How to Plant Pecan Trees From Seed
How to Plant Pecan Trees From Seed. Like most nuts, pecans pack a nutritious punch. The tasty nuts have been shown to lower cholesterol, have high levels of antioxidants, and protect the heart. In addition to their health benefits, they are also commonly used in cooking and baking, and can be added to everything from savory dishes to sweet...
Like most nuts, pecans pack a nutritious punch. The tasty nuts have been shown to lower cholesterol, have high levels of antioxidants, and protect the heart. In addition to their health benefits, they are also commonly used in cooking and baking, and can be added to everything from savory dishes to sweet desserts. Pecans can be costly when purchased from the store, but with time and dedication, you can plant your own tree from a seed and have an abundant supply of pecans at a much lower cost.
Things You'll Need
Seeds
Refrigerator
Poly bags
Water
Spade
Gloves
Collect pecan seeds during harvest season from October to November in order to be prepared to plant the seeds the following spring. Place the seeds in a dry environment and allow them to dry. To test the seeds to see if they are ready to move on to the next stage, try bending a kernel. If it snaps, it is ready.
Place the seeds in poly bags in a refrigerator set to 45 degrees until the following spring.
Remove the seeds and allow them to reach room temperature about 1 week before you wish to start planting.
Soak the seeds in water for at least 24 hours prior to planting. Remove the nuts that have swelled and have slightly split for planting. Allow any remaining seeds to reach this stage by continued soaking before planting.
Dig nursery rows to accommodate the seeds. Each space should be approximately four inches deep. Place the seed sideways in the hole. Allow the seed to receive sufficient water and sunline. The seedling will be approximately 6 to 18 inches tall by the following spring.
Tips & Warnings
Pecan trees must be pruned annually in order to prevent the tree branches from growing so low to the ground that the tree resembles a bush.
Pecan tree foliage should be regularly sprayed with a zinc spray as the species is prone to a zinc deficiency. Do not spray during the day as the sun will interact with the zinc to cause leaf burn.
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