Pecan trees become dormant in fall.
Pecan trees (Carya illinoinensis) are long-lived nut-bearing trees with over 500 cultivars. The native North American pecan tree can live over 225 years. Pecans are hardy trees, growing throughout United States Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 5 through 9. Stately additions to large landscapes, the pecan tree's large size makes it work well as a shade tree and adds coverage and edible nuts in wildlife gardens.
Description
Pecans grow over 70 feet tall and spread more than 40 feet. Mature trunks can grow larger than 6 feet in diameter. The tree has a deciduous habit and a vase-like canopy. Foliage is feather-like and 20 inches long. The rough, gray bark turns brownish-red as the tree ages. Pecan trees grow slowly and begin producing nut crops after 15 to 20 years. Trees contain male and female flowers, and experience pollination through the wind. It takes approximately six to nine months for the nuts to mature.
Light and Soil Requirements
Pecan trees require planting sites with full-sun conditions. Trees do not perform well in shady locations. Its deep root system requires growing in deep, well-draining soils. Pecans tolerate a wide range of well-draining soil types, including clays and loamy sands. For proper growth, pecan trees require a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5, according to the University of Florida. To raise pH levels, apply 1 ton of lime for every acre. Amend the soil with lime in the fall, before planting the pecan tree.
Planting
To allow the roots establishment before springtime, plant pecan trees during dormancy. Soak the pecan tree's roots in water while you prepare the planting hole; this assures they do not dry out. Dig a hole that is approximately 2 feet wide and 3 feet deep. Water the hole and place the pecan tree into it, planting at the depth the tree was originally growing. Backfill the hole with soil and create a watering ring around the tree. This helps the water remain over the tree's root system and not leach away. Firm the soil around the tree's trunk by tamping down with your foot
Water, Fertilization and Pruning
After planting, apply approximately 10 gallons of water to the planting site, according to the University of Florida. If conditions are drought-like, young trees can require 10 gallons of water daily. Mature, nut-bearing trees require approximately 200 gallons daily. Fertilize young trees in March and June. Apply 1 pound of a 10-10-10 blend applied under the tree's canopy. Once mature, increase the fertilizer rate to 2 lbs. for every 1 inch of the trunk's diameter. Apply the fertilizer in February and June. Older, nut-bearing trees can require up to 120 lbs. of fertilizer in each application.
After planting new, young trees, trim off the top 1/3. Select a strong central branch and prune off others growing next to it. The tree then develops a strong central leader. Prune off lateral branches so they are 5 feet from the ground. Allow approximately 18 inches between each lateral branch. Once the tree matures, pruning is not required, as there is a reduction in nut production.
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