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Pecan Tree - Carya illinoinensis - Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Nut Tree

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Pecan Tree - Carya illinoinensis - Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Nut Tree

Perennial

Full Sun

Full Description: The Pecan Tree (Carya illinoinensis) is a majestic, long-lived perennial deciduous tree renowned for its delicious and nutritious nuts. Native to the south-central United States and Mexico, it can grow to impressive heights, often reaching 70-100 feet tall with a spread of 40-75 feet, making it a magnificent shade tree as well. Its compound leaves provide a beautiful display of green in the summer, turning to golden yellow in the fall. The true appeal, however, lies in its rich, buttery pecans, which are a favorite for baking, snacking, and traditional Southern cuisine. These trees are wind-pollinated, and while many varieties are self-fertile, planting at least two different varieties is recommended for optimal cross-pollination and nut production. A mature pecan tree can produce nuts for decades, often exceeding 100 years.

Full Growing Information from Seed:

  • Seed Preparation:

    • Stratification: Yes, pecan seeds require cold stratification to break dormancy.

      • Soak seeds in room temperature water for 24-48 hours.

      • Place seeds in a plastic bag or container with moist sand, peat moss, or sawdust.

      • Store in a refrigerator at temperatures between 34-40°F (1-4°C) for 90-120 days.

      • Ensure the medium remains consistently moist but not waterlogged throughout the stratification period.

  • Planting:

    • After stratification, plant seeds in well-draining soil in a sunny location.

    • Choose a site with plenty of space for the mature tree's root system and canopy.

    • Plant seeds 2-4 inches deep, with the pointed end of the nut facing downwards or on its side.

    • Space multiple seeds at least 12-18 inches apart if growing in a nursery bed, or directly into their permanent location.

  • Watering:

    • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the germination period and the first few years of growth.

    • Deep watering is preferable to encourage deep root development.

  • Germination:

    • Germination typically occurs in spring after the danger of frost has passed, usually within a few weeks to a couple of months after planting stratified seeds.

  • Care and Maintenance:

    • Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day) for optimal growth and nut production.

    • Soil: Prefers deep, well-draining loamy soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

    • Fertilization: Fertilize sparingly in the first few years. Once established, apply a balanced fertilizer in late winter or early spring, adjusted for soil test recommendations. Zinc is often a crucial micronutrient for pecan trees.

    • Protection: Protect young seedlings from pests and rodents, which may be attracted to the nuts or young shoots.

    • Pruning: Prune young trees to establish a strong central leader and good branch structure. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.

    • Nut Production: Pecan trees typically begin producing nuts 5-10 years after planting, with full production achieved around 15-20 years.

Medicinal Properties: While primarily valued for their nutritional content, pecans offer several health benefits. They are rich in healthy fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated), fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E, manganese, and copper. Regular consumption of pecans has been linked to improved heart health, reduction in bad cholesterol, and antioxidant effects. Some traditional uses in folk medicine have included using pecan bark for certain ailments, but modern scientific research primarily focuses on the nutritional benefits of the nuts themselves.

Seed count: 1