How to Plant a Pecan Tree in Fall

Now that Fall is officially here, we can start thinking about all the wonderful and nostalgic traditions that come along with it, like pecan pie! So, why not honor these Autumn traditions by planting a Pecan tree? Of course, planting a Pecan tree now won’t get you any fruit this year, but you can certainly look forward to it next Fall!

Continue below to learn some important tree care tips for planting a Pecan tree, including how to take good care of it, year round.

Tree Trimming and Removal Indianapolis Indiana 317-348-0811
Tree Trimming and Removal Indianapolis Indiana 317-348-0811

Facts About Pecan Trees

Pecan trees (Carya illinoinensis) are a popular fruit species that are native here in the United States. Not only do they give us delicious nuts every autumn season, but they are also wonderful shade trees that instantly enhance curb appeal and property value. Although they are generally found in the southern regions of the country where growing seasons are longer, pecan trees can also be grown in other hardiness zones. If you are interested in adding a Pecan tree to your landscaping, it is wise to first learn some important tips on planting, growing, and caring for them in order to ensure a long life.

Pecan Tree Planning and Preparation

Before you plant your pecan tree, you must first make the necessary preparations. Locate an area of your yard that gets plenty of sunlight, but that also has well-draining soil to a depth of 5 feet. Soil that does not drain well will not be conducive to pecan tree survival because the soggy conditions can make their elongated tap roots susceptible to disease. If you are unsure about soil drainage, simply find a spot that is higher, such as a hill or mound.

If you are planting more than one tree, it is important that you plan out the spacing correctly. For pecan trees, the general rule of thumb is to set them 60 to 80 feet apart. A mature pecan tree will grow up to 150 feet tall and 75 feet wide! In addition to spacing and soil, you need to consider pruning the tree before planting it in the ground. This is a common practice meant to promote strong growth. It is vital that you know how to prune and trim a tree properly before getting started; improper pruning will quickly lead to tree decline. Contact a licensed Indianapolis tree service operator for help with fruit tree pruning. 

When preparing your hole, be sure it is around 3 feet deep and 2 feet wide. Allow the roots to lay naturally as you position the tree into the hole. Fill the hole halfway with soil, and then add some water to compact it and eliminate air pockets. Once the water soaks in, finish filling in the hole until the soil line of the tree is level with the ground.

Pecan Tree Maintenance

Once you have your pecan tree planted firmly in the ground, do not add any fertilizers or additives. Instead water the surrounding soil, deeply. If you notice a depression in the soil after watering it, simply add some more to even it back out. From there, add 2 to 4 inches of mulch. For the first few years, water your pecan tree on a weekly basis when there is no rain, and slightly less often when there is rainfall. After one year, you can add a 5-10-15 fertilizer if you want. Once the tree begins to produce nuts, you can use 4 lbs. of 10-10-10 fertilizer for the first two years.

Do you need to remove some trees or tree stumps from your property to make room for newer, healthier ones? Contact Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for licensed and insured tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers with comprehensive tree service solutions at the right price.

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