Going nuts over pecans

Some years, the pecan crop explodes.

Pecans area favorites during the holidays.

By Darrell Blackwelder

For the Salisbury Post

Pecan trees are very popular in Rowan County for their delicious nut crop and for the abundant shade.

Cooperative Extension gets many inquiries about this tree, especially during the Christmas holidays. Nursery and garden centers will soon have their annual shipment. Before you get your shovel out, there are a few cultural requirements about pecans to consider.

Pecan trees require a considerable amount of space, at least 75 feet between trees. Small residential lots may not be able to accommodate these trees. Over-crowding is often a problem with older pecan plantings. There are dwarf varieties of pecan trees. Unfortunately, these cultivars have had limited success here in the Piedmont.

Pecan trees have no fall color. In fact, the leaves in the fall can be somewhat ugly. If fall color is a major requirement, do not plant a pecan tree.

The limbs and twigs of pecan trees are brittle. Ice storms in the winter and stormy weather in the spring keep homeowners busy.

It takes many years before pecan trees will bear an appreciable crop. Most cultivars require eight to 12 years' growth before producing a sizeable crop. Often, pecans are planted as sentimental gestures for young children and grandchildren to enjoy later in life. These trees are very hardy. Once established, this species is almost indestructible.

There are a few varieties that do well in this area. Stuart, Cape Fear, Desirable and Stuart/Mahan are just a few varieties offered by most nurseries or garden shops in this area. Most trees are sold as 2-year-old budded seedlings. Buy trees that are potted in tall, slender nursery pots, avoiding balled trees wrapped in plastic. It's a good idea to plant at least two varieties to ensure good pollination.

Planting pecan trees is no easy chore because they have a very long tap root. Planting a pecan tree will probably require the use of a post-hole digger. Dig the hole deep and wide enough to easily accommodate all the roots. Do not plant the tree too deep and cover the graft. You should be able to recognize the graft and previous planting line. Backfill with a good topsoil and water thoroughly.

Pecan trees should be planted during dormancy until late March.

Fertilization is important because good growth and production are tied together. Mature trees often respond to applications of a complete fertilizer with zinc. Pecan fertilizers are often custom blended to contain zinc and other major and micro nutrients. These fertilizers are often found in garden shops and farm supply outlets and other retail outlets.

Other fertilizers, such as 10-10-10, can also be used to increase growth and vigor of the tree. Two to three pounds of 10-10-10 per inch of trunk in diameter is the rule of thumb for mature trees. This should be spread around the drip line of the tree. Make plans to apply fertilizer when the buds swell in the spring.

Admittedly, pecan trees have many flaws. But in some situations these trees are a very valuable asset. Many consider pecan trees an heirloom. Still, it's best to take time to consider your site and other cultural factors before proceeding with this endeavor.