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Pecan Trees
The pecan tree is native to North America and grows well from Illinois down to Florida and across the south to Texas. The tree may reach 70 to 100 feet in height and 40 to 80 feet in width. As a member of the Hickory family, the wood is very good for building fine furnitures or for general construction, however it is not as hard as hickory. The pecan nuts are a true delight. Pecans are heart-healthy, containing 87% unsaturated fatty acid. They are high in vitamins and minerals, containing over 19 vitamins and minerals. The pecan offers antioxidant properties that reduce LDL cholesterol (Bad cholesterol) build-up. So pecans are prized for their lumber and for their delicious nuts.
Pecan trees are generally sold as either seedling trees or paper-shell grafted trees. The seedling trees are of less value producing the smaller, hard-shell nuts. Willis Orchard Company only offers fine paper-shell grafted pecan trees. These pecan trees are of orchard quality producing larger, paper-shell nuts that sell at a higher price. The oil content and nut quality of our select varieties are superior selections for your home or orchard.
When planting pecan trees, they need to be spaced 40 to 60 feet apart in orchard plantings and no closer than 40 feet for home plantings. However, pollination may occur between trees over 200 feet apart. To ensure production of nuts, you must plant two varieties. Some self-pollination may occur, however it is highly recommended to plant at least three varieties together for maximum pollination and production. We classify the pollination periods of each tree as either protandrous (Type 1) or protogynous (Type 2.) You should mix Type 1 and Type 2 for best pollination and highest yields.
Pecan trees will grow in a variety of soil types, except poorly drained soils. When planting pecan trees, dig a hole that is, at least, two feet wide and three feet deep and back fill with well drained soil. Also, do not apply fertilizers. The following Spring apply one pound of 10-10-10 with micronutrients around the root zone of the tree. Then you should apply one pound of zinc sulphate and another pound of fertilizer in July. Zinc is especially important for pecan trees so you will need to continue to apply one pound of zinc sulfate each year. However, you should increase your fertilizer by one pound each year. We sell our trees bare-root and recommend pruning 1/3 to 1/2 of the top of your new tree to encourage vigorous growth and rapid establishment. Willis Orchard Company will assist you with making your pecan tree selections and offer expert advice for all of your pecan tree needs.
