Carya illinoinensis 15-20cm

Carya illinoinensis, commonly known as the pecan tree, is a deciduous tree native to North America and is especially well-known for its delicious and nutritious nuts. Pecan trees are valued for their ornamental and productive qualities. Here is a description of Carya illinoinensis and some cultivation tips:

Description:

1. Size: Pecan trees can grow quite large, with mature specimens reaching heights between 70 and 100 feet (21 to 30 meters). Their spread can be as wide as 40 to 75 feet (12 to 23 meters).

2. Leaves: The leaves of Carya illinoinensis are pinnately compound, typically consisting of 9 to 17 leaflets arranged alternately along a central stem. Each leaflet is lance-shaped and has serrated margins. The leaves turn yellow in the fall before dropping.

3. Bark: Young pecan trees have smooth, grayish-brown bark, which gradually becomes more furrowed and rough with age.

4. Flowers: Pecan trees produce male and female flowers on the same tree, typically in spring before the leaves emerge. The male flowers are long, pendulous catkins, while the female flowers are small and inconspicuous.

5. Fruit (Nuts): The pecan tree is famous for its edible nuts, which are typically oval, smooth-shelled, and brown. The nuts contain a sweet and rich-tasting kernel that is widely used in various culinary applications, including pies and roasted snacks.

Cultivation Tips:

1. Climate: Pecan trees thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, although specific varieties may have different climate preferences. They require a long, warm growing season to produce nuts successfully.

2. Sunlight: Plant pecan trees in a location that receives full sun for most of the day. They need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to develop healthy and productive canopies.

3. Soil: Pecan trees prefer deep, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (pH 6.0 to 7.0). Soil with good organic matter content is ideal for their growth.

4. Spacing: Allow sufficient spacing between pecan trees, as they can grow large. Depending on the variety and soil quality, spacing can range from 30 to 60 feet (9 to 18 meters) between trees.

5. Watering: Pecan trees require consistent moisture, especially during the growing season and when they are young. Deep watering is preferable, but they should not be allowed to sit in waterlogged soil.

6. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to help retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and control weeds.

7. Fertilizing: Pecan trees benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with micronutrients specifically formulated for pecan trees. Fertilize according to soil and leaf tissue test recommendations.

8. Pruning: Prune pecan trees to develop a strong scaffold structure and to remove dead or crowded branches. Pruning is typically done during the dormant season.

9. Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, pecan weevils, and hickory shuckworms, as well as diseases like pecan scab. Implement integrated pest management (IPM) practices and use appropriate treatments when necessary.

10. Harvesting: Pecans are typically harvested in the fall when the outer husks split open, revealing the mature nuts inside. Harvesting can be done by hand or using mechanical equipment.

Pecan trees can be a valuable addition to your landscape, providing both shade and a bountiful harvest of delicious nuts. It's important to select appropriate pecan varieties for your specific climate and soil conditions, as some varieties are better suited to particular regions. Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure a healthy and productive pecan tree.

IMPORTANT: Please be aware that picture 1 show adult plant not for sale, the offer is for a plant in the dimension indicated in title description.