Variety Characteristics
Only healthy , true-to-variety trees from certified, reputable nurseries should be used where commercial production is desired. Commercial growers have learned there is no single variety superior to all others in every respect. Following are considered to be the most important factors in variety selection:
Pollination
A pecan tree will pollinate itself providing the female flower is receptive
when that tree is shedding pollen. In many new and improved varieties, that
does not occur. That is the reason for planting more than one variety even
if only a few trees are being planted. In large plantings, a minimum of
three varieties, carefully chosen, enhances likelihood of good pollination
and nut set.
Disease Resistance
To lessen production cost and minimize the use of chemicals, resistant
varieties should be considered. USDA research scientists have succeeded in
developing varieties with some resistance to diseases and also to insect
pests.
Tree Bearing Age
Traditional varieties are generally slower to begin production. Most new and
improved varieties begin significant production in 5 to 6 years, with nut
presence in the third to fourth year.
Harvest Date
Generally, nutmeat from early-maturing varieties will be superior to
later-maturing varieties. Varieties are available that mature from late
September to late November. Marketing strategies, harvesting equipment and
work force help to influence varieties chosen.
Alternate Bearing
By their genetic nature, pecan trees alternate bearing in peak production,
which good management practices can minimize to some extent. Older varieties
are more prone to alternate bearing than newer varieties.
 |
|
||
 |
|
||
 |
|
||
 |
|
||
 |
|
||
 |
|
||
 |
|
||
 |
|
||
