Why pecans dropping early?
Published 5:30 am, Saturday, August 7, 2004
Q. I have a pecan tree that has produced for five years. This year it has a very good crop of pecans, but a lot of them are falling off. They are small- to medium-size nuts.
The bark on the trunk comes off, too. Is this normal?
-- S.M.M., Pasadena
A. Several factors can result in premature nut drop, including poor pollination, water stress, disease and pecan nut casebearers.
Poor pollination results in a drop in June and July. Having other pecan trees nearby helps reduce the poor pollination problem.
Water stress also triggers drop, especially during late July and early August, when the nuts are developing. Often it is a case of too little water. Pecans need deep watering at least every two weeks during this typically hot, dry period.
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If the casebearers are the culprit, you may see their larval droppings on the nut and a small hole in the end of the nut.
Shallow soil or inadequate fertilization also can cause nuts to drop.
You can request a free publication from the Texas Cooperative Extension Service -- Harris County (281-855-5600), which provides detailed information on pecan culture and sprays for various problems.