Pecan trees are native to the United States, but they mostly thrive in Southern locations and have long growing seasons. Pecan trees don't require a lot of care once planted, but they do need a lot of space. If you don't have a big garden, we don't recommend you grow pecan trees because they can reach up to 150 feet in height, and there are no dwarf varieties. If you DO have a big yard and live in the Southern states, you should definitely plant a pecan tree as just one tree can feed a large family. Keep reading to find out more about how to grow pecan trees, care for them, and enjoy their amazing harvest!
How to Grow Pecan Trees in Your Garden
Planting Pecans:
- You can grow a pecan tree directly from seed, but we recommend you purchase an already grown, small tree from your local nursery.
- Plant your pecan tree in well drained soil in a sunny location.
- Hilltops are ideal for pecan trees as they require deep, well drained soil and are easily susceptible to root rot.
- Plant to a depth of 5 feet.
- If you plant on planting more than one pecan tree, make sure to space them about 60-80 feet apart.
- Plant away from other trees, structures, or power lines.
- Dig a hole 3-5 feet deep, and about 2 feet wide.
- Position the tree in the hole so that the soil line on the tree is even with the surrounding soil.
- Fill the hole back up with soil and don't add any fertilizer or amendments. Fill the hole about halfway through.
- Once the hole is half full, fill it with water to remove air pockets and settle the soil.
- Once the water has drained, fill the hole back up with the rest of the soil.
- Press the soil down, and water thoroughly.
Care:
- While your young pecan tree is growing, water it frequently, about once a week.
- Water the young trees slowly and deeply.
- Cover the root area with mulch to protect in colder weather and to retain moisture.
- In the spring after the tree was planted (after the first year), you may fertilize over a 25 square foot area.
- For healthy pecan production, use a pound of zinc sulfate each year for young trees and three pound of zinc sulfate for pecan bearing mature trees.
Happy Planting!
