I have received quite a few inquiries about pecans and black walnuts over the past few weeks. Below are few of the questions I received and possible solutions.

Q.: I had a friend tell me to bury Red Devil Lye or expired batteries around my tree and it would make them bear. Is there any truth to this?

A.: No! I have received many calls over my tenure in Rowan County about Red Devil Lye. I assume homeowners think this will add zinc to the soil from decaying cans. Take soil samples and fertilize according to results. Red Devil Lye and spent batteries are not a source of fertilizer and pollute the earth.

Q.: My pecans don’t produce each year. How can I make them bear fruit each year?

A.: Pecans are on the border in this area of being productive. These trees do very well on the East Coast and lower South. The further north and west, especially in the mountains, the poorer the response, but a decent crop can be produced in this area. Pollination may be the problem. The male and female flower of the pecan are separate and do not mature at the same time during the spring. A late frost, heavy downpour or other physical factor may prevent adequate pollination. Planting more than one variety nearby increases chances of pollination.

This is a common problem often referred to as biennial bearing.

Q.: My pecans have dark spot on the kernels? What is this and how do I prevent this?

A.: Stink bugs and leaf-footed bugs are the culprits of this type of damage. These insects feed on the kernels when the shell is hardening, and black, tobacco-colored stains appear on nuts later. This is often referred to as biter pit. This species over-winters in orchard debris. Eggs are laid on grass and in soybean fields producing four generations a year. Remove debris from around the tree and don’t plant soybeans nearby if possible. Reduce broadleaf weeds underneath the tree. Tie burlap sacks around the tree to monitor weevil infestation.

Q.: My pecans are fuzzy and shriveled. What causes this?

A.: This problem is a result of stress during growing season, often by inadequate moisture. Irrigation during late summer droughts is the only solution to this problem.

Q.: After a few weeks my pecans become bitter. What can I do to prevent this?

A.: Pecan have a high oil content. Over a certain amount of time, the oils within the nut turn rancid. Store short term at 32 degrees in the refrigerator, up to one year. For longer periods place in the freezer.

Q.: How do I keep the squirrels out of my pecan trees?

A.: Mylar balloons, plastic owls and hawks may provide some control. Squirrels may be controlled by placing a two-foot wide strip of metal all the way around the tree. Be careful not to girdle the tree; use springs to hold the metal tight and allow for trunk expansion.

Q.: I have these black spots all over the nut case and leaves. What is this and how do I control the problem?

A.: The problem is caused by a fungus called pecan scab. There is no effect control with pesticides because of sheer size of some trees. Plant resistant varieties and remove leaf and limb debris as soon as possible to prevent reinfection.

Those that would like more information on pecans can call the Cooperative Extension office at 633-0571 and ask for “Growing Pecans in North Carolina” AG-81.