All Your Pecan and Pecan Tree Questions, Answered

Today, we wanted to take a moment to answer all your burning questions about pecans. Certainly, there are a lot of them. So, we are going to go step by step posing and answering some of the most important questions surrounding this amazing tree nut. Let’s begin with where it all starts, at the roots of the tree.

More About the Pecan Tree

Pecan trees are generally pretty big sellers at your local nursery. Most people purchase and plant container pecan trees or bare-root pecan trees. Based on the season, pre-orders for bare root trees generally begin in September, and ship from January through March. Container pecans can be bought all year round. But before you purchase a tree, you might find it helpful to read on to get some answers to common questions about pecans.

People often wonder, “what variety of pecan tree should I plant?” This is a question we often receive. There are different varieties of pecan trees, both in containers and bare root. All of them mature into beautiful shade trees that will be a lovely addition to your property. Check out this handy list of recommended varieties by your state's Agricultural Extension office!

When it comes to planting pecan trees, the old adage applies. It’s all about location, location, location. You must pay careful consideration to the growing zone you are located in. Certain varieties of pecan trees grow better in different climates, so it is important to know which varieties you should consider based on your location.

Soil is an incredibly important factor, for obvious reasons. Your pecan tree will need to have soil that is well-drained but also has great water-holding capacity. Why? Because pecan trees need plenty of water in order to produce pecans. The soil your pecan tree is planted in must have a stable water table. Irrigation systems are great because they allow you to plant in different soil types. Expert tip: avoid clay soil, as it will not soak up the water as it properly should and create root development issues down the road.

How Should I Plant My Pecan Tree?

If you want to plant a pecan tree, take special care. To plant your pecan trees, you will need to dig a hole about two feet wide at the bottom. You also want it to be quite deep as it needs to fully cover the taproot. When placing the tree in the hole, place it as deep as it was in the pot. Make sure it is not any shallower.

Fill in the hole about one-third of the way with topsoil, then saturate this soil with water to help the soil settle. Proper water saturation is key as pecan trees require a healthy amount of water. Then add a bit more soil and saturate, continuing the process until your hole is nearly full.

Finally, give the tree a good wiggle in the hole to remove any air pockets that could inhibit root growth. Then you’ll need to construct a water basin around the tree that is 3 to 4 feet in diameter and about 8 inches deep. Now, step back and watch your new pecan tree blossom into a beautiful, nut-providing tree!

How Big Will My Pecan Tree Grow?

Pecan trees are fairly large once they reach full maturity. You can expect a typical, mature pecan tree to range from 70 feet in height all the way up to 100 feet in height with a spread of about 40 to 70 feet. When planting bare-root pecan trees or container pecan trees, keep this height in mind. The last thing you want is to hit power or telephone lines as the tree grows. Pecan tree branches can also be a bit brittle, so avoid planting the tree somewhere the branches might break off and land on your house or another structure.

When Will My Pecan Tree Produce Pecans?

For those of you not familiar with nut-bearing trees, consider that they do not usually begin producing nuts right away. In fact, whether you plant a container or bare root pecan tree, don’t hold your breath. It could take years before you see your first fruiting occur. In fact, depending on the variety and growing conditions, you may wait 5 to 10 years before you start to see pecans growing!

Can My Dog Eat Pecans?

There you are sitting on the couch munching on a bowl of delicious pecans, tossed with Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, soy sauce, curry powder, and chili powder (sounds delicious, doesn’t it?) So, you’re sitting there eating these mouth-watering pecans, then there’s your dog. Face it, your dog probably wants in on the fun when you’re snacking on some pecans. You’re getting “the look” you get when it’s time for a treat. It’s likely you won’t give your dog these pecans because of the spices. But take note, you shouldn’t give your dog pecans at all. In some cases, pecans can be poisonous to dogs.

How Long Will My Pecans Stay Fresh?

We have good news! Pecans have a great shelf life if they’re sealed properly and kept in cold storage. So, worry not. If treated properly, your pecans will last you a good while. But what is it about pecans that make them so great at resisting the decay that comes with time? Pecans are rich in healthy pecan oil. As with any oil-producing food, this means they’re perishable.

If you're not going to eat your pecans immediately, it's best to store them in a sealed, airtight container in the freezer. It’s fine to thaw and refreeze pecans if you don't let too much moisture get to the pecans as they’re thawing. Remember that heat, light, humidity, and time can speed up the aging process.

How Do I Know if My Pecans Are Fresh?

Do you want to know if those amazing pecans you’re considering buying are fresh? We’ve got a handy guide for you. First, consider the color. A fresh pecan is a light golden color. As the pecan ages, the color gradually becomes darker. If you are looking at a dark brown pecan, it’s probably no good. Since some retailers don’t have this information, it’s important that you look carefully at the pecan’s color. Many retailers do not realize this and may keep old, even rancid, pecans on their retail shelves. Thus, it is important for you as a consumer to understand how to select quality pecans.

Of course, in the end, the taste is the best determinant. If you bite into a pecan, it should taste good. Ripe pecans should have a pleasing, almost sweet flavor. If a pecan tastes sour, bitter, or has a strong aftertaste, it is probably an old pecan or has been exposed to heat for an extended period.

And that does it on our ultimate pecan frequently asked questions guide. We hope you’ve enjoyed this deep dive into the world of pecans, a world we love so much. Got more questions? Simply leave your question in the comments section and we’ll try our best to answer your question. Long live pecans, and live longer eating pecans!