight exposure.

"You may have to cut down some trees if limbs overlap adjacent trees," he says.

Finally, remember to water the trees when the weather is dry, especially in late August and early September.

"And, maintain a 4- to 6-inch layer of organic mulch, like bark chips, compost or leaf

litter, to conserve moisture, improve root growth and reduce compaction," Goff says.

SOURCE: Dr. Bill Goff, (wgoff@aces.edu), Extension Horticulturist, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, (334) 844-5480