Pecan Planting Guide

Care When Trees Arrive

• Unpack promptly and keep roots moist.
• Store in a cool, shaded area if not planting immediately.
• Heel in if delayed.

Sunlight & Location

• Full sun is required (8+ hrs daily).
• Plant in deep, well-drained soil.
• Allow wide spacing: 35–50 ft apart.

Soil & Amendments

• Prefers fertile loam, pH 6–7.

For clay soils, plant slightly above grade, amend with compost or pine bark fines for drainage.

Planting Steps

• Keep roots in a bucket of water during planting.
• Dig hole wide enough to spread roots freely.
• Set tree at root collar depth.
• Backfill, firm soil, and water in well.

Watering & Fertilizer

• Water weekly first year (5–10 gallons/tree).
• Pecans are heavy feeders: begin annual spring fertilization in year two with balanced fertilizer, increasing as tree matures.

Tree Tubes & Protection

• Use 4–5 ft tubes or fencing for deer and rodent protection.
• Mulch lightly around base, not against trunk.

Pruning

• Remove broken roots or limbs at planting.
• Train to one central leader for strong structure.